From Side/Alanya: Suluada Island Boat Trip with Lunch

A Sun-Soaked Day to Suluada Island from Side or Alanya

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines breathtaking scenery, relaxing beaches, and a taste of local cuisine, this boat trip to Suluada Island fits the bill nicely. Starting from Side or Alanya, for about $18 per person, you’ll spend anywhere from 6 to 15 hours soaking up the sun on crystal-clear waters and exploring a relatively untouched part of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. The trip includes a leisurely boat cruise, a hearty Turkish-Mediterranean lunch, and plenty of free time on the island, making it a rewarding escape from the busy resorts.

What we love about this experience is how it balances scenic cruising with relaxed beach time—a perfect opportunity to unwind or explore at your own pace. The views along the coast are stunning, especially with the rugged cliffs and lush greenery framing your journey. Plus, the lunchtime onboard offers a genuine taste of Turkish flavors, served with a panoramic backdrop.

One thing to consider is that the transport arrangements can vary in comfort, with some reviews noting the bus ride can get quite hot and cramped, particularly in the mountains. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, but it’s worth being prepared.

This tour is ideally suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, casual beach days, and local food, especially those happy to spend several hours outdoors and on the water. If you’re after a more structured or guided experience, you might find the lack of a dedicated guide a small drawback, but overall, it’s a straightforward and enjoyable trip.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Cruise: Experience the beauty of Turkey’s southern shoreline with views of lush hills and clear waters.
• Relax on Pristine Beaches: Free time on Suluada’s powdery beaches offers swimming, sunbathing, or exploring ancient ruins.
• Authentic Lunch: Enjoy a tasty onboard meal featuring Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with panoramic sea views.
• Flexible Options: Choose between hotel transfers or meeting at Adrasan Beach, offering convenience tailored to your plans.
• Authentic Experience: No overcrowded tourist spots—this trip emphasizes tranquility, natural beauty, and local flavors.
• Variable Duration: The trip can last from 6 to 15 hours, allowing you to customize your day based on your interest and energy levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect

This boat trip to Suluada Island is a blend of adventure, relaxation, and good food—a perfect escape to a less developed, more natural stretch of Turkey’s coastline.

Starting the Journey

Most travelers will begin with a pick-up from their hotel in Side or Alanya, or choose the option to meet at a designated point like Adrasan Beach. Meeting at the Ozakdeniz Patisserie Cafe at 9:30 AM makes for an easy start. From there, it’s about a three-hour bus ride through some scenic mountain landscapes, depending on the chosen transfer option. The bus ride itself is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of rural Turkey, but it can also be a little uncomfortable—no air conditioning on some buses and little space for those who like their personal room.

The Coastal Cruise

Once you arrive at Adrasan Harbor, the fun begins. You’ll board a comfortable boat, ready to cruise along the coast toward Suluada, often called the “Maldives of Turkey” for its powdery white sands and turquoise waters. The three-hour cruise offers plenty of opportunities to relax on deck, take photos of the rugged coastline, or just enjoy the sea breeze.

Lunch on the Water

Midday features a delicious onboard lunch, with fresh salads and options like chicken or fish. The experience of eating while floating in the middle of the Mediterranean is both relaxing and memorable. Many reviews mention how the lunch is tasty and satisfying, with the deck providing unmatched views while you dine.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering Suluada Island

After lunch, you’ll arrive at Suluada, a small paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here you’ll have free time to swim, sunbathe, or explore some ancient ruins—a real highlight for history buffs or those curious about the area’s past. Several travelers praise the beautiful beaches and tranquil waters, perfect for a refreshing swim.

Return and Reflection

As the day winds down, you’ll cruise back along the coast toward Adrasan Harbor, enjoying the gentle sway of the boat and spectacular sunset views (weather permitting). The return bus trip can be quite hot and crowded, so bring water and a hat to stay comfortable. The trip concludes with drop-offs at various locations including Alanya, Mahmutlar, and Side, making it easy to return to your accommodation.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start with pickup or meeting at Adrasan Beach, depending on your choice. The three-hour bus ride takes you through the scenic mountains, a chance to relax or chat with fellow travelers. The arrival at Adrasan Harbor signals the start of your boat cruise.

Onboard, you’ll cruise for about 5 hours: the crew will serve a delicious Turkish-Mediterranean lunch on deck, often highlighted as a favorite part of the trip. The scenery during the cruise is impressive, with cliffs, coves, and lush greenery framing your journey.

Arriving at Suluada, you’ll enjoy free time for swimming or hiking to ruins, with many travelers noting how those beaches feel like a slice of paradise. The powdery sand and clear waters are often described as stunning, making for perfect photo opportunities.

The trip concludes with a leisurely cruise back to Adrasan, followed by the bus ride back to your hotel or designated drop-off point. The total time can be from 6 up to 15 hours, depending on the selected option and pace.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

One reviewer noted, “The boat trip was amazingly beautiful,” though they also pointed out some transportation challenges—the bus was full, hot, and uncomfortable with little space for a long journey. This highlights that while the scenery and experience are worthwhile, the bus ride can be tiring.

Another mentioned enjoying the uninterrupted views and the fresh seafood lunch, emphasizing how the combination of scenic cruising and good food created a memorable day. The free time on Suluada was described as peaceful, ideal for swimming or exploring ancient ruins.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sun protection: sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are essential, especially during the bus ride and on the boat.
• Swimwear and towels are a must-have for enjoying the beaches and crystal waters.
• Arrive early at the meeting point if you’re meeting at Adrasan Beach for smooth boarding.
• Prepare for the weather: the boat has toilet and changing facilities, but the outdoor deck can get very hot during summer.
• Consider your comfort during the bus ride: some buses lack air conditioning, so stay hydrated.
• Booking flexibility: you can reserve now and pay later, offering some peace of mind.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This trip is perfect if you’re craving a relaxing day in nature, with plenty of swimming, sunbathing, and beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for those who appreciate authentic beach environments and want to enjoy Turkish cuisine in a casual setting. It’s also suitable for families and solo travelers who enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or have mobility restrictions, you might find the transportation parts challenging—particularly the mountain drive. Also, people seeking a guided tour with detailed historical narration might feel the absence of a dedicated guide a little lacking.

The Sum Up

This boat trip to Suluada Island offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, local flavor, and leisure. The cruise along Turkey’s southern coast provides stunning views, while the beach time gives you a chance to unwind in a setting that feels quite untouched. For budget-conscious travelers, the cost-to-value ratio is hard to beat—particularly with the included lunch and transportation options.

The experience is best suited for relaxation lovers, beach enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a simple, authentic escape into nature. If you enjoy beautiful scenery combined with a good meal and a splash of adventure, this trip is a worthy addition to your Turkish itinerary.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transfer (if selected), a boat trip to Suluada, lunch onboard, safety equipment, and travel insurance.

Can I join without hotel pickup?
Yes, you can meet at Adrasan Beach at the designated time, typically 9:30 AM at the Ozakdeniz Patisserie Cafe.

How long does the trip last?
The full experience can last from 6 to 15 hours, depending on your chosen option and the pace of the day.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Children under 3 participate for free—so it’s family-friendly, but keep in mind the long bus ride and outdoor boat environment.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, swimwear, and towels. Water and snacks are advisable given the length of the trip.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions and may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons. Always check with the provider if in doubt.

In summary, this boat trip to Suluada combines natural beauty, casual comfort, and a taste of Turkish hospitality. It’s a chance to see a less crowded, pristine part of the Mediterranean, making it a memorable highlight for many travelers exploring the Antalya region.

You can check availability for your dates here: