Side: Scuba Diving, Underwater Museum, 2 Dives incl. Lunch

Exploring the Underwater Marvels of Side: A Full-Day Scuba Adventure

A full-day scuba tour in Side, located in the picturesque Antalya Province, offers a fantastic way to explore the vibrant marine life of Turkey’s Eastern Mediterranean. This experience includes two dives at different sites, a delicious onboard lunch, and hotel pickup, making it a convenient and well-rounded way to spend a day. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned diver, this trip promises a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxed camaraderie.

What we particularly like about this tour is the personalized attention from guides—some reviews mention guides like Sara and Lida, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters when not diving is a big plus, especially if you’re traveling with non-divers or just want a break from the water. The scenery along the coast is another highlight, providing perfect photo moments both above and below the surface.

One potential consideration is the duration of downtime after the second dive, which some travelers note could be longer. If you’re eager to maximize your water time, this might be something to keep in mind. However, for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and good food, this won’t be a problem.

This tour strikes a great balance for adventurers of all levels, especially those who value professional instruction, scenic views, and authentic marine encounters. It’s ideal if you’re looking to experience Turkey’s underwater world without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Two well-organized dives at different sites, suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.
• Expert guidance enhances safety and confidence, especially for first-timers.
• Delicious onboard lunch and scenic sailing between dive sites make the day enjoyable and relaxing.
• Snorkeling options available for non-divers or those who want a break from diving.
• Flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind with full refunds if plans change.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, allowing you to focus on the experience.

A Detailed Look at the Side Scuba Tour

Starting the Day: From Hotel to Harbor

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup, which is a real convenience for travelers unfamiliar with local transportation. You’ll be transported to the harbor, where the boat awaits. The nine-hour duration allows for a leisurely pace, but it’s worth checking the specific starting times to fit it into your day comfortably. Early morning departures are common, giving you plenty of daylight for underwater exploration and relaxing onboard.

The Journey to the First Dive Site

Once aboard, you’ll feel the calm excitement of setting sail along the Turkish coast. The boat itself is a comfortable platform for both diving and socializing, with space to relax and enjoy the views. As the boat glides toward the first site, you’ll typically get full diving instructions if you’re a beginner—a key point that makes this experience accessible to all.

For more experienced divers, equipment is ready and waiting, allowing you to tailor your gear to your preferences. The crew and guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, creating a supportive environment whether you’re new or experienced.

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First Dive: Exploring Underwater Life

At the first site, experienced divers will head into the water first with the instructors, exploring the vibrant marine environment. For beginners, the first underwater experience is guided in small groups of two, reassuring those new to the activity. One review mentions how guides like Sara made everyone feel “really nice and caring,” which is a big plus when you’re in unfamiliar territory.

The underwater scenery is likely to feature the kinds of marine creatures typical of the Eastern Mediterranean—think colorful fish, corals, and perhaps some curious octopuses or sea urchins. The clarity of the waters makes for good visibility, so you’ll want to have your camera ready.

Lunch & Sailing Between Sites

After the first dive, everyone reconvenes on the boat for a delicious lunch, served while sailing to the second dive site. The fact that the meal is included and generally praised for its quality indicates good value, considering how much effort goes into preparing fresh servings at sea.

Sailing between sites offers a chance to unwind, enjoy the scenery of the Turkish coast, and swap stories with fellow travelers. Many reviewers mention the spectacular views, which add to the overall memorable experience.

The Second Dive and More Snorkeling

By the time you arrive at the second site, you’ll have the option to repeat your dive or snorkel—the latter being a great choice for non-divers or those wanting a break from the water. The second dive provides another opportunity to see diverse marine life or explore a different underwater landscape.

Some guests note that after the second dive, there’s a bit of downtime, which might seem lengthy to those eager to get back in the water. However, this also provides time to relax, enjoy the sun, or take photos.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-Off

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Side with plenty of time to relax or explore more of the Turkish coast. The hotel transfer is included, streamlining your day and removing logistical concerns. The experience usually wraps up by late afternoon or early evening.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The package features two dives, full equipment, instruction, lunch, and hotel pickup/drop-off. This all-inclusive approach offers excellent value, especially given the quality and safety standards reported by participants.

Not included are drinks and snacks, which you might want to bring along, and underwater DVDs or certificates, which some might find appealing if they want to remember the experience.

The tour is suitable for beginners and seasoned divers, with guides tailoring the activity based on your experience level. This flexibility broadens its appeal but always check that your comfort level aligns with the planned dives.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

According to reviews, guides like Sara and Lida are particularly praised for their warmth and professionalism—making first-timers feel cared for and confident. One reviewer notes that “the guides and crew are really nice guys,” which highlights the friendly atmosphere.

Many guests mention the delicious food served onboard, with comments indicating it’s a good-quality meal that complements the day’s adventure. The spectacular scenery of the coast also gets high marks, whether from above or beneath the water.

Some minor critiques include the length of downtime after dives, with one guest suggesting the time could be a bit longer for more water enjoyment. Others wish for longer dive times, but overall, the reviews are very positive, emphasizing the knowledgeable instructors and the beautiful underwater environment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is a great fit for beginners eager to try diving with professional guidance, as well as experienced divers looking for a scenic day with good company. If you’re traveling with non-divers, snorkeling provides a fun alternative, making it a flexible choice for groups or families.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—like the chance to meet friendly guides and enjoy fresh, local food—rather than just ticking off an activity. The scenic sailing, combined with underwater exploration, makes this a well-rounded day trip.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re seeking a value-packed, well-organized, and friendly diving experience, this tour hits many of the right notes. The professional guides, delicious onboard meals, and stunning scenery combine to make it a memorable adventure. The flexible options for beginners and snorkelers add to its appeal.

However, if you’re particularly eager for longer underwater time or want a more intensive dive schedule, you might find the total dive time somewhat limited. Still, for most travelers, especially those new to diving or looking for a relaxing day—and a chance to explore Turkey’s marine treasures—this experience offers a perfect mix of fun, scenery, and culture.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is. Beginners receive full instructions, and their underwater experience is guided in small groups, making it accessible and safe.

What should I bring?
You should bring your personal snorkel equipment if desired, though it is available for rent on the boat. Also, pack sun protection, a towel, and perhaps a change of clothes for after the activity.

How long is the whole experience?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, including pickup, sailing, diving, lunch, and return. Starting times vary, so check availability for your preferred day.

Can non-divers participate?
Absolutely. Non-divers can snorkel or swim in the clear waters while others are diving. The boat’s facilities make it easy to enjoy the scenery even without plunging into the water.

Is the food on board good?
Most reviews agree that the lunch is tasty and satisfying, providing good value for the included meal amid a relaxing sailing experience.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes. The guides are described as knowledgeable, caring, and professional—making all participants feel safe and confident.

What about underwater photography?
While not explicitly included, the clear waters and scenic views mean you will likely want to bring your camera to capture underwater moments.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

This full-day scuba experience in Side blends adventure with comfort, offering a chance to explore Turkey’s underwater world without hassle. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned diver, it promises a safe, scenic, and deliciously relaxing way to enjoy the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: