Suluada Boat Tour from Side, Antalya & Kemer: Swim & Lunch

A day spent on the water exploring Suluada Island, often called the “Turkish Maldives,” from Antalya or Kemer offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. For just around $19 per person, this 7.5 to 10-hour boat tour takes you along Turkey’s stunning coastline, giving you a taste of the region’s best hidden beaches and tranquil coves. We love how the trip combines crystal-clear swimming spots, picturesque scenery, and some fascinating stops like Love Island and the Love Cave. It’s perfect for those wanting a full day of sun, sea, and scenic views without breaking the bank.

That said, one thing to consider is the price of drinks onboard, which can be quite high—so bringing your own refreshments might be a smart move. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy moderate boat rides, love natural beauty, and aren’t easily seasick. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a flexible, affordable way to explore some of the coast’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this trip provides enough variety to keep everyone entertained.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Just $19 per person for a full-day adventure.
• Natural Highlights: Swim in crystal-clear waters, visit Love Island, and see Caretta Caretta turtles.
• Scenic Journey: Sail along Turkey’s beautiful coastline with impressive views.
• Food & Refreshments: Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch, but be prepared for high drink prices.
• Flexible Duration: Tours last between 7.5 and 10 hours, depending on conditions.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for travelers who enjoy water activities and scenic nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Suluada Boat Tour: What You Can Expect

This tour begins with a hotel pickup in Antalya or Kemer, making it a hassle-free start to your day. The transportation is included, although it’s worth noting that pickups are available only from designated hotel locations outside of Antalya Kaleiçi, so plan accordingly. Once at the harbor, you’ll board a comfortable double-deck boat, which comfortably accommodates groups and offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy the ride.

The journey along the coast offers stunning views of Turkey’s rugged shoreline, dotted with bays and rocky outcrops. As you cruise, your guides will point out notable sights and provide interesting commentary—some in English, German, and Russian—making it accessible for international visitors.

First Stop: Suluada Island

Arriving at Suluada, you’ll immediately notice its reputation as Turkey’s “Turkish Maldives,” thanks to its turquoise waters and golden beaches. This island is largely untouched, giving it a peaceful and pristine atmosphere. Here, you’ll have ample time to swim in clear waters, relax on the sand, or explore the surrounding rocks. The water is typically calm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for both swimming and taking photos.

What we love is the chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty without the fuss of big resorts. The reviews highlight this part of the trip as a highlight, with one traveler saying, “It was a wonderful experience.” The beauty of Suluada is truly in its unspoiled, quiet charm.

Second Stop: Akseki Bay / Love Island

Next, you’ll cruise to Akseki Bay, affectionately called Love Island. This tiny island is famous for the Love Cave, a small but charming natural feature that can be explored by boat or on foot. The area is perfect for swimming in calm waters and taking advantage of the photo opportunities. Some guests note that arriving at Suluada means all boats dock at the same time, so if you want to capture the perfect shot, it’s best to hurry.

The Love Cave is a fun and quirky stop, especially for couples or those interested in unique rock formations. You might find that this stop offers a more intimate experience compared to the larger beaches, making it ideal for some peaceful reflection or photography.

Lunch and Relaxation

A highlight of the tour is the lunch served onboard. The meals are generally described as delicious and satisfying, giving you fuel for the rest of the day’s swimming and exploring. The boat’s crew ensures your stomach is happy, and you’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy your meal with scenic views all around.

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Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After a few more swimming breaks and sightseeing, the boat heads back to the harbor. The return trip might include a break for additional passengers, which some travelers found a little frustrating—one reviewer mentioned a 25-minute wait and an extra stop for a quick rest. It’s worth being patient on the way back but overall, the experience remains enjoyable.

Authenticity and Value

One of the best aspects of this tour is its value for money. For just $19, you get a full day of scenic cruising, swimming, and a tasty meal. The reviews reinforce that the trip is a great deal considering the stunning sights and relaxed pace. However, some travelers note that drinks onboard can be very costly—about 7 per can of beer—so bringing your own might improve your experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is especially suited for travelers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy untouched beaches. If you love swimming, photography, and natural scenery, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate affordable adventures without sacrificing quality.

While not designed for those prone to seasickness, it offers a relaxed pace with plenty of stops, making it accessible to most travelers in decent health. Families with children, couples, or solo explorers seeking a laid-back day on the water should all find this tour appealing.

The Details That Matter

Transportation: Included hotel pickup and drop-off from designated hotels outside Antalya Kaleiçi. The transfer service is generally reliable but may be delayed by up to 45 minutes.

Duration: Between 7.5 and 10 hours, depending on weather and traffic conditions.

Group Size: Typically a shared boat with other travelers, offering a friendly, communal atmosphere.

Cost: $19 per person, which covers the boat ride, lunch, and swimming breaks. Additional expenses include personal drinks and souvenirs.

Language: Guides speak English, German, and Russian, making it accessible for an international audience.

Weather Considerations: The trip is weather-dependent; bad weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellations.

What to Bring: Hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen. Consider bringing your own drinks to avoid high onboard prices.

Restrictions: Not suitable for people prone to seasickness or those with mobility issues. Pets, smoking, and alcohol are not allowed onboard.

FAQs

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts between 7.5 and 10 hours, giving plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and exploring each stop.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included if your hotel is outside Antalya Kaleiçi, but not from villas or apartments.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. You might want to bring your own drinks since onboard prices are high.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the trip suitable for families?
Yes, especially for those who enjoy water activities and scenic natural environments. Just note that the full day might be tiring for very young children.

Will I see turtles?
The tour offers a good chance to see the local Caretta Caretta turtles, which are part of the region’s untouched wildlife.

Are there guides onboard?
Yes, guides speak English, German, and Russian, providing commentary and ensuring you don’t miss any highlights.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent. Bad weather may lead to rescheduling or cancellation, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an affordable, scenic, and relaxing way to discover some of Turkey’s best coastlines and beaches, this Suluada Boat Tour hits the mark. The combination of swimming in unspoiled waters, visiting iconic spots like Love Island and the Love Cave, and enjoying a delicious onboard lunch makes it a well-rounded day out.

While the high cost of drinks onboard might be a detraction, bringing your own can significantly improve your experience. The value for money is undeniable, especially considering the stunning scenery and natural encounters you’ll enjoy.

This tour suits travelers who want a full day of outdoor activity without complicated logistics or hefty expenses. It’s great for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, as long as you’re comfortable on a boat and love spending time on the water.

In short, if you crave a relaxed day with beautiful views and a chance to swim in clear waters, this trip is a solid choice. Just go prepared, bring your camera, and enjoy the journey as you explore a true slice of Turkish paradise.

You can check availability for your dates here: