Kemer’s Suluada Boat Tour: A Day of Sun, Sea, and Stunning Views
If you’re staying in Kemer and craving a day of sunshine and sparkling waters, the Suluada Boat Tour offers a chance to explore some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastlines. For around $39, you’ll get approximately 7 hours of boat-bound adventure, including roundtrip transfer, a delicious onboard lunch, and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this trip takes you from Adrasan Harbor to the stunning Suluada Island—often called the “Turkish Maldives”—and beyond.
What we love about this trip are two key features: the chance to swim in pristine, turquoise waters and the relaxed, scenic boat ride with plenty of space on the double-deck vessel. These elements combine to make for a genuinely enjoyable day away from the hustle and bustle. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers might find the atmosphere a bit lively and crowded, especially if they prefer a quiet, tranquil retreat.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, beachcombing, and snorkeling, and who don’t mind a lively boat atmosphere. It’s perfect if you’re after a full day of outdoor activity with a touch of luxury, thanks to the onboard buffet lunch. But if your idea of paradise is complete serenity, you might want to consider how busy the boat could get.
Key Points
- Stunning Locations: The tour visits Suluada, Cleopatra Bay, and Paradise Bay, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy pristine beaches and clear waters.
- All-Inclusive Food: An open buffet lunch onboard means you won’t go hungry during your adventure.
- Flexible Swim Opportunities: Multiple stops allow for swimming, snorkeling, and beach lounging, giving you the freedom to enjoy the water at your own pace.
- Comfortable Transportation: The roundtrip transfer from your hotel makes logistics one less thing to worry about.
- Group Size: With a maximum of 45 travelers, it’s a fairly intimate experience, but some reviews suggest it can feel crowded.
- Authentic Experience: The boat ride provides panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline, cliffs, and lush landscapes.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect
Starting Point and Pickup
Your day begins early, with a shared pickup from your hotel in Kemer or nearby in an air-conditioned vehicle. This ease of transport is a big plus, especially after a long morning or for those tired of navigating local transportation.
Meeting at Adrasan Harbor
Once you arrive at Adrasan Harbor, you’ll board the boat—an expansive double-deck vessel designed for comfort and good visibility. From here, the journey begins with a scenic sail along the rugged coastline, where you’ll see dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and lush forests. It’s a fantastic way to see Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean scenery from the water.
First Stop: Suluada Island
The star of this trip is Suluada, often called the “Turkish Maldives” for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll get about a one-hour swim break. As one reviewer put it, this is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, with plenty of space to stretch out on the sand or wade into the warm waters.
What to Expect
Expect a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, with opportunities for beachcombing and sunbathing. The water is inviting, and many guests find it ideal for snorkeling around the rocky edges. The tour includes admission tickets to Suluada, ensuring you have access to all the natural spots.
Second Stop: Cleopatra Bay
Next, the boat heads to Cleopatra Bay, a second chance to swim and relax. This bay is famed locally for its gorgeous beauty; it’s less crowded than some other spots, making it a good place to enjoy peace and quiet.
Third Stop: Lunch and the Water Source
Mealtime features an open buffet lunch onboard, allowing you to indulge in some Turkish flavors while soaking in the views of the deep blue sea. After lunch, you’ll have another chance to swim and snorkel. One fascinating feature of Suluada is its fresh water source, where cold, clear water emerges from rocks—an interesting natural oddity that adds to the island’s charm.
Final Swim and Relaxation: Paradise Bay
The last stop is Paradise Bay, where you can enjoy a two-hour window of free time. Here, the calm waters provide an underwater paradise for snorkelers and swimmers alike. Many travelers appreciate this peaceful spot to unwind, take photos, and soak up the sun.
Return Journey
After a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, you’ll board the boat back to Adrasan Harbor. From there, you’ll be transferred comfortably back to your hotel in Kemer. The entire trip wraps up roughly seven hours after it begins, giving you a full day of memorable experiences.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
One traveler, Sonia, shared her honest view, comparing the trip to the Maldives—but she noted it was “Totally not like the Maldives.” She mentioned the crowds and lively music might appeal to some but not everyone, especially those seeking peace and quiet. Her comment highlights the lively social atmosphere and large group size that can sometimes feel overwhelming.
The natural beauty and scenic views seem to be the most praised aspects. Multiple reviews mention the stunning turquoise waters and the beautiful beaches as true highlights, making this tour ideal for those who want to see Turkey’s coastal treasures from the sea.
Some guests expressed satisfaction with the well-organized logistics and appreciated the value for money, especially considering that lunch and transportation are included. However, the feedback also hints that crowd levels can vary, and those seeking solitude might need to plan accordingly.
Practical Details and Tips for Your Trip
The price of around $38 per person reflects good value for a full-day experience that includes transport, lunch, and multiple swimming stops. Keep in mind that beverages are not included, so bring your own water or purchase drinks onboard.
The tour has a maximum group size of 45 travelers, which balances intimacy with the lively atmosphere of a group trip. The roundtrip transfer from your hotel simplifies logistics and saves time, making it an accessible option for most travelers.
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but check the forecast. Since much of the experience is outdoors, sun protection—such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses—is a must. Also, packing swimwear, towels, and waterproof cameras will enhance your enjoyment.
The timing is straightforward: start at 8 am with pickup, so planning your breakfast accordingly is wise. The return around 3 pm ensures you get a full day but leaves you some time in the evening to relax or explore nearby.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming in clear waters, and exploring beautiful beaches. It’s especially suited for travelers who are happy to share the boat with others and enjoy a lively, social atmosphere. If you’re looking for peaceful solitude, some reviews suggest the crowds can be noticeable, so consider this when planning.
It’s a great choice for families, couples, or groups wanting a full day of sightseeing with onboard comfort. But keep in mind that snorkeling gear isn’t included, so if you’re keen on exploring underwater life, bring your own.
Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?
For the price, the Suluada Boat Tour offers a solid value—a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing in some of Turkey’s most beautiful waters. The scenic stops, delicious buffet lunch, and comfortable transportation make it a convenient option to see the coast without much fuss.
If your goal is to experience stunning beaches and enjoy maximum water time, this tour delivers. It’s especially perfect if you’re keen to relax and soak up the natural beauty of the Mediterranean, with plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos.
However, if you prefer quiet, less crowded settings, you might find some parts of the trip a bit lively. Still, the breathtaking views and well-organized schedule make this a worthwhile choice for many visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is included in the tour?
The tour includes roundtrip transfer, boat ride, admission to Suluada, a buffet lunch, and an expert guide. Beverages are not included. - How long is the boat ride?
The total experience lasts about 7 hours, with most of that time spent on the boat traveling and stopping at key locations. - Is there time for swimming?
Yes. There are multiple stops specifically designed for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beaches. - What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and water. The boat provides some space to relax, but personal items and snacks are up to you. - Are the stops crowded?
Reviews suggest that crowds can be a factor, especially at popular spots like Suluada. If you prefer quiet, early morning or less busy days might be better. - Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the group size and activities seem suitable for families, especially those comfortable with water-based activities. - Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
In essence, the Suluada Boat Tour from Kemer offers a lively, scenic, and deliciously relaxing day on Turkey’s coast. Perfect for those wanting to see the natural beauty, enjoy swimming, and indulge in a tasty meal—all while soaking in spectacular sea views.