”Turkish Maldives” Boat trip Adrasan-Suluada island from Antalya

Imagine spending your day sailing along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, visiting unspoiled islands, swimming in clear waters, and enjoying a relaxed itinerary filled with scenic views. This boat trip from Adrasan to Suluada offers just that—an affordable, roughly 10-hour adventure that promises plenty of sun, sea, and a taste of Turkish hospitality. Priced at around $37.72 per person, it’s a popular choice, often booked a week in advance, and packed with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and simply unwinding.

What we really love about this tour are the close-up views of pristine beaches and wild coastline, and the chance to sample a freshly prepared fish lunch on board. The boat itself is a 50-meter vessel with enough space for up to 100 guests, meaning it’s lively but not overcrowded—ideal for those who enjoy a social atmosphere. Another highlight is the drop-off and pickup service at your Antalya hotel, making it a hassle-free way to explore without worrying about transportation logistics.

A possible consideration is the crowded nature of some stops, especially Suluada, which can get busy with other boats and visitors, making the experience a bit less serene. Also, keep in mind that cash-only payments on board can be inconvenient if you’re not prepared. This trip is best suited for travelers who want an active, scenic day of swimming and sightseeing with friendly crew members guiding the way—perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers eager to see the “Turkish Maldives.”

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: Excellent value for a full-day cruise with included lunch and soft drinks.
• Beautiful Scenery: Crystal-clear waters, uninhabited islands, and rocky coastlines.
• Well-Organized: Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, with a friendly crew.
• Multiple Stops: Plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun at different locations.
• Crowd Factors: Some stops, especially Suluada, can be crowded, which may affect the tranquility.
• Cash Payments: Be prepared with local currency for on-board purchases.

The Full Experience — What You Can Expect

Setting Off from Adrasan

The adventure begins early, with a pickup around 7:00 am (some reviews mention slight delays). From there, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, with the Lycian Way and untouched beaches passing by your window. The ride takes roughly two hours, which some travelers find a bit long, especially if the bus’s air conditioning isn’t working perfectly. But the promise of crystalline waters and scenic vistas helps pass the time.

The Yacht and the Atmosphere

Once aboard, you’re greeted by a spacious 50-meter yacht with plenty of room for everyone. The boat has comfortable shaded areas and open decks, perfect for lounging, sunbathing, or snapping photos of the coast. The crew, praised for being friendly and accommodating, keeps soft drinks and tea flowing—though it’s worth noting that cash is the only acceptable method for extra purchases.

Suluada — The “Maldives of Turkey”

The first major stop is the stunning Suluada, known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Uninhabited and of volcanic origin, it’s a highlight for swimmers and snorkelers alike. You’ll love the chance to dip into rock lakes and mineral springs, which some reviews mention have healing properties—perfect for a relaxing break.

Travelers frequently comment on the beauty of the water, with reviews like “the sea is more than one color” and “crystal clear,” giving you a real sense of tranquility. Be aware that this stop can be crowded, as it’s popular among other boats, leading to a lively but busy beach scene.

Lunch and Refreshments

After swimming, a simple fish lunch is served on the boat, often described as straightforward but fresh and satisfying. Along with this, guests enjoy fruits, Turkish tea, and biscuits, making for a hearty and refreshing meal amid stunning surroundings. Several reviews highlight the generous and tasty food, especially given the trip’s reasonable price.

American Bay and Kargcak Bay

Post-lunch, the boat heads to other bays like American Bay and Kargcak Bay, where the water remains inviting and cool. These stops allow for more leisurely swimming, jumping, and exploring. Some travelers note that the views are breathtaking, with vivid blues and rocky coves providing excellent photo opportunities.

Return Journey and Breaks

On the way back, there’s a short stop for a break on land, often used for stretching or grabbing a snack. The return journey offers scenic vistas of the coast, and many reviews mention feeling relaxed and happy with the day’s balance of activity and leisure.

What Travelers Say — Authentic Perspectives

Many reviews praise the friendly crew and the organization of the trip. One reviewer called the experience “brilliant,” highlighting the “amazing owners” and “very accommodating” staff. Others loved the scenery and water clarity, with several describing it as comparable to more exotic locales like Phi Phi Island.

However, some travelers mention crowdiness and logistical hiccups. A reviewer pointed out the long bus ride and poor communication during stops, which can lead to moments of uncertainty—like nearly being left behind. Plus, a few mention cash-only payments on board as a minor inconvenience, so bringing small bills is advisable.

The food quality receives mixed reviews but generally is appreciated for its freshness and simplicity. Several guests emphasize that the lunch is filling and offers a nice break from swimming.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a real bonus for travelers unfamiliar with local transportation. The bus ride can be about two hours, and while some find the air conditioning lacking, most agree that the scenic drive is part of the experience. Be prepared for a group of up to 100 passengers, which encourages a lively atmosphere but may limit intimacy if you’re seeking a quieter experience.

On the boat, cash is king—bring small bills for drinks or souvenirs. The tour operates rain or shine, and if the weather turns bad, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund—providing peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those seeking value-packed adventure with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up scenery. It’s well-suited for travelers who don’t mind a moderate crowd and can handle a longer bus ride. Food lovers will appreciate the included simple but fresh lunch, and anyone interested in photo opportunities will find plenty of picturesque moments along the coast.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun-filled day with the chance to see unspoiled islands and enjoy the sea, this tour offers a lot for its price.

The Sum Up — Is It Worth It?

For under $40, this cruise to Turkey’s so-called “Maldives” offers some truly beautiful sights, fun water activities, and good food. The scenic stops and friendly crew make it a great choice for those wanting a full day of adventure without breaking the bank. Expect some crowds at the popular stops, and remember to bring cash and sun protection.

This tour will appeal most to families, solo travelers, or couples who enjoy a lively, scenic day out on the water, and don’t mind a little bus ride to get there. If your priority is peace and solitude, you might find some of the busy beaches less tranquil.

Overall, it’s a solid, well-organized trip that balances value, fun, and authentic experiences—certainly worth considering if you want to see the coast from a different perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $37.72 per person, which includes the boat trip, lunch, soft drinks, insurance, and hotel pickup.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Is there hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Antalya hotel, making the day easier to manage.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for on-board purchases, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. It’s also wise to have some snacks or extra water, especially if you’re sensitive to heat.

Are the stops crowded?
Yes, especially at Suluada, which is a popular site. Expect lively scenes with multiple boats sharing the beaches.

What is included in the lunch?
A simple fish lunch is served on the boat, along with fruits, Turkish tea, and biscuits.

How many people are on the boat?
Up to 100 passengers can be accommodated, fostering a lively atmosphere but not overwhelming.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially for families with children who enjoy swimming and scenic boat rides.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date, so your safety and enjoyment are prioritized.

Whether you’re after breathtaking views, a fun day on the water, or simply want to escape the crowds and relax, this boat trip to the “Turkish Maldives” checks many boxes—especially if you’re mindful of its lively atmosphere. Prepare your camera, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for a memorable day along Turkey’s stunning coast.