From Alanya, Side To Adrasan Suluada Boat Tour with Lunch

Discover the Turkish Maldives: From Alanya and Side to Suluada Boat Tour with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day spent relaxing on stunning beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring natural wonders, this boat tour to Suluada might just fit the bill. Promoted as the “Turkish Maldives,” this full-day adventure offers a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and cultural sights—perfect for travelers craving a memorable day in nature.

What we particularly like about this experience is the opportunity to see Suluada’s renowned beaches and natural springs—places that feel like the secret corners of paradise. Plus, the inclusive lunch on board adds convenience, allowing you to relax without worrying about finding food during busy stops.

However, one aspect to consider is the long journey to reach the departure point, which can take up to five hours from Alanya or three from Side. The high demand in summer also means the area can get quite crowded, sometimes making swimming and relaxing less private than you might hope.

This tour appeals especially to those who love boat trips, scenic landscapes, and a full day of outdoor activity. If you’d rather avoid long bus rides or seek a peaceful, less crowded experience, it might be worth exploring other options. But for those eager to tick off a day in what’s often called Turkey’s version of the Maldives, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views of turquoise waters and lush islands, perfect for photography.
• Variety of stops: Enjoy swimming at Suluada Beach, American Beach, and exploring natural springs and the Cave of Love.
• All-day experience: With a 13-hour itinerary, you’ll get a full day of adventure, including transport, sightseeing, and lunch.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for travelers of all ages, but beware of potential crowds and long travel times.
• Value for money: The experience combines transport, guide, lunch, and sightseeing, making the price of $71 quite reasonable.
• Crowd levels: Expect busy spots, especially in high season, which might impact swimming and relaxing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

This boat tour departs from Adrasan pier, with pickup included from hotels in Alanya or Side. From Alanya, it’s about a 4-5 hour bus ride, while from Side, it’s approximately 3 hours. Keep in mind, the journey can be lengthy and somewhat tiring, especially if the bus isn’t equipped with air conditioning, as some travelers have noted. One review mentioned, “even though it was beautiful I wouldn’t book it again because of the journey there and back,” highlighting that the travel can overshadow the actual experience if you’re not prepared.

The Voyage to Suluada

Once aboard the boat, the scene shifts to bright blue waters and lush islands. The boat itself is usually well-equipped, with guides speaking English, Turkish, Russian, and German, making navigation and understanding the stops straightforward. The actual boat ride allows you to soak in the landscape, and many visitors find the journey itself enjoyable—if a little long.

First Stop: Suluada Beach

The main highlight is Suluada itself, called the “Turkish Maldives” thanks to its pristine sands and clear waters. It’s the first major stop, where you can swim, relax on the beach, or snorkel. Many reviewers mention the stunning scenery, with one saying, “when we were there it was beautiful,” though they also noted the area can get busy.

While the natural beauty is undeniable, others have pointed out that high demand means many boats and people converge on the same spots, making swimming challenging. “Too many people, little space for swimming,” a reviewer remarked, which is something to consider if you’re seeking solitude.

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Natural Water Springs & Cave of Love

Next, the tour visits the island’s natural water springs. These springs are not only a refreshing break but also part of the island’s ecosystem, nourishing both the land and marine life. It’s a quieter moment, providing a glimpse into the island’s natural environment.

Following that, you’ll stop at the Cave of Love, a unique natural formation. While not necessarily large or elaborate, the cave offers a picturesque spot for photos and a brief exploration—one of those small, memorable moments that make the trip special.

American Beach and Final Swim

The last major stop is American Beach, a lovely spot for a final swim, sunbathing, or beach exploration. Expect lively scenes, with many boats and travelers sharing the space. Some travelers found the crowded environment a bit hectic, making it tough to find a peaceful spot for swimming.

The Meal and Amenities

A key part of the tour is the lunch, included in the price. The menu usually offers a choice of options, with tea and biscuits served during the day, providing a welcome break from the sun and sea. Beverages aren’t included, so you might want to bring your own if you prefer specific drinks.

Return Journey

After a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, it’s time to head back. Expect another 4-5 hours on the bus, with some reviews noting the discomfort of long journeys without air conditioning. The ride can be tiring, especially during the heat of summer.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For $71, you’re getting a comprehensive outing that includes transport, a guide, meals, and multiple stops. If you love the idea of spending a day on the water exploring beautiful beaches and natural sights, and you’re prepared for a long day with some crowds, the value is quite good.

However, if you’re sensitive to long rides or prefer avoiding busy, crowded spots, you might find the experience less enjoyable. The high demand in the high season also means the beaches can be packed, and swimming might not feel as relaxing as in more secluded places.

What Travelers Say

Authentic reviews highlight both the appeal and the drawbacks. One traveler said, “the island and the boat trip were definitely worth it,” but also mentioned the crowded conditions. Another appreciated the beautiful scenery, but lamented the lengthy bus ride and lack of A/C, which can make the journey less comfortable.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers a lively, scenic adventure that’s ideal for those who want a full day of outdoor activity and don’t mind sharing crowded beaches. The highlights—crystal waters, natural springs, and the cave—deliver on the promise of Turkey’s “Maldives-like” experience, especially if your main goal is stunning views and a memorable day out.

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, or prefer a shorter, more relaxed trip, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re after a lively, scenic adventure with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities, it offers good value and a chance to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful waters.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy boat trips, natural landscapes, and lively beach scenes. It suits those ready for a full day of activity and comfortable with long transportation times. Families, groups, and adventurous travelers will find plenty to enjoy, but solo travelers seeking tranquility might prefer quieter spots.

FAQ

How long does it take to reach the departure point?
It takes approximately 4-5 hours from Alanya and about 3 hours from Side, so be prepared for a fairly lengthy bus ride before the boat trip even begins.

What is included in the price?
The price of $71 covers the boat tour, guide, pick-up and drop-off, lunch, tea, biscuits, and insurance. Beverages are not included, so you may want to bring your own.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, as long as children are comfortable on long bus rides and in busy, lively environments.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, and beachwear. Pack light but be prepared for sun and water activities.

When does the tour run?
The tour lasts about 13 hours and starts at times that vary; check availability when booking. Pickup arrangements are communicated after booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans shift.

In brief, this boat tour to Suluada presents a vivid, active way to experience some of Turkey’s most beautiful waters. It’s well-suited for those eager to spend a day on the sea, enjoy scenic stops, and don’t mind a long journey or crowded beaches. For travelers seeking natural beauty and lively scenery, it offers a compelling value—and plenty of picture-worthy moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: