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

A Complete Look at the Suluada Boat Tour from Side, Antalya & Kemer: Swim & Lunch

If you’re exploring Turkey’s southern coast, a boat trip to Suluada Island offers a glimpse of some of the region’s most captivating sights. This tour from Side, Antalya, and Kemer is designed for travelers craving a mix of swimming, scenic views, and a taste of untouched nature. While it’s not a luxury cruise, it delivers genuine value and memorable moments—especially for those who like being out on the water.

Two features we particularly appreciate are the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at Suluada, often called the “Turkish Maldives,” and the chance to explore the Love Cave and Love Island, charming stops that add a sense of adventure. One possible consideration is that drinks on board are pricey—a common issue on many boat trips—so bringing your own might save some euros. This tour suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, natural beauty, and a relaxed day on the coast without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price offers good value for a full day of activity.
• Swimming in pristine waters at Suluada is a highlight.
• The tour includes lunch and visit to iconic spots like Love Island and Love Cave.
• Transfer service is included but with some logistical details to keep in mind.
• The experience is family-friendly, but not suitable for those prone to seasickness.
• Weather can impact the trip, so flexibility is advisable.

What to Expect from the Suluada Boat Tour

Starting Your Day: Transfers and Departure

Most travelers will begin with a hotel pickup in Antalya or Kemer, making it convenient to start the day without worrying about transportation logistics. The pickups are included, but it’s important to note that this service is generally for hotels outside the Antalya Kaleiçi area; guests staying at villas or apartments need to meet at the designated hotel location.

Once aboard the comfortable double-deck boat, you’ll set sail along the Turkish coastline. The duration ranges from about 7.5 to 10 hours, depending on weather conditions and group size, giving ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing on deck.

Sailing Along the Coastline

The boat ride itself is a major part of the fun. We loved the way the vessel cruises past stunning sea views and rugged coastlines, giving a true sense of being at sea. The boat’s open-air upper deck is perfect for catching the sun and photos, while the shaded lower deck offers a more relaxed spot to enjoy the scenery.

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Suluada Island: The Jewel of the Tour

Once at Suluada, you’ll have plenty of time to swim in the turquoise waters. Travelers often describe this as the highlight, with reviews noting the “crystal-clear waters” and “pristine beaches.” Here, you’ll enjoy swimming breaks, so packing your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen is essential.

The island is famous for its untouched beauty and the presence of Caretta Caretta turtles, which snorkelers and nature lovers may spot. We appreciated how this adds an element of natural authenticity—it’s not just a tourist spot, but a place where local wildlife thrives.

Love Island and Love Cave

Next, the tour takes you to Akseki Bay, affectionately called Love Island. This small, rocky outcrop hosts the Love Cave, a tiny, scenic spot where you can explore a natural rock formation with a small cave perfect for photo ops. As some reviews mentioned, boats dock simultaneously, so if you’re eager to snap photos or explore, a quick pace is advisable.

Swimming here is again a highlight, with clear, pool-like waters and interesting rock formations. Expect to spend some time relaxing, taking photos, or just soaking in the scenery.

Lunch on Board

Midway through the trip, you’ll be served a delicious lunch onboard. While the menu details aren’t specified, most boat tours offer standard Turkish fare or simple grilled dishes, perfect to refuel after the morning’s activities. The reviews indicate the value here is good, especially considering the included meal.

Returning to the Coast

After the final swim and sightseeing, the boat heads back to the harbor. The trip’s end involves a return transfer to your hotel or meeting point. The total experience can stretch close to ten hours, so plan accordingly for a full day of activity.

Practicalities and Tips for Your Trip

Transportation and Timing

The included hotel pickup simplifies logistics, but be prepared for possible delays—some reviews mention waiting for a few extra passengers or delays of up to 45 minutes. To ensure a smooth experience, arrive at your pickup point a little early.

What to Bring

Pack essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. The Turkish sun can be intense, so being protected is a smart move. Comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for water activities are advisable since you’ll be jumping in and out of the boat.

What Not to Expect

Alcoholic drinks and pets are not allowed on the boat, and drinks are sold at high prices—around 7 euros for a can of beer—so bringing your own might be wiser. Smoking is also prohibited onboard, maintaining a comfortable environment for everyone.

Weather and Safety

The trip is subject to weather conditions. Bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellation, so keep your plans flexible. If seasickness is a concern, note that the tour may not be suitable for you.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The majority of reviewers give this tour a solid 4.6 out of 5, praising the stunning scenery and good value. One traveler raved, “The trip itself with the boat ride was great. It was really worth it,” though they also pointed out the high prices for drinks and some inconveniences with the transfer driver. Another said simply, “Everything. The whole tour was very nice,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the overall experience.

The reviews also highlight the friendly guides, the beautiful waters, and the relaxing pace of the trip. Some travelers did mention that the transfer could be delayed, and that drinks are expensive, but these are minor issues compared to the memorable experience of swimming and exploring.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This boat tour offers genuine value for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a day in unspoiled nature. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides, swimming in pristine waters, and visiting iconic landmarks like Love Cave. Families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a relaxing yet active day will find it suits their needs.

However, if you’re sensitive to seasickness or prefer a more luxurious or guided experience with included drinks and snacks, you might want to consider alternative options. Also, those with limited mobility should consider the physical demands of swimming and exploring small caves.

This tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to see a little of Turkey’s natural beauty without fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most tours include pickup from hotels in Antalya or Kemer outside the Kaleiçi area. Make sure your hotel is in the pickup zone, and be prepared for possible delays.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts between 7.5 and 10 hours, depending on weather conditions and group size, giving plenty of time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, and comfortable water shoes or clothes suitable for water activities.

Are drinks available on the boat?
Yes, drinks are sold onboard, but prices are high—about 7 euros for a can of beer. Bringing your own drinks can save money.

Can I see wildlife like turtles?
Yes, Suluada is home to Caretta Caretta turtles, and the waters are often visited by these gentle creatures, which adds a special touch to the experience.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially for families comfortable with boat rides and swimming. However, always assess your child’s comfort with water activities and boat travel.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. In case of bad weather, the trip may be canceled or rescheduled. Keep an eye on the forecast and stay flexible.

Whether you’re after a day of swimming in turquoise waters, exploring caves, or just relaxing on a boat with stunning coastlines, this Suluada boat tour offers good value and a taste of Turkey’s unspoiled beauty. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable adventure that delivers memorable moments without fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: