Alanya/Antalya The Maldives Boat Trip with Lunch & Transfer

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape into turquoise waters and soft white sand beaches, this boat trip from Alanya to Suluada — often called the Maldives of Turkey — might just be your ticket. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for travelers craving a laid-back day on the water with some stunning scenery thrown in.

What really catches our attention? First, the price point is incredibly reasonable, at around $15 per person, offering a full-day experience that covers transport, a scenic boat ride, and a tasty onboard lunch. Second, the positive feedback about the guide and the overall organization suggests this tour is well-managed and enjoyable. An honest consideration? The trip duration can extend up to 10 hours, including transfers, so it’s a good idea to be ready for a day full of travel and relaxation.

This experience tends to suit those who love water activities, scenic landscapes, and value for money. If you’re not a fan of long transfers or prefer more exclusive, private experiences, this might feel a bit crowded or busy. Still, if you’re eager to see some of Turkey’s untouched natural beauty in a relaxed, friendly environment, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $15, it offers good value considering the full-day itinerary and included services.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect clear, turquoise waters and pristine beaches that are perfect for relaxing or swimming.
• Organized and Friendly Guides make sure the trip goes smoothly, with considerate timing at each stop.
• Delicious Lunch: Food served onboard is fresh and tasty, with soft drinks included.
• Comfortable Transport: Transfers from Alanya are straightforward, though they can take around 5 hours round-trip.
• Limited Alcoholic Drinks: Available at an extra cost; soft drinks included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey to Suluada: What You Can Expect

The adventure kicks off early, with a pick-up from Alanya that takes you to Adrasan Harbor. From there, you board a scenic boat and set sail across the calm Mediterranean waters. The boat is described as comfortable and well-maintained, with music that adds to the relaxed vibe.

The Stops and Swimming Breaks

Your day involves visiting several bays around Suluada, renowned for their turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. These are no ordinary beaches; the natural beauty here is untouched, making for some fantastic photo opportunities and peaceful swimming spots. According to reviews, the water clarity is outstanding, and the swimming stops are considered generous, giving plenty of time to enjoy the cool, inviting waters.

One traveler said, “All of the swimming spots were absolutely beautiful,” highlighting how the crystal-clear water really is a standout feature. Another noted that, despite the crowds, swimming around the boats helps gain some distance from the busy atmosphere.

Lunch and Refreshments

A highlight for many is the lunch served onboard. It’s described as fresh and tasty, with soft drinks included throughout the day. While alcoholic beverages are not part of the package and come at an extra fee, many seem perfectly satisfied with the snacks and drinks provided. Several reviews mention that the food quality exceeded expectations, especially considering the price.

The Guide’s Role

The guide is an integral part of the experience, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Travelers have complimented the guides for their friendly, attentive service, which makes the day more enjoyable and less stressful. In cases where the group is small, a German-speaking guide might not be available, and an audio guide will be provided instead, but this generally doesn’t impact the quality of the experience.

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The Overall Experience: A Deep Dive

While the trip lasts about 5 hours on the water, including stops, the entire day can extend to 10 hours when you factor in the transfer from Alanya. Some travelers mention the long travel time, which can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to spending hours on a bus or boat. However, the scenic drive to Adrasan and the boat ride itself make for a relaxing break from busy sightseeing routines.

The group size is typically moderate, and the shared experience adds a social element. It’s worth noting that the tour is not designed for people with mobility issues, as wheelchair users and the visually impaired might find the terrain and boat access challenging.

What Riders Say

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find excellent value for money. One reviewer from Denmark calls it an overall great day, and a traveler from the UK appreciated the friendly driver Bekir, noting that his kindness added a personal touch.

Another reviewer, from Turkey, was pleased with the well-organized nature of the trip and enjoyed the three different swimming stops, each offering crystal-clear waters perfect for cooling down and relaxing.

Should You Book This Trip?

If you’re after a laid-back day on the water with stunning views, affordable pricing, and a friendly guide, this trip is worth considering. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience Turkey’s natural beauty without breaking the bank. The inclusive lunch and soft drinks add to the value, making it a convenient option.

However, if you prefer shorter trips or more exclusive experiences, this might feel a bit crowded or lengthy, especially with the transfer time. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy social group outings and are content with a relaxed, scenic day rather than an exclusive or private tour.

Practical Details and Tips

• What to bring: Swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen — essentials for a day spent in the sun and water.
• Duration: Around 5 hours of boat time, with transfers possibly extending the full experience to 10 hours.
• Cost: $15 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the included services.
• Group size: Usually moderate, but smaller groups may have guides in different languages.
• Extra costs: Alcoholic beverages and special drinks are available but at an additional charge.
• Children: Free children must travel on a parent’s lap, making it suitable for families with young kids.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join, but note that free children travel on a parent’s lap. The trip is generally relaxed and family-friendly, especially with the calm waters and slow-paced stops.

How long does the whole trip take?
The boat ride itself lasts around 5 hours, but including transfers from Alanya, the full experience may stretch up to 10 hours.

Are drinks included?
Soft drinks are included and served throughout the day. Alcoholic beverages are available at extra cost.

Is the guide available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Russian, English, and German, with a note that for smaller groups, a German-speaking guide might not be available, and an audio guide will be used instead.

What should I pack?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Is the transfer comfortable?
Transfers are described as comfortable, but they can take around 5 hours round-trip, so be prepared for a bit of a travel day.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful waters and beaches. With friendly guides, good organization, and plenty of swimming opportunities, it appeals especially to those wanting an easy, relaxing day with nature.

While it may not suit travelers seeking privacy or a quick half-day outing, it’s a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers eager to enjoy the natural beauty of Suluada. Plus, with the positive reviews highlighting delicious food, scenic stops, and helpful guides, you can feel confident that this experience delivers on its promises.

If you’re up for a day on the water, want to see the “Maldives of Turkey”, and don’t mind a longer trip, this tour could be just what you need for a memorable escape.

Enjoy your trip, and always remember — the best adventures are those that match your pace and interests. Happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: