Adrasan Suluada Boat Trip from Antalya and Belek

Adrasan Suluada Boat Trip from Antalya and Belek: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day out on the water to explore some of Turkey’s most beautiful bays, the Adrasan Suluada Boat Trip might catch your eye. Marketed as the “Maldives of Turkey,” this tour promises a day of swimming, relaxing, and enjoying nature’s best. We’ve looked into what it offers, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your travel style.

What we really like about this trip is how it combines multiple swimming stops in spectacular bays — especially Suluada, which is often called the Turkish Maldives because of its crystal-clear waters. Plus, the value for money seems decent, especially with a satisfying buffet lunch included. However, some travelers have found the overall experience to be less than perfect, with a few mentioning that the trip could feel long or that the organization might not meet everyone’s expectations.

A key thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves quite a bit of traveling from Antalya or Belek, with a start early in the morning and returning late in the afternoon. Therefore, it suits those who enjoy full-day excursions and are comfortable with a group tour. If you’re after a relaxing, low-key day close to your hotel, this might not be the best choice — but if you love boat days and new scenery, you’ll likely find it worthwhile.

Key Points

• Stunning Bays: The boat stops include four different bays, with Suluada being the highlight, often called Turkey’s Maldives.
• Good Value: For around $33, the trip offers multiple swimming breaks, a buffet lunch, and a full day out.
• Early Starts and Long Day: Expect pickup after 7 a.m. and return around 7:30 p.m., so it’s a full-day commitment.
• Group Size: The tour caps at 27 travelers, making it a more personal experience than larger group excursions.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the scenery and organization, some travelers have had less positive experiences, citing disappointment or dissatisfaction.
• Weather Dependent: The trip’s success relies on good weather, with cancellations possible in poor conditions.

What to Expect on the Tour

Pickup and Departure
The adventure begins early — pickups start after 7 a.m., depending on where you’re staying. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is a relief given the early start, and you’ll be on your way to Adrasan Beach Port for the boat trip.

The Boat and the Crew
Once at the port, you’ll board a boat equipped with a restroom, and the crew generally seems friendly and accommodating. The boat is designed for comfort during the approximately 7-hour journey, but keep in mind that it can get crowded, with a maximum of 27 travelers.

The Itinerary
The real highlight is the four swimming stops, two of which are in Suluada, often called the Turkish Maldives thanks to its spectacular sea colors and beaches. Suluada is known for its cold freshwater spring, which provides a unique freshwater dip amidst the saltwater. The other two bays are also celebrated for their beauty, with tranquil waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.

What You’ll Do
Expect to be on the water from around 10 a.m., with regular breaks to swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the scenery. The stops are spaced out to give you plenty of time to enjoy each bay. During the trip, you’ll also get to enjoy fruit and tea on board, adding a nice touch of refreshment as you sail back.

Lunch and Refreshments
A buffet lunch is served on the boat, with a choice between Chicken or Sea Bream — both simple, hearty options. Drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or purchase extras on the boat. Many reviews mention the lunch as a highlight, and it’s a good value considering the overall cost.

Return Journey
After a relaxing afternoon of swimming and sunbathing, you’ll return to Adrasan Beach Port around 5 p.m., with the return to Antalya or Belek by roughly 7:30 p.m. It’s a long day, but many find the scenery and experience worth every minute.

The Value of the Experience

For $33.57, this trip offers a lot. The inclusion of lunch, transportation, and all fees means you don’t have to worry about extra costs — unless you want drinks or souvenirs. The multiple swimming stops and beautiful bays are the main draw, and reviews suggest that the scenery exceeds expectations.

That said, some reviews hint at the experience feeling a bit overhyped or that the long travel time can be tiring, especially if you’re not an early riser or if the weather isn’t cooperating. It’s also worth noting that not everyone might appreciate the crowded feeling on the boat, especially during peak season.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

What we loved:
– The visual appeal of the bays, especially Suluada, which truly lives up to its reputation.
– The inclusive buffet lunch, offering a straightforward, filling meal with options.
– The organized nature of the tour, making it easy to relax without planning each detail yourself.

What could be better:
– The long hours may feel a bit much for some; it’s a whole day of travel and activity.
– The weather dependency means if conditions aren’t good, you might end up disappointed or face cancellation.
– A few travelers mention that the trip might be not worth the cost if they expected a more intimate or luxurious experience, but for many, the breathtaking scenery compensates.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a full-day escape with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities, this trip checks a lot of boxes. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy organized group tours and don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s also a solid choice if you want to see some of Turkey’s most famous bays without the hassle of planning transport or meals.

This trip might be less ideal if you prefer relaxing by your hotel pool or if you’re traveling with very young children who might find the boat ride tiring. Plus, if you’re sensitive to long hours or unpredictable weather, consider whether this tour suits your style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and some cash for drinks or extras. A hat and sunglasses are also helpful to stay comfortable during the day.

Does the tour include breakfast?
No, breakfast is not included. The tour starts with pickup after 7 a.m., so you might want to eat before or bring snacks for the journey.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have fruit and tea on the boat, but additional beverages need to be purchased separately.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience runs for about 7 hours, with pickup starting around 7 a.m. and return around 7:30 p.m.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful that it involves a full day of travel, swimming, and boat time. If you dislike boat trips or long days, it might not be ideal.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 27 travelers, making it relatively intimate compared to larger cruise options.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Adrasan Suluada Boat Trip offers a chance to see some truly beautiful parts of Turkey’s coast, especially if you’re drawn to crystal-clear waters and peaceful bays. The value for money is quite fair, considering the stops, lunch, and transportation included. It’s a solid choice for those who enjoy group adventures and want to spend a day exploring the Turkish Maldives.

However, be prepared for a long day with early mornings and potential weather issues. The experience leans toward scenic and social, rather than luxurious or relaxing in a quiet way. If you’re looking for a memorable day on the water with plenty of swimming, this tour can definitely deliver — just make sure it aligns with your travel expectations.

In sum, if you’re after a lively, scenic day with opportunities to cool off in stunning bays, and you enjoy organized tours, this trip is worth considering. Just keep in mind the long hours and variable weather, and you’ll find it a worthwhile adventure.