Side: Scuba Diving, Underwater Museum, 2 Dives incl. Lunch

If you’re looking into a scuba experience in Turkey, this tour in Side promises an engaging day exploring the clear waters of the Eastern Mediterranean. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty inviting picture. It’s ideal if you want to combine underwater adventure with scenic boat rides and good food, all within a manageable 9-hour window.

Two things we really like about this tour: the flexibility for different experience levels—beginners and seasoned divers are both welcomed—and the quality of the guides, who seem to be both knowledgeable and caring. Plus, enjoying a lunch onboard while sailing between dive sites adds a nice relaxing touch.

Of course, there are some considerations. The dive times could be longer for more immersion, and the post-dive downtime on the boat might feel a bit lengthy for some. But overall, this experience caters well to travelers who love marine life, stunning coastlines, and a well-organized day out. It’s a solid pick if you’re keen on trying scuba or want a hassle-free way to explore Turkey’s underwater scenery.

This tour is particularly suited for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and comfort—whether you’re a beginner eager for guidance or an experienced diver wanting to explore new sites. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate good food, and a scenic boat ride, combined with professional instruction.

Key Points

• Suitable for all experience levels: Beginners get full instructions, while seasoned divers can choose gear.
• Includes 2 dives at different sites, offering variety in underwater scenery.
• Onboard lunch provides a relaxing break and a taste of local flavors.
• Expert guides make safety and enjoyment their priority.
• Flexible participation: non-divers can snorkel and swim in crystal-clear waters.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Side or nearby.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This full-day tour offers more than just diving; it’s a blend of marine exploration, scenic sailing, and local cuisine. It’s designed to give you a taste of the Turkish coast’s underwater treasures without feeling rushed or overly complex.

The Dive Sites & Underwater Highlights

While the exact sites aren’t specified here, the focus on two different dive spots suggests varied underwater environments, which keeps the experience fresh. Expect clear waters teeming with sea life, as the description emphasizes the beauty of the Eastern Mediterranean. Our understanding from reviews is that the guides do a good job of tailoring the dives based on your experience level, making everything feel safe and accessible.

The Experience for Beginners and Experts

One of the real strengths of this tour is its adaptability. Beginners receive full instructions before their first dive, which means you won’t need prior experience to join. Experienced divers can choose appropriate equipment and enjoy the expertise of the guides. This flexibility makes it a good option for mixed groups or couples with varying skill levels.

The Food & Sailing

The onboard lunch is a nice touch—it’s fresh, filling, and served as you drift between sites. The reviews mention good food, which can sometimes be hit-or-miss on tours like this, but here it seems to hit the spot. The boat ride itself offers spectacular coastal views, adding a visual component to your day that’s just as relaxing as the underwater adventures.

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The Guides & Safety

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and care. This is crucial because safety is paramount in water sports, especially for those new to diving. Having 1 or 2 instructors on hand means you’re in reliable hands whether you’re doing your first breath-hold or are a seasoned diver.

The Itinerary—What a Typical Day Looks Like

You’ll start your day with a hotel pickup, a sign of a well-organized tour. The transfer takes you to the harbor, where the adventure begins. Once on the boat, you’ll set sail towards your first dive site. Expect a bit of a scenic cruise, where you can take in views of the Turkish coast and get ready for your underwater exploration.

If you’re a beginner, the team provides full instructions before stepping into the water. For experienced divers, you can choose your equipment and dive at your own pace. The first site is likely to be a good introduction to the local marine life, which many reviewers describe as vibrant and diverse.

After your first dive, the crew will serve a delicious lunch onboard—think of fresh salads, local specialties, or other tasty bites—while you enjoy the scenery. Then, it’s time for the second site, which might offer different underwater formations or sea life. For non-divers, there’s plenty of opportunity to snorkel, swim, or simply relax on the boat.

The day wraps up with some free time for swimming or snapping photos before heading back to Side, with a drop-off at your hotel. The whole experience lasts around 9 hours, which is a good length for a full day without feeling overly exhausting.

The Value Proposition

While some may think the price is a bit steep, the inclusion of full diving equipment, instruction, lunch, and hotel transfers makes it a reasonable offer. Plus, the reviews suggest that the guides make the experience smooth and enjoyable, which adds a lot of peace of mind.

The fact that you can reserve now and pay later offers flexibility, especially if you’re planning your trip in advance. The small caveat is the reported “too big” downtime after dives—if you’re a diver eager to maximize your time underwater, you might find it a bit frustrating that the actual dive time isn’t longer. But for most, the overall experience seems to balance well with the time spent on the boat.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re new to scuba diving but eager to try, this tour’s full instruction and beginner-friendly approach make it a great option. For more experienced divers, the chance to visit different sites with knowledgeable guides is appealing. It’s also well-suited for travelers who value good food, scenic boat rides, and a relaxed atmosphere.

This experience might not be ideal if you’re looking for longer or more intense underwater sessions—the reviews note that dive times could be longer—but overall, it hits the sweet spot for most first-timers and casual divers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced divers. Beginners will get full instructions, making it accessible even if you’ve never dived before.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes 2 dives, full diving equipment, a delicious onboard lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and instruction.

Can non-divers participate?
Absolutely. Non-divers can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the boat ride. You can rent snorkel equipment on the boat if you don’t bring your own.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience lasts about 9 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.

Do I need to bring my own food or equipment?
No, everything related to diving is provided. You can bring your own snorkel gear or rent it on the boat, and lunch is included.

Is there a certification requirement?
No certification is necessary. The tour is suitable for all levels, including beginners.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks, snacks, and underwater DVDs are not included. If you want to take photos or videos underwater, bring your own or consider renting.

How are the guides during the activity?
Reviewers consistently mention the guides as friendly, professional, and attentive to safety, which makes for a comfortable experience.

What is the scenery like?
Expect stunning views of the Turkish coast from the boat, and vibrant marine life underwater—perfect for photos and sightseeing.

This scuba adventure in Side offers a friendly, well-organized way to enjoy the beauty beneath Turkey’s waters. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned diver, the combination of professional guides, scenic boat rides, and good food makes it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans. Just be prepared for some downtime and manage your expectations about dive times—they’re good, but might not be marathon sessions for the hardcore underwater enthusiast. Overall, a balanced, enjoyable experience that captures the essence of the Turkish coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: