Maldives: Suluada Boat Tour with Lunch, Transfer & Bays

Imagine a day spent floating between pristine bays, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and relaxing on soft, sandy beaches—all while being guided by locals who know every hidden corner of this beautiful stretch of coast. That’s essentially what the Maldives: Suluada Boat Tour offers, with a little Turkish twist. While I haven’t personally done this exact trip, from reviews and descriptions, it looks like a solid way to unwind and soak up some stunning scenery without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What really catches the eye is the promise of unspoiled bays and transparent waters that seem to belong to a different world. Plus, the inclusion of a fresh, home-cooked lunch on the boat means you’re not just there for the views—you get to enjoy some good food too. However, it’s worth noting that timing can be tight, especially if you want to linger in each bay, and some reviews mention feeling rushed. This trip is perfect if you’re after a laid-back day with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and a touch of adventure, especially for those who enjoy being on the water and exploring less crowded spots.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic escape with friendly guides and the chance to see some natural beauty, this tour might be a great fit. Just keep in mind that it’s not a party cruise—more of a peaceful day in nature with plenty of opportunities to unwind and take photos.

Key Points

• Beautiful Bays & Clear Waters: You’ll visit three stunning bays with calm, turquoise sea perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Lunch, guide, and insurance are included, with no surprise payments—just bring your towel and beach shoes.
• Flexible Duration: Ranging from 7 to 9.5 hours, so you can choose a day that fits your plans, but be aware that some stops are brief.
• Limited Crowds: Usually only a few boats at the bay, making for a more peaceful experience.
• Comfortable Transport: Pickup and drop-off from select locations help ease logistics.
• Good Value: Reviews suggest it’s a solid deal for a day of scenic sailing, swimming, and good food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Suluada Boat Tour

If you’re craving a break from bustling city streets and looking for a peaceful day on Turkey’s coast, this tour offers a chance to experience some of the clearest waters and most beautiful beaches around Antalya. We loved how the itinerary combines sightseeing, swimming, and a delicious meal into a single day—making it ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free escape.

The Journey Begins: Transfer & Departure

Most options include hotel pickup, which saves you the trouble of finding your way to the port. The transfer itself takes about an hour and a half, giving you time to relax and prepare for the day ahead. The guide will meet you at your hotel or designated meeting point, and once everyone’s aboard, the excitement begins.

The Boat Ride: A Scenic 40 Minutes

The boat itself is comfortable, with an average capacity of 50-60 people. This size keeps things intimate enough to feel relaxed but lively enough for a social vibe. The ride to Suluada is smooth, and many reviews mention the scenic views along the way. It’s a good chance to settle in with some snacks or simply enjoy the sea breeze.

Stop 1: Paradise Bay

The first stop is Paradise Bay, often the highlight of the trip. With its fine, clean sand and translucent waters, it feels like stepping into a postcard. Here, you get about 35 minutes to swim, snorkel, or just lounge on the beach. Several reviews praise the clarity of the water, calling it “idyllic” and “crystal clear.”

One traveler shared, “The place is idyllic with colored rocks and plenty of space to swim.” It’s a relaxing spot that’s perfect for those looking to unwind and snap some photos of natural beauty.

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Stop 2: Waterfall Bay

Next, the boat moves on to Waterfall Bay, which offers a different kind of scenic experience. The natural pools and rock formations are a photographer’s dream. Again, you get a swim break or the option to stay on the boat and enjoy the views. The natural beauty here often leaves visitors in awe, with the calming sounds of water adding to the peaceful ambiance.

Some reviews mention that the stops are a little hurried, with just about an hour or so per stop. While this keeps the day moving, it might feel rushed if you’re keen to explore thoroughly.

Lunch on the Water

While at Waterfall Bay, a delicious two-course lunch is served. You’ll have options like fish, chicken, spaghetti, or rice paired with fresh salad. Travelers have said the meal is simple but satisfying, especially given the scenic setting. One review mentions that the lunch is “better than nothing,” but all agree that it’s a good value considering the overall experience.

The Star of the Show: Suluada (Maldives Beach)

The true highlight is Suluada, often called the “Maldives of Turkey” because of its white sand and crystalline water. Here, you’ll have plenty of time to swim and explore the natural pools and water resources on the island. This spot is as postcard-perfect as it sounds, with many visitors capturing gorgeous photos of the natural beauty.

A review from Thibaut notes, “The place is idyllic with enough space to swim and relax,” emphasizing how special the environment is. Be aware that, like most islands with pebbly shores, comfortable sea shoes are recommended for walking on the rocks or rocky beaches.

Exploring the Island

After swimming, your guide will lead a short tour around the island, pointing out natural pools and water resources. This is a nice touch, giving you some context and helping you appreciate the landscape more deeply. Many reviews express that, despite the brief visit, it’s a memorable experience to stand on this stunning island.

Return and Relaxation

After a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and eating, the return journey takes about 1.5 hours by bus. The trip ends back at your hotel or a designated drop-off point, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on the day or plan your next adventure.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviews are positive; travelers appreciate the friendly guides, scenic bays, and good value. Chris called it a “great family trip,” mentioning the relaxing atmosphere and tasty food. Thibaut appreciated the peaceful, uncrowded environment and praised the crystal-clear waters, though he did note that the stops felt a little rushed. Telma highlighted that timing was tight, but overall, the experience was enjoyable, especially if you come prepared with suitable shoes and a good attitude.

Some tips from reviews include:
– Bring your own shoes or sandals to cross water and board the boat comfortably.
– Allocate enough time at each stop if you want to linger—some felt the 1-hour swim windows were a bit brief.
– Dress for swimming and bring beach essentials like towels and sun protection.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: Between 7 and 9.5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Pickup: Optional, with pickup times flexible within about 15 minutes.
• Included: Boat tour, bays and beaches visits, lunch, guide, insurance.
• Not Included: Drinks (so bring your own or purchase on the boat).
• What to bring: Towels, beachwear, suitable walking shoes, and some cash or cards for extra drinks or souvenirs.
• Group size: Typically around 50-60 people, maintaining a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is an excellent choice for those wanting a straightforward, scenic day out on the water. If you’re someone who loves swimming, appreciates natural landscapes, and prefers organized trips with everything taken care of, this is a strong option. It’s suitable for travelers of most ages, especially those who can handle a full day of boat cruising and brief walks on rocky shores. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for deep exploration or more time at each site, but for a relaxed, picture-perfect day, it fits the bill.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most age groups, especially since it doesn’t require long walks and involves plenty of swimming and relaxing. Just ensure kids are comfortable with boat rides and rocky shores.

What should I pack?
Bring a towel, beachwear, suitable shoes for crossing water, and sun protection. Remember to carry some cash or cards for extra drinks or souvenirs.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price, so you might want to bring your own or buy them on the boat.

How long is each stop?
Typically, each bay stop lasts about an hour, with some reviews mentioning it feels a little rushed. If you want more time, plan to swim quickly and make the most of your visit.

What kind of food is served?
A simple, two-course lunch with options like fish, chicken, spaghetti, or rice and salad. It’s straightforward but satisfying, especially if you’re hungry after swimming.

How many people usually go on the tour?
The boat capacity is around 50-60 people, keeping things lively but not overcrowded.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you choose that option, with flexible pickup times. Otherwise, you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

For anyone seeking a serene day on Turkey’s coast with fantastic swimming spots, scenic views, and uncomplicated logistics, the Maldives: Suluada Boat Tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere. While it might feel a bit rushed if you’re eager to explore every nook thoroughly, the overall experience offers a genuine slice of coastal paradise without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking to enjoy some of the clearest waters Turkey has to offer, and don’t mind a busy itinerary with short stops, this tour will likely leave you with plenty of lovely memories—and maybe even a desire to come back for more.

You can check availability for your dates here: