Suluada Boat Tour From Antalya (Maldives of Turkey) with Lunch & Hotel Transfer

If you’re thinking about taking a day trip to Suluada from Antalya, chances are you’ve heard about this tour’s reputation for showcasing some of the most beautiful spots along Turkey’s southern coast. As someone who’s been around a bit, I’ve seen plenty of similar excursions, and I’ll be honest — this one has a lot going for it, but it’s worth knowing what to expect before you book.

What we love about this kind of experience is the chance to get out on the water, escape the crowds, and relax in a setting that feels almost like a little slice of the Maldives right here in Turkey. The stunning views of turquoise waters and the chance to swim and snorkel at Suluada are definitely highlights. Plus, the included hotel transfers remove a common headache, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

However, there are a few considerations, like the sometimes rushed itinerary and the basic quality of the food, which some travelers mention. It’s important to match your expectations with what’s on offer — this tour tends to suit those who prioritize scenic boat rides and island swimming over gourmet dining or luxury amenities. If you’re looking for a peaceful day with beautiful landscapes (and don’t mind some crowds), this trip could be a good fit.

This tour works best for travelers who want an affordable, straightforward adventure to some of Turkey’s most photogenic spots, especially if you’re comfortable sharing space on a lively boat and are excited about swimming and sunbathing. If you’re after a quiet, luxurious retreat, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re eager for a fun, scenic day out, here’s what you should know.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money with a full day of activities for just over $18 per person.
• Stunning island scenery and opportunities to swim and snorkel in clear waters.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easier.
• Food is basic — think simple chicken or fish, pasta, and salad; drinks cost extra.
• It can feel rushed, especially at the stops, with limited time at each location.
• Group size can be up to 80 travelers, so it’s lively but not overly intimate.

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour is designed as a full day out on the water, giving you a chance to explore some of the best spots near Antalya, with a focus on Suluada Island, known as Turkey’s Maldives. It starts early with hotel pickup, and you’ll be transported by a comfortable vehicle to the port — a process that travelers say can sometimes be a bit longer or crowded, so be ready for that.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Pickup in Antalya and Transfer to the Port
The day kicks off with a hotel pick-up, which is a big plus because many similar tours require you to find your way to the meeting point. The drive is about two hours, and reviews mention mixed experiences with the comfort of the transport. Some find the vehicle cramped or the A/C not working well, especially in hot weather, which can make the journey less pleasant.

2. Embarkation and Scenic Cruising
Once at the port, you’ll board a sizable boat with up to 80 travelers. The boat is described as well-equipped, with sufficient shade and clean bathrooms, which adds to the comfort. The cruise itself is where you really start feeling the pleasure of being out at sea, with lots of blue water and relaxing views. The boat ride offers a chance to unwind, enjoy the breeze, and take photos of the coastline.

3. First Stop: Secluded Bays and Nature
The first few stops are brief — about an hour each — giving you a taste of Turkey’s natural beauty. One stop includes observing untouched bays and maybe catching a glimpse of careta turtles, which locals seem to cherish. The boat cruise is an ideal way to see some of these quiet corners without having to hike or drive.

4. Suluada Island: The Main Attraction
This is the star of the tour. Surrounded by turquoise waters and featuring white sands, Suluada is often called the “Maldives of Turkey” for a reason. Here, you’ll get around four hours to swim, relax on the beach, and take photos. Many reviews rave about the scenery — “absolutely breathtaking” was a common phrase. You can snorkel if you like, and some travelers mention the water being both clear and inviting.

5. Lunch on the Boat
After your swim, the boat crew serves a simple but tasty lunch — options include fish or chicken, with pasta and salad on the side. It’s claimed to be fresh, and many guests find it satisfying after a morning in the sun. Drinks, however, are not included and need to be purchased separately, which some find a bit inconvenient or pricey.

6. Akseki Bay and Love Cave
Next, the boat heads to Akseki Bay, known for its unique Love Cave, which has a local myth attached to it involving tears filling the cave. It’s a quick stop, about an hour, where you can swim in the cold waters of the cave and enjoy the scenery. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, especially the storytelling aspect. It’s a quirky stop that adds some local flavor to the experience.

7. Return to Antalya
The day concludes with the boat sailing back and the transfer back to your hotel, typically in the mid-afternoon. The journey back can sometimes be longer than expected, especially if the boat gets crowded or if there are delays, so plan for some flexibility.

What Travelers Usually Say

Many guests highlight the beautiful scenery and the overall value for money. For example, “Suluada is breathtaking” and “the crew was fantastic, and the food was delicious,” are common sentiments. The crew generally gets praise for being helpful and cheerful, which makes the day more enjoyable.

However, some reviews point out areas for improvement. Several mention the crowded beaches, especially the main stop at Suluada, which can make relaxing a bit challenging. The stones on the beach are described as painful to walk on, so water shoes are advisable. Plus, the basic nature of the lunch and the extra cost of drinks can be a letdown for those expecting a more gourmet experience.

The transportation to and from the port also receives mixed feedback. A few note that the mini-van ride is uncomfortable, cramped, or not in the best condition, and that the journey can be quite lengthy, especially in the heat. One reviewer vividly described a very poor experience with the transport, including a driver falling asleep at the wheel — so it’s worth considering that if you’re sensitive to safety and comfort.

The Rushed Feel

A common complaint is that the schedule feels a bit hurried. With only about an hour at each stop and a tight timetable, some travelers felt they didn’t have enough time to fully enjoy the beaches or explore thoroughly. If you’re someone who prefers a leisurely pace, this might be a downside.

Food and Drinks

The lunch is generally described as simple but decent — fish or chicken with pasta and salad. Still, some travelers mention that the food is basic and that there are no options for special diets or allergies. Drinks are not included, and prices onboard can be high, so it’s worth bringing your own water or snacks if you want to stay refreshed.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers on a budget, this tour offers amazing value — a full day out for just over $18, including transfers, boat ride, and lunch. The scenery alone makes it worth considering, especially if you love water activities and beautiful landscapes. It’s a solid choice if you’re okay with a lively group, some crowds, and a schedule that’s a bit tight.

If you’re after a more private or luxury experience, or if you prefer more time at each stop to relax, you might find this tour a little rushed. Also, if you’re sensitive to basic facilities or expecting gourmet food, you should manage your expectations accordingly.

Who will enjoy this tour?

• Folks looking for an affordable day out on the water
• Travelers who love scenic spots and swimming in clear waters
• Those happy to share a lively boat with many other travelers
• Anyone wanting a straightforward, well-organized trip with hotel pickup and drop-off

Who might prefer to skip this?

• Visitors seeking peace and quiet with long, relaxed beach time
• People who prioritize food quality or luxury amenities
• Travelers who dislike crowds or have mobility issues on rocky beaches
• Those concerned about the sometimes lengthy transport or tight schedule

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Antalya hotels, making it convenient and saving you from extra planning.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the afternoon.

What’s the main highlight of this trip?
Most people look forward to the visit to Suluada Island, famous for its white sands and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and photos.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to purchase beverages separately onboard if you want them.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
Stops usually last about an hour each, with four hours dedicated to Suluada Island, giving plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as well-equipped, with shade and clean facilities, but it can get crowded with up to 80 travelers.

What about the food?
Lunch includes fish or chicken with pasta and salad, prepared with fresh ingredients. The quality is generally considered decent, but some reviews call it basic.

How is the transportation to the port?
Most reviews say the transfer is convenient, although some mention it can be cramped or not very comfortable, especially in hot weather.

Can I bring my own water or snacks?
It’s a good idea, as water and snacks are not included in the price, and onboard drinks can be pricey.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a lively, scenic day out with plenty of opportunities to swim in beautiful waters, this Suluada boat tour from Antalya offers a lot for its price. The included hotel transfer makes things easy, and the sights are truly worth the journey. Just remember, the schedule can be somewhat tight, and the facilities are basic — so pack water shoes, some extra snacks, and a sense of adventure.

This trip is well-suited for travelers who want a straightforward, fun-filled day with friendly guides, great views, and a chance to unwind on Turkey’s version of the Maldives. If you’re okay with some crowds and a schedule that’s a little rushed, you’ll find it a worthwhile outing. For those seeking tranquility or gourmet food, you might want to explore other options. Either way, it’s a popular choice for many who want to enjoy Turkey’s coastal beauty without breaking the bank.

Enjoy your trip, and remember — sometimes the most memorable moments are the imperfect ones, especially when they come with stunning scenery and good company.