From Side, Alanya: Scuba Diving With 2 Time Dive & Lunch

If you’re thinking about adding some underwater adventure to your trip in Turkey, you’ll likely find plenty of options. But when it comes to tours that blend beginner-friendly instruction with genuine marine exploration, this one from Alanya Best Trips catches the eye. It’s a full-day outing that promises two dives, a scenic boat ride, and a meal—all for around $45.38 per person. Sounds tempting, right?

We like that it offers comprehensive training from experienced instructors, so even first-timers can feel confident beneath the waves. The scenic boat ride adds a relaxing vibe, and the lunch onboard makes it a convenient, all-in-one experience. Plus, the option for non-divers to snorkel and enjoy the marine environment broadens its appeal.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is somewhat crowded during peak season, which can impact the feeling of intimacy or personalized attention. Also, it’s worth noting that the dives are relatively shallow (3-8 meters), making this more of an introductory experience rather than an in-depth exploration.

This tour probably suits travelers who want a safe, guided introduction to scuba diving—especially those who aren’t certified yet or are curious but hesitant about going deep. Families with older children or anyone eager to enjoy the sea without a heavy commitment will also find it appealing.

Key Points

• Beginner-Friendly: The tour is designed with first-timers in mind, offering thorough instruction and shallow dives.
• All-Inclusive Experience: It includes transportation, gear, boat rides, and a meal, which simplifies planning.
• Varied Activities: Besides diving, non-divers can snorkel and enjoy the marine scenery.
• Timing & Duration: Expect around 8 hours, with convenient pickup and a scenic boat journey.
• Group Size & Safety: Capped at 100 travelers, with insurance included, and instructors attentive to safety.
• Cost & Value: Priced at about $45, it offers a good balance of price and activity, especially with the included lunch and equipment.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins early, with pickup from your hotel in either Alanya or Side—an easy way to start without the hassle of planning your transfer. You’ll head to the marina in Okurcalar, where the adventure kicks off with a boat ride. This scenic cruise is a highlight in itself, offering views of the coastline and the calm sea.

Once aboard, the experience really kicks in with theoretical diving training. Even those new to the sport will appreciate the clear, straightforward instructions. For practical training, you’ll get to try out the gear—mask, fins, wetsuit—before hitting the water. The first dive, at a depth of 3-5 meters, lasts about 20 minutes and is perfect for beginners. During this part, you’ll be closely supervised by instructors, who are praised by reviewers for their attentiveness and safety focus. As one reviewer puts it, “I was a little nervous about my first dive, but the instructor was very attentive and helped me a lot. I definitely recommend it.”

For those who prefer not to dive, snorkeling off the boat offers a chance to enjoy the vibrant marine life without equipment or training. This flexibility is definitely a plus, especially for families or less confident swimmers.

After the first dive, there’s a delicious onboard lunch—a welcome break that keeps energy levels high. Many travelers mention the meal as a highlight, contributing to the overall value.

Post-lunch, there’s time to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax on deck, soaking up the sun and the scenery. Then, the second dive deepens to 7-8 meters, offering a slightly different perspective of the underwater world. Again, instructors are responsible for guiding and ensuring safety, which many reviewers have appreciated. One said, “The diving instructors were very experienced, gave us great instructions, and I felt very safe underwater!”

The tour wraps up with a cruise back to the port and a bus transfer to your hotel, usually lasting around 1.5 hours depending on your location.

What We Loved About the Tour

The comprehensive instruction is a real standout. Even if you’ve never tried scuba, the fact that the first dive is short and shallow means you’re unlikely to feel overwhelmed. Reviewers consistently praise the instructors’ professionalism and attentiveness, making the experience both safe and enjoyable.

The scenic boat ride and onboard lunch add a relaxed, all-in-one vibe that’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their day without fussing over extra logistics. The opportunity for non-divers to snorkel and enjoy marine life is a thoughtful touch that broadens the appeal of this tour.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is generally positive, it’s worth mentioning that the tour can be crowded, especially during peak season. This might mean a less intimate atmosphere and slightly longer waits or less personal attention at times. The depth of the dives is shallow, which suits beginners but might disappoint those looking for a more adventurous, deeper exploration.

Plus, the price doesn’t include beverages beyond the meal, nor does it cover photos or videos—so if capturing underwater memories is your thing, you’ll need to bring your own camera or buy extras on the spot.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience works especially well for beginners, curious travelers, or those who want a taste of scuba without committing to certification or multiple dives. It’s also suitable for families with older kids, as long as they’re comfortable in the water. Because safety is a priority, and the instructor-to-guest ratio seems well managed, it’s reassuring for first-timers.

Active travelers looking for something different from their usual sightseeing will enjoy this blend of adventure and relaxation. Just keep in mind that if you’re after deep-sea exploration or advanced diving, this may feel a bit too shallow or basic.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a cost-effective, beginner-friendly introduction to scuba diving with the bonus of scenic views and a good meal, this tour hits the right notes. The combination of safety, instruction, and the chance to see some marine life makes it a compelling choice for those new to the underwater world.

However, if you’re a seasoned diver, you might find the depth limits and crowded atmosphere a bit limiting. It’s best suited for those wanting a relaxed, guided experience that emphasizes safety and fun over depth and technicality.

Overall, it’s a practical, enjoyable outing that offers enough adventure for most and a comfortable, well-organized environment to try something new in Turkey’s beautiful waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed with beginners in mind, offering comprehensive training and shallow dives, so first-timers can feel confident underwater.

How deep do the dives go?
The first dive is at 3-5 meters, and the second goes to about 7-8 meters. The shallow depths make it ideal for those new to diving.

Are non-divers accommodated?
Absolutely. Non-divers can enjoy snorkeling and relax on the boat during the dives.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, all necessary diving gear, insurance, two dives, boat ride, and a meal onboard.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

What if the weather isn’t good?
If poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am with pickup, and returning in the late afternoon.

Do I need to be in good health?
Most travelers can participate, but those with breathing problems should consider their condition before booking.

How many people are on the tour?
The group size can be up to 100 travelers, which is typical for this kind of excursion.

Navigating the waters of Turkey’s coast with a tour like this could be a fantastic addition to your trip—especially if you’re eager to try something new and enjoy the sea in a safe, friendly environment.