City of Side: Scuba Diving with Lunch

Exploring the Underwater World of Side: A Closer Look at the Scuba Diving with Lunch Tour

If you’re considering trying out scuba diving or just want to see the Mediterranean from a new perspective, the City of Side: Scuba Diving with Lunch tour offers a pretty compelling package. As someone who loves sharing honest insights about travel experiences, I’ve looked into what this tour provides for its price, the overall vibe, and what travelers like you can expect.

What really catches our eye are two things: first, the chance to explore the Undersea Museum — a unique feature in the waters around Side — and second, the inclusion of two dives and a nourishing lunch. These aspects make the experience stand out from typical water sports, especially for those new to diving. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the cost of photos — some reviews mention they’re pretty expensive, so if capturing memories is a priority, you might want to bring your own waterproof camera.

This tour tends to suit beginners and first-timers quite well, especially since it offers training and guided supervision, but it’s also friendly for those with some prior experience looking for a relaxed day on the water. It’s not designed for children under 16 or people with certain health issues, but if you’re healthy, curious, and ready for a new adventure, it could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners thanks to professional guidance and training options.
• Includes two 30-minute dives to explore underwater sights and marine life.
• Offers hotel pickup and drop-off for easy, hassle-free logistics.
• Features a visit to the Undersea Museum — a unique underwater attraction.
• Full diving equipment provided ensures you don’t need to bring your own gear.
• Great value for money at around $48, considering the activities, lunch, and transport.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What This Tour Is All About

The City of Side: Scuba Diving with Lunch tour is designed to give you a taste of the underwater world in Turkey’s Mediterranean. For around six hours, you’ll be under the care of experienced instructors, exploring two different diving sites, including the famous underwater museum. It’s a chance to see vibrant fish, colorful coral, and meet the marine life that thrives just off the coast of Side.

The tour is particularly appealing if you’ve never tried scuba before. The providers emphasize safety, with strict regulations in Turkey and attentive guides who are fluent in English, German, and Russian. They also include a basic training component, so even if you’ve never held a scuba tank, you’ll be guided through the essentials clearly and patiently.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day usually begins with hotel pickup between 8:30 and 9:30 AM, a convenient start that helps you skip the hassle of organizing transport. Once on board, you’ll be welcomed aboard a spacious boat where you’ll get fitted with full diving equipment. The crew’s friendly and accommodating nature is often highlighted, with many reviews praising their helpfulness and patience.

The first stop is typically the underwater museum — a highlight for many. This unique attraction combines artistic sculptures with marine life, creating a fascinating underwater gallery. You’ll have plenty of time to explore this site during your first 30-minute dive, with guides close by to ensure your safety.

After a break and a lunch that’s included in the package, the boat moves to your second dive point. Here, you might see a variety of colorful fish, coral reefs, and other marine creatures. Some reviewers mention that the water is warm and clear, making the visibility excellent for underwater photography and just enjoying the view.

First Dives & Marine Encounters

The two dives are typically 30 minutes each, providing enough time to explore and appreciate the underwater scenery. For many, the experience of breathing underwater for the first time (or the first time in a while) is both exhilarating and calming. It’s worth noting that the atmosphere on the boat and in the water tends to be laid-back, with guides giving plenty of attention to beginners.

One reviewer, Samuel, shared: “Very much enjoyed first time scuba diving, had a small issue getting air out of my ears as I was dropping to lower water pressure during the second dive, so I couldn’t continue, but overall, it was a fun experience. The instructors and equipment were perfect.” This honest account shows that while most people have a great time, minor issues like ear pressure might happen, but guides are there to help.

Another reviewer, Adrienn, pointed out how helpful the staff was: “The host and the whole staff were very helpful and patient with us. They let even the less experienced divers enjoy their time safely, and I felt really well looked after.” Those personal touches can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel during your underwater adventure.

Safety & Equipment

The full diving equipment provided includes masks, fins, wetsuits, and tanks, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear. The safety standards in Turkey are high, and guides are attentive and trained. For those worried about safety, the reviews reinforce that the staff is professional and committed to making sure everyone is comfortable and secure.

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Underwater Museum & Coral Reefs

The Undersea Museum is often a highlight — a collection of sculptures and structures intentionally placed in the water. Many reviewers mention the “spectacular coral reef” and the colorful variety of marine life. This part of the tour offers a different experience from typical reef diving because of the artistic element.

The Lunch & Onboard Experience

After the first dive, the boat offers a well-deserved break for lunch, included in the tour price. The meal is usually simple but satisfying, with options to keep you energized for the second dive. Many reviews mention that the boat is spacious and comfortable, with helpful staff to make the day smooth.

The boat also provides opportunities for swimming when it stops between dives, so you can enjoy the water even if you’re not diving. Some travelers appreciated the Wi-Fi access on the boat, although this might vary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly suited for beginners and those curious about scuba diving but who may not be ready for a full certification or a multi-day course. The inclusion of training, safety focus, and support from guides makes it accessible and reassuring.

It also appeals to travelers looking for a unique, family-friendly activity (above 16 years old), especially if they want to combine sightseeing, marine exploration, and a meal in one day. If you’re a seasoned diver seeking intense or lengthy dives, this might feel a bit too relaxed or short.

People with certain health issues — such as respiratory problems, high blood pressure, or seasickness — should consider whether they’re comfortable with the activity, as many restrictions are in place.

Cost & Value for Money

At $48 per person, this tour offers impressive value. For that price, you get two guided dives, full equipment, a meal, hotel transfers, and the chance to visit a unique underwater museum. When you compare it to other experiences, it’s a reasonably priced way to try something extraordinary without breaking the bank.

The reviews consistently mention good value — the professional guides, equipment, and the overall organization make it worth the cost. Some mention that photos are pricey, with one reviewer commenting, “The pictures cost around $90, which seems a bit steep.” So if capturing memories is important, you might want to bring your own waterproof camera.

Final Thoughts

The City of Side: Scuba Diving with Lunch tour covers all the essentials for an enjoyable introduction to underwater exploration. It balances safety, fun, and affordability, making it a popular choice for first-timers and those wanting a relaxed day on the water. The inclusion of unique sites like the underwater museum, combined with good organization and helpful staff, makes this a well-rounded experience.

While it might not satisfy hardcore divers craving extensive, challenging dives, it hits the sweet spot for beginners or casual explorers eager to see marine life and underwater art. The opportunity to explore the vibrant reefs and sculptures in the warm, clear waters of Side makes it a memorable addition to any Turkey itinerary.

If you’re after a smooth, safe, and reasonably priced taste of scuba diving that caters to new divers with good support, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to keep an eye on the photos cost if snapping underwater keeps you motivated.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed with beginners in mind, offering training and supervision to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for first-timers.

What is included in the price?
For $48, you get full diving equipment, two 30-minute dives, training if needed, lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and travel insurance.

Are the dives suitable if I haven’t dived before?
Absolutely. The guides provide training for beginners, and the safety standards are high, making it a good choice for those new to diving.

Can I participate if I have health issues?
Most likely not, as the tour specifies it’s not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, people with respiratory issues, high blood pressure, or low fitness levels.

How long does the whole experience last?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including pickup, dives, lunch, and some free time for swimming or relaxing.

What if I want photos of my dives?
Photos are available for around $90, which some find expensive. Bringing your own waterproof camera could be a good alternative.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for travelers over 16 years old and those comfortable with water activities. It’s not recommended for young children or those prone to seasickness or with certain health conditions.

This scuba tour in Side offers a friendly, well-organized way to dip your toes into the underwater world, with enough highlights to make it a memorable part of your Turkey trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: