Side: Scuba Diving Under Water Museum

If you’re considering a scuba diving adventure in Side, Turkey, this tour offers a chance to explore the fascinating underwater museum and its marine life without needing prior experience. It’s a popular choice among travelers looking to combine a bit of underwater exploration with local culture and stunning coastal scenery.

We really like how accessible the experience is, thanks to the inclusion of all necessary equipment and the fact that no previous diving experience is required. Also, the round-trip hotel transfers make it hassle-free, especially if you’re staying in Side. That said, a potential downside is the weather dependency — poor conditions can lead to cancellations, which can be disappointing if you’re eager for underwater adventures.

This tour tends to suit beginners, curious snorkelers, or anyone wanting a safe, guided introduction to underwater sights in this part of Turkey. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate a combination of activity and local cuisine. If you’re someone looking for more intense, long-duration diving, this might not be the best fit, but for a fun, safe intro, it checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Accessible for all skill levels: No prior diving experience needed, making it perfect for first-timers.
• All gear included: You don’t need to worry about bringing your own equipment.
• Cultural and scenic combo: Includes a Turkish lunch and scenic coastal views.
• Group size and safety: Smaller groups (max 30) and pairing with crew ensures oversight.
• Weather matters: Cancellations happen if weather conditions aren’t suitable.
• Reviews are generally positive: Many travelers found it to be a memorable, fun experience.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting early at around 8:30 am from Side’s harbor, you’ll be picked up from your hotel (if you opt for the transfer). The boat ride itself is part of the experience. You’ll notice that the boat is quite spacious, with three decks catering to different needs—some for relaxing, others for gear storage, and a sunbathing area. According to one review, there’s even good Wi-Fi onboard, which is always a nice bonus when you’re out at sea.

The main highlight? Diving at the Underwater Museum. You’ll make two dives in this area, so you’ll get to see artificial reefs teeming with marine life. The museum itself is an intriguing site where hundreds of marine species thrive among the structures. Expect to be paired with a crew member during your dives, which ensures safety and guidance, especially vital for those new to diving.

The tour promises all necessary scuba equipment—mask, fins, wetsuit, tank—which is a huge plus. Having everything provided means you won’t need to pack or rent gear locally, saving you time and hassle. For those who prefer to stay dry or aren’t comfortable with full scuba gear, snorkeling equipment is also available for alternative viewing.

After the underwater adventure, you’ll be treated to a delicious Turkish lunch, with options like chicken or fish served with rice and salad. This meal gives a nice cultural touch to your day and helps restore your energy after the water activities.

The Underwater Museum Experience

We love the idea of exploring an artificial reef as a first-time diver or someone interested in marine environments. The museum’s structures serve as both a habitat and an attraction, and the fact that you get two dives means you’ll see different perspectives of this underwater “art gallery.” One review described the experience as “unreal,” highlighting how unique the environment is.

Because the dives are guided and paired with crew members, safety is taken seriously. Whether you’re a beginner or just trying something new, the experienced team makes sure you’re comfortable and well-informed. It’s worth noting that the tour is not recommended for children under 16, especially those with ear problems or asthma, so this experience leans more towards older teens and adults.

The Scenic and Cultural Bonus

While the main focus is on the water, the tour also offers a chance to see a different side of Side’s coast. The boat trip itself can be quite scenic, especially if the weather is clear. Plus, the authentic Turkish lunch adds cultural value. Many travelers appreciated the local flavor and the chance to relax in a casual, friendly setting after some underwater activity.

According to reviews, the overall experience is often described as “amazing” and “great fun,” with staff noted for being “funny and kind.” One traveler even said they would do it again, which speaks to the enjoyable nature of the tour.

Practicalities and Considerations

At $50 per person, the price is fairly reasonable given that it includes round-trip hotel transfers, all scuba gear, snorkeling equipment, insurance, and lunch. When you think about the logistics, this all-in-one package can be quite convenient, especially if you don’t want the hassle of organizing transportation or gear separately.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, giving you ample time for two dives, lunch, and travel. While the experience is typically suitable for most travelers, some reviews hint at the importance of weather conditions. Poor weather might lead to cancellations, which is worth considering if your trip is during a less stable season.

The maximum group size is 30, which balances social interaction with safety and personalized attention. The pick-up is generally prompt, but always double-check your booking details.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer, Kiaabbie, gave a glowing 5-star review, describing the experience as “amazing” and the scuba driving as unreal. She appreciated the staff’s friendliness, calling them “funny and kind,” and mentioned she would do it again—an excellent endorsement.

Another reviewer, Arthur_C, gave a lower rating but mainly focused on logistical aspects, such as the prompt pick-up and the boat’s layout. His review doesn’t comment directly on the underwater experience but highlights the overall organization.

This mix of feedback shows that, while many find the tour fun and memorable, some may have higher expectations or be more critical of the process. Still, the consensus is generally positive, especially regarding the views and the novelty of the museum.

This scuba adventure is ideal if you’re a first-timer or someone curious about marine life but not necessarily looking for a long or deep diving experience. It’s suitable for those who want a safe, guided, and well-organized activity with the comfort of having equipment and transfers included. If you’re traveling with someone who wants to try snorkeling, that’s also accommodated.

However, if you have specific health concerns like ear problems or asthma, or if you want a more rigorous diving experience, you might want to explore other options. Similarly, if you’re traveling with children under 16 wanting to dive, they might need to snorkel instead.

For around $50, this scuba tour off Side offers a good balance of adventure, safety, and culture. It’s particularly appealing if you’re new to diving or simply want to see marine life in a unique, art-filled environment. The inclusion of a Turkish lunch and hotel transfers simplifies the day, making it a hassle-free outing.

The overall reviews reflect a well-organized, enjoyable experience, especially for those who appreciate stunning views and friendly staff. The underwater museum is a real draw, providing an unusual backdrop for your underwater photos and memories.

While weather can be a factor, the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind. This tour is a solid choice for anyone seeking a fun, guided introduction to the waters around Side, Turkey.

Is prior scuba diving experience required?
No, this tour is designed for beginners; no previous experience is needed.

What equipment is included?
All necessary scuba diving and snorkeling gear is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Are children under 16 allowed to participate?
Children under 16 cannot dive but can snorkel, making it suitable for teenagers interested in water activities.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including transfers, the boat ride, and water activities.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes for the boat trip and bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection. Equipment and lunch are provided.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Poor weather can lead to cancellation; you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Can I get photos of my underwater experience?
Photos and DVDs are not included, but you might want to bring your waterproof camera to capture the moment.

In the end, if you’re after an affordable, guided water adventure with beautiful views and a cultural touch, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those new to scuba who want a safe, well-organized introduction to the underwater sights of Side.