Side: Scuba Diving with Expert Diving Option

Thinking about adding a splash of adventure to your trip to Side? This scuba diving tour offers a chance to explore the clear waters of the Mediterranean without needing prior experience. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a certified diver looking for a bit more independence, this tour caters to both.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how well it balances fun with safety, thanks to professional instructors who make everything clear and straightforward. Plus, the fact that it includes two dives along with time to see the famous underwater museum is a real bonus. The value for money at just $30 per person makes it an accessible way to add a memorable adventure to your holiday.

That said, one point to consider is that visibility underwater can vary, which might influence how spectacular your viewing experience is on the day. It’s not a major drawback, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re expecting picture-perfect underwater scenery.

This tour suits travelers who want to try scuba diving in a friendly, relaxed environment—and those eager to see some of the Mediterranean’s best spots without breaking the bank. If you’re comfortable in water, curious about diving, or simply looking for a memorable boat trip with an added underwater twist, this could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at $30, offering great value for a day of underwater exploration
• Flexible options for beginners or certified divers, making it accessible to all levels
• Includes 2 dives plus the chance to see the famous underwater museum
• Professional guidance ensures safety and proper technique, even for first-timers
• Comfortable boat trip with a light lunch and opportunities for sunbathing or snorkeling
• Good reviews highlight helpful staff, tasty food, and memorable views

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience

What Does the Tour Include?

This scuba diving tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Side, making it a hassle-free start. Once at the boat, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise out into the Mediterranean, where the water is known for its clarity and warm temperatures. The overall experience spans about 5 to 8 hours, depending on the day’s schedule, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy.

The core of the tour is two dives, which are conducted at carefully chosen spots by the captain. These sites are selected to maximize visibility and the chance to see interesting marine life and structures like reefs and wrecks. One of the highlights is the underwater museum, which is a special feature of this tour. You’ll get to observe the intriguing sculptures and formations that have been created to enhance the underwater environment.

For Beginners and Certified Divers

Instructors are experienced and speak several languages, including English, German, Russian, and Turkish, making communication easy for international travelers. They’re attentive to safety and will run through equipment demonstrations and communication methods before you dive. If you’re new to scuba, don’t worry—this experience includes an introductory course that covers all you need to know.

For certified divers, there’s an Expert Diving Option, allowing you to explore deeper or more independently within your certification limits. Remember to bring your license or card to verify your level. This flexibility appeals to those who want to push a little further or simply enjoy more freedom underwater.

What to Expect During the Dives

Underwater, you’ll see a mix of natural and man-made sights—reefs, wrecks, and the underwater museum. As one reviewer noted, the waters are “always warm and have great visibility,” though some mention that visibility can sometimes be murky, which is typical for the region. Still, even with lesser visibility, many found the experience rewarding, especially with the help of the friendly guides.

One diver said, “The first dive had loads of different fish swimming around us,” which paints a picture of the lively underwater scene you can anticipate. Others appreciated the chance to see the underwater museum, describing it as “pretty cool,” particularly if you’re into unusual sights.

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Food and Comfort on Board

Between the two dives, you’ll be treated to a light, nutritious lunch—sautéed chicken, pasta, and salad—which helps keep energy levels up. The boat has a sun deck where you can relax, sunbathe, or take in the views. There’s also complimentary snorkeling gear, so you can enjoy the water even when you’re not diving.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Reviews reflect a friendly, well-organized atmosphere. The boat isn’t overcrowded, and guides are attentive and helpful. Many mention that staff made them feel comfortable, even first-time divers, which is reassuring if you’re nervous about trying scuba for the first time.

Practical Considerations

To participate, you need to be over 12 years old and confident in water. The activity requires a bit of confidence and comfort with swimming. It’s not suited for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness.

Bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, camera, snacks, and water—these little things will enhance your comfort. Remember, touching marine life or plants is prohibited to protect the environment.

The Overall Value

Pricing at just $30 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering it includes equipment, transport, professional guidance, two dives, and a tasty lunch. Many reviewers highlighted how affordable and well-organized it was, describing it as “incredible value for money.”

The tour isn’t overly challenging, making it perfect for beginners or those wanting a relaxed but memorable experience. The guided instruction and equipment provide reassurance, and the scenic boat trip adds a generous side of sightseeing.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Multiple reviewers shared positive impressions, with comments like “great staff,” “helpful guides,” and “beautiful views.” One person mentioned that the guides explained everything very well, which boosted their confidence under water. The fact that some noted murky water didn’t spoil their experience shows that even less-than-perfect conditions can still lead to a rewarding adventure when guided properly.

Others appreciated the delicious lunch and the ability to relax on the boat. Several mentioned that it was a good first experience, with some seasoned divers enjoying the opportunity to explore deeper or more independently if they chose.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits anyone over 12 with a basic confidence in water. It’s ideal for beginners who want a safe, supportive environment to try scuba diving for the first time, as well as certified divers looking for a relaxed, scenic trip with some extra freedom underwater. The tour is also good for travelers who want to combine marine exploration with a boat trip, topped with tasty food and stunning views.

If you’re traveling with friends or family and want to share a memorable, active experience, this tour offers a chance to bond over underwater discoveries. However, if you’re pregnant, have back issues, or suffer from seasickness, it’s probably best to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $30?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat trip, two dives, a light lunch on board, professional instructors, and all necessary diving equipment.

Can I participate if I’ve never tried scuba diving before?
Yes. The tour provides an introductory course that covers safety, equipment use, and communication, making it suitable for first-timers.

Do I need to bring my diving license?
Certified divers are asked to bring their license or card to enjoy the Expert Diving Option and dive deeper or more independently.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts between 5 and 8 hours, depending on the schedule and the day’s conditions.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. You might also want to bring treats for the boat’s cat, as some reviews suggested.

Is the water visibility always good?
Visibility is generally good but can sometimes be murky; this is normal for the region and weather conditions. It doesn’t usually impact the overall enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This scuba diving tour in Side offers a fantastic mix of underwater exploration and scenic boat cruising. The combination of professional guidance, comfortable facilities, and interesting sights makes it a worthwhile addition for many travelers. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about diving but not ready to commit to a full certification—this offers a safe and manageable introduction.

For seasoned divers, the option to dive deeper or more independently adds a nice touch of flexibility. And for all participants, the inclusion of a delicious lunch and the chance to relax on the boat makes it feel like a full, well-rounded day out.

While the experience might be affected by water visibility on some days, the overall atmosphere, friendly staff, and value for money make it a solid choice. It’s best suited for those who want a fun, safe, and scenic underwater adventure without a hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a memorable marine experience in Turkey that combines learning, relaxation, and a touch of thrill, this tour ticks many boxes.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a certified diver, this trip could become one of the most memorable parts of your trip to Side.

You can check availability for your dates here: