Scuba Diving Tour with Transfer From Alanya and city of Side

Scuba Diving Tour with Transfer From Alanya and Side: An In-Depth Review

Getting a glimpse beneath Turkey’s stunning coastline is a tempting adventure for many travelers, and this scuba diving tour promises just that—along with the convenience of hotel transfers from Alanya and Side. It’s a well-priced option, especially for those wanting to explore the underwater world without the hassle of organizing transport or gear. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a total beginner, the guided nature of this experience makes it accessible and safe.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is how it caters to both beginners and experienced divers. The thoughtful onboarding process and professional guides ensure you’ll feel confident at every stage. However, a potential consideration is the long transfer time, especially if you’re staying in Side, since the best dive sites are closer to Alanya. Still, for those eager to see the underwater scenery, this trip offers genuine value and memorable moments.

This experience suits adventurers with limited diving experience or those simply curious about snorkeling and exploring marine life. It’s also perfect for families or friends who want to join as non-divers and still enjoy the boat facilities and scenic surroundings. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this tour tick, and whether it’s the right fit for your holiday plans.

Key Points

• Flexible for all levels: Suitable for beginners with comprehensive training, as well as certified divers.
• Inclusive equipment: High-quality gear provided ensures safety and comfort underwater.
• Beautiful underwater scenery: Two guided dives in clear Mediterranean waters, with plenty of marine life.
• Convenient transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, especially for those staying in Alanya or Side.
• Authentic experience: Multi-lingual crew including dive masters and instructors provide personalized attention.
• Potential long transfer: The trip could involve a longer drive for some, but it offers the chance to see the surrounding scenery.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Your Adventure

The tour typically lasts for about 8 hours, with flexible start times based on availability. You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel, saving you the hassle of navigating to the port yourself. The boat departs with a professional crew of around ten, including dive masters and instructors who speak multiple languages—English, German, Russian, and Turkish—ensuring clear communication for all participants.

The Pre-Dive Briefing and Training

If you’re new to scuba, don’t worry. The guides provide a thorough theoretical instruction on equipment use, safety procedures, and underwater sign language. This prepares beginners for their first experience, making the process less intimidating. A practical session on the surface helps you get comfortable breathing through your regulator and understanding your gear. A notable perk: beginners are taken underwater gradually, with plenty of pauses at each meter to build confidence.

Underwater Exploration

Once underwater, you’ll enjoy a descent to around 6 meters (or shallower if preferred), with instructors adjusting your buoyancy so you float effortlessly. The focus is on enjoying the scenery—feeding fish, spotting marine life, and taking in the mesmerizing Mediterranean waters. One reviewer mentioned diving to 11 meters, which is quite deep for a beginner-friendly tour, adding to the thrill of the experience.

The Second Dive

The tour features two dives, each about 30 minutes long. The second dive is usually more explorative, with guides offering different routes or experiences. The underwater environment benefits from excellent visibility, and divers are never rushed. For those interested, staff also take photos and videos during the dives, which can be purchased afterward—a nice souvenir of your underwater adventure.

Post-Dive and Return

After your dives, the crew provides a lunch on board, giving you a moment to relax and share your experiences. Non-divers are welcome to join the boat and enjoy the facilities, soaking up the sun or observing the underwater activity from the surface. The return trip to your hotel is smooth and straightforward, although some reviews note the transfer from Side can be somewhat lengthy due to the distance.

The Value of This Experience

At $57 per person, this tour offers good value—especially considering the inclusive transfer, equipment, and guidance. When you compare this to the cost of renting gear or booking separate dives, it’s quite reasonable. The tour provides a safe, guided environment where even nervous first-timers can feel supported.

On top of that, the professional, multilingual guides truly stand out. They are attentive, patient, and eager to ensure everyone feels comfortable. One reviewer highlighted how safe they felt during the dives, thanks to their reassurance and expert instruction. The presence of two dive instructors also means ample supervision, reducing worries about safety.

The only potential downside is the long transfer time, especially for travelers staying in Side, as the best sites are located further afield near Alanya. However, if you’re eager to see the underwater landscapes and don’t mind the scenic drive, this isn’t a major concern.

Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Briefing

Expect an early morning pickup from your hotel, with most tours starting around flexible times depending on availability. The boat ride to the dive sites takes approximately an hour or so, during which you can enjoy the coastal views and prepare for your adventure.

First Dive and Underwater Exploration

Once at the dive site, the crew provides a comprehensive briefing for beginners, including equipment fitting and safety instructions. The actual descent is gradual, allowing you to acclimate to the surroundings. The underwater environment offers plenty of marine life: fish feeding, coral formations, and clear waters perfect for photography.

Lunch and Relaxation

After the first set of dives, most tours include a light lunch on board. This is a good time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the scenery from the boat.

Second Dive and More Exploration

In the afternoon, the second dive typically takes place at a different spot, providing fresh scenery and new perspectives. This dive often involves more exploration, with guides tailoring the route to match the group’s comfort level and experience.

Return and Drop-off

The day winds down with the boat trip back to the port and your hotel drop-off. Depending on your location, this can be a short or longer ride, with some travelers noting the scenic drive is part of the overall experience.

Authentic Experiences and Real Insights from Reviews

One reviewer shared that lots of photos and videos were taken, including feeding fish, which adds a special personal touch. They also appreciated how the guides made everyone feel safe, even at depths of 11 meters, highlighting the professionalism of the staff.

Another traveler from Side mentioned that despite the long transfer—the dive site being in Alanya—they appreciated seeing more of the local surroundings. The fact that the tour started on time and ran smoothly was also noted as a positive aspect.

Several reviews emphasized the knowledgeable crew and the scenic beauty of the underwater environment, making the trip feel more like a true adventure than just a routine activity. The availability of multi-lingual staff makes this experience accessible to a diverse group of travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for beginners wanting to try scuba for the first time, thanks to its detailed onboarding and safety-focused approach. It’s equally suitable for certified divers looking for a relaxed exploration without the hassle of organizing their own logistics.

Travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides and want a safe environment with professional supervision will find this appealing. Families and friends can join as non-divers, making it a good option for groups with mixed experience levels.

However, those staying in Side should consider the longer transfer time if they prefer quick, local excursions. It’s best for travelers who are flexible with timing and eager to explore new underwater landscapes.

The Sum Up

This Scuba Diving Tour with Transfer from Alanya and Side offers a balanced mix of adventure, safety, and convenience. With two guided dives in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, you’ll have a chance to see marine life up close and enjoy the thrill of breathing underwater. The inclusion of high-quality gear, professional guides, and hotel transfers makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking hassle-free underwater exploration.

While the longer transfer from Side might be a consideration for some, it also opens the door to a scenic drive and the chance to see more of Turkey’s coastal landscape. The tour’s focus on safety and personalized attention makes it especially suitable for beginners or those wanting a relaxed, guided experience.

In terms of value, the price is fair, and the experience provides a memorable introduction to Turkey’s marine beauty. Whether you’re after your first dive or simply want a day under the waves, this tour delivers a solid, enjoyable experience in the Turkish Riviera.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes comprehensive theoretical instruction and practical training designed for beginners. The guides ensure everyone feels safe and confident underwater.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all diving equipment, training for beginners, and two guided dives.

Can non-divers join the boat?
Absolutely. Non-diving friends or family are welcome to join as visitors and enjoy the boat facilities and scenic views.

How long are the dives?
Each dive lasts approximately 30 minutes, with a total of two dives offered during the 8-hour tour.

Do I need my own equipment?
No, all necessary diving gear is provided, including well-maintained equipment suitable for all levels.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel. It’s also recommended to wear sunscreen and bring your camera for underwater photos if desired.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments, primarily due to safety considerations for diving.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to sea conditions. If storms or heavy rain occur, the activity might be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons.

How flexible are the start times?
Start times depend on availability but generally can be checked and confirmed when booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind for flexible travelers.

Whether you’re craving your first taste of underwater adventure or just want to explore Turkey’s aquatic beauty smoothly and safely, this tour is a solid choice to add to your travel plans.