Alanya/Side City: Suluada, Bays Visit With Boat W/Lunch

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Alanya and dive into a day of sun, sea, and natural beauty, a boat trip to Suluada and nearby bays might be just what you need. This tour offers a combination of scenic cruising, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and visiting iconic spots like the love cave and American beach, all packed into approximately 8.5 hours. While the experience comes with a modest price tag of $51, it promises a relaxed yet activity-filled day that’s perfect for water lovers or those craving a taste of untouched Turkish coastlines.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this tour is the opportunity to see hidden natural wonders away from the crowded beaches. The boat’s stops at various bays and the chance to swim in natural pools are definite highlights. However, a possible drawback is the length of the drive—around three hours each way—meaning a good portion of your day is spent traveling. This makes it ideal for travelers who prioritize scenic journeys and are comfortable with a full day out on the road. If you’re after a leisurely, authentic experience without excessive travel time, this tour suits those who enjoy water-based activities and exploring lesser-known spots.

For anyone seeking a day of adventure mixed with relaxation, especially on a budget, this trip offers solid value. It’s especially well-suited for families, small groups, or solo travelers eager to experience Turkey’s coastline from the water, with the added bonus of organized stops at famous attractions like Love Cave and American Beach.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruise with multiple stops at bays and islands
• Visit the love cave and swim in natural pools
• All-inclusive lunch with fresh fish, pasta, salad, and organic fruits
• Round-trip transfer from multiple pickup points
• Accessible for all with small boat groups and experienced guides
• Potential long travel time for those seeking shorter excursions

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day trip begins early, with your pickup from one of 23 possible locations, spanning from Alanya to Antalya. The comfortable, air-conditioned transport ensures a smooth start, although the approximately 3-hour drive to Adrasan means you’ll spend a fair chunk of your morning en route. The journey itself is described as pleasant, with scheduled breaks, giving you a chance to stretch.

Once in Adrasan, the highlight kicks off: a 45-minute boat cruise that takes you out to the island. This part of the day sets the tone for stunning views, with your boat slicing through shimmering waters and providing a sneak peek of what’s to come. The boat itself is small but well-controlled, with capacity limited to prevent overcrowding—an important detail for those who prefer intimate groups.

Arrival at the Watery Island

Upon arriving, you’ll immediately notice the magnificent bays—calm, clear waters perfect for swimming. Reviewers mention that the water is refreshingly cool, especially on warm days, making it ideal for a quick dip. The scenery is often described as postcard-worthy, with unspoiled nature and surprisingly clean beaches.

The tour includes a delicious onboard lunch featuring fresh fish, spaghetti or a similar pasta dish, and salads. Organic fruits are also served, providing a healthy, refreshing break in the middle of your adventure. Many guests appreciate the quality of the meal, considering it a good value for a boat tour meal. It’s served with Turkish tea and biscuits, adding a touch of local flavor.

Visiting the Love Cave and American Beach

One of the standout moments is the visit to the Love Cave, where you can swim in natural pools carved into limestone. The experience of floating in these natural waters is often described as unique—an opportunity to snap memorable photos or just relax in a peaceful environment.

Similarly, at American Beach, the chance to jump into the sea from the sandy shore is highly enjoyable. Reviewers love the water’s clarity and ease of access, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing or taking a quick swim.

Water Resources and Water Springs

Another interesting feature is the visit to the water springs on the island, which many find surprising—an unexpected natural addition to a sea-based tour. The springs, along with the coastal scenery, help create memorable photos and moments of tranquility.

Return Journey and Overall Duration

The second boat cruise mirrors the first, giving you ample time to relax or snorkel. As your day winds down, the boat heads back to Adrasan before the long bus ride home, arriving around 4 pm. While some reviews mention that the drive back is lengthy, most agree that the day’s beauty and experiences more than compensate.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

The tour is designed for flexibility and convenience. The pickup is included from numerous locations, with times communicated after booking—though there’s always a chance of a slight delay due to traffic. The boat tours are limited in capacity, which helps keep the experience intimate and comfortable.

The price of $51 covers almost everything you need: boat cruises, guided explanations, lunch, insurance, and round-trip transfers. Be aware that drinks are not included, so if you enjoy soft drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to purchase those separately.

What to Bring

Bring essentials like a change of clothes, a towel, and beachwear—especially since you’ll want to swim and sunbathe. Sunscreen is also recommended to protect against Turkey’s strong summer sun.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy water activities and scenic boat rides but don’t mind a full day of travel. It’s perfect for travelers looking for authentic natural sights rather than crowded tourist spots. Families, small groups, or solo adventurers will find the pace manageable and the scenery rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This boat tour offers a lovely blend of scenic cruising, natural swimming spots, and a delicious onboard meal. The highlights—the love cave, American Beach, and the untouched bays—are what make this trip stand out. It’s a solid choice if you’re eager to see Turkey’s lesser-known islands and bays without the hefty price tag.

However, the long journey might be a downside for some, especially if you prefer shorter day trips. If you’re comfortable with a round-trip of about six hours of travel, then you’ll find the experience rewarding, with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and take photos.

This tour is best suited for water enthusiasts and nature lovers who want a day of tranquility, scenic beauty, and fun in the sun. If you’re after a more leisurely experience or shorter excursions, you might want to compare this with other options.

FAQs

How long is the journey to Adrasan?
The trip from your pickup point to Adrasan takes roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes each way, with scheduled breaks along the way.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the boat tour, lunch (including fish, pasta, salad, and fruits), Turkish tea and biscuits, insurance, guide services, and round-trip transfers.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring bottled water or purchase beverages during the day.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, a towel, beachwear, sunscreen, and any personal items you might need for swimming and sunbathing.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families who enjoy water activities and scenic boat rides. The small boat groups help ensure a safe, relaxed environment.

What makes this tour special?
The opportunity to visit the hidden natural beauty of Suluada, swim in natural pools, and enjoy peaceful bays makes it stand out from more crowded options.

How do I know what time my pickup will be?
After booking, you will receive specific pickup times based on your location. Be prepared for a possible slight delay depending on traffic.

Final Words

If you’re after a day of scenic views, natural swimming pools, and a taste of Turkey’s untouched coastline, this boat tour from Alanya to Suluada and Bays offers good value and memorable moments. With its focus on natural beauty, small group sizes, and well-organized itinerary, it’s an appealing option for water lovers and adventure seekers. Just be ready for a full day that combines travel with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and snap photos of stunning vistas. It’s a genuine way to experience the Turkish coast beyond the usual tourist hotspots, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.

Note: Always check availability and current conditions before booking, and remember that the experience can vary depending on weather and sea conditions.