City of Side: Scuba Diving with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of exploring the vibrant marine life of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, then the Side scuba diving tour offered by River Quad Safari might just be your next adventure. This full-day experience promises two guided dives, a relaxing cruise around the underwater museum, and a tasty lunch—perfect for anyone curious about the underwater world, whether new to diving or a seasoned enthusiast.

What we love about this experience is the focus on safety, professional guidance, and inclusivity. The fact that the tour caters to beginners with thorough training and equipment makes it accessible for most people who are comfortable in the water. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour isn’t suited for children under 16, pregnant women, or those with specific health issues, which is standard for safety reasons.

This outing is ideal for travelers who want to combine a safe, well-organized introduction to scuba with the chance to see colorful fishes and coral reefs in clear waters. It’s also a great choice for those who value good value for money—especially considering everything included, from equipment to lunch and hotel transfers.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Equipment, training, lunch, and transportation are included, making it straightforward for first-timers.
• Professional Guides: Certified instructors ensure safety and tailored guidance, especially important for beginners.
• Underwater Highlights: Explore two dive points and visit a unique submarine museum in the Mediterranean waters.
• Flexible for Different Skill Levels: Suitable for novices and those with some diving experience, with safety and enjoyment prioritized.
• Price Point: At around $48 per person, the tour offers good value, especially given the full day of activity.
• Limited for Non-Swimmers & Special Groups: Not suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or anyone with health limitations—check this before booking.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Booking & Pickup Process

One of the first things you’ll appreciate is the hotel pickup, which is included and scheduled between 8:30 and 9:30 AM. This means no stress about finding your way to the departure point. The tour operates on a flexible schedule—be sure to check availability for your preferred start time, as it usually lasts about six hours.

The Journey to the Dive Sites

The transportation is generally smooth, with reviews noting that the coach or transfer vehicle is comfortable, and the staff are friendly. Interestingly, some guests mention that they were closer to the meeting point by walking, and the pickup was with a bus, which some found a bit unnecessary but still appreciated the effort.

What’s Included & How It Works

The tour includes full diving equipment, meaning you don’t need to bring your own gear, which lowers the barrier for first-time divers. It also provides training for beginners, led by professional instructors who speak English, German, and Russian, ensuring clear communication no matter your language preference.

Participants typically get two dives, each around 30 minutes, with a break in between. Many reviewers express appreciation for the attention to safety—noting the guides are attentive and cautious, especially for those who may be new to scuba. One guest shared that despite a minor issue with ear pressure during the second dive, the instructors handled the situation calmly and professionally.

The Underwater Museum & Dive Points

The highlight for many is the chance to visit the Undersea Museum—a submerged exhibit full of sculptures and artistic creations—adding an intriguing cultural twist to the underwater exploration. Along with this, the dive sites around Side feature colorful fish, coral reefs, and the chance to see marine life in crystal-clear waters.

According to reviews, the water quality is notably good—warm and clean—which makes the experience comfortable and enjoyable. The marine environment is safe, with no dangerous animals reported, and the instructors keep a close eye on all divers.

The Lunch Experience

Post-dive, a local Turkish lunch is served on the boat or at the designated stop, giving you a chance to relax and chat about the day’s highlights. The food is generally described as good, filling, and well-portioned, adding value to the overall experience. One reviewer called the lunch “good,” and it’s included in the price, which is a bonus considering some tours charge extra for meals.

Additional Activities & Facilities

While waiting between dives, guests can enjoy swimming opportunities when the boat stops, or simply relax and take in the scenic views. The boat itself is described as spacious and comfortable, making the day more enjoyable.

The Overall Atmosphere & Staff

Guests frequently mention the helpfulness of the staff and professionalism of the guides, especially for first-time divers. One reviewer noted the staff was “very helpful and patient,” which is crucial when trying something as nerve-wracking as your first swimming beneath the surface with a regulator.

The guides are fluent in multiple languages, which helps ensure clear instructions and safety protocols are understood. Many reviewers also appreciate the small group atmosphere, which allows for more personalized attention.

Safety & Suitability

Safety is a top priority here. Because of the strict regulations in Turkey, the experience is designed to be both safe and enjoyable. However, the activity does have restrictions: it’s not suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or anyone with respiratory issues, seasickness, or low fitness.

Guests should be comfortable in water, able to swim, and in good health. The guides are attentive and will look after you throughout, but this isn’t an activity for those with certain health conditions or who are prone to seasickness.

Pricing & Value Analysis

At $48 per person, this tour offers considerable value. It includes two dives, full gear, training, lunch, and hotel pickup, which often would cost considerably more if booked separately. The reviews suggest that for most, the experience is well worth the price, especially given the professional guidance and quality of the marine environment.

Some guests mention that the photos offered for purchase are pricey, which is common in such tours—if you want to capture the memories, bringing your own waterproof camera makes sense.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beginners or those with some diving experience looking for a safe, well-organized way to explore underwater. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to combine marine exploration with cultural sights like the underwater museum.

However, if you’re not comfortable in water or have health restrictions, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s emphasis on safety and professional instruction means you’ll be in good hands, but it requires a basic level of comfort with swimming and being in the water.

The Sum Up

This Scuba Diving with Lunch tour in Side offers a fantastic blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The professional guides and quality equipment make it particularly appealing for those new to diving, yet it also provides enough interest and scenery to satisfy seasoned explorers. The full-day format, including hotel transfers and lunch, adds convenience and value, especially for travelers who want an effortless experience.

If you’re eager to see colorful marine life, explore underwater sculptures, or even try scuba for the first time, this tour is a solid choice. It’s a well-organized, safe, and enjoyable way to dip your toes—and your regulator—into the underwater world of Turkey’s Mediterranean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour offers training specifically for beginners, and guides are attentive to new divers’ needs, making it suitable for those trying scuba for the first time.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers full diving equipment, training, two 30-minute dives, lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and insurance.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or individuals with respiratory issues, seasickness, or low fitness levels. Fitness and comfort in water are important.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around six hours, with flexible starting times based on availability. Check your specific schedule when booking.

Can I take photos during the dives?
Photos can be purchased, but reviewers mention they are expensive. Bringing your own waterproof camera is recommended if capturing memories is important.

Is the underwater environment safe and free from dangerous animals?
Yes, the waters are warm, clean, and generally safe, with no dangerous animals reported. The guides keep a close watch on all participants.

What is the quality of the equipment?
Reviews describe the equipment as good, with some noting older gear but generally well-maintained and sufficient for a safe experience.

How do I get to the dive sites?
Transport is included; guests are picked up from their hotels and taken to the boat. The boat itself is spacious and suitable for relaxing between dives.

By combining professional guidance, stunning underwater scenery, and practical logistics, this scuba tour in Side is a fantastic choice for a memorable day of exploration. Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to enjoy some underwater sightseeing, it offers a well-balanced experience that’s hard to beat in this part of Turkey.