From Alanya, Side To Adrasan Suluada Boat Tour with Lunch

Exploring the Suluada Boat Tour: A Practical and Honest Look

If you’re eyeing a day on the water to experience some of Turkey’s most stunning coastal scenery, the From Alanya, Side To Adrasan Suluada Boat Tour with Lunch might be on your radar. Promising a full 13-hour adventure, this tour takes you to what’s often called the Turkish Maldives, with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and a chance to see natural springs and caves. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, natural beauty, and a bit of adventure, all wrapped in a reasonably priced package.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the combination of beautiful stops and onboard amenities. Including a delicious lunch and snacks, guided commentary, and transport from your hotel, it offers a fairly comprehensive experience if you’re after a hassle-free day out. But, like any trip, there are some points worth considering—like the bustling crowds and the lengthy travel times, especially if you’re coming from Alanya.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy sailing and swimming, are happy to spend a good chunk of the day outdoors, and don’t mind sharing their space with other travelers. If you’re looking for secluded beaches or a private boat experience, this might not be the ideal choice. Still, for its value and the chance to tick off a bucket-list destination, it’s a compelling option.

Key Points

• Stunning Stops: The tour features multiple stops at Suluada Beach, American Beach, and natural springs, providing plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides share insights about the area, making the trip both fun and educational.
• All-Inclusive Meal: A well-rated onboard lunch with various options adds to the value.
• Crowded but Spacious: Expect many boats on the island, which can make swimming challenging at peak times.
• Travel Time: Long bus rides from Alanya (4-5 hours) and Side (around 3 hours) require patience; no air conditioning on some buses has been a common complaint.
• Authentic Landscapes: Natural springs, caves, and turquoise waters offer authentic photo opportunities and memorable scenery.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is included if you’re staying in Side, making the start smooth and effortless. From Alanya, it’s about a 4 to 5-hour bus ride to the Adrasan pier, and while the journey might test your patience—some reviews mention no A/C and long hours in the sun—the payoff is the promise of a leisurely day on the water.

Once aboard the boat, you’re instantly immersed in the visual feast of turquoise seas and lush islands. The first stop is at Suluada Beach, often called the Turkish Maldives due to its crystal-clear waters and white sands. Here, guests rave about the opportunity to swim in pristine waters and lie on the beach. Though some mention that during high season, the beach gets crowded with boats and travelers, which can make swimming a bit tricky.

Next, the boat visits the natural water springs. These springs are vital to the island’s ecosystem and are a unique feature of this tour. You might find the spring water cool and refreshing, perfect for a quick dip after some sunbathing. Reviewers note that the springs are also interesting from a natural perspective—an aspect that adds educational value to the trip.

A highlight is the Cave of Love, a natural formation that offers an impressive sight and an opportunity for some memorable photos. While not a long stop, it’s a brief glimpse into the area’s geological features, appreciated by those who enjoy natural wonders.

Then, it’s time for American Beach, another picture-perfect spot. Here, swimmers can take a break from the boat and enjoy the calm, clear waters. However, some reviews point out that the crowded environment may limit swimming space, especially in peak season.

The tour wraps up with a return to Adrasan, where the boat departs, and you head back to your hotel, often with a happy, sun-kissed glow. Expect to be back around early evening, depending on the pick-up point and traffic.

What You’ll Experience Onboard

The boat itself is described as comfortable enough for a full day, with enough space to relax and enjoy the scenic views. Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, sharing insights about the islands and natural features. The onboard lunch gets special mention for being tasty and filling, with some reviewers noting they appreciated the variety of options.

Tea and biscuits are also included, making it easy to snack between swims. It’s worth noting that beverages are not included in the price, so you might want to bring your own water or soft drink if you prefer.

The Crowds and Safety

Reviews consistently mention that high season leads to crowded beaches and busy boat harbors, which can diminish the feeling of exclusivity. You’ll be swimming among many boats, sometimes having to navigate between them, which reviewees say can be a little chaotic. One reviewer even pointed out that the last stop was the only quiet part of the day, highlighting how busy the island can get.

Safety concerns were raised in one review about the bus ride back from Side, where the driver was reportedly distracted and did not wear seatbelts. While this doesn’t necessarily reflect on the boat experience itself, it’s a reminder to stay alert during transfers.

Value for Money

At $74 per person, this tour offers a lot—transport, a guided commentary, lunch, and multiple swim stops. Many travelers feel it’s good value, especially considering the scenic beauty and variety of stops. However, some mention paying a little extra on site, which could add up. The included lunch, biscuits, and tea definitely sweeten the deal, making it a convenient all-in-one package.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who love water-based activities. It suits those who are comfortable sharing space on a busy boat and enjoy multiple swims and scenic stops. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a full-day tour that covers scenic beaches, caves, and natural water springs.

If you prefer a more secluded or private experience, or dislike long bus rides, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re sensitive to crowds or are traveling during peak season, you should prepare for bustling beaches and boat traffic.

Practical Tips

• Bring your own sunscreen, towels, and change of clothes—the tour provides some, but personal items ensure you’re comfortable.
• Swim shoes are recommended, as some beaches aren’t sandy.
• Be prepared for a long travel day if you’re coming from Alanya; consider packing snacks or entertainment for the bus.
• Expect lots of boats on the water, especially in high season, and plan your swimming around the boat traffic.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip offers a strong mix of stunning scenery, natural sights, and good value in a full-day package. While the journey can be lengthy and the beaches crowded, the natural beauty and variety of stops make it worthwhile for most travelers seeking an active day on Turkey’s coast.

The guides’ knowledge, quality of food, and multiple swim opportunities shine through in reviews, making this a solid choice for those who prioritize scenic, water-focused experiences. It’s less ideal if you’re seeking privacy or a tranquil environment, but for a lively, scenic day out with friends or family, it works well.

Overall, if you’re looking for an authentic, fun-packed day that highlights some of Turkey’s best coastal spots, this tour offers a lot for its price.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included if you’re staying in Side, and the tour departs from Adrasan pier. The journey from Alanya takes about 4-5 hours, while from Side it’s around 3 hours.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and beachwear. It’s also wise to pack snacks or extra drinks if you prefer.

Are drinks included?
No, beverages are not included, so you should bring your own if you want anything other than the tea and biscuits offered onboard.

Is there a limit to how many stops we make?
The itinerary includes stops at Suluada Beach, natural springs, the Cave of Love, and American Beach, with each offering swimming and exploration opportunities.

How crowded does it get?
During high season, expect many boats around the island, which can make swimming a bit crowded and less secluded.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides speak German, English, Russian, and Turkish, making the tour accessible to a broad range of travelers.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a hearty lunch with several options is included and well-rated for taste and variety.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind the long bus rides and potential crowds. The boat trip itself is generally suitable for all ages, with plenty of opportunities to relax and swim.

To sum it up, this boat tour from Alanya or Side offers a lively, scenic, and value-packed day on Turkey’s coast. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy social atmospheres, water activities, and stunning natural scenery—all wrapped in a convenient package. Keep expectations realistic regarding crowds, and be prepared for a long day, but in return, you’ll get a memorable experience of some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal spots.