Side: Scuba Diving with Expert Diving Option

Exploring the waters around Side offers an exciting mix of vibrant marine life, fascinating wrecks, and even an underwater museum. This scuba diving tour, rated at 4.5 out of 5 from over 130 reviews, is designed to cater to both beginners and certified divers, making it a versatile choice for those wanting a taste of the Mediterranean’s underwater charm.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the opportunity to see Side’s underwater museum and explore a variety of reefs and wrecks, all while enjoying the comfort of a well-organized boat trip. Plus, the inclusion of a tasty light lunch and the availability of snorkeling gear make it a full, satisfying day out.

One potential consideration is the variable underwater visibility—some reviewers mentioned murky waters during their dives—which, while common in the region, can affect the clarity of underwater sights. However, the warm waters, friendly guides, and the chance to choose between standard or expert diving options make this tour a solid pick.

This experience is best suited for travelers over 12 who are confident in water and eager to explore beneath the waves, whether as a first-timer or an experienced diver looking for a relaxed yet adventurous day.

Key Points

• Flexible experience options for beginners and certified divers, with expert diving tailored to your level.
• Incredible value—a full day trip with two dives, lunch, and equipment included for just $30.
• Highlights include the underwater museum, wrecks, reefs, and abundant marine life.
• Professional guides ensure safety and fun, making it approachable for first-timers.
• Comfortable boat with amenities like sun decks, snorkeling gear, and onboard food.
• Ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure, scenic views, and underwater discovery.

What to Expect from the Tour

Let’s walk through what your day in the water would actually look like, based on the detailed itinerary and guest reviews.

Pickup and Transfer

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Side or a meet-up point, if you prefer. The transfer typically takes about an hour, giving you a moment to get excited while enjoying views of the coast. This organized pickup means you won’t need to worry about logistics—just show up ready for fun.

The Boat Trip and First Impressions

Once on board, you’ll be greeted by a friendly crew and a spacious deck perfect for sunbathing or relaxing. The boat’s sun deck is frequently praised for its comfort, offering a great place to unwind before the dives. The boat trip itself is considered enjoyable, with some reviewers mentioning the scenic views of Side’s coastline and even the Temple of Apollo.

The Safety Briefing and Equipment

Before hitting the water, a professional instructor will conduct a thorough briefing, covering safety procedures and equipment use. This is crucial, especially for first-time divers, and the guides are noted for their clear explanations. You’ll learn how to communicate underwater and handle your gear confidently—one reviewer highlighted how helpful the instructors were at making newcomers feel at ease.

The Dives: Two Spots, Two Experiences

The core of the tour involves two dives at different locations, carefully chosen by the captain based on current conditions. Some reviewers mention the artificial underwater museum, which is a unique feature of this tour. It’s a sight that adds a layer of intrigue, blending art and marine life, and is a must-see for underwater enthusiasts.

What You’ll See

Expect to encounter a variety of reefs, wrecks, and marine life, with some reviewers noting the presence of numerous fish. Visibility varies but is generally good enough for appreciating the underwater environment. One guest mentioned “several different types of fish on the first dive,” which shows the diversity you can expect.

Lunch and Rest

Between the two dives, a light, nutritious lunch is served aboard—typically sautéed chicken, pasta, and salad, according to reviews. This meal fuels your underwater adventures and offers a chance to chat with fellow travelers. Many comments mention how tasty and satisfying the onboard food is, adding significant value to the experience.

Snorkeling and Relaxation

If you prefer not to dive, or after your dives, you can use the complimentary snorkeling gear to explore near the boat. The boat’s amenities and the chance to relax under the sun make this a leisurely, well-rounded day.

Return and Drop-off

After the final dive and some free time, the boat heads back to the port. A comfortable vehicle then transports you back to your hotel or designated drop-off points like Belek, Kadriye, or Side itself.

Diving Locations and Underwater Highlights

The specific spots are selected daily based on sea conditions, but the main attractions include:

• Underwater museum: A distinctive feature of this tour, this site offers an artistic glimpse into the underwater world, with sculptures and structures designed to blend art and marine habitat.
• Reefs and wrecks: The waters around Side hide several wrecks and reef formations, providing shelter for diverse fish and marine creatures. This variety makes each dive uniquely interesting.
• Marine life: Guests commonly see various fish and possibly other marine creatures, with some reviews mentioning the abundance of different species during their dives.

The warm waters and good visibility—though occasionally murky—make for a comfortable and visually rewarding experience. Whether you’re exploring the museum or the wrecks, the underwater scenery is often praised for its vibrancy.

Guides, Safety, and the Experience

Guest reviews shine a light on the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. They are often described as helpful, patient, and thorough in explaining the equipment and safety procedures. For first-time divers, this reassurance is priceless.

One review even mentions that the main instructor “made you feel very comfortable,” emphasizing the importance of good guidance for a positive first experience.

For Certified Divers

While beginners are welcome, certified divers have the option to select the Expert Diving upgrade, allowing them to dive deeper and with more independence, in accordance with their license. Certified divers are asked to bring their license or card on the day of the tour, which ensures smooth participation.

Safety and Confidence

Participants must be above 12 years old and confident in water. The tour emphasizes safety, with instructors demonstrating proper equipment use and underwater communication. However, some reviews suggest that the activity requires confidence in the water, so beginners should be comfortable with basic swimming skills.

Value for Money and Practical Details

At just around $30 per person, this tour offers exceptional value—including two dives, boat trip, lunch, and snorkeling gear. The reviews reflect high satisfaction with the price, especially considering the full-day nature of the activity.

The tour duration varies from 5 to 8 hours, depending on the day, giving ample time for both dives and relaxation. The inclusive equipment and professional guidance mean you won’t need to rent or buy anything extra, making this a hassle-free experience.

What to Bring

Guests are advised to bring essentials like hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. The core advice is to come prepared for a full day outdoors, with enough sun protection and hydration.

Not Allowed

Some restrictions are in place: smoking, touching marine life, and touching plants are prohibited to protect the environment and ensure safety.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This scuba experience is a fantastic choice for travelers who want an authentic taste of Side’s underwater world without the need for extensive certification. The availability of expert diving options makes it appealing to seasoned divers seeking more independence, while the beginner-friendly approach guarantees an enjoyable day for newcomers.

The knowledgeable guides, the awe-inspiring underwater museum, and the good value for money make this tour a standout. The meal and snorkeling gear add to the convenience, making it a full, hassle-free day out. Plus, the scenic boat trip and the chance to relax on the sun deck ensure you return with more than just underwater memories.

If you’re craving marine exploration and are comfortable in the water, this tour will likely meet or exceed expectations. It’s perfect for those looking to combine adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of cultural intrigue—all within a relaxed, friendly environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I participate if I’ve never snorkeled or dived before?
Yes, beginners are very welcome. The tour includes a detailed safety briefing, and guides will demonstrate equipment use and communication techniques to help you feel comfortable.

What is the age limit for participants?
Participants must be over 12 years old and confident in water to join the tour.

Do I need to bring my diving license?
If you are a certified diver, yes, you should bring your license/card to participate in the Expert Diving option. Beginners don’t need any certification.

What should I pack for the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes for the full day.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts between 5 and 8 hours, which includes transport, briefing, two dives, and lunch.

Is the visibility underwater always good?
Visibility can vary, and some guests have noted murkier waters during their dives. However, the warm water and diverse sites make for a memorable experience regardless.

This scuba tour in Side offers a perfect blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural intrigue, all at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re new to diving or an experienced diver looking for a relaxed day on the water, this trip will leave you with unforgettable underwater memories.