Suluada Island Boat Tour Sunset BBQ Dinner & Transfer from Kemer

This boat tour promises a scenic journey along Turkey’s coast, featuring visits to Suluada Island and Akseki Bay, topped with a sunset BBQ dinner. While it’s an affordable way to enjoy the Mediterranean’s beauty, how it actually feels in practice can vary. What we love most is the chance to relax in pristine waters and enjoy the company of knowledgeable guides. However, some travelers find the language barrier and the windier conditions to be minor hurdles. This tour is best suited for those looking for a laid-back day of sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying Turkish hospitality.

If you’re after a budget-friendly adventure that combines natural beauty with a touch of romance, this trip might be right up your alley. Just keep in mind that the experience can be influenced by weather, wind, and language skills, so a flexible spirit will serve you well.

Key Points

• Stunning Views & Natural Beauty: The turquoise waters and white sandy beaches make Suluada a highlight.
• Guided Excursions & Authentic Atmosphere: Knowledgeable guides help you learn about the sites, though language may sometimes be a barrier.
• Flexible & Relaxing: The itinerary offers plenty of free time for swimming and exploring, perfect for unwinding.
• Affordable Price Point: At around $38, you get several key elements, including transfers, meals, and guided visits.
• Weather & Wind Considerations: Wind can impact water activities, especially on the first island.
• Limited Beverages & Personal Expenses: Drinks are not included, giving you the chance to customize your experience.

A Detailed Look at the Suluada Island Boat Tour

The Overall Experience

The Sunset Suluada Island Boat Tour from Kemer offers a chance to explore some of Turkey’s most picturesque coastal spots in a manageable half-day adventure. For around $38 per person, it includes roundtrip transfers, a BBQ dinner, guided visits, and swimming opportunities — which is quite reasonable considering the natural sights you’ll encounter.

One standout feature is the expert guide service. While the reviews suggest that most of the instructions and explanations are in Russian, the guides are generally knowledgeable, making sure you understand the key points and legends, like the story behind the Love Cave. It’s a good fit for travelers who don’t mind a language barrier, especially if they enjoy guided comments and local insights.

The Itinerary in Depth

Stop 1: Suluada Island

This is the pièce de résistance. Often dubbed the “Turkish Maldives,” Suluada’s turquoise waters and white sandy beaches are breathtaking. Travelers can relax on the beach, go for a swim, or snorkel in the clear waters. One reviewer mentioned that the winds can be quite strong, which can limit exploration, especially on the first island — so don’t expect calm seas and gentle breezes all day.

During the three hours here, you’ll have ample time to unwind, take photos, or just float in the water. The island’s natural beauty is its main draw, and many find it worth the trip just for the chance to be in such a pristine environment.

Stop 2: Akseki Bay & Love Cave

Next, the tour takes you to Akseki Bay, famous for its romantic Love Cave. Here, you’ll learn about local legends, and the cave itself offers a unique photo opportunity. You’ll spend about two hours exploring this scene, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing in the bay’s calmer waters.

A reviewer pointed out that the cave’s legend adds a charming touch to the visit, making it more than just a scenic stop. However, some noted that the overall experience could be limited if the weather isn’t cooperative or if the group’s language skills aren’t optimal.

The Onboard Experience

The tour includes a BBQ dinner served onboard, which adds a delicious, casual element to the trip. Expect grilled meats and vegetables, surrounded by stunning sunset views, creating a relaxed, almost romantic atmosphere. Personal expenses and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring your own beverages if you’re particular about your drinks.

One reviewer emphasized the stunning sunset views, which create a perfect backdrop for dinner. The boat itself is comfortable enough for a group of up to 50 travelers, providing a friendly, social environment.

Transportation & Group Size

The pickup is offered from the hotel, making it convenient, especially after a day of exploring Kemer. Transfers are in a minibus, but some travelers mentioned that the lack of air conditioning can make the ride less pleasant, especially during hot weather. The tour has a modest group size, which helps with a more personal experience, but with up to 50 people, some may find it a bit crowded.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

The reviews highlight a mixture of experiences. One traveler appreciated the “great sights and swimming opportunities,” though they noted the wind was a bit too strong at times, limiting exploration. Conversely, a less positive review described the experience as “bas de gamme” with language barriers and uncomfortable transport conditions.

This discrepancy suggests that your experience will depend quite a bit on weather, group dynamics, and whether you’re comfortable with language differences. The guides are generally described as knowledgeable, which adds value despite language limitations.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sunscreen and a hat – the sun can be intense, especially during peak hours.
• Pack a towel and swimwear – swimming is a key part of the tour.
• Consider bringing some cash for extra drinks or snacks – as these are not included.
• Be prepared for windier conditions – especially if you’re visiting during the summer months.
• Arrive early at the pickup point to ensure timely boarding.
• Stay flexible – weather conditions may change your experience, particularly the wind at Suluada.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers seeking an affordable, scenic escape with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. It suits those who enjoy guided tours and don’t mind some language barriers, as long as they’re open to learning legends and snippets of local lore. It’s also ideal for anyone wanting to experience beautiful beaches without paying high prices.

However, if you prefer a very tranquil, private experience or are sensitive to wind and weather conditions, you might find this tour a bit variable. It’s also worth noting that drinks and personal expenses aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want more than just the BBQ dinner.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Kemer offers a reasonably priced way to experience Turkey’s stunning coastline, with a focus on swimming, nature, and sunset views. The guides’ knowledge and the natural beauty of Suluada make it a worthwhile option for many travelers, especially those who enjoy relaxed days in scenic locations.

While some may find the language barrier a challenge and the weather conditions variable, the overall experience remains authentic and enjoyable. It’s a flexible, social outing that captures the essence of Turkish coastal charm.

For travelers looking for a budget-friendly day on the water, with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic stops, this tour is worth considering. Just go with an open mind and an appreciation for the natural wonders of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, making it easy to start the trip without worrying about transportation logistics.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at around 3:00 pm and returning to the meeting point later in the afternoon.

What is included in the price?
You get roundtrip transfers, a guided visit to Suluada Island and Love Cave, swimming opportunities, and a BBQ dinner onboard.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks and personal expenses are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or beverages if desired.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, a hat, and perhaps a camera or phone for photos. Wind can be strong, so a cover or a windbreaker might help.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider wind and weather conditions, and whether your children are comfortable in busy, outdoor environments.

Are there any restrictions or special considerations?
Most reviews suggest that weather and wind can impact the experience, especially on the first island. The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for some variability.

Embark on this scenic cruise if you’re eager to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastlines, enjoy a sunset dinner, and spend a relaxing afternoon swimming in crystal-clear waters. With the right mindset, this tour can become a delightful highlight of your Kemer holiday.