Maldives: Suluada Boat Tour with Lunch, Transfer & Bays

If you’re considering a day out on the water around Antalya, the Suluada Boat Tour promises a scenic adventure filled with turquoise bays, pristine sands, and a delicious onboard lunch. While I haven’t experienced it personally, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty enticing picture of what to expect. This tour combines natural beauty with convenient logistics, making it ideal for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, exploration, and comfort.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the visits to three different bays—each with its own unique charm—are enough to keep the day varied and engaging. Second, the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, especially at Suluada, are often compared to the Maldives, making it a picture-perfect spot for swimming and taking photos. Third, the lunch on board offers good value, with options that satisfy most appetites. That said, one aspect to consider is the short time allocated for each stop, which can leave those eager to fully explore feeling a tad pressed for time.

This tour is best suited for those who love being on the water, enjoy snorkeling or swimming in beautiful surroundings, and appreciate a well-organized day trip without surprises in costs. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking to see some of Turkey’s hidden coastal gems will find this experience rewarding—especially if they’re okay with a full day that includes some bus travel.

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Key Points

Stunning Bays and Clear Waters: The three main stops showcase some of the best natural scenery around Antalya.
All-Inclusive Feel: Lunch on the boat is included, with no hidden charges, providing good value.
Comfortable Transportation: Transfers from your hotel and a 40-minute boat ride make the journey smooth.
Ample Swimming and Snorkeling: The calm, transparent waters are ideal for water activities.
Expert Guides: Reviews mention knowledgeable guides that enhance the experience.
Shorter Stops: Expect about 1-2 hours at each bay, which some may find a bit rushed.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

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Pickup and Transfer

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup in a midibus, which is quite convenient. The transfer to Adrasan port takes roughly 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to relax and get ready for the day ahead. Keep in mind, pickup times can be flexible within a 15-minute window, so plan accordingly.

Boat Ride to Paradise

Once at the port, you’ll board a boat with around 50-60 fellow travelers. The 40-minute cruise to Suluada offers scenic views of the coastline and a chance to settle in. If you’re lucky, you’ll be on a well-maintained vessel with an upper deck perfect for catching the sun and snapping photos.

First Stop: Paradise Bay

Your first stop is Paradise Bay, famous for its remarkably clear waters and soft sand—resembling the Maldives, as the name suggests. Here, you’ll have about 35 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach. Reviewers mention the water here is so transparent you can see the sea floor easily, making it perfect for snorkeling. However, some notes indicate that the time feels a bit limited, especially for those wanting a longer swim or more exploration.

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Second Stop: Waterfall Bay

Next, the boat moves on to Waterfall Bay, a natural marvel with rocks and a small waterfall adding to the picturesque scenery. Similar to the first stop, you get around 35 minutes to swim or stay on the boat enjoying the view. Many find these bays peaceful and beautiful, though a few reviewers note that the brief time doesn’t leave much room for extensive exploration or sunbathing.

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Lunch with a View

While anchored in Waterfall Bay, a delicious two-course meal is served—choices include fish and chicken, accompanied by spaghetti or rice and fresh salad. Reviewers often highlight the quality of the food, considering it good value, especially given that drinks are not included. Expect a simple but tasty meal that hits the spot after swimming.

Final Stop: Suluada, the ‘Maldives’ of Turkey

The highlight for many is Suluada, often called the Turkish Maldives due to its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. On arrival, travelers usually explore the small island with a guide, visiting natural pools and taking photos of the dramatic scenery. Swimmers can enjoy a long break here, with enough time for a proper swim and some relaxing on the sand. It’s an ideal spot to appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty, as many reviews point out how idyllic and peaceful it feels.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

After a total of approximately 2.25 hours on Suluada, the boat departs back to Adrasan, with a quick stop at other bays or scenic points along the way. The return trip lasts about 1.5 hours, giving everyone time to unwind and reflect on the day. The coach then brings you back to your hotel, completing a full, well-organized day.

What Makes This Tour a Good Choice?

One of the key strengths of this tour is value for money. All major costs are included—boat, lunch, transfers, and guide—and reviews mention the experience as overall good, particularly considering the natural beauty and the convenience of organized transport. The guides are experienced, often friendly and knowledgeable, making the day more informative and enjoyable.

The scenic stops are undeniably stunning. The waters are so clear that even non-swimmers or snorkelers can enjoy gazing into the depths. Plus, the lunch is well-reviewed, with simple but satisfying dishes that add to the relax-and-enjoy vibe.

However, a few reviews point out some minor drawbacks. The short stop times mean you’ll need to be efficient with your swimming and exploring. Also, some travelers mentioned the need to cross water or remove shoes when boarding, which might be inconvenient for some but adds to the authentic adventure feel.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Bring appropriate footwear: Since the beaches have pebbly shores and crossing water is necessary, water shoes or sandals are recommended.
Pack a towel and beachwear: These are essential for swimming and relaxing on the sand.
Arrive prepared for a full day: Expect to be away from your hotel for around 7 to 9.5 hours.
Consider your swimming ability: The waters are calm and clear, but if you aren’t confident in swimming, staying on the boat might be more comfortable.
No surprise costs: Drinks are not included, so bring your own or purchase at the bays if available.
Book early: The tour is popular, and availability can vary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy water-based activities and want to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful bays without the hassle of organizing transport and meals. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing yet adventure-filled day.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic natural scenery and doesn’t mind a busy schedule with several stops, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. Just be aware that the time at each bay is limited, so if you prefer longer lounging or more in-depth exploration, you might want to consider other options or extend your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is pickup included?
Yes, if you opt for the hotel pickup, you’ll be collected from your accommodation and transferred to Adrasan port.

How long does the entire trip last?
The full experience lasts between 7 and 9.5 hours, depending on your pickup point and traffic conditions.

What’s included in the price?
The boat tour, visits to bays and beaches, a two-course lunch, swimming in secret bays, guide, and insurance are included. Drinks are extra.

Can I swim and snorkel at each stop?
Yes, the stops are designed for swimming and snorkeling in calm, clear waters; roughly 35 minutes per bay.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour promises no surprise payments; everything else, like drinks, is at your expense.

Is it suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most likely, yes—since no long walking is involved. Just be prepared for crossing water and removing shoes, which may be less comfortable for some.

What should I bring?
Towels, beachwear, water shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. A waterproof camera could be a good idea for photos.

How many people are on each boat?
Vessels typically hold around 50-60 people, offering a lively, social atmosphere but still allowing space to relax.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak Turkish, Russian, German, and English, ensuring clear communication.

What if I need to cancel or change plans?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing travel plans.

The Maldives: Suluada Boat Tour offers a fantastic way to spend a day exploring Turkey’s coastlines and natural bays. Its highlights—crystal waters, white sands, and a relaxing lunch—are well worth the price, especially for those who love water activities and scenic beauty. While the tight schedule might not suit travelers wanting more leisure time, most find that the balance of sightseeing and swimming makes for a memorable, value-packed day.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to experience some of Turkey’s best coastal scenery with friendly guides and good organization, this tour is a strong contender. Just bring a sense of adventure and your favorite beach gear, and you’ll be set for a day of sunny, salty fun.

Note: Always check the latest availability and details before booking, as tour times and conditions might fluctuate.