Side: Undersea Museum Diving Tour

The Side: Undersea Museum Diving Tour offers an engaging day for those eager to explore underwater sights near Antalya. Priced inclusively, this 8-hour excursion from Side is rated 4.3 out of 5, making it a solid choice for beginners and anyone interested in discovering the Mediterranean’s submerged treasures. Led by Alys Tours, the trip emphasizes comfort, safety, and a friendly atmosphere, with multiple language options available including English, German, Russian, and Turkish.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on the Side Underwater Museum, where visitors can view ancient statues and natural marine life. The tour also features a scenic boat ride, a delicious onboard lunch, and time to swim in Kumköy Bay, including near Cleopatra’s Tomb. With all equipment, insurance, and guiding provided, it’s especially suited for beginners looking for a straightforward introduction to diving and snorkeling in the Mediterranean.

Key Points

• Duration and Price: The tour lasts 8 hours with flexible booking options, including pay later and full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Multiple languages: Guided in English, German, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring clear instructions for diverse groups.
• Highlights: Explore the Underwater Museum, enjoy lunch with chicken, rice or pasta, and salad, and swim at Kumköy Bay near Cleopatra’s Tomb.
• Suitable for beginners: All diving equipment is included, and one-on-one instruction makes it accessible for those new to diving.
• Morning refreshment: Start with a pomegranate tea, prepping you for the day ahead.
• End of the tour: Around 3:30-4:00 PM, the boat returns to the Ancient Side Harbour, where transportation to your hotel is provided.

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Pickup and Meeting Point at Ancient Side Harbour

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, where travelers provide their hotel name and room number. The transfer vehicle arrives promptly, not waiting longer than 5 minutes, ensuring a smooth start. Once at the harbor, travelers group by language to receive detailed briefings about the day’s activities.

The location at Ancient Side Harbour credentials the trip as both convenient and scenic, with the setting adding historical charm to the day’s adventures. This seamless logistical setup is ideal for travelers who prefer to avoid complex arrangements.

Exploring the Side Underwater Museum

The first major activity involves sailing from Side Harbour at 10:00 AM to the Side Underwater Museum. This site features ancient statues that have been deliberately placed underwater, offering an unusual combination of art, history, and marine life.

The diving depth at this site is approximately 8-10 meters, with a 15-20 minute duration per dive. Guided one-on-one by an instructor, visitors get close-up views of the statues and the vibrant sea life that inhabits the area. The focus on shallow depths makes this experience accessible and safe for beginners.

Scenic Boat Ride and Morning Refreshments

Before arriving at the museum, the tour includes a scenic boat ride that offers views of the coastline and the surrounding waters. The day kicks off with a refreshing pomegranate tea, giving travelers an energizing start to their aquatic adventure.

The boat itself provides a comfortable platform for viewing the coastline and catching the breeze, setting a relaxed tone for the day. These small touches—like the morning tea—add to the overall enjoyment and sense of occasion for the tour.

Lunch Onboard: Classic Mediterranean Fare

After the first dive, the boat anchors at Kumköy Bay for a delicious onboard lunch. The menu features chicken chop, rice or pasta, and salad, with some variation depending on the day.

This casual, filling meal offers a break from water activities and a chance to socialize with fellow participants. The inclusion of all food and drinks as part of the package adds excellent value, especially considering the scenic setting.

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Second Dive Near Cleopatra’s Tomb

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a second shallow dive at around 4 meters depth, close to Cleopatra’s Tomb. This famous site, associated with legend, provides an intriguing underwater backdrop.

Guided by the instructor, visitors can swim in the Mediterranean’s clear waters, viewing natural marine life and the remnants of history in a relaxed environment. The shallow depth makes this part suitable for those who prefer less intense water activities.

Viewing Underwater Photos and Videos

Throughout the day, professional underwater photos and videos are taken during each dive. Afterward, participants can review and purchase these keepsakes, adding a memorable souvenir to their experience.

The availability of visual mementos enhances the overall value, especially for those who enjoy capturing their adventures or sharing their underwater discoveries.

Return and Hotel Drop-Off

The tour concludes between 15:30 and 16:00, with the boat returning to Ancient Side Harbour. From there, hotel transfers are organized, ensuring guests return comfortably to their accommodations.

This organized end to the day suits travelers who want to relax after a full day on the water, with no need to worry about logistics or transportation.

Suitability and Practical Tips

This tour is ideal for beginners because all necessary equipment and guiding are included, making the experience accessible regardless of prior diving experience. The small group sizes and one-on-one instruction foster a safe, friendly environment.

Participants should be comfortable in water and willing to undertake shallow dives at 8-10 meters and 4 meters near Cleopatra’s Tomb. The morning tea is a small but appreciated touch, and packing a towel or extra clothing might be helpful after swimming.

Final Thoughts on the Undersea Museum Diving Tour

With its well-organized structure, friendly guides, and focus on accessible diving, this tour offers a rewarding way to explore underwater sights near Side. The underwater museum, combined with snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and a yummy onboard lunch, makes for a full and engaging day.

While it’s tailored for beginners, the quality of the guided experience and diverse activities can appeal to seasoned snorkelers as well. The flexible booking options and full insurance coverage add peace of mind, making this a practical choice for those planning a day of underwater discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who have never dived before?
Yes, this tour is ideal for beginners as all equipment and guidance are provided, and the dives occur at shallow depths with one-on-one instruction.

What should I bring for this tour?
Travelers should consider bringing swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a light jacket in case of wind. The tour provides pomegranate tea and all diving gear.

How long is each dive?
The first dive lasts approximately 15-20 minutes at 8-10 meters, while the second dive near Cleopatra’s Tomb is at 4 meters deep.

Are meals included in the tour price?
Yes, lunch with chicken, rice or pasta, and salad is included, along with drinks.

What languages are available for guided instructions?
Guiding is available in English, German, Russian, and Turkish.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby