”Turkish Maldives” Boat trip Adrasan-Suluada island from Antalya

Explore the Turkish Maldives: Adrasan-Suluada Boat Trip from Antalya

This full-day boat tour from Antalya offers a chance to experience Turkey’s so-called “Maldives,” with a price point of just $37.72 per person. Departing early at 7:00 am, the 10-hour cruise takes you along the stunning coastline of Belek, showcasing scenic views, unspoiled beaches, and three picturesque stops. The tour is operated by TURONTIME and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient option for those staying in Antalya.

You’ll sail on a 50-meter yacht with capacity for up to 100 passengers, providing plenty of space to relax. The highlight of the trip is Suluada island, known for its white sands, clear waters, mineral springs, and rock lakes. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy the opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, with included soft drinks and a fish lunch served on board. While the tour offers excellent value and memorable scenery, it can be crowded at peak spots, and cash payments are required onboard.

Key Points

• Cost-effective adventure at $37.72 per person, with a full-day experience
• Departs early at 7:00 am, lasting approximately 10 hours
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring hassle-free logistics
• Sail on a spacious 50-meter yacht, accommodating up to 100 guests
• Stops at Adrasan and Suluada, featuring swimming, snorkeling, mineral springs, and rock lakes
• Delicious onboard lunch with soft drinks, tea, fruits, and biscuits

Pickup and Meeting Point in Antalya

The tour begins with a hotel pickup around 6:45 am, with pickup times sometimes slightly delayed but still coordinated to start at 7:00 am. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the roughly two-hour ride from central Antalya to the coast. The group size is limited to 100 travelers, making for a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Scenic Voyage Along the Lycian Coast

The route follows the coastline, offering excellent views of beaches, bays, and the Lycian Way. As the boat cruises along, you’ll see wild rocky ledges, pristine nature, and tranquil blue waters. This stretch remains untouched by civilization, making it a peaceful and scenic journey. Many reviews mention how beautiful and peaceful the scenery is, with some describing the water as “not probable” in clarity.

Visiting Adrasan Beach and Its Natural Surroundings

The first stop is Adrasan, a pristine coastal area renowned for its wild rocky ledges and blue waters. This area is known for visiting turtles, which frequent the beaches, adding a touch of wildlife excitement. The stop lasts around 2 hours, giving ample time for swimming and exploring the natural surroundings. Visitors often comment on the untouched beauty and the chance to enjoy a peaceful moment away from crowds.

Suluada: The “Maldives of Turkey”

The most celebrated stop is Suluada, famously called the “Maldives of Turkey”. This uninhabited island features a quiet bay perfect for swimming, rock lakes, and mineral springs with supposed healing properties. The white sand and clean water are frequently highlighted as spectacular. Post-swim, the boat crew serves a simple fish lunch, which is well-reviewed for its freshness and taste.

This stop lasts about 5 hours, making it the longest on the trip, with plenty of time for water activities and relaxing on the sandy beaches. The island’s unspoiled nature and crystal-clear waters leave many feeling like they’ve stepped into a postcard scene.

American Bay and Kargcak Bay: Relaxing and Viewing

After Suluada, the tour proceeds to American Bay and Kargcak Bay, where the focus is on enjoying the cold water and taking in the magnificent scenery. These locations are appreciated for their tranquility and beautiful vistas, providing an ideal spot for sunbathing or snorkeling. The relaxed pace of stops here allows for a leisurely experience.

Onboard Lunch and Refreshments

The lunch served on the boat is a notable feature of this tour. Guests enjoy fish or chicken options, complemented by soft drinks, tea, and fruits. Many reviews praise the quality and simplicity of the meal, considering it a highlight amid the scenic day. The refreshing tea and fruit platter add a comforting touch after water activities.

Crew, Comfort, and Overall Organization

The crew on the boat receives positive mentions for being friendly and relaxed, helping create a casual and welcoming environment. The yacht’s spacious design allows guests to spread out comfortably, whether sunbathing, snorkeling, or chatting.

However, some reviews note communication issues, such as announcements only in their language and cash-only payments onboard, which travelers should prepare for. One reviewer pointed out the long drive with an uncomfortable, non-air-conditioned minibus, but this is not part of the boat experience itself.

Crowd Levels and Water Conditions

While many praise the breathtaking scenery and water clarity, some mention crowds at Suluada, especially when multiple boats arrive simultaneously. The beach can become quite busy, which may affect the experience if seeking solitude. The water quality is generally described as crystal-clear and more than one color, reminiscent of scenes seen in pictures of Phi Phi Islands.

Cost and Value for Money

Priced at $37.72 per person, this all-day cruise offers good value for an adventure that includes multiple stops, a boat trip, lunch, soft drinks, and hotel transfers. Many reviewers emphasize the excellent organization, from the hotel pickup to the onboard amenities. The cost covers swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views, making it an accessible way to explore Turkey’s coastline.

Potential Drawbacks and Criticisms

Some guests report long waiting times for pickup or delays at the start. A few mention crowded beaches and limited English announcements, which could hinder understanding for non-Turkish speakers. The cash-only policy on drinks can be inconvenient, especially in hot weather, as some travelers found it difficult to purchase water during the day.

Plus, one review highlights poor communication and safety concerns at the first beach, where the boat almost left someone behind. While these instances are not widespread, they are worth considering when planning.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Turkish Maldives boat trip suits those seeking a full-day escape, with stunning water scenery and multiple swimming stops. It appeals most to families, couples, or groups looking for easy logistics and good value. The delicious onboard lunch and scenic routes make it a memorable experience, though crowds and communication issues are possible limitations.

If you appreciate relaxing on scenic beaches, snorkeling, and seeing unspoiled islands, this tour offers a convenient and reasonably priced way to enjoy Turkey’s coast. For travelers preferring more solitude or personalized experiences, some of the crowd levels and group size may be a concern. Overall, it remains a solid choice for adventure and relaxation combined.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive for the tour?
The tour starts with hotel pickup around 6:45 am. It is recommended to be ready early for a smooth start, especially since pickups can sometimes be slightly delayed.

What is included in the price?
The $37.72 fee covers transportation, boat trip, lunch, soft drinks, tea, fruits, and insurance. Personal expenses and bottled water are not included.

Are there any age or physical requirements?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves swimming and standing or sitting on a boat for extended periods. No specific restrictions are noted, but guests should be comfortable with maritime activities.

Is there an opportunity to snorkel?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are encouraged at stops like Suluada and other bays, with crystal-clear waters ideal for observing marine life.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for onboard drinks, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and waterproof protection for valuables. The tour provides fruits and tea but advises bringing own water if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds. Less notice may result in no refund.

What are the main negatives to consider?
Expect crowded beaches at Suluada, occasional communication issues, and cash-only transactions onboard. The long drive with some discomfort is also noted but doesn’t affect the boat experience.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers can enjoy the scenic boat ride and relax on deck, but swimming and snorkeling are optional activities.

How crowded can the stops get?
Suluada and other bays can become crowded during peak times, especially when several boats are present. Arriving early might help avoid the largest crowds.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The combination of scenic coastline, unspoiled islands, delicious onboard lunch, and affordable price makes this trip a popular choice among visitors seeking relaxing water-based excursions in Turkey.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, for those seeking a scenic, full-day boat trip with multiple swimming opportunities and good value, this tour offers a well-organized and enjoyable experience, despite some crowds and minor communication hiccups.