City of Side: Underwater Museum Scuba Diving Visit

Explore the City of Side’s remarkable Underwater Museum through this engaging scuba diving experience offered by Seven Tours in Antalya Province, Turkey. Priced at $50 per person, this tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours and features two 20-minute dives into the Mediterranean Sea to see more than 110 sculptures that highlight parts of Anatolian history. With a focus on accessibility, safety, and enjoyment, this tour suits both beginners and those with some experience, thanks to its shallow depth of 5-6 meters.

While the tour offers an incredible chance to explore an underwater sculpture museum, it also includes a lunch on the boat, diving equipment, snorkeling gear, and insurance. The entire experience combines adventure with comfort, making it a compelling choice for travelers eager to see something unique beneath the waves.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $50 includes two 20-minute dives.
• Accessible depth of 5-6 meters makes it suitable for beginners.
• Tour includes hotel pickup in Side and nearby areas.
• Expert guides lead the dives, ensuring safety and support.
• Lunch on the boat offers a relaxing break with great water views.
• No previous scuba experience required, but minimum age is 16 for diving.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover Side’s Underwater Museum and Sculptures

The core highlight of this tour is exploring the new Underwater Museum in Side, a European attraction that features 110 sculptures representing parts of Anatolian history. These sculptures rest at a shallow depth of only 5-6 meters, making this experience accessible for beginners and experts alike. The underwater setting offers a fascinating look at marine life, plants, and the sculptures themselves, which are part of a specially designed environment for both art and nature.

The expert guide accompanies every diver, providing safety instructions and explanations about the sculptures. Photo teams are on hand to capture moments beneath the water, although photos and DVDs are available for purchase at the end—at an additional cost.

Pick-up, Transfer, and Embarkation at the Harbor

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Side and surrounding areas such as Gundogdu, Colakli, Evrenseki, Kumkoy, Sorgun, Titreyengol, Kizilagac, and Kizilot. The air-conditioned bus takes travelers to the harbor, which is a short walk from the meeting point. The walk from the coach drop-off to the harbor has been noted as longer than expected in some reviews, especially under the hot sun, so travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a 20-minute walk.

Once at the boat, there is a comprehensive safety briefing conducted in multiple languages. The crew provides diving and snorkeling equipment, and guides help everyone suit up and get ready for the water.

The Boat Experience and Water Safety

The boat used for this tour offers plenty of sun and shade, ensuring comfort during the wait and rest periods between dives. The depth of the dives of 20 minutes each is manageable, and a rest period of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours allows for lunch and relaxation.

Guides are attentive and focus on safety, especially for those who are new to scuba diving. They monitor breathing and comfort levels, with some reviews praising the guides’ patience and supportiveness, particularly for those overcoming initial fears or experiencing breathing difficulties during the second dive.

Lunch and Water Breaks on the Boat

An included lunch provides a much-needed break after the first dive. The meals are generally well-received, with reviews noting the good quality and reasonable prices of drinks available on the boat. Travelers are advised to bring their own drinks or water if desired, as the boat offers beverages for purchase.

The boat’s atmosphere is described as sunny and shaded, offering a comfortable environment to relax and socialize after the underwater exploration.

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Equipment, Insurance, and Additional Costs

Diving equipment and snorkeling gear are provided, and insurance is included in the price. Photos and DVDs of the underwater experience are available at an additional cost, with some reviews mentioning the price of 70 euros for videos and pictures—though negotiation may be possible.

Travelers should bring swimwear and a towel; pets and cameras are not allowed on this tour, mainly for safety and comfort reasons.

Suitability and Restrictions

This tour is not suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or anyone with certain health conditions such as claustrophobia, vertigo, epilepsy, respiratory issues, or pre-existing medical problems. The shallow depth means that beginners can comfortably participate, but a basic level of physical fitness is recommended, especially given the walk to the harbor and on the boat.

Those with health concerns should consider their suitability before booking, as the tour emphasizes safety and support during the water activities.

Reviews and Real-world Insights

The positive reviews highlight expert guidance and the value for money. The underwater sculptures are praised as a cool attraction, with one review mentioning how patience from instructors helped overcome initial fears.

Some feedback notes that the walk from coach to harbor can be long and tiring under the hot sun, and smoking on the boat is a concern for some participants, with almost every table having smokers and secondhand smoke being an issue.

Nonetheless, many find the experience rewarding and worth the price, especially appreciating the relaxed pace and informative guides.

The Sum Up: Unique Underwater Exploration Near Side

This scuba diving tour in Side offers a unique chance to see 110 sculptures in a shallow, accessible environment. For $50, travelers get two dives, lunch, and expert guidance—making it a good value for those interested in marine art and underwater scenery.

While the walk to the harbor can be challenging in hot weather, the overall experience balances adventure, education, and relaxation. It caters well to beginners and those seeking a safe, friendly environment with beautiful underwater sights.

This tour is especially suitable for families, first-time divers, or anyone curious about marine environments in the Mediterranean. For travelers with health concerns or mobility issues, it’s best to consider the physical demands and discuss concerns with the tour provider beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is previous scuba diving experience necessary for this tour?
No, previous scuba experience is not required. The shallow depth and professional guides make it suitable for beginners.

What is the minimum age for participation?
Participants must be at least 16 years old to dive. Those under 16 can still enjoy snorkeling but cannot participate in the scuba dives.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimwear and a towel. Cameras are not allowed on the boat, and bringing your own drinks or water is recommended.

Are there any restrictions for people with health issues?
Yes, the tour is not recommended for people with health problems, including claustrophobia, vertigo, epilepsy, respiratory issues, or pre-existing medical conditions.

Can I buy photos or videos of my underwater experience?
Yes, photos and DVDs are available for purchase at an additional cost. Some reviews mention negotiating the price.

What is the weather like during the tour?
Most of the experience takes place at sea, with the boat offering sun and shade. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes for walking and dress appropriately for hot weather.

How long is the walk from the coach to the harbor?
The walk can be around 20 minutes and has been described as longer than expected, especially in hot weather. Be prepared for some physical exertion.

Is the tour suitable for non-divers?
Yes, snorkeling is available for those under 16, but diving requires a minimum age of 16.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak German and English to accommodate most travelers.

How do I book and pay for the tour?
You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

This Side Underwater Museum Scuba Diving Visit combines art, marine life, and adventure at an accessible price point. Whether you’re a first-time diver or simply eager to explore the underwater sculptures, this experience delivers memorable sights and friendly guidance in a beautiful part of Turkey.

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