Suluada Boat Tour Review: Is Antalya’s Maldives Really Worth It?

Okay, so you’ve probably seen those amazing photos, right? Pristine white sands, that unreal turquoise water… it’s almost like someone photoshopped the Maldives right into the Turkish Riviera. Well, that’s Suluada for you. But the big question remains: is a boat trip to this so-called “Maldives of Turkey,” particularly the one with lunch included, truly worth your time and your cash? I think, let’s explore just that, okay? This in-depth review gives you the inside scoop, some of the real deal info you’re looking for.

What’s So Special About Suluada Anyway?

You see, Suluada gets its nickname from the unbelievable, incredibly white sands and that unbelievably clear water. Apparently, the geological stuff happening there with the limestone deposits creates that color, which makes the sea shimmer in different shades of blue, just, like, the real Maldives, but hey, in Turkey! Many will say it is the place you’ll definitely want those vacation snapshots for.

Plus, there are little coves and beaches around the island that you can explore. You know, some of the boat tours make stops at several of these spots, that means you get a good chance to swim and soak up some Mediterranean sun.

Booking Your Suluada Boat Trip: Choices, Choices, Choices

Okay, so how do you actually *get* to this paradise? Many will say that, boat tours are your best bet. And in Antalya, there’s, very, not an absence of operators, offering trips daily. You see, that means shopping is important! A good place to start looking is the internet of course but be aware, it really can be sensory overload with choices.

Now, with all these packages floating around, how can you narrow your choices down? To start, here are several things that will make your decision making process so much easier.

• Duration: So, some trips might be six hours, and others might stretch closer to nine. Really, this matters a lot, you know, on whether you prefer to be slow and relaxed or you’re trying to pack as much as you possibly can in your day!
• Inclusions: Most trips will include lunch. This can range anywhere from a simple grilled chicken or fish meal to a pretty extravagant buffet. See what’s available.
• Number of Stops: Usually, the boat makes 3-4 stops at different beaches around Suluada. Some operators will offer you the option to take breaks elsewhere as well, just like hidden bays nearby.
• Extras: Keep an eye out, or ear even, for other perks like on-board entertainment (music, dancing), snorkeling gear that you can use, or maybe even drinks being offered.

On Board: What to Expect

So, when the day comes you want to spend your life like Poseidon, what do you expect when getting on a tour vessel for hours at a time? You may want to grab that towel and sunscreen before leaving home.

• The sun: When you’re at sea for hours the Mediterranean rays do their best, so, make sure to slather on some strong sunscreen!
• A good book: if you are trying to get away from people and noise and all.
• Get there early: if you arrive early enough to score a decent spot on the boat.

Lunch on Board: Fueling Up for More Fun

So, regarding lunch. It is often the highlight, maybe just because swimming can build up your appetite like nobody’s business. You see, most of the tours will include some version of a traditional Turkish meal.

• What’s Usually on Offer: Usually, think grilled fish or chicken (or both). A delicious side like rice or pasta, and a simple salad with local greens.
• Drinks: Now, the drinks can be a bit of a mixed bag. So, some tours include unlimited soft drinks and water, but other times you’ll need to buy them separately. I think to check on this before hand so you aren’t unpleasantly surprised later on!
• Dietary Needs: So, if you have any allergies or preferences in what you can or want to consume, it is advisable to communicate those early to your tour operator. You may or may not get accommodating assistance so lower expectations may be necessary.

The Beaches of Suluada: A Little Slice of Paradise

Here are some insights you will only appreciate by arriving here personally, but for the sake of providing information about Suluada, keep these in mind.

• The sand is mostly, but not all pristine: The unique mineral content of the water, so, may stain that new swim suit you just acquired!
• Not a ton of sea life variety: Some crabs but generally nothing major to explore while diving underwater here. The lack of coral is quite apparent if you were thinking about coral viewing.
• Some spots are really best for photos more than they are for full body submerging: You will want those vacation snapshots from here regardless!

Is the Suluada Boat Trip Really Worth The Hype?

So, here is the truth. Is the “Maldives of Turkey” description a tiny bit of an exaggeration? You know, perhaps. However, Suluada is stunning. Truly. In fact, the water color is something else, something that will be embedded in your long term memories. And those white sands? They’re pretty dazzling, maybe just a little less expansive and with far fewer cocktail waiters than you’d get in the Indian Ocean.

The boat trip is an amazing experience in itself, which is really great music, plenty of sun, the opportunity to see the Taurus Mountains from the water. To spend most of a day seeing these scenic wonders? Absolutely amazing. You should book it today.