A boat day in Side can feel like a movie.

This scuba tour mixes two guided underwater sessions with a simple rhythm: meet up, get kitted, go down together at set depths, then relax on the deck while the crew sets things up again. I like that it’s built for different experience levels, and the guides run the briefing in English, German, or Russian. One thing to keep in mind is that the extra costs (drinks and photo/video) can add up fast if you want souvenirs.

The best parts are the staff and the way the day adapts.

The crew comes across as professional and clear, especially when conditions are rough or if someone is nervous about getting in. The other big win for me is the depth plan: one session around 6 meters and another around 12 meters, which usually gives you a nice range of what you can see without turning the day into a hard-core training camp.

There is one possible downside: the boat and timing depend on sea conditions.

If the water is choppy, you may not do the original planned spot, and the schedule can stretch or tighten. Also, transport comfort can be hit-or-miss, so if you are sensitive to heat on the transfer, plan accordingly.

Key points to know before you go

• Two planned underwater descents: one at about 6 meters, one at about 12 meters
• Pro briefing for multiple skill levels, with instruction in English, German, and Russian
• Food on the day: lunch included, plus a meal prepared by the captain between the two underwater sessions
• Weather-driven flexibility: the tour length and location can change if conditions require it
• Budget for extras: drinks and photo/video are extra, and can cost a lot

Side to the Sea: what this 7-hour tour feels like

This is a straightforward day trip out of Side (with pickups also covering parts of Alanya). The total time is about 7 hours, but only part of that is actual water time. The schedule is built around transfers first, then two guided underwater sessions, and finally downtime on the boat while the crew resets for round two.

Expect a typical “boat routine” day: you’ll wait for pickup at your hotel’s outer security booth, show your ticket when the driver/guide arrives, and get moved to the port area. Transfer time varies by where you’re staying, and there can be a delay of up to 25 minutes. Once you’re on the boat, there’s usually a clear briefing before you go down the first time, then you resurface and rest between sessions.

I like that the tour isn’t just about getting a checkmark underwater. It’s set up like a real guided experience: instructions come from experienced staff, and the crew stays active around you while you’re on the boat.

Two underwater sessions at 6m and 12m: what you’re paying for

The highlight of this tour is the structure: two separate underwater descents guided by a professional instructor/guide.

The 6-meter session

At around 6 meters, you typically get the “first impressions” underwater experience. In practical terms, it tends to feel calmer, easier for many people who are new, and it’s usually where you notice marine life and bottom features quickly. The goal here is to help you get comfortable with breathing, buoyancy, and staying relaxed while you follow the guide’s plan.

The 12-meter session

The second session goes to about 12 meters. This is where the day can feel more interesting if you’re already comfortable. You may notice different underwater conditions and more variation in the seabed, and it’s also the depth level mentioned for uncovering more of what the Mediterranean has to offer.

What I like is that the tour doesn’t pretend everyone wants the same thing. The two depths give you a built-in progression: start manageable, then go deeper if you’re up for it and the day allows it.

The boat schedule: between the water and the next descent

You’ll spend a chunk of the day on the boat. That matters because it affects comfort, especially if seas are rough.

Between the two underwater sessions, the plan includes time to relax on deck and eat. The tour info specifically mentions a delicious meal prepared by the captain between sessions, and lunch is listed as included. Realistically, that means you’re fed during the day, not just once. Bring what you need to stay sun-safe, because even on a cloudy Mediterranean day, the deck can cook you.

If conditions get rough

A key real-world detail: sea conditions can change the plan. The tour can shorten or extend depending on weather, and the day can use alternatives if the original site isn’t safe. I consider this a positive sign. It means the crew is watching conditions rather than forcing it.

Value and price: is $52 a good deal here?

At $52 per person, this tour can be good value because you’re getting:

• Two guided underwater sessions
• Hotel transfer and drop-off if you selected it
• Lunch
• Travel insurance

That’s a lot bundled into one day, especially when you compare it to many “single session” options.

The catch is the add-on costs. Drinks are not included, and photo/video services are an optional extra. One recent review pointed out that photo/video pricing can be pricey compared with the rest of the tour, with the total bringing the cost close to what you paid for the actual underwater part. If you want photos, consider budgeting for it up front so it doesn’t feel like a surprise.

Also, bring water and sunscreen. That’s free for you, but not for your wallet onboard.

Staff and coaching: clarity, safety, and confidence

This is one of those tours where the crew quality matters as much as the scenery. The supplied notes highlight friendly, helpful staff and professional instruction.

Two themes show up clearly:

• The briefing and coaching are practical and clear, especially for people who are unsure.
• If someone is nervous, the instructor and crew will encourage and help you move forward step by step.

That matters on a day where small discomfort can snowball. One review described getting seasick on a small boat, being afraid they wouldn’t be able to do it, and then being encouraged to try. Once underwater, they felt better right away. So if you’re prone to motion sickness, you should take that seriously and plan accordingly—but also know that the crew can support first-timers in the moment.

Language support

Instruction is available in English, German, and Russian. If one of those works for you, you’ll probably feel more confident during the briefing.

Transfers from Side and Alanya: how to reduce stress

Pickups cover a lot of areas. From Side, Evrenseki, Gündoğdu, Ilıca, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, Kızılağaç, and Kızılot are listed transfer zones. Transfers are included from those areas if you selected pickup.

Two practical points:

• You’ll likely be asked to wait at the outer security booth of your hotel.
• Transfer delays up to 25 minutes can happen, so don’t plan a tight schedule right before pickup.

Also note that the tour operates from both Side and Alanya. People coming from those areas can go on separate boats and to different locations. That’s normal for logistics, but it means you should follow the instructor’s instructions for the plan your group is given that day.

When a no-diver option actually makes sense

This tour has an interesting rule set around people who don’t want to do the underwater sessions.

• A non-diver ticket cannot be purchased alone.
• Guests with a non-diver ticket can pay onboard if they want to participate.
• A “no diving” group is accepted when selected via the child option.

There is also a restriction that if you are unable to do the underwater activity, you cannot participate as a no-diver option. So the safest assumption is: if your goal is to simply watch, you need to confirm what’s allowed for your exact situation before you go.

If you’re traveling with kids, read the age limits carefully. The info lists multiple lower-age restrictions (under 12, under 13, and under 14), so treat it as not suitable for younger children. When in doubt, ask the provider what age they will accept.

Who should book this, and who should skip it

This isn’t a casual “anyone can do it” tour. The tour info lists clear unsuitability groups:

• Pregnant women
• People with heart problems
• People with respiratory issues
• People with epilepsy
• People with kidney problems
• People with high blood pressure
• People with low fitness levels
• People prone to seasickness
• Non-swimmers
• Wheelchair users and people with limited mobility
• People over 150 kg (331 lbs)

There are also notes about diabetes and lactose intolerance. If any of these apply, this is one of those times to choose a different style of experience (like a boat cruise with shore time) where you can relax without pressure-based safety constraints.

On the upside, the tour is described as catering to beginners and experienced people, with professional guidance to help you handle the first steps underwater.

Marine life and wreck/artefact talk: setting expectations

The tour description mentions encountering a variety of marine life, from ancient artifacts to sunken ships, with lively coral reefs.

You should keep your expectations grounded, though. What you see depends on the day, the chosen underwater spot, and visibility. The tour info also says the tour can change location based on weather. So think of this as a guided opportunity to explore Side’s underwater world with a plan that can adjust, not a guarantee of a specific wreck view every time.

The good news: your second session at about 12 meters plus a first session around 6 meters usually gives you a wider range of what the local underwater environment offers.

Extras you’ll want to budget: drinks and photo/video

Plan on extra onboard spending for:

• Drinks
• Photo and video service (optional)

One review from Turkey specifically called out photo/video pricing as expensive for local tourists and said it felt close to paying another dive cost. Even if you don’t buy them, you’ll likely have to decide quickly once onboard options are shown.

If you want your own pictures, bring a camera as suggested. Also bring sunscreen and a towel so you’re comfortable between sessions and after you get back on deck.

What to bring, and what not to do

Bring:

• Hat
• Swimwear
• Change of clothes
• Towel
• Camera
• Sunscreen
• Water

Not allowed:

• Smoking
• Feeding animals
• Touching plants

That last line matters. It’s a quick reminder that you’re a visitor underwater. Keep your distance and let the seabed stay as you found it.

Should you book this Side two-session scuba tour?

I’d book this if you want a guided, structured day with two underwater sessions and you’re comfortable following safety instructions. The $52 price can feel fair because you’re buying two guided experiences plus lunch and transfer coverage.

I would hesitate if:

• You’re very prone to seasickness (and the boat ride is part of the day)
• You’re looking for a guaranteed no-participation observer experience
• You want drinks and photos included in the price (they’re extra)
• You fall into any health or mobility restriction categories listed by the tour

If you’re within the allowed health range and you handle boats okay, this is a solid pick from Side for a day that’s more than just going down once and rushing back.

FAQ

How many underwater sessions are included?

The tour includes 2 scuba underwater sessions, each guided by a professional.

What depths do the sessions go to?

One session is planned around 6 meters, and the second session is planned around 12 meters.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included as part of the tour.

Are hotel transfers included?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you select pickup. Transfer areas listed include multiple spots around Side, plus areas around Alanya.

What languages are the instructors available in?

Instruction is available in English, German, and Russian.

Can I join as a no-diver?

A no-diver ticket cannot be purchased alone, and no-diver participation is limited. A no-diving group can be selected through the child option. If you cannot do the underwater activity, the information says you cannot participate as a no-diver option.

What should I bring for the day?

Bring a hat, swimwear, change of clothes, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water.

What is not included in the price?

Drinks and photo/video services are not included. Personal expenses are also not included.

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