Antalya-Kemer: Suluada Island Boat Trip with Lunch

History

Suluada, often called the “Turkish Maldives,” is a small, uninhabited island off Antalya’s Adrasan coast, renowned for its turquoise waters and pristine beaches. The Antalya-Kemer region has a rich maritime history, serving as a vital hub for Lycian, Greek, and Roman civilizations since the 7th century BCE. The nearby Lycian city of Olympos, just south of Adrasan, was a significant port, and the area’s rugged coastline and hidden coves were once frequented by pirates, as evidenced by local legends of stashed treasures in nearby caves. The Taurus Mountains, visible during the cruise, provided natural protection for ancient settlements, contributing to the region’s strategic importance.

Suluada itself, though lacking major archaeological sites, is part of this coastal legacy, with its crystal-clear waters and lush forests reflecting the Mediterranean’s untouched beauty. The island’s nickname stems from its resemblance to tropical paradises, a reputation boosted by modern tourism since the late 20th century. Boat tours from Adrasan have become a popular way to explore this hidden gem, offering a glimpse into the region’s natural splendor and maritime heritage, with wooden boats echoing the traditional vessels once used by local fishermen and traders.

Highlights

• Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Suluada, the “Turkish Maldives.”
• Enjoy a scenic boat trip with views of Antalya’s coastline and Taurus Mountains.
• Savor a delicious onboard lunch with vegetarian options.
• Explore stunning bays and rock formations, including Hacivat Bay’s unique rocks.
• Relax with included transportation from Antalya or Kemer (if selected).

Full Description

Set sail on a 7–8-hour boat trip to Suluada Island from Antalya or Kemer, starting with an optional pickup from your hotel’s security gate (or McDonald’s near Hadrianus Gate for Antalya Old City hotels). Be ready 10 minutes early, as drivers wait no longer than 5 minutes. A shared air-conditioned bus takes you to Adrasan port (note a 750-meter walk from the parking area to the dock), where you board a comfortable wooden boat for a scenic cruise across the Mediterranean.

Arrive at Suluada, a pristine island with sparkling turquoise waters and lush greenery. Take your first swim in the island’s main bay, where the clear ocean reveals vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling. Continue with swimming breaks at the western beach and a unique spring water beach, offering refreshing dips in secluded spots. Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch featuring Turkish cuisine, including mezes, grilled meats or fish, salads, vegetarian options, and tea, served with stunning sea views.

On the return journey, stop at Hacivat Bay, where rock formations resemble the character from a traditional Turkish shadow play. Take a final swim in this picturesque bay before sailing back to Adrasan port. A bus transfer (if selected) returns you to your hotel, concluding a day of relaxation, swimming, and breathtaking scenery in one of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal regions.

Why Choose This Experience?

The Suluada Island Boat Trip offers an affordable, all-inclusive escape to a Mediterranean paradise, blending crystal-clear waters, scenic cruising, and cultural dining. With convenient transfers, a professional guide, and ample swim time, it’s a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Ideal for families, couples, and beach lovers, the tour caters to those seeking natural beauty and a laid-back day on the water. Its low price, vegetarian-friendly lunch, and iconic “Turkish Maldives” destination make it a must-do for visitors to Antalya or Kemer.

What’s Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected, Antalya/Kemer hotels)
• Boat trip to Suluada from Adrasan port
• Onboard lunch (vegetarian options available)
• Tea
• Guide (English, Russian)
• Insurance
• Skip-the-line access

Itinerary

• Hotel Pickup or Meeting Point: Transfer from Antalya/Kemer hotels or meet at McDonald’s near Hadrianus Gate (1–2 hours).
• Adrasan Port: Board the boat after a 750-meter walk from parking (15 minutes).
• Suluada Island: Swim and snorkel in the main bay, western beach, and spring water beach (3–4 hours).
• Onboard Lunch: Turkish cuisine with vegetarian options.
• Hacivat Bay: Final swim and view unique rock formations (1 hour).
• Return to Adrasan Port: Transfer back to hotel or meeting point (1–2 hours).

Pricing

From $16 per person

Meeting Point

Meet the host/greeter with a metallic grey “Tour Fun Sun” flag at McDonald’s next to Hadrianus Gate (Antalya Old City) or at your hotel’s security gate (Antalya/Kemer). Pickup times are confirmed via WhatsApp or email the day before. For non-transfer guests, arrive at Adrasan port directly.

How to Get There

• With Transfer: Arrange pickup from Antalya/Kemer hotels or McDonald’s near Hadrianus Gate; be ready 10 minutes early (drivers wait 5 minutes max).
• Without Transfer: Arrive at Adrasan port (70 km from Antalya, 1.5–2-hour drive; use Google Maps).
• Use local buses or taxis to Adrasan if not using the provided transfer.
• Note the 750-meter walk from the Adrasan parking area to the boat dock.
• Contact the operator for precise pickup or meeting point details.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Swimwear, towel, and water shoes for swimming and snorkeling.
• Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen for sun protection.
• Camera for capturing Suluada’s turquoise waters and rock formations.
• Change of clothes for post-swim comfort.
• Beachwear for lounging on the boat or island.

Know Before You Go

• The tour duration (7–8 hours) includes transfers; the boat trip is 5–6 hours.
• A 750-meter walk is required from the Adrasan parking area to the boat dock.
• Shared transfers may involve multiple hotel pickups; vehicles have air conditioning.
• Notify the operator of dietary restrictions for lunch when booking.
• If the bus air conditioning fails, contact the operator for a replacement vehicle.

Reviews

• Very good, went for my birthday and had a lovely scenic ride to the island and back, spent some time at the beach and got some lovely photos taken by the photographer on board. I didn’t quite enjoy the lunch but the experience was absolutely amazing.
• Must do if you are in Antalya! The beauty of the island was incredible, and the whole experience was a 10 out of 10! The driver of the boat and transport was professional and reliable. I would definitely do it again!
• Really good! Amazing clear blue waters. Lunch was great, and we had ample time to enjoy and swim. It was a refreshing trip, and the guide made it even better with fun facts about Suluada!