Two depths, one great day on the water. This Side scuba tour runs a guided water entry at about 6 meters, then another at around 12 meters, so you get two very different looks at the underwater world. I like that the plan feels structured but still lets the guides shape the day based on conditions, with an onboard meal served between sessions.

The crew and instruction are another big win. You get experienced guidance in English, German, and Russian, and that matters a lot when you’re trying a first session or returning to the water after a break. One thing to consider: the boat ride can get bumpy, and sea sickness is a real risk for some people.

Quick hits before you go

• Two underwater sessions with a guide, plus time on deck between them
• 6m then 12m for a clear progression in depth and what you’ll see
• Lunch onboard with a captain-prepared meal during the day
• Rough-sea contingency: if the water isn’t safe where planned, an alternative is found
• English/German/Russian instruction for briefing and in-water coaching
• Extras cost more (drinks, and optional photo/video)

Why Side’s coast works for a 7-hour scuba day

Side is a practical base for an underwater outing. You’re close to the Mediterranean action, and the tour is timed so you’re not stuck on a long schedule with endless waiting. With 7 hours total, and about 5 hours underwater time (not counting transfers), you get a full day without it feeling like a marathon.

I also like how the tour is built for different comfort levels. It’s described as suitable for new and experienced divers, and the guides coach you on what to do, what to watch, and how to stay calm. That coaching style came through in reviews too, especially for people who were nervous at first.

The water world you’re hunting for is classic Mediterranean: marine life plus the possibility of underwater surprises like sunken items. The highlights also point to ancient artifacts and sunken ships, which is exactly the kind of underwater payoff that makes the day feel worth it.

Price and what you actually get for $52

At about $52 per person, this tour is positioned as good value because so much is bundled. You’re paying for two guided underwater sessions, an included lunch/onboard meal, and travel insurance. That’s the big deal: when you add those items separately, the price often jumps.

There are also some built-in “hidden costs” to know about, mainly because the tour is clear that extras cost extra. Drinks are not included, and photos/video are optional add-ons. If you skip the add-ons and bring what you need, the total stays close to the booking price.

If you’re coming from a hotel area included in pickup, you also avoid taxi math. That said, transfer time can vary by hotel and weather can shorten or extend the overall day, so plan for some flexibility.

Getting to the boat: hotel pickup and timing reality

Pickup is included if you select it, and transfer coverage includes places like Evrenseki, Gündoğdu, Ilıca, Side, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, Kızılağaç, and Kızılot. Transfers are organized from the cities of Alanya and Side too, so the day is designed around groups moving from those coastal strips.

Here’s the timing thing to take seriously: you’re told to wait at your hotel’s outer security booth. There can be a delay of up to 25 minutes. That’s not unusual with shared transfers in busy beach areas, but it’s worth building into your morning routine so you don’t start stressing.

Once you get to the meeting point, the trip timing matters because your underwater time is what you’re really paying for. The tour notes diving time excludes transfers, and it can shift depending on weather.

The onboard setup: briefing, languages, and who this fits

On this kind of tour, the first briefing sets the tone for the whole day. The operator provides instructions from experienced guides, and the languages listed are English, German, and Russian. If you don’t feel confident with technical language, it helps that you can match the briefing to your comfort level.

The guides also tailor support based on ability. Reviews mention pro, clear coaching for “try divers” and first-timers. I like that approach because panic is what ruins experiences, not effort. When someone guides you step-by-step, you can focus on breathing and buoyancy instead of guessing.

There are also clear limits on who should go. The info lists that this isn’t suitable for people with heart or respiratory issues, epilepsy, high blood pressure, kidney problems, certain fitness limits, and it even notes a weight limit (over 150 kg). If you’re prone to seasickness, take that seriously too.

First underwater session around 6 meters: what you’ll notice first

The plan starts with an underwater session at about 6 meters. That depth is often where you get comfortable with your gear, your breathing rhythm, and your sense of direction. It’s not too deep, but it’s deep enough to feel properly underwater rather than just hovering near the surface.

You can expect impressive underwater landscapes and lots of Mediterranean life. The tour highlights “hidden treasures” of the sea, plus marine variety, so your guide will likely point out what’s worth slowing down for. At this depth, you’ll also have an easier time keeping neutral buoyancy without overworking.

One practical point: if conditions are rough, the first session might shift or be replaced. A review described how extreme sea conditions stopped the planned underwater spot, and the crew found an alternative. That’s a comfort factor because it means safety decisions don’t leave you stuck.

Second underwater session around 12 meters: deeper views and calmer focus

After the deck break, you go again, this time down around 12 meters. This is where the “two sessions, two feelings” idea really shows. Deeper water usually means less light up top and a different mix of what you can spot. It also usually means you need to stay more disciplined with breathing and depth control.

The tour description points to uncovering hidden treasures at the second depth too, and it specifically mentions the chance of encountering ancient artifacts and even sunken ships. That kind of underwater storytelling is exactly what makes a deeper second stop feel different, even if you’ve never been that far down before.

If you’re hoping for big, open-water views, also keep expectations flexible. One review mentioned that the second location’s views weren’t as good as the first, even though the first underwater spot was excellent. That happens with changing sites and conditions, so the best mindset is to enjoy whatever the guide can safely access that day.

Captain’s meal, deck time, and staying comfortable

Between the two underwater sessions, you get a meal onboard and time to relax on deck. The highlights say a delicious dinner is prepared by the captain, and the tour includes lunch as part of the package—either way, the main point is you aren’t expected to go hungry between sessions.

This break matters more than it sounds. After briefing and gear prep, you want a chance to warm up, hydrate, and refocus before going down again. If you’re prone to cold (or you get chilled easily), wear something easy to pull on between water activities.

Also, keep an eye on what’s included versus what’s extra. Drinks are explicitly not included, so if you want soda, bottled water beyond what you bring, or other beverages, budget for it. One reviewer also suggested that transportation should have air conditioning, which hints that the day can feel warm on the surface.

Marine life, artifacts, and why the guides matter

The tour sells three things: marine life, underwater surprises, and guidance you can actually trust. The plan mentions variety from marine creatures to possible ancient artifacts and sunken ship sites. That combination works because it gives you more than just “pretty fish” moments.

But the real difference-maker is the coaching. Reviews repeatedly highlight friendly, helpful staff and professional instruction. One person said the teacher encouraged them to try after seasickness fear, and once underwater they felt better immediately. That’s a strong reminder: anxiety can drop once you’re properly guided through the first moments.

You’ll also want to follow the rules onboard. Smoking isn’t allowed, and the tour specifically says not to feed animals or touch plants. Those rules aren’t just for ethics; touching stuff can also be dangerous for you and harmful to fragile underwater life.

Non-scuba participants and the child option rule

This tour does not treat everyone the same way. It’s designed around scuba participants, and the info says a non-diver ticket cannot be purchased alone. If you want to join without doing the underwater sessions, the tour explains that people can select the child option, and that group will be accepted as no-scuba participants.

That’s a key detail: the activity isn’t set up for fully independent “watch only” adults. It also notes that if you choose no-scuba participation, you still need to be part of the group setup the operator accepts.

The tour is not suitable for young kids under the listed age thresholds (the text lists under 12/13/14). So if you’re thinking about a family outing, double-check the exact minimum age and what “child option” means for your booking.

What to bring, what’s not allowed, and seasickness planning

You’ll be happiest if you pack like this is a water day first, then a tour day second:

Bring: a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, camera (if you want), sunscreen, and water. If you get cold or your boat ride is long, a lightweight layer for after the sessions can help.

Not allowed: smoking, feeding animals, touching plants. Those rules are standard in many marine areas, and it keeps the water world healthy.

Now, seasickness: the info says it’s not suitable for people prone to seasickness, and a review mentioned getting very seek-sick on a small boat. If you’re even a little sensitive, consider talking to a doctor about prevention and plan for a rest day if needed. This tour can’t guarantee calm water.

Photo and video extras: spend smart (or don’t)

Photo/video is an optional extra, and all drinks and onboard media aren’t included. That means the base price gets you the gear and guidance, while memories can cost extra.

One review flagged that the photo and video charges felt high, almost close to the price of the underwater sessions. They also noted that some people got the discounts, but still found it expensive. That tells me the extras can be tempting, but you should decide early rather than letting boat-day pressure talk you into it.

If you’re budget-minded, bring your own waterproof handling plan (camera or phone in a safe case). If you don’t want the hassle, you can still choose the official service, but be ready for extra fees.

Who should book this tour, and who should skip it

This tour fits best if you want a guided underwater day with structure. You like the idea of two different depths, you want an instructor-led briefing, and you value being moved from your hotel area without figuring out a rental car.

It’s also a good match if you’re newish and nervous at first. Reviews point to clear instruction and teachers who encourage people through the first entry. That kind of calm guidance is often what separates a “nice try” from a full-on success day.

Skip it if you fall into the listed risk groups: heart or respiratory issues, epilepsy, kidney problems, high blood pressure, limited mobility, and anyone prone to seasickness should think hard. The weight limit is also clear (over 150 kg). If any of those apply, don’t guess—ask a medical professional and choose a different style of water activity.

Should you book this Side scuba tour?

Book it if you want two guided underwater sessions with a real chance to see marine life and underwater history, plus an onboard meal and included insurance. The $52 price makes sense because the day includes the guided sessions and the basics, not just a boat ride.

Don’t book it if you know you’ll struggle in rough water or you’re in a category the tour lists as not suitable. Also, if you don’t want to pay for extras like drinks and photo/video, plan that choice up front.

If you’re flexible and prepared—especially for the sea state—this is one of the easier ways to get a serious underwater day out of Side without spending a whole day organizing logistics.

FAQ

How many scuba sessions are included?

You get 2 scuba sessions with a professional guide.

What depths will I reach?

The tour lists one session around 6 meters and a second around 12 meters.

Is lunch included?

Yes. The tour includes lunch (and the day also includes a meal prepared onboard).

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup is included if you select it, and it covers areas including Evrenseki, Gündoğdu, Ilıca, Side, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, Kızılağaç, and Kızılot. Transfer times vary by hotel.

Can I join without doing the scuba sessions?

A non-scuba option is handled through selecting the child option, and that group will be accepted as no-scuba. The non-diver ticket cannot be purchased alone.

What languages are the instructors?

The instructor languages are English, German, and Russian.

What should I bring and what is not allowed?

Bring a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, camera, sunscreen, and water. Smoking is not allowed, and you can’t feed animals or touch plants.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.