Side-Turkey.

If you have been searching for boat diving excursions along the Turkish Riviera, you are looking at one of the most rewarding ways to experience the warm Mediterranean off Side and Antalya. These excursions take you out by boat to dedicated dive sites you simply cannot reach from shore, and they welcome complete first-timers alongside certified divers. Below is exactly what to expect, who it suits, and how the day unfolds.

What Happens on Our Boat Diving Excursions

The boat leaves the harbour and cruises roughly 20-30 minutes to anchored dive sites over rocky reefs and gentle drop-offs in clear, sheltered water. A typical day includes two separate dives with a surface interval in between, during which the crew serves a hot meal on board while you dry off in the sun.

For First-Time Divers (Try Dive)

No experience or certification is needed. A licensed instructor gives a relaxed briefing on the surface, fits your mask, fins and regulator, then guides you one-on-one to a shallow depth of around 5-6 metres. You hold the instructor's arm the whole time, breathe slowly, and watch wrasse, bream and the occasional grouper drift past the rocks. It is calm, controlled and genuinely doable for nervous beginners.

For Certified Divers

Bring your certification card and logbook. With a valid licence you dive to deeper, more interesting profiles - swim-throughs, small caverns and reef walls where the visibility regularly opens up to 20 metres and beyond. Tanks, weights and guiding are arranged on board; tell us in advance if you want full kit hire or just tanks.

When to Go and What Affects the Price

The diving season runs from late spring through to autumn, when the sea is warmest and visibility is at its best. Mornings tend to be flatter and clearer, which is why most excursions start early. As for cost, the smartest move is to book DIRECT with us rather than through a hotel desk or online travel agency - those channels add a commission that you ultimately pay. Booking direct with the local Murat Atalay team removes that markup, and we back it with a best-price guarantee. Travelling off-peak (shoulder months, mid-week) and joining as a small group also keeps the value high. We never inflate; you pay the genuine local rate.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours (full day)
• Pick-up Time: Around 08:00-08:30 from your hotel
• Drop-off Time: Around 15:30-16:30 back at your hotel
• Includes: Hotel transfer (Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts), boat trip, all diving equipment, instructor/guide, on-board lunch
• Excludes: Personal underwater photos/video, drinks, gratuities, hotel pick-up outside the service area
• Family Friendly: Yes - non-divers and watchers are welcome on board
• Recommended Age: 10+ for try dives (younger children can join the boat trip)
• Best Season: Late spring to autumn
• Difficulty Level: Easy for try dives; moderate for certified deep dives

Related Excursions

• Side excursions
• Antalya excursions
• Alanya excursions
• Kemer excursions
• Belek excursions
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel transfer included?

Yes. We collect you from your hotel in Side, Manavgat and the surrounding resorts and bring you back the same way. Just share your hotel name when you book.

Can my children join?

Absolutely. Try dives are suitable from around age 10, and younger children plus non-diving family members are welcome on board to swim, snorkel and enjoy the trip.

Do I need a diving licence?

No. First-timers do a guided try dive in shallow water with an instructor. If you are certified, bring your card and logbook to enjoy the deeper sites.

Can I pay on the day?

Yes, pay-on-the-day is available. We confirm your spot instantly when you book and settle on the day of the excursion.

Should I book in advance?

We recommend it, especially in high season. Boat places and instructor slots fill up, and booking ahead secures your date and pick-up.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety comes first. If the sea is unsafe we reschedule you to another day or arrange a full refund - no hassle.

What should I bring?

Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat and a change of clothes. All diving gear is provided on board.

Will I feel safe if I'm nervous?

Yes. Our instructors are patient and stay with you one-on-one throughout the dive. Many guests who were anxious describe it as the highlight of their holiday.

Ready to get in the water? Book your boat diving excursion DIRECT with the local Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. You get instant confirmation, a best-price guarantee with no agency commission, and friendly local support from start to finish.