Side-Turkey.

If you have never breathed underwater before, the warm, clear Mediterranean off the Turkish Riviera is one of the gentlest places in the world to start. Our first dive excursions in Turkey are built for absolute beginners: no licence, no prior experience, just you, a one-on-one instructor, and a calm bay where the seabed slopes away slowly instead of dropping into the blue. This is the same coast that draws certified divers, but the shallow, sheltered coves near Side, Manavgat and Antalya make it ideal for your very first breath beneath the surface.

What a First-Timer Actually Experiences

A try-dive (often called a "discover scuba" experience) does not throw you into deep water. After a relaxed boat ride to a sheltered cove, your instructor runs through a short briefing on land or on deck: how to breathe through the regulator, how to clear your mask, and the simple hand signals you'll use. You then practise in waist-to-chest-deep water until you feel comfortable. Only when you're ready does the instructor guide you down, holding you the whole way, to a gentle depth where sunlight still reaches the sandy bottom.

What you'll see down there

Visibility on this coast is famously good in summer, often well past twenty metres. Expect schools of bream and damselfish, the occasional curious wrasse, sea grass meadows swaying in the current, and rocky overhangs where small creatures shelter. Near Antalya and Kemer you'll also find submerged rock formations and the odd man-made reef that has been colonised by marine life. It's a living, sunlit landscape rather than a dark abyss.

When to Go and Who It Suits

The Mediterranean here is warm and inviting from late spring through to autumn, with the calmest, clearest water usually sitting in the high-summer and early-autumn months. Mornings tend to be flatter and quieter, which many first-timers prefer. These excursions suit non-swimmers and nervous beginners surprisingly well, because you are never out of the instructor's reach and the pace is entirely yours. Couples, families and solo travellers all fit comfortably on the same boat.

How to get the best value

The single biggest factor in what you pay is how you book. Agencies and online travel platforms add their own commission on top of the operator's rate. We are the local operator, so booking direct with us removes that middle layer entirely, and our best-price guarantee means you won't find the same excursion cheaper elsewhere. Travelling outside the very peak weeks, going in the quieter morning slot, and booking for a small group also help you get more for your money without any hidden numbers attached.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approx. half a day (roughly 4-5 hours including boat transfer)
• Pick-up Time: Morning, typically around 08:30-09:30
• Drop-off Time: Early to mid-afternoon
• Includes: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts, all dive gear, instructor, boat trip, lunch on board
• Excludes: Personal photos/video, drinks, gratuities
• Family Friendly: Yes
• Recommended Age: 10+ for the try-dive (younger children welcome to snorkel/watch)
• Best Season: Late spring to autumn (calmest water in high summer & early autumn)
• Difficulty Level: Easy - no experience required

Related Excursions

• Side excursions
• Antalya excursions
• Alanya excursions
• Kemer excursions
• Belek excursions
• More travel guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any diving experience or a licence?

No. A first dive excursion is designed for complete beginners. A qualified instructor stays with you the entire time and teaches you everything you need on the day.

Is hotel transfer included?

Yes. We arrange pick-up and drop-off from hotels in Side, Manavgat and the surrounding resorts as part of the excursion.

Can children take part?

Children from around age 10 can usually do the guided try-dive, depending on the operator's safety rules. Younger ones are welcome to come along, snorkel and watch from the boat.

What if I can't swim well?

That's fine for a try-dive. You stay shallow and the instructor supports you throughout, so nervous or weak swimmers regularly enjoy it.

Can I pay on the day?

Yes, pay-on-the-day is available on most excursions. We confirm your spot in advance and you settle directly with our team.

Should I book in advance?

Booking ahead is wise, especially in summer when boats fill quickly. It guarantees your place and lets us plan your transfer.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If conditions are unsafe, we reschedule you to another day or arrange a full refund. Your safety and comfort come first.

What should I bring?

Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and a sense of adventure. All diving equipment is provided.

Ready to take your first breath underwater? Book direct with the local Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. As the operator on the ground, we offer instant confirmation, a best-price guarantee and friendly support in your language - no agency, no middleman, just a great first dive.