City of Side: Scuba Diving Underwater Museum with Pickup

Exploring the waters around Side, Turkey, through a scuba diving experience that includes visiting Europe’s largest underwater museum offers a chance to see a totally different side of this historic region. This tour, provided by Payless Turizm, combines the excitement of diving with the comfort of hotel pickup and a well-organized itinerary designed for both beginners and seasoned divers.

What I find particularly appealing about this experience are the professional guides, like Selman, who are praised for their clear instructions and friendly approach, and the stunning underwater scenery that includes reefs, wrecks, and the museum itself. The fact that all equipment and safety instructions are included makes it accessible for first-timers, which is a huge plus for those hesitant about their first underwater adventure.

A potential consideration is the age restriction — diving is not permitted for children under 15, so families with younger kids will need to look elsewhere. Also, the transportation might seem a bit basic, with some reviews mentioning older buses, but most agree that the crew’s professionalism and the overall experience outweigh any minor inconveniences. The tour’s length, around 8 hours, offers a full day of memorable activity, including a hearty lunch, which helps make the price quite reasonable given the scope of what’s included.

Key points / Takeaways

• All-inclusive convenience: Hotel pickup, diving gear, training, insurance, and lunch included make this a hassle-free way to explore underwater Side.
• Suitable for beginners: The presence of professional instructors and detailed safety briefings means even first-time divers can feel confident.
• Underwater museum: The highlight is Europe’s largest underwater museum, offering a unique glimpse into submerged sculptures and wrecks.
• Two dives of 20 minutes each: You’ll get two separate underwater excursions, with spots selected by instructors on the day, ensuring fresh sights.
• Experienced guides: Guides like Selman and Monika are praised for their patience and friendliness, helping nervous divers overcome fears.
• Photos and videos: The team captures your underwater moments, which can be bought afterward as souvenirs — a great memory boost.

Exploring Side’s Underwater Museum: A Detailed Look

A Well-Organized, Comfortable Start

From the moment you book this tour, the logistics are designed for smooth sailing. A comfortable vehicle picks you up at your hotel during the morning, easing the typical stress of transportation in a busy tourist area. The driver will wait a few minutes after the scheduled pickup time, so plan to be ready a bit early to avoid missing out. Once at the port, you meet your certified instructors who will guide you through the entire process.

Clear and Friendly Instruction

The briefing is thorough and reassuring, especially if you’re new to diving. The instructors explain safety protocols, underwater sign language, and equipment use — essential info that makes you feel prepared. The professionalism shines through when they show you how to breathe with oxygen tubes and communicate with hand signals. Many reviews, including Lysandra’s, mention how much they appreciated the instructors’ patience and ability to keep everyone calm and relaxed, even during their first experience.

The Underwater Environment: A Surprising Gem

The two dives last about 20 minutes each, with the spots selected based on conditions that day. What makes this experience stand out is the clarity of the waters and the diversity of sights. You can expect to see reefs, wrecks, and the famous underwater museum filled with sculptures, which is a major draw for this tour.

Lysandra notes that the views are stunning and swimming in the blue waters in the area is “incredible.” The second dive, at a different spot, offers a great variety of marine life, including fishes and reefs, which keeps the experience fresh and engaging for every diver, beginner or experienced.

The Lunch Break: Rest and Recharge

After the first dive, everyone gathers on the boat for a light, tasty lunch that includes sautéed chicken, pasta, and salad. This break is a perfect opportunity to relax, chat, and soak in the scenery. The boat’s spaciousness makes it easy to unwind before heading out for the second dive, which many find equally mesmerizing.

Second Dive and Underwater Photography

The second session takes you to another spot, where the variety of underwater features continues to impress. Many reviewers, like Julija, mention how helpful and knowledgeable their guides like Selman were, especially in explaining underwater signals and making everyone feel at ease.

During the dives, photos and videos are taken by the crew, capturing your underwater moments. Lysandra recommends bringing cash (roughly 60-80 EUR) if you want to buy these pictures, which are a lovely keepsake of your adventure.

Wrapping Up and Returning to Your Hotel

Once the second dive concludes, you’ll return to the port, completing your approximately 8-hour day. The team’s professionalism ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish. The tour ends with a drop-off back at your hotel, saving you from navigating busy streets or taxis.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore the underwater world without needing prior experience. The presence of friendly, knowledgeable guides makes it accessible for first-timers who might be nervous about diving. Families with teenagers (15+) will also find it suitable, provided everyone is comfortable in the water.

It’s a particularly good choice for those interested in marine environments and underwater history, as the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into artistic and scientific underwater displays. The tour’s inclusive approach, covering gear, insurance, and safety, makes it a valuable option for travelers seeking convenience and quality.

Who Might Not Love It?

If you have sinus issues or fear of water, be aware that the briefing emphasizes safety and comfort, but diving always carries some inherent risks. Also, those with pregnancy are advised to skip diving, and children under 15 aren’t allowed to participate. The older bus transportation may bother some who prefer more modern vehicles but most agree the overall experience outweighs this minor issue.

Price and Logistics: A Good Deal for Quality

Considering hotel pickup, professional instruction, two dives, equipment, insurance, and lunch, this tour offers solid value. It’s a full-day activity that combines education, adventure, and cultural interest. The flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your stay in Side, this scuba diving tour offers a chance to see a spectacular underwater environment safely and comfortably. The guides’ friendliness, combined with the beautiful sights and well-organized schedule, makes it a worthwhile choice for anyone curious about the sea or eager to try something new.

The fact that it’s suitable for beginners and includes all necessary equipment, safety briefings, and a delicious lunch makes it a practical option for travelers who want both adventure and convenience. The chance to visit Europe’s largest underwater museum adds a unique twist that will appeal to those interested in both nature and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior experience to join this tour?
No, this tour is suitable for beginners, thanks to the detailed safety briefings and the guidance of professional instructors. Even first-timers have raved about how smoothly everything went.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, a comfortable vehicle will pick you up from your hotel during the morning and drop you back afterwards, making logistics hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 8 hours, including transfers, instruction, two dives, lunch, and photos.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and cash (around 60-80 EUR) if you want to buy photos and videos.

Are children allowed to participate?
Diving isn’t permitted for children under 15 years old, so plan accordingly if traveling with family.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is offered in English and Russian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

Is the price worth it?
Given the included equipment, instruction, insurance, lunch, and the unique experience of visiting Europe’s largest underwater museum, many travelers find the price quite reasonable.

This Side scuba tour offers a blend of adventure, education, and comfort that suits curious travelers eager to explore Turkey’s vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced diver, the friendly guides, stunning sights, and smooth organization make this a memorable addition to your trip.