Suluada is the kind of day that makes you forget schedules. This boat trip pairs round-trip transfers from Kemer with time on Suluada Island’s Love Cave and Akseki Bay, plus a lunch on board. One thing to keep in mind: the island can get crowded with other boats, so the day can feel a bit rushed at peak times.

What I like most is the simple flow—wake up early, ride to Adrasan, then spend the middle of your day swimming in clear water. I also like that lunch and a guide are included, so you’re not constantly figuring out logistics while you’re on the water.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Kemer make this one of the easier Suluada options.
• Suluada + Love Cave time gives you both cave swimming and open-bay lounging.
• Lunch is included on the boat, so you’re not hungry between swims.
• Korsan Koyu (Pirate Cave) is a set swimming stop with clean-mediterranean water.
• Sea turtle spotting is possible—not guaranteed, but worth watching for.
• Drinks cost extra, and this is where some people feel the biggest pinch.

From Kemer to Adrasan Harbor: a smooth pickup, but expect an early start

Your day starts with pickup from your hotel’s security gate around 07:30 to 08:00, and the official start time is 8:00am. From there, you’ll drive about 2 hours to the harbor in Adrasan before boarding.

I like that this is planned and staffed with a guide, because it reduces stress. But it also means you should plan your morning carefully—this isn’t a late start “sleep in” kind of day.

Boarding time and the long drive: what that 10-hour schedule really feels like

The trip duration is listed at about 10 hours, but the day’s real rhythm is: travel, boat time, swim time, then travel back. That 2-hour drive to Adrasan is a big chunk of your “total tour” time, even though it isn’t the exciting part.

If you’re going with kids, expect the early start to be the hardest part. Pack snacks and water before pickup, especially because the only included meal is lunch on the boat and drinks are not included.

Stop on the water: Suluada Island and the Love Cave swim

Once you leave Adrasan, the first real highlight is Suluada Island. You’ll have around 2 hours here, and the focus is clear: swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the famous cave water at Love Cave.

A key detail: the Love Cave water is always cold, and there’s a local myth that connects the cold water to a girl’s teardrops. That myth is the kind of story that’s fun to hear once you’re already standing in cold water—because the cold is very real.

What to do with your time at Suluada

You’ll want a simple plan:

• Go in early if you want an easier time finding a spot to relax.
• Take advantage of the cave swim window before the crowd thickens.
• Bring swim essentials you’re comfortable with, since you’ll be in the water multiple times.

What can go wrong here

Suluada is popular, and the day includes a group boat experience. On busy days, it can feel overcrowded with multiple boats and not quite enough room to spread out. If you’re sensitive to crowds, go in with the mindset that this is a “swim and move” island, not a slow private beach.

Akseki Bay (aka Love Island) + lunch: a great break, with one catch

The next scheduled stop is Akseki Bay, also known as Love Island. You get another about 2 hours, and it centers on the small cave there and swimming in cold, clear water.

After that swim time, you return to the boat and get lunch. Lunch is included, and that’s a real value boost—because you avoid paying separately for food during your beach day.

What the lunch is likely to be like

You should think of lunch as a standard group-boat meal: practical, filling, and not fancy. One theme that came through clearly is that it can be a bit basic, and there’s no gluten-free option noted for lunch. If gluten is a concern for you, plan ahead and consider bringing something safe for you to eat.

A small reality check

This is also the part of the day when you’ll notice how many boats are in the area. Even if the water is gorgeous, the time on shore can feel short or rushed if you’re trying to do everything—swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and take photos.

The coast cruise: the Lycian Way view from the sea

Your route follows the coastline and you’ll get a chance to see the Lycian Way from the water. This is a nice change of pace because it’s not just “stop, swim, leave.” At this point you’re traveling along the coast with views of rocky shoreline and forested stretches.

There’s also a chance to spot sea turtles, since people note they swim and hunt in these waters. As with any wildlife sighting, don’t count on it—treat it as a bonus if it happens.

Korsan Koyu Pirate Cave: the best chance for a clean swimming bay

Next comes Korsan Koyu, described as a Pirate Cave stop. You’ll have around 1 hour to swim here, and this stop is built for water time in a clean-feeling bay.

This is where you’ll want to decide quickly what kind of swimming you want:

• If you just want refreshing water and a calm place to float, focus on finding a spot near the boat.
• If you’re hoping for good visibility, get in as soon as the boat stops and give yourself a couple minutes before you start moving around.

Don’t assume sandy beaches

Some people expect sand based on the Maldives-style photos. Reality check: the beaches can be more shingle/pebble than soft sand. If that matters to you, bring water shoes so your feet are happy during entry and exit.

Karaoz Hurmalik and the return to your hotel: plan your evening

After the final swimming area, you head back toward the harbor area and then meet your transfer bus going back to your hotel. The schedule lists a return transfer phase after Karaoz Hurmalık, plus a final transfer back that lands back at the hotel.

Because your day is already packed, don’t schedule something demanding right after. You’ll be tired—sun + early start + boat movement adds up.

Price and value: what $54 gets you (and what costs extra)

At $54.01 per person, this tour can feel like good value because it bundles:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• A guide
• Lunch
• Water time at multiple famous spots

Where people get frustrated is drinks. Drinks are not included, and at least one review called out how expensive drinks felt on board. So if you tend to buy sodas or water frequently, budget for it or bring what you’re allowed to carry onto the boat.

My practical money advice

• Plan on paying extra for drinks.
• Bring a phone that can handle a full day (photos + maps + messages).
• If you want a calmer experience, accept that you’re paying for a group boat itinerary—quiet and private don’t really match this format.

Group size and crowd control: how to have a better day

The tour is capped at maximum 80 travelers. That’s not tiny, and on popular bays it can create a “everyone is doing the same thing at the same time” feeling.

Here’s how I’d protect your day:

• Be early to the water within each stop when possible.
• Don’t wait for the perfect moment to swim—perfect moments get taken fast.
• Keep your expectations realistic: you’re sampling several iconic spots, not staying long enough to master each one.

English guide expectations: usually fine, but don’t assume perfect clarity

The tour is offered in English, and there is a guide. Still, the real world can be messy on busy days, and some people report that onboard communication in English wasn’t as smooth as they expected.

If you rely on spoken instructions to feel comfortable, come ready with simple questions. Also, use the “watch and follow” strategy—most stop plans are obvious once the boat arrives and people start lining up to swim.

Who this boat trip suits best

This is a smart choice if you want:

• A simple, guided day that includes transfers and lunch
• Multiple swims around Suluada and nearby bays
• A classic “Turkey coastline day” without planning boats, routes, or tickets yourself

It may not fit as well if you:

• Want quiet beaches with lots of space
• Are very sensitive to crowds and boat traffic
• Need guaranteed dietary accommodations (especially gluten-free lunch)

Should you book this Suluada Island boat trip from Kemer?

I’d book it if your top goal is swimming in Suluada’s clear water and you want easy logistics from Kemer. The lunch and transfers make it efficient, and the island stops are genuinely the kind of scenery you remember.

I wouldn’t book it if you’re expecting a private-beach feel, sandy shores, or premium service. For the best experience, show up ready for a group day, bring water shoes, and plan for extra spending on drinks.

FAQ

How long is the Suluada Island boat trip?

The tour duration is listed at about 10 hours (approximately).

What time does pickup happen in Kemer?

Pickup is between 07:30 and 08:00, with the tour start time noted as 8:00am.

Do I get hotel pickup and drop-off?

Yes. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.

Where do we leave from for the boat?

You’ll travel to the harbor in Adrasan, then start the boat portion from Adrasan port.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included.

Are drinks included with lunch?

No. Drinks are not included.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes. The tour lists English as an offered language, and there is a guide on board.

How many people are on the excursion?

This tour has a maximum size of 80 travelers.

What happens if the tour is cancelled due to weather?

If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.