Kemer: Scuba Diving Experience in Aquarium and Kiris Bays

REVIEW · KEMER

Kemer: Scuba Diving Experience in Aquarium and Kiris Bays

  • 3.94 reviews
  • 7 hours
  • From $29
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Operated by Yükay Turizm · Bookable on GetYourGuide

Traveller rating★ 3.9 (4)Duration7 hoursPrice from$29Operated byYükay TurizmBook viaGetYourGuide

Two bays, one memorable day underwater. From Kemer, you’ll take part in two scuba sessions led by a professional team, spending time between Aquarium Bay and Kiris Bay, then easing back on the boat with sun and sea time. It’s a simple, beginner-friendly way to see what the Mediterranean looks like up close without needing to be an expert.

What I like most is the hands-on setup before you go underwater. You get guidance on equipment and safety procedures, plus boat routines, so you can feel steady from the start. Another big win is the chance to feed fish from your hands, which turns an ordinary swim into something you’ll remember.

One thing to think about: cameras are listed as not allowed. That means you’ll likely rely on a photographer option (and any photos you choose to buy later) rather than shooting your own footage.

Key points to know before you book

  • Two underwater depth stages around 5 meters and 10–15 meters, with short time underwater
  • Beginner-friendly guidance with training on gear use, safety rules, and boat routines
  • Fish feeding from your hands as part of the experience in the bays
  • Boat time built in: sunbathing plus snorkeling and swimming between underwater moments
  • Lunch and equipment included, so you only need your beach basics
  • Instruction in multiple languages (Turkish, German, Russian, English)

Kemer’s Aquarium and Kiris Bays: why these waters are the point

Kemer: Scuba Diving Experience in Aquarium and Kiris Bays - Kemer’s Aquarium and Kiris Bays: why these waters are the point
Kemer sits along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, and the whole appeal of this tour is getting you to bays where the water is calm enough for a first proper underwater experience. Aquarium Bay and Kiris Bay are the focus, and that matters because bay conditions usually make it easier to enjoy the scenery instead of fighting rough water.

You’re also not just going for depth or speed. This is about seeing the underwater life where it’s active and close enough to make fish-feeding realistic. When the tour includes a hands-on moment like feeding fish from your hands, it usually means the guides are choosing spots with the right behavior and visibility—so you’re not staring into darkness hoping something swims by.

The vibe is also practical. You’ll spend real time on the boat, then get guided underwater in two shorter stages. That rhythm is often better for first-timers than long, drawn-out sessions.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kemer.

The 7-hour flow: what your day usually feels like

Even without a detailed timetable on paper, the structure is clear and the pacing makes sense.

You start at Kemer marina (and in this option, roundtrip transfer is not included). Once you’re welcomed, the day shifts into prep mode: you’ll go over how the gear works, how safety procedures run, and what to expect on the boat. This briefing is not just theory. It’s meant to help you get your bearings fast before you’re asked to cooperate underwater.

Then you head out to the first bay area for your first underwater stage, followed by a second stage at a deeper spot. After that, you’re not sent home immediately. You get time to relax on the boat and enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the sea.

For many people, that boat time is the hidden value. You don’t have to be at your best underwater for the entire day. You can enjoy the sun, float, and switch between snorkeling and rest.

The two scuba sessions: 5 meters first, then 10–15 meters

This is set up as two separate underwater moments so you can build comfort.

First underwater stage: around 5 meters

Expect a shorter, controlled experience designed to teach you how to manage breathing, buoyancy, and movement while staying calm. The tour lists two scuba sessions totaling about 20–25 minutes underwater per stage, so you get enough time to see fish and scenery without feeling like the session is dragging.

This is also a good stage to ask questions. If something feels confusing—like how to handle your equipment or where to look—you’ll usually have a better chance of fixing it before the deeper part.

Second underwater stage: around 10–15 meters

The second stage goes deeper—10–15 meters. That generally means you’ll feel the difference right away: light changes, water can feel a touch cooler, and you’ll need to stay mindful about breathing and buoyancy.

Some people are offered extra opportunities beyond the basic plan. One review mentions the chance to go down to -15 meters near the Poseidon statue for an additional 50 EUR, but only for those with the right qualification (they mention having a certificate). If that sort of upgrade matters to you, ask at the start of the day whether it’s possible for your group and what conditions apply.

A note on expectations: the plan does not require a scuba license, and the guides are experienced and professional. You still need to follow instructions closely, especially during the deeper stage.

Fish feeding in Aquarium Bay: the moment that makes it feel special

The standout highlight is the fish-feeding part. You can feed fish directly from your hands. That single activity changes the feel of the trip from sightseeing to interaction.

Here’s why it works:

  • You’re in a bay environment where fish are close enough to engage with you.
  • The guides choose spots where the underwater life is visible and active.
  • You get a clear moment of action, not just pass-by viewing.

Also, cameras are listed as not allowed, and there’s a separate note that feeding animals isn’t allowed. The safest way to interpret that is: feeding happens only under guide instruction, using the provided setup. If you want this moment, follow the guide’s cues exactly and don’t improvise with extra food.

Snorkeling, swimming, and boat relaxation: the Mediterranean break you’ll appreciate

Between underwater stages, you get boat downtime. That matters because scuba days can feel intense if every hour is scheduled around equipment and water entry/exit.

On this tour, you’ll have time to:

  • relax and sunbathe on the boat
  • snorkel in the sea
  • swim when conditions allow

This also helps you adjust your pace. If the underwater portion feels like your limit, snorkeling and swimming can still let you enjoy the scenery without the same level of equipment involvement.

And yes, you’re also in a coastal region where the light and water color look great from the surface. You’ll benefit from sunscreen and a hat here, since the day runs about 7 hours total.

Lunch, comfort, and the “small stuff” that changes your day

The tour includes lunch, and at least one review specifically mentions a warm, filling meal. That’s not a minor point. After time in the sun and then underwater, hunger shows up fast. Having lunch included removes one more thing from your mental load.

What to bring (from the tour guidance):

  • hat
  • swimwear
  • towel
  • sunscreen

If you’re thinking about comfort, also consider your mask and fit. One review notes that swim goggles weren’t a perfect fit for everyone. That’s not unusual on shared equipment days. If you’re even a little picky about how things seal around your face, try to pay close attention during the gear check so you can get the best possible seal.

Photos: what to expect if you want images

The listing says photos and videos are not included, and cameras are not allowed. That sounds strict, but one review mentions a photographer who took nice pictures. The practical takeaway: you may be photographed during the day, but you should assume you’ll need to pay if you want the images.

So if having your own camera matters to you, reconsider. The day is designed to be phone-and-camera-free underwater. You can still enjoy the moment directly, but you won’t be capturing your own shots.

Instructor-led safety: why this matters more than people expect

Kemer: Scuba Diving Experience in Aquarium and Kiris Bays - Instructor-led safety: why this matters more than people expect
Scuba equipment is only half the job. The bigger deal is how smoothly the day runs: when you get in and out of the water, how you keep track of your gear, and what you do if you feel off.

This tour includes a briefing on:

  • how to use the equipment
  • safety procedures
  • boat routines

The language support is a plus too: Turkish, German, Russian, English. If you don’t speak those languages, you still have a good chance you’ll understand basic instructions, especially if your instructor team is used to mixed-language groups.

Reviews also highlight competent instructors and that the staff speaks English well. That combination—clear leadership plus language—helps you avoid the common first-timer problem: confusion that turns nerves into mistakes.

Value and price: is $29 really fair for what you get?

At $29 per person, this is priced like a very budget-friendly coastal activity. The value comes from the bundle:

  • 2 underwater sessions (with pro instructor guidance)
  • diving equipment included
  • lunch included
  • time on the boat with snorkeling and swimming

Even if you remove the “wow” factor of fish feeding, you’re still getting instruction, gear, and a structured day that’s hard to replicate on your own without local logistics.

The main “hidden costs” to consider are the ones not included:

  • drinks
  • photos/videos (if you want them)

Also, if transfer matters to you, note that roundtrip transfer is optional, and for this specific option it’s not included. You’ll be welcomed at Kemer marina instead.

If you’re someone who wants a short, guided underwater experience without paying premium resort prices, this is one of the more reasonable ways to do it.

Who should book this, and who should skip it

Great fit for you if…

  • you want to try scuba for the first time (or close to it)
  • you like structured guidance and clear instructions
  • fish and hands-on interactions are your kind of highlight
  • you want a full day on the water, not just a quick outing

A big plus: even people who cannot swim can join. That’s rare in many water activities. Still, you’ll be under instructor control, and you should follow directions closely.

Not a great fit if…

  • you have heart problems

The tour specifically says it’s not suitable for people with heart problems. If that applies to you, skip it and choose something safer.

Should you book the Kemer Aquarium and Kiris Bays scuba tour?

If your goal is a guided, beginner-friendly way to see real underwater life in two different depth levels, I’d say yes—especially at this price. The combo of instructor-led safety, fish feeding from your hands, and a day that still includes snorkeling and boat relaxation makes it feel like more than just a checkbox activity.

Book it if you’re comfortable with the camera rules and you’re okay relying on a photographer option (plus any photos you purchase). If you absolutely need to film or shoot underwater yourself, you’ll probably be disappointed.

And if you want extra depth like the Poseidon statue option, ask early. That kind of add-on seems possible for qualified participants, but it’s not the core plan—so don’t count on it unless the team confirms it.

FAQ

How many underwater sessions are included?

You get 2 scuba sessions.

How deep are the two scuba sessions?

The first is about 5 meters deep, and the second is about 10–15 meters deep.

Do I need a scuba license?

No scuba license is required.

Is roundtrip transfer included in this option?

No. In this option, round-trip transfer is not included, and you’ll be welcomed at Kemer marina.

Can I join if I can’t swim?

Yes. Even people who cannot swim can join this tour.

What should I bring, and are cameras allowed?

Bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Cameras are not allowed, including professional and waterproof cameras.

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