Kekova Boat Trip

If you’re looking to combine history, scenery, and relaxation on a single day, the Kekova Boat Trip from Demre might be just what you need. This private tour offers a flexible, intimate way to explore some of Turkey’s most captivating spots along the Lycian coast. From the famous sunken city of Kekova to the charming Sinema Village, this experience promises personalized exploration, peaceful swimming breaks, and fantastic views—all within about seven hours.

What really appeals about this trip is its customizable nature. You’re not on a crowded group tour where you’re just a face in the crowd. Instead, you travel in a private boat with your group (up to six people), allowing you to set your pace and choose what interests you most. On the downside, the price—around $412 for up to six people—might seem steep at first glance, especially considering some stops require additional entrance fees. Still, the value of having a private, flexible experience with everything included (fuel, taxes, refreshments) makes this a worthwhile option for those seeking comfort and exclusivity.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized day on the water—families, couples, or small groups looking to avoid large tour buses and crowded sights. If you’re eager to enjoy the Turkish coastline at your own pace, with plenty of time to swim and explore, this trip could be a highlight of your trip to Kas and Demre.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You can tailor the itinerary to your interests and enjoy a peaceful, personalized experience.
• Includes swimming and snorkeling: Several breaks at beautiful spots like Aquarium Bay and Gokkaya Plaji allow for refreshing dips.
• Historical and scenic highlights: Explore the Sunken City ruins, Simena Castle, and Tersane Koyu, each offering unique sights.
• Cost and value: For around $411, your group gets a private boat, local taxes, fuel, and refreshments—good value if you value exclusivity.
• Flexible schedule: The itinerary is designed to be leisurely, with plenty of time at each stop, making it ideal for unwinding.
• Limited extra costs: Most stops are free, but some, like the Sunken City ruins and Castle of Simena, require your own entrance fees.

An In-Depth Look at the Kekova Boat Trip

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at Ayla Boat Tours in Demre at 10:00 am. From there, you hop aboard a private boat that becomes your floating haven for the day. The boat is comfortable, and since it’s private, your group controls the pace and stops. This is a huge advantage—if you want more time at a particular spot or wish to skip a stop, it’s entirely up to you.

The overall duration is about seven hours, which is ample time to take in the sights without feeling rushed. The tour covers approximately eight stops, including scenic viewpoints, swimming spots, and historical ruins.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Demre Harbour – Your journey kicks off from this bustling port, a convenient starting point for travelers based in Kas or Demre. The boat departs around 10:00 am, giving you a relaxed morning to get ready.

2. Demre Tours – Day Tours – The first brief stop might involve some initial orientation, though the actual sightseeing begins shortly after.

3. Sunken City Ruins of Simena – One of the main highlights, this ancient site features submerged ruins that tell tales of seismic activity and coastal change. Expect about an hour here, where you can peer into the water to see parts of the ancient city beneath the surface. Entrance fees are not included, so you might want to bring some cash for that.

4. Tersane Koyu – A peaceful bay where you can relax and take in the scenery. It’s free to visit, and the calm waters make it perfect for a quick swim.

5. Kekova Island – This protected area is famous for its partially submerged ruins and clear waters. Spending an hour here gives you a chance to snorkel or just enjoy the coastal views. Again, entrance fees are on you, but the scenery alone makes it worth the visit.

6. Aquarium Bay – A quick 15-minute swimming break, ideal for cooling off in the Mediterranean. The water here is usually calm, with good visibility for snorkeling.

7. Castle of Simena – Overlooking the bay, this ancient fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. It’s a great photo stop, and you can spend about an hour exploring the ruins and soaking in the views.

8. Gokkaya Plaji ve Koyu – Another brief swimming stop, this time at a more secluded beach. The clear waters and peaceful surroundings make it a lovely final aquatic respite.

What You’ll Love

Traveling in a private boat means you’re not rushing from site to site, and the crew (including the captain) seem attentive and eager to serve. Reviewers appreciated the nice meals, Turkish tea, fruits, and biscuits served on board, adding a touch of local hospitality. The boat’s relaxed pace makes it a perfect way to enjoy the coastline’s natural beauty and historical sites without the stress of large group tours.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

Many reviews mention how peaceful and uncrowded the experience feels—Yann_D highlights how the trip allows you to “enjoy calm moments away from noisy groups.” The personalized approach also means that if you’re interested in spending more time at a particular site, like the castle or the sunken ruins, the crew is usually flexible.

The tour provides refreshing swimming breaks at some of the best spots, including Aquarium Bay and Gokkaya Plaji. We loved the way the crew prioritized safety and made sure everyone felt comfortable snorkeling, even for beginners. If you’re a water lover, these stops are a highlight, especially given the calm, clear waters.

Cost and Value

While $411 might seem high initially, especially when some stops require additional entrance fees, the value lies in the private, all-inclusive nature of the experience. Fuel, taxes, refreshments, and a knowledgeable crew are covered, meaning there are no surprises once onboard. For small groups or families, this can be economical, as it consolidates what could be several separate expenses into one upfront price.

Practical Considerations

• Booking and Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility, especially if your plans change.
• What’s Not Included: Drinks other than tea and coffee are extra, so bring some cash if you want beverages or snacks.
• Meeting Point: The activity starts at the specified location in Demre, and since it’s near public transportation, getting there is straightforward.
• Children and Pets: Children must be accompanied by an adult, and service animals are allowed, making it suitable for families and travelers with pets.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want to avoid large groups and enjoy a peaceful, tailored day exploring Turkey’s coastline. It suits history buffs interested in the sunken city ruins, beach lovers eager for swimming breaks, and anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic escape. The private nature makes it suitable for romantic getaways, families, or small groups of friends.

If you’re after a quick, budget-friendly bus tour, this might not be the best fit. But if exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility are your priorities, this boat trip offers a memorable way to see the Kekova area.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome as long as they’re accompanied by an adult. The relaxed schedule and swimming opportunities make it suitable for families.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point in Demre.

Are drinks included?
Tea, coffee, and afternoon tea are provided on board, but other drinks need to be purchased separately.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, from 10:00 am until you return to the starting point.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Yes, since this is a private tour, you can usually adjust the itinerary to your preferences, spending more time at favorite spots.

Are entrance fees to sites included?
No, entrance fees to sites like the Sunken City ruins and Castle of Simena are not included, so plan to carry some cash.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
Not necessarily. The water at the swimming breaks is calm and suitable for beginners, and the crew is attentive to safety and comfort.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided data doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

Final Thoughts

The Kekova Boat Trip from Demre offers an engaging, intimate way to experience Turkey’s stunning coastline and historic sites. Its private, flexible format makes it stand out from typical group tours, providing ample opportunity for relaxation and personalized exploration. The stops, especially the sunken city and the castle with panoramic views, are genuinely memorable. Swimmers will appreciate the swimming breaks in calm, inviting waters, making this trip ideal for water lovers.

While the price might be a consideration, the value of comfort, exclusivity, and tailored experience often outweighs it. It’s particularly well-suited for small groups, families, or couples seeking a peaceful day on the sea without the hustle of larger tours. If you prioritize authenticity, flexibility, and scenic beauty in your travels, this trip is likely to be a highlight of your time along Turkey’s Lycian coast.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beachcomber, or simply looking for a serene escape, the Kekova Boat Trip promises a memorable day at a pace and style that suits your vibe.