Kemer Pirate Boat Trip

If you’re seeking a fun, relaxed way to explore Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coastline, the Kemer Pirate Boat Trip offers a lively and scenic experience. With a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and a touch of history, this seven-hour cruise promises a good balance of adventure and comfort. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel to the final drop-off, the tour is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable.

One of the things we really appreciate about this trip is the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, which takes the hassle out of logistics. Plus, the stops at several picturesque bays and beaches—especially Cleopatra Beach and Caretta Bay—are truly Instagram-worthy moments. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that some parts, like visiting the ancient ruins of Phaselis, are optional and at your own expense, so it might not satisfy history buffs hoping for a full archaeological tour.

This experience suits travelers who love a laid-back day on the water, enjoying swimming and scenic views, but who are also open to a bit of exploring. It’s perfect for those looking for good value, a social atmosphere, and a flexible itinerary that lets you choose whether to venture into the nearby ruins.

Key Points

• Full-Day Adventure: Approximately 7 hours of fun exploring the Turkish coast with swimming and sightseeing.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Lunch and hotel transfers are included, making it an easy, no-stress outing.
• Flexible Sightseeing: Visit multiple scenic spots, with options to explore nearby ruins at your own expense.
• Lively Atmosphere: Expect a friendly, social vibe with other travelers, often in groups of up to 55.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy authentic Turkish hospitality with a chance to relax, swim, and take in stunning views.
• Some Limitations: The visit to Phaselis isn’t guaranteed in duration, and entrance fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly.

What to Expect on the Kemer Pirate Boat Trip

This tour begins with a hotel pickup between 09:30-09:45 AM, easing your day by transporting you directly to Kemer Marina, the starting point of the cruise. Once onboard, you’ll soon be heading out into the calm waters of the Mediterranean, ready for a full day of adventure, relaxation, and picturesque scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Cennet Koyu (Paradise Bay)
The first stop is at Cennet Koyu, or Paradise Bay, near Tekirova. Here, you’re invited to swim and unwind amidst stunning surroundings. The reviews highlight this as a standout spot—“Swimming and relaxing here is a highlight,” one guest noted—thanks to its tranquil waters and natural beauty. The included admission tickets mean you can enjoy this without extra costs, making it a real value.

Stop 2: Phaselis Koyu (Ancient City & Bay)
Next, the boat pulls up near Phaselis, an ancient Greek and Roman city. The on-board lunch is served here, which is quite convenient—imagine enjoying a meal while overlooking the coast. You have the option to visit the ruins, but bear in mind that entrance fees aren’t included and the time spent at Phaselis isn’t guaranteed. Some reviews mention that the visit to Phaselis is “at your own discretion,” and the duration is not fixed, which can be a plus or a minus depending on your interests.

Stop 3: Tekirova – Mehmet Ali Bükü
The next stop is at Mehmetali Cove near Tekirova. This is a quieter, less crowded spot where you can relax or take a quick swim. It’s free to stop here, and many travelers appreciate the chance to enjoy some peaceful waters away from the busier bays.

Stop 4: Çamyuva – Alacasu
A short visit to Alacasu, also called Paradise Bay, follows. This stretch is praised for its natural beauty and serenity. Reviewers mention that this is a lovely, less commercialized spot to soak up the sun and cool off.

Stop 5: Korsan Koyu (Pirate Bay)
The last stop is at Pirate Bay, which offers a fun, slightly whimsical vibe. Its name alone suggests a playful scene—pirate-themed photos and a lively atmosphere. Admission is included here, and the 30-minute stop gives you a quick chance to snap photos and enjoy the view before heading back.

The Return

By approximately 4:30 PM, the boat heads back to Kemer Marina. From there, your transfer takes you back to your hotel, completing a full, well-paced day.

Authentic Experiences & Notable Insights

One of the most appreciated aspects, according to reviews, is the friendly crew and the relaxed pace. The tour is designed to be flexible, and the stops are chosen for their natural beauty and swimming potential. However, some guests noted that communication could be improved—a review from Bryce mentioned that “during booking, my hotel in Ka was listed as a pickup but I only got confirmation a day before,” which could be confusing. It’s advisable to confirm details ahead of time.

A German-speaking guest expressed disappointment that the tour was not conducted in German, even though it was advertised as such, but noted that “it’s all self-explanatory and translated into English,” so language barriers might be minimal for English speakers.

From reviews, the price point of around $29 per person seems reasonable given the inclusion of lunch, hotel transfers, and multiple stops. The tour’s capacity of up to 55 travelers helps create a lively environment, though some might prefer smaller groups for a more intimate experience.

The Value of the Kemer Pirate Boat Trip

This tour is a solid pick for anyone looking to combine sightseeing, swimming, and local culture without breaking the bank. The all-day format means you get a well-rounded experience, from scenic bays to glimpses of ancient history. The lunch onboard is a definite plus, saving you the hassle of finding somewhere to eat during the busy day.

While the optional visit to Phaselis offers a chance to explore historical ruins, remember that entrance fees aren’t included, and the time at each site isn’t fixed. This flexibility is great for those who want a relaxed day, but if a dedicated archaeological tour is your goal, this might not fully satisfy that craving.

The hotel pickup and drop-off elevate the experience by removing transportation worries, making it accessible for most travelers. The tour’s cost-to-value ratio is fair, especially considering the included meals and sightseeing opportunities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy a social, relaxed day on the water, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. It’s ideal for those who prefer a structured yet flexible itinerary that balances scenic stops with free time. If you’re interested in ancient ruins, this tour offers a peek at history without the full commitment of a dedicated archaeological excursion.

It’s a good fit for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a lively, affordable way to experience the Turkish coast. But if you’re looking for a more intimate or specialized experience, you might prefer a smaller, more focused tour.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the day more convenient and hassle-free.

What is the tour duration?
The full tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll want to bring some water or beverages if you like to stay hydrated, especially under the sun.

Can I visit the ancient ruins of Phaselis?
Yes, you can visit Phaselis at your own expense. The tour includes an optional stop, but entrance fees are not included, and the duration at the site is flexible.

What kind of group size can I expect?
The tour can accommodate up to 55 travelers, creating a lively, social atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
While the tour is primarily in English, some guests have noted that communication could be better, and the material is self-explanatory with translations provided. German speakers, in particular, should verify language options beforehand.

What is the price, and is it worth it?
At around $28.92 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the included lunch, transfers, and multiple stops with swimming opportunities.

Wrapping It Up

The Kemer Pirate Boat Trip delivers a lively, scenic, and affordable way to explore the Turkish coast. It’s perfect for travelers who want to spend a day swimming in beautiful bays, enjoying some light exploration, and mingling with fellow travelers. The variety of stops, combined with the convenience of hotel transfers and onboard lunch, makes it a practical choice for most holidaymakers.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a deep dive into history or a small-group experience, it excels in providing a relaxed, enjoyable day out with plenty of chances to unwind and take in the stunning scenery. The tour’s lively atmosphere and flexible schedule make it a memorable way to experience Turkey’s Mediterranean coastline.

Overall, if you’re after a fun, social, and scenic day that balances relaxation with a touch of adventure, this cruise offers great value. Just remember to bring your sun hat, swimsuit, and a sense of adventure.