Pirate Boat Tour on the Beautiful Bays of Kemer

Kemer’s Pirate Boat Tour offers a charming blend of scenic beauty, relaxing swimming stops, and a touch of history — all aboard a Viking-inspired vessel. For travelers seeking a full-day escape from the busy resort scene, this trip guarantees picturesque views, crystal-clear waters, and a leisurely pace that’s more about enjoyment than rushing through sights.

One of the highlights we love is the vivid scenery—glimpsing Cleopatra’s Bay, Paradise Bay, and Mount Tahtali from the water offers truly postcard-worthy moments. Plus, the lunch included makes it an economical choice for a day filled with fun and relaxation. On the flip side, some travelers have noted issues with booking and boat assignments, which can be frustrating if you’re expecting a specific vessel. This tour appeals most to those who want a laid-back day on the water, with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and a dash of ancient history.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers breathtaking vistas of Kemer’s coastline, mountains, and bays.
• Relaxing Experience: Multiple swimming stops in turquoise waters make it ideal for sunbathing and cooling off.
• Value for Money: The price includes lunch, hotel pickup, and drop-off, making it convenient and budget-friendly.
• Historical Excursion: Optional visit to Phaselis offers a glimpse into ancient ruins with beautiful surroundings.
• Group Size & Comfort: Most trips accommodate up to 55 travelers, balancing social atmosphere with space to relax.
• Potential Booking Issues: Some reviews mention mix-ups with boat assignments and transfer timings, so clarity from the operator is key.

What to Expect from the Pirate Boat Tour

The experience kicks off early, with a hotel pickup around 9 am—a smooth start that sets the tone for a hassle-free day. The short transfer to the harbor usually doesn’t take long, and once aboard, the boat’s Viking-inspired design immediately hints at the playful, adventurous vibe of the trip.

Setting sail around 10 am, the boat begins its leisurely cruise along Kemer’s coast. This stretch of coastline is remarkably scenic—golden beaches, rugged mountains, and the shimmering Mediterranean waters. You’ll pass pirate caves and the famed Cleopatra’s Bay, which is often highlighted as a highlight for its pristine beauty. The tour’s route offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially as the boat glides past Mount Tahtali, a striking backdrop that dominates the skyline.

The Swimming Stops

One of the main reasons to choose this tour is the access to multiple swimming spots. The boat anchors in crystal-clear turquoise waters where you can cool off or simply float and soak up the sun. Reviewers mention the water’s warmth and clarity, which makes for an enjoyable swim. You’ll likely find plenty of space to stretch out on the top deck, soaking up the sun and enjoying panoramic views, or retreat to the shaded lower deck with wooden tables if you prefer some relief from the sun.

Lunch and Onboard Comfort

Around midday, a delicious lunch is served, often on the shaded lower deck. While some reviewers suggest that the lunch might be better without extra entertainment, it’s generally appreciated as a tasty inclusion for the price. The buffet offers a simple but satisfying meal that sustains you through the afternoon. The boat features wooden tables and benches—a rustic touch that fits the pirate theme and keeps everyone comfortably seated.

The Visit to Phaselis

One of the trip’s optional highlights is a visit to the ancient city of Phaselis—founded in the 7th century BC. The tour itself doesn’t include entry fees, which are payable separately, but the ruins are worth a stroll for history buffs. Reviewers note that walking through the remains of ancient walls, houses, baths, and an amphitheater amid pine forests and beaches makes for a memorable experience. The visit typically lasts around an hour, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Return Journey and Views

As the day winds down, the boat glides back toward Kemer, offering views of islands, the coastline, and Mount Tahtali. The return trip is leisurely, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights while enjoying the fresh sea breeze and stunning scenery. The tour ends around 3 pm, with a drop-off back at your hotel—concluding a day of relaxation and adventure.

Practical Details and Value

This tour is priced at approximately $29.65 per person, which we consider quite reasonable given the inclusions. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, saving you the hassle of arranging transportation, and the lunch adds significant value—no need to hunt for a mid-day meal. The mobile ticket option ensures a smooth check-in process, and the 7-hour duration comfortably balances sightseeing and relaxation.

However, it’s worth noting that entrance to Phaselis isn’t included, so if you’re interested in exploring the ruins, you should be prepared for an extra fee. Some travelers have expressed disappointment about boat assignments, with one review indicating they were taken aboard a different vessel called Medusa, which can be cheaper to book separately. Clarifying details with the tour operator beforehand can help avoid surprises.

What Reviewers Said

• Stunning scenery and great swimming spots are the main attractions. One reviewer mentioned, “Lovely beaches and cool waters, perfect for a day in the sun.”
• Food and ambiance received mixed opinions. While most found the lunch tasty enough, some suggested it might be better without added entertainment.
• Group size is generally comfortable, with a maximum of 55 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.
• Booking hiccups were noted, especially regarding boat assignments and transfers, so confirming details in advance is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a relaxed day with plenty of swimming and scenic views. It’s ideal if you want to avoid the busy resort atmosphere and prefer a more laid-back, outdoor adventure. The inclusion of lunch and hotel transfers makes it especially appealing to budget-conscious travelers who appreciate convenience.

The optional visit to Phaselis is a bonus for history enthusiasts, although those with limited mobility or less interest in ruins might prefer to stay on the boat and enjoy the scenery. Plus, if you’re someone who enjoys sunbathing, swimming, and taking photos, this tour ticks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

The Pirate Boat Tour on the Bays of Kemer offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, leisure, and a touch of history. The stunning landscapes, warm waters, and relaxed pace make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a memorable day out on the Mediterranean. The included lunch and hotel transfers add great value, especially for those wanting a hassle-free experience.

While some minor organizational issues have surfaced in reviews, overall, the trip delivers a genuine escape from the hustle, with plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun and snap gorgeous photos. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who crave a peaceful, scenic day with a flexible itinerary.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic cruise with the chance to swim in turquoise waters and explore ancient ruins at your own pace, this tour could be just what you need for a relaxing day in Kemer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient for guests staying in Kemer.

How long is the boat trip? The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, with the boat leaving around 10 am and returning around 3 pm.

Can I visit Phaselis? Yes, you can visit the ancient city of Phaselis for an extra cost. The visit is optional and usually lasts about an hour.

Are meals included? Lunch is included in the tour price. It’s served on the boat and generally well-received, although some reviewers suggest it could be better without entertainment.

What are the main highlights of the trip? Expect stunning views of Cleopatra’s Bay, Paradise Bay, the coastline, and Mount Tahtali; swimming in turquoise waters; and optional exploration of ancient Phaselis.

What is the maximum group size? Most tours accommodate up to 55 travelers, offering a comfortable group atmosphere suitable for socialising or relaxing alone.

This scenic sailing day in Kemer combines natural beauty, light adventure, and cultural exploration, making it a well-rounded choice for many travelers. Just remember to confirm your boat assignment and consider bringing some extra cash for Phaselis entrance fees if you want to explore the ruins.