From Demre: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

Unveiling Turkey’s Hidden Coastal Treasure: A Detailed Look at the Demre to Kekova Boat Trip

If you’re eyeing a day full of sun, sea, and history on Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast, the Demre: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat might just be your perfect escape. Priced at $59 per person for around seven hours of adventure, this tour promises a blend of scenic cruising, underwater mysteries, and charming local stops.

What really catches the eye is the chance to glide past the famous Sunken City of Simena, explore the tiny village of Kaleköy, and swim in several crystal-clear bays. We love how this tour balances laid-back sightseeing with active water stops, making it suitable for those craving relaxing ocean views or some light exploration.

A potential concern to consider is that many reviews mention crowds, especially in the popular bays, or the limited time at each stop, which might feel rushed for some. Also, if you’re not a strong swimmer or have mobility issues, parts of the trip—like hiking up to Simena Castle—may not suit you.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to soak in Turkey’s coastal beauty, enjoy some swimming and snorkeling, and get a taste of its historical sites — all on a comfortably organized boat journey.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Cruise along the coast with views of sunken ruins and picturesque bays.
• Historical Highlights: See the submerged city of Dolchiste and climb up to Simena Castle.
• Top Water Stops: Swim in several bays, including Burç Bay and Gökkaya Bay, with chances to spot turtles.
• Authentic Experience: Visit Kaleköy, a small village with a castle and necropolis.
• Good Value: For $59, you get a full day of scenic cruising, guided commentary, and a local lunch.
• Environmental Respect: Reviewers highlight the importance of caring for turtles and marine life during the stops.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Andriake Harbour

Your day kicks off early in the morning at Andriake Harbour, the gateway to this coastal adventure. It’s a straightforward start, with the boat departing between 10:20 and 10:30 a.m., ensuring plenty of daylight for sightseeing and swimming.

The Sunken City of Kekova

The highlight for many is the Sunken City of Dolchiste. As the boat glides past, you’ll see the remains of this underwater village, submerged due to a 2nd-century earthquake. While swimming isn’t allowed here—since it’s a protected area—the view from the boat provides ample photo opportunities and a vivid visual of Turkey’s geological past.

One reviewer remarked that “the ruins of the sunken city are fascinating, but maybe not the most detailed underwater experience,” which is worth noting. If you’re hoping for a snorkeling adventure here, be aware the main attraction is the cruise-by view, not underwater exploration.

Kaleköy and Simena Castle

Next, the boat anchors in Kaleköy (Ancient Simena) for about an hour. This is a genuine highlight for those interested in authentic Turkish villages. You can explore the castle ruins, walk around the narrow streets, or climb up to the hillside for panoramic views of the region.

A reviewer praised the hike up to the castle, noting “magnificent views of Kekova,” but also pointed out that time is limited — so don’t expect a deep dive into local history. You might prefer to spend your time swimming in the blue waters instead.

Lunch and Relaxation at Esmeralda Bay

Midway through the day, everyone gets the chance to enjoy a delicious local lunch in Esmeralda Bay. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for relaxing and recharging. Many guests mention how tasty the meal is—usually fish or local Turkish fare—and how the calm waters here make for a peaceful swim.

Water Breaks at Burç Bay and Gökkaya Bay

The trip then takes you to Burç Bay for a 40-minute swim. The bay is cooled by underwater springs, which makes the water a little chillier than other spots—something to consider if you prefer warmer waters.

Gökkaya Bay follows, where you’ll have about 45 minutes to swim, snorkel, or simply soak in the marine scenery. Several reviewers mention spotting turtles here, especially in Karemlik Bay, which is a real bonus if you’re into wildlife. However, one review highlighted concerns about the way some travelers interact with the turtles—an important reminder to respect the environment.

Pirates Cave and Karemlik Bay

Next, the boat passes by the Pirates Cave, a natural wonder with a large, curved entrance. It’s a great photo op and adds a sense of adventure to your day.

Karemlik Bay offers a chance to look for Caretta caretta turtles, with many guests describing the experience of swimming alongside them as “incredible.” Be mindful, though, as some reviews mention the importance of respecting the turtles and avoiding disturbing their habitat.

Return to Demre Harbour

After a full day of cruising, swimming, and sightseeing, your boat gently returns to Andriake Harbour. The experience ends there, leaving you with memories of scenic views, underwater secrets, and a taste of local Turkish life.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a delicious local lunch, which many travelers find to be good value considering the full day of activities. However, there are some costs not covered, like admission fees, additional water sports, and personal expenses. If you plan to indulge in snacking or souvenirs, budget accordingly.

Practical Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes for exploring Kaleköy if you plan to hike up to the castle.
• Don’t forget sunglasses and a sun hat—the sun can be intense on open water.
• Be aware that pets, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted onboard.
• This tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility, as some stops involve walking or climbing.

Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

While many reviews praise the stunning scenery and good value for money, some point out the crowds and the limited time at certain stops. One traveler from Spain appreciated the “nice lunch and beautiful landscapes,” but noted the crowds in some bays might detract from a more peaceful experience.

Another reviewer from Italy expressed disappointment about the short time at Kekova and wished for more opportunities to visit the castle or the necropolis. This highlights that if your priority is in-depth exploration of historical sites, this trip might feel somewhat rushed.

There’s also a recurring theme around respecting marine life. Multiple reviews mention the turtles—highlighting how incredible it is to see them swimming freely. However, concerns about travelers feeding or touching the turtles serve as a reminder to treat wildlife responsibly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

In essence, the Demre to Kekova boat trip offers a well-rounded experience for those who love scenic cruising, swimming, and light exploration. If you’re looking for a relaxing day amid beautiful waters with a sprinkle of history and wildlife, this trip will satisfy your desire for nature and culture.

It’s especially appealing to travelers who enjoy snapshots of ancient ruins from the boat and don’t mind limited time at each stop. The inclusion of a good-quality local lunch adds to the overall value, making it an economical way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating coastlines.

However, if you prefer more immersive visits to historical sites or are traveling with limited mobility, it’s worth considering that some stops are brief or involve hiking. Also, if you’re sensitive to crowds or prefer quiet beaches, the popular bays might feel crowded at peak times.

This tour balances scenic beauty, wildlife spotting, and cultural charm—providing a memorable day on Turkey’s sun-drenched coast.

FAQs

What is the departure point for the tour?
It departs from Andriake Harbour, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby or want a straightforward start.

How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and meals.

Is swimming included in the tour?
Yes, there are multiple swim stops in bays like Burç Bay, Gökkaya Bay, and Karemlik Bay, where you can enjoy the crystal waters.

Are snorkeling or water sports available?
While swimming is included, water sports are not, and equipment isn’t provided. You might want to bring your own gear if you wish to snorkel.

What’s the quality of the lunch?
Reviews mention a delicious local meal, often fish, served during the Bay stop. It’s generally regarded as a good value for the price.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Guides offer commentary in English and Turkish, and some reviews praise their friendliness, though details about their expertise vary.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s suitable for families, especially if children enjoy swimming and boat rides, but consider mobility and the boat’s environment.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and possibly a towel for swimming. Sunscreen is also advisable.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted onboard. The tour isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility.

To sum it up, this boat trip from Demre to Kekova offers a fantastic blend of scenery, history, and marine life. It’s a practical choice for travelers seeking a laid-back yet visually impressive day at Turkey’s coast, provided you are comfortable with the timings and occasional crowds. Whether you’re a history buff, a water lover, or simply looking to relax in a stunning setting, this tour provides a solid dose of the Mediterranean’s best without breaking the bank.