Kekova Boat Trip

Travel experiences like a Kekova boat trip can offer a truly unique way to see Turkey’s stunning Turquoise Coast. While we haven’t personally been on this exact journey, reviews, itineraries, and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what makes this private boat tour stand out. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to blend relaxation with authentic sights, all while avoiding the crowds that often flock to popular tourist spots.

What we love about this experience? First, the personalized nature of the trip makes it flexible—you can tailor your stops and pace to suit your interests. Second, the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the Mediterranean waters is a big plus, especially if you enjoy a refreshing dip in scenic surroundings. Lastly, the secluded stops like Tersane Koyu and the Castle of Simena promise a peaceful day far from bustling tour groups.

A potential consideration? The cost, around $411.58 for a group of up to six, might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the private boat, itinerary customization, and included amenities like afternoon tea, it offers good value for a private experience. This tour is perfect for travelers craving a relaxed, intimate adventure that combines history, nature, and leisure.

Who should consider this tour? If you’re after a leisurely, private day on the water with the flexibility to explore at your own pace—whether with family, friends, or a small group—this trip could be just right. Active swimmers and snorkelers will particularly appreciate the multiple swimming stops, while history buffs will enjoy the chance to see the Sunken City and the ancient castle.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You set the pace and choose your stops.
• Includes swimming and snorkeling: Plenty of sea time to cool off and explore marine life.
• Historical and scenic highlights: Sunken city ruins, castles, and picturesque bays.
• Comfortable journey: A private boat with fuel, taxes, and amenities included.
• Cost reflects exclusivity: Priced for small groups with personalized service.
• No hotel transfers: You’ll meet at Demre and return there, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Kekova Boat Trip

Starting Point and Duration

This 7-hour private boat trip begins at Demre Harbour, a convenient location on Turkey’s Lycian coast. The tour kicks off promptly at 10:00 am, giving you plenty of daylight for multiple stops. The price, at $411.58 for up to six people, suggests that this experience is designed for small groups or families wanting an exclusive outing.

The tour’s duration allows for a leisurely exploration: you won’t be rushed, and you’ll have ample time to soak in each location, take photos, or just float around enjoying the sea. The private nature means the itinerary can be tailored to your interests, making it more than just a standard group cruise.

Itinerary Breakdown and What to Expect

Stop 1: Kekova Tekne Turu (Start at Demre Harbour)

The journey begins with a scenic cruise departing from Demre Harbour. Here, you’ll meet your captain and crew, who are known for serving Turkish tea, fruits, and biscuits during the trip—ideal for settling into the relaxed pace. You might find that the captain’s friendly service and local knowledge make the trip memorable, as one reviewer mentioned, they served “nice meals, lots of Turkish tea, fruits, and biscuits.”

Stop 2: Demre Tours – Day Tours (Brief Stop)

A 30-minute stop, not including admission fees, likely offers a quick chance to stretch or take photos of the coast. While the specifics aren’t clear, this short break adds a little variety to the day.

Stop 3: Sunken City Ruins of Simena

This is one of the trip’s highlights—a one-hour stop at the ancient Sunken City of Kekova. These ruins, partially submerged, tell stories of earthquakes and tsunamis that reshaped the coastline. The clear waters make for excellent snorkeling, allowing you to get close to the remains of old walls and pathways. Fans of history and underwater exploration will especially enjoy this stop, where you can swim over the ruins and imagine life in the Lycian times.

Stop 4: Tersane Koyu

Next, you’ll visit Tersane Koyu, or Shipyard Bay, for another one-hour break. This spot is noted for its tranquil waters and scenic views. It’s a peaceful place to swim and relax away from crowded beaches, with free access to the bay’s calm waters.

Stop 5: Kekova Island

An hour here offers chances for more swimming, kayaking, or just basking in the sun. The island itself is scenic, with rocky coastlines and hidden coves, perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty.

Stop 6: Aquarium Bay

A quick 15-minute swim break at Aquarium Bay provides another opportunity to cool off in clear waters. This spot is often praised for its calmness and clarity, ideal for snorkeling or simply floating with a view of the surrounding cliffs.

Stop 7: Castle of Simena

The Castle of Simena is an ancient fortress perched above the bay, offering around an hour to explore. From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coast and islands—an excellent photo opportunity. Reviewers highlight the “very nice views” from this castle, making it a memorable highlight of the trip.

Stop 8: Gokkaya Plaji ve Koyu

Your final 15-minute swimming stop at Gokkaya Beach provides one last chance to relax in the sea before heading back. It’s a quieter alternative to larger beaches, allowing for some peaceful swimming.

Included and Not Included

The package covers fuel, local taxes, afternoon tea, and coffee or tea, which adds to the value by reducing additional costs. However, drinks like soft drinks or alcohol are not included, so bring your own if needed. Notably, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this tour, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Demre.

Expert Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer, Chen_T, described the trip as a “super experience” and emphasized the enjoyment of both sightseeing and swimming. They appreciated the nice meals and Turkish tea served onboard, highlighting the hospitality aspect of the tour. Another traveler, Yann_D, praised the calm pace and peaceful exploration, noting that it’s a good way to “discover the coast and enjoy the sites away from noisy groups.”

These comments tell us that the tour’s relaxed, personalized atmosphere appeals to those wanting an authentic, low-pressure experience. The small group setting fosters a friendly environment, and the flexible itinerary allows guests to prioritize what interests them most.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip suits history enthusiasts, sea lovers, and families or small groups seeking intimacy and flexibility. It’s ideal if you want to avoid crowded tours and prefer a leisurely exploration with time for swimming and photos. It might not suit travelers on a tight budget or those looking for a packed, fast-paced day, but for those valuing quality over quantity, this experience offers excellent value.

FAQs

What is the duration of the Kekova boat trip?
The trip lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to Demre.

How many people can join this private tour?
It is designed for small groups, up to 6 people per boat, making it ideal for families or friends wanting exclusivity.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, there is no hotel pickup or drop-off; you meet at Demre Harbour.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel surcharge, local taxes, afternoon tea, and coffee or tea are included. Drinks like soda or alcohol are not.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can tailor the stops and pace to your preferences.

Are there opportunities for swimming or snorkeling?
Absolutely, with multiple stops at Aquarium Bay, Gokkaya Beach, and others, plenty of sea time is built into the tour.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include the Sunken City ruins, the Castle of Simena, scenic bays, and peaceful stops like Tersane Koyu.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they should be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Remember to bring your own drinks if you want something other than tea or coffee.

How do reviews describe the experience?
Reviewers praise the peaceful pace, friendly crew, and scenic stops, making it clear that this tour is about relaxed exploration rather than a rushed sightseeing package.

Final Thoughts: Is the Kekova Boat Trip Worth It?

This private boat tour offers a compelling combination of historical sights, natural beauty, and personalized service. The ability to swim, snorkel, and explore at your own pace makes it particularly appealing for those who want a calm, authentic experience on Turkey’s coast. While the price might seem high for some, the exclusivity, flexibility, and quality of amenities justify the cost for travelers seeking comfort and privacy.

If you’re a small group or family looking to explore the sunken city and surrounding bays without the chaos of large tours, this experience delivers great value. It’s especially suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, flexibility, and immersive experiences over hurried group sightseeing.

References

• Viator Kekova Boat Trip Detailed Info
• Similar experiences and additional options are linked in the source, offering a range of boat tours along the coast.

In essence, this tour offers a peaceful, flexible way to discover Turkey’s stunning coastline, ideal for those who cherish authentic, relaxed experiences amidst history and nature.