The Kekova Sunset Tour from Demre offers a captivating 3.5-hour adventure on the waters of Turkey’s Lycia region. Aboard the boat Ayla, visitors can explore the sunken ruins, medieval castle, and pirate cave that dot this scenic coastline. With swimming breaks, a complimentary lunch, and a breathtaking sunset to cap off the day, it’s a must-do experience for those seeking to enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of this remarkable destination.
Key Points
- The Kekova Sunset Tour from Demre is a 3.5-hour excursion that departs from Demre Cayagzı Harbour aboard the boat Ayla.
- The tour includes visits to the Sunken City, Simena Castle, Pirate Cave, and Gokkaya Bay, as well as swimming breaks and stunning sunset viewing.
- Participants can explore the ancient Lycian settlement of the Sunken City, now submerged underwater, and gain insight into the region’s rich history.
- The tour offers an opportunity to visit the well-preserved Simena Castle, climb to the top for panoramic views, and discover the Pirate Cave’s remarkable acoustics.
- The tour includes complimentary lunch, drinks, hot beverages, and fruits, and features flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The Kekova Sunset Tour from Demre is a 3.5-hour excursion that typically departs at 17:30 and concludes by 21:00.
Priced from $239.89 per group (up to 6 participants), the tour starts from Demre Cayagzı Harbour, aboard the boat named Ayla.
Highlights include visits to the Sunken City, Simena Castle, Pirate Cave, and Gokkaya Bay, along with swimming breaks and sunset viewing during the return cruise.
Lunch, drinks, hot drinks, and fruits are included, as well as diesel and a skipper.
The tour offers the opportunity to see sea turtles in their natural habitat.
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Highlights and Itinerary
The Kekova Sunset Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the area’s most captivating sights.
The tour includes visits to the Sunken City, Simena Castle, Pirate Cave, and Gokkaya Bay. Guests can enjoy swimming breaks in Burc Bay and Gokkaya Bay, as well as witness the stunning sunset during the return cruise.
Throughout the journey, there’s a chance to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.
The tour’s itinerary is designed to provide a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s rich history, natural beauty, and diverse wildlife.
Visiting the Sunken City
As visitors embark on the Kekova Sunset Tour, they’ll have the opportunity to witness the captivating Sunken City.
This ancient Lycian settlement, now submerged underwater, offers a unique glimpse into the past. Visitors can peer over the edge of the boat and observe the ghostly remnants of buildings, streets, and other structures that were swallowed by the sea centuries ago.
Exploring this sunken wonder is a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to imagine the vibrant community that once thrived in this picturesque coastal region before a devastating earthquake caused it to collapse into the tranquil waters.
Exploring Simena Castle
After exploring the captivating Sunken City, the tour turns its focus to Simena Castle.
This ancient Byzantine fortress sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the Kekova region. Visitors can wander through the castle’s ruins, admiring the well-preserved walls and towers.
The site provides a glimpse into the area’s rich history, with remnants of churches, cisterns, and tombs. Guests have the opportunity to climb to the top of the castle, taking in the stunning vistas of the surrounding islands and turquoise waters.
This stop on the Kekova Sunset Tour allows travelers to enjoy the region’s historical significance.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering the Pirate Cave
Departing from Simena Castle, the tour group now turns its attention to the captivating Pirate Cave. The boat gently glides into the secluded inlet, revealing the mysterious grotto’s towering limestone walls.
The guide eagerly shares the cave’s history:
The guide enthusiastically recounts the cave’s storied past as a hideout for ancient seafaring bandits.
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Home to ancient seafaring bandits who used the secluded hideaway to ambush passing ships
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Accessible only by boat, the cave features remarkable acoustics and natural lighting
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Remnants of the pirates’ activities, such as tool markings and storage areas, can still be observed
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Guests are invited to explore the cave’s interior, marveling at its sheer scale and natural beauty
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The tour provides a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime past and the allure of the high seas.
Enjoying Gokkaya Bay
The boat now heads for the captivating Gokkaya Bay, where guests can enjoy the tranquil waters and soak up the breathtaking scenery.
This picturesque cove, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, offers a serene swimming break. Guests can jump into the cool, clear waters and explore the underwater world through snorkeling.
The rugged landscape and unspoiled nature provide a perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photographs.
As the sun starts to dip, the bay transforms into a golden paradise, setting the stage for the return cruise and the much-anticipated sunset viewing.
Swimming Breaks and Sunset Viewing
During the tour, guests are treated to not one, but two swimming breaks – one in the tranquil Burc Bay and another in the picturesque Gokkaya Bay.
Here, they can take a refreshing dip in the clear, turquoise waters and snap stunning photos of the surrounding landscapes.
The tour culminates with a spectacular sunset viewing during the return cruise. Guests can sit back, relax, and witness the sky transform into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant hues as the sun dips below the horizon.
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Swim in the tranquil Burc Bay
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Explore the picturesque Gokkaya Bay
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Witness the sunset during the return cruise
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Capture stunning photos of the landscapes
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Relax and enjoy the experience
Inclusions and Booking Information
As part of the Kekova Sunset Tour, guests can enjoy a range of inclusions to enhance their experience. This includes a complimentary lunch and drinks, as well as hot beverages and fruits.
The tour also covers the diesel fuel and skipper fees, ensuring a seamless and worry-free journey. Booking the tour is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing customers with added flexibility. The inclusions and booking options make the Kekova Sunset Tour a convenient and enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Based on the tour overview, it seems participants can bring their own food and drinks. The tour includes lunch and drinks, but there’s no indication that outside items are prohibited.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration is fixed at 3.5 hours and doesn’t offer an option to extend it. However, guests can request special arrangements or a private tour for a longer experience, which may incur additional costs.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for Activities?
No special equipment is needed for the activities. The tour provides snorkeling gear, so guests can simply bring their swimsuits and towels. The lunch, drinks, and hot beverages are also included in the tour price.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions, but children under 6 years old can join for free. There are no specific requirements, as the activities are suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Local Products During the Tour?
The tour does not include any stops to purchase souvenirs or local products. Participants can bring their own money if they’d like to buy something during breaks, but there aren’t any dedicated shopping opportunities on the tour itself.
The Sum Up
The Kekova Sunset Tour from Demre provides a captivating 3.5-hour boat excursion that allows visitors to explore the Sunken City, Simena Castle, and Pirate Cave. With refreshing swimming breaks, a complimentary lunch, and the opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunset, this tour offers a memorable experience for nature and history enthusiasts. Booking information is available, making it a must-try activity for those visiting the region.
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