Travelers seeking a memorable day on Turkey’s stunning southern coast often find themselves drawn to the boat trips around Kekova. This particular tour, operated by SAILNSTAY, offers an engaging mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxation. With a solid 4.7-star rating from dozens of reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find this experience worthwhile — but, like all adventures, it has its nuances.
What makes this trip stand out are its unique highlights: cruising past the sunken city of Simena, exploring the quaint village of Kaleköy, swimming in crystal-clear bays, and savoring fresh, local cuisine. The trip’s accessible, family-friendly format appeals to many, but it also tends to attract groups of all ages, which can affect the pace and comfort level. A potential drawback, noted by some, is the crowded nature of the boat — so if you’re craving solitude or a more tailored experience, that’s worth considering.
This tour is best suited for travelers who love water-based activities, are curious about history (even if just visually), and want a laid-back day on the water. If you’re comfortable with boat trips and enjoy scenic scenery, this adventure will fit well into your Turkey itinerary.
Key Points
- Stunning views and photo opportunities of the sunken city and coastal landscape
- Excellent value for money, especially considering the included local lunch
- Varied stops for swimming, relaxing, and exploring small villages
- Limited walking involved, making it accessible for most
- Crowd levels can be high, with some reviews mentioning busy conditions
- Respect for nature and wildlife varies, so travelers should be mindful of environmental guidelines
What to Expect on the Kekova Boat Trip
This trip is designed as a full-day escape into the turquoise waters and ancient ruins of Kekova. Starting early in the morning from Demre Harbor, you’ll board a comfortable boat ready for a day of exploration and relaxation. You’ll want to bring essentials like comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat, as most of your time will be spent outdoors under the sun.
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Departure and Overall Atmosphere
The boat departs around 10:20-10:30 a.m., so arriving a little earlier ensures a smooth start. The crew typically offers an efficient and friendly service, and the overall atmosphere leans toward being casual and family-friendly. The reviewer reviews echo this, with some noting the boat can be quite crowded — so if you prefer a quiet, private experience, you might find it a bit busy, especially in peak seasons.
The Itinerary in Detail
Demre Harbor — The Starting Point
Your day begins at Demre Harbor, a bustling spot where boats set out into the clear waters. The ride starts with anticipation, as you’ll cruise along the coast, enjoying the panoramic views of Lycian scenery. We loved the way the boat’s deck offers plenty of space for lounging, with sunbathers soaking up the rays and photographers capturing the rugged coastline.
Kekova and the Sunken City
Next comes the highlight: cruising past the Sunken City of Simena. Built on the remains of the ancient town of Dolchiste, this submerged site was flooded after a 2nd-century earthquake. While you can’t swim over the ruins because it’s protected, cruising alongside these relics offers incredible photo opportunities.
Some reviews pointed out that the underwater ruins aren’t very visible from the surface, which can diminish your visual experience. According to one reviewer, “The ruins of the city submerged are perhaps the least interesting because they are not very well visible, and the guide doesn’t provide many explanations.” Still, the chance to see the remains from the water, combined with the scenic vistas, makes for a memorable visual.
Kaleköy (Ancient Simena)
The boat then anchors at Kaleköy, a tiny village with a castle ruin and necropolis on its hillside. You get about an hour here — long enough to wander around, climb up to the castle for views, or relax at a seaside cafe. The hike up offers superb photo ops of the bay, but if you’re less inclined to hike, you can simply enjoy the ambiance and take photos from below. Several reviews mention that the time at this stop is just right for a quick exploration without feeling rushed.
Esmeralda Bay — Lunch and Swimming
Around midday, the boat pulls into Esmeralda Bay for a leisurely lunch and swim break. The bay’s calm waters make for an idyllic setting, with some reviewers describing it as “peaceful and tranquil.” The traditional Turkish lunch typically features fresh fish and local flavors, offering good value for just $59 per person.
Once refueled, you’ll have time to dip into the warm waters, which are notably clear. Some travelers found the water even more inviting after lunch, noting the serenity of the area.
Burç Bay — A Refreshing Swim
Next stop is Burç Bay, famous for its cool freshwater springs beneath the sea, which can make the water feel a bit colder. It’s a perfect spot for a quick, invigorating swim and some fun floating around. One reviewer appreciated this break, saying, “the sea in this area is cooler due to underwater springs, providing a refreshing experience.”
Gökkaya Bay — Water Sports and Relaxation
Gökkaya Bay offers a chance for a more active break, with options to engage in water sports or simply relax in the stunning surroundings. The bay’s natural beauty is captivating, and many enjoy just floating and soaking up the scenery.
Pirates Cave and Karemlik Bay
A visit to Pirates Cave offers a glimpse of a large, naturally-formed cavern with a curved entrance — an ideal shot for nature lovers. Later, at Karemlik Bay, there’s an opportunity to look for the Mediterranean’s five turtle species, including the famous caretta caretta. Many reviews mention the joy of seeing turtles in their natural habitat, although some note that respect for the wildlife varies — with concerns about travelers feeding turtles or touching them, which should be discouraged.
Return to Demre Harbor
After a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, you’ll head back to Demre Harbor, concluding your adventure. The return trip offers more scenic views and a chance to reflect on your day.
The Value of This Experience
For $59, this tour includes transportation, a guided cruise, multiple swimming stops, and a traditional local lunch. While some reviews mention that the guided commentary can be brief, the overall value remains high considering the variety of stops and the stunning coastal scenery.
The trip is especially good for those who enjoy being on the water and want a relaxed way to explore Kekova’s highlights without strenuous walking or complicated logistics. It’s also a good option for families, given the short walking segments and the opportunity for kids to swim and play in the bays.
However, note that admission fees and water sports aren’t included, so you might want to bring extra cash for optional activities or souvenirs. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for people with limited mobility, as some stops involve walking or climbing.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Insights from Reviews
Many reviewers appreciated the friendly crew and the quality of the lunch, often describing it as “delicious” and “generous.” One commented, “We ate excellent fresh fish, which was well worth the price.” Others praised the scenery and the opportunity to swim with turtles — one noted, “Swimming with caretta turtles in their natural environment was incredible.”
On the flip side, some found the crowd levels challenging, especially with many children onboard, and noted that more time in Kekova village to explore the ruins or visit the castle would enhance the experience. There are also comments about the limited explanations from guides, which might leave history buffs wanting more context.
Who Will Love This Trip
This outing is perfect for families, water lovers, and those seeking a relaxed day of scenic sightseeing. If you’re comfortable sharing a boat with others and enjoy swimming in scenic bays, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s ideal for travelers on a budget who want a comprehensive, value-packed experience.
However, if you prefer more secluded, personalized tours with extensive historical commentary or are sensitive to crowds, you might find this trip a bit busy or superficial in terms of storytelling.
FAQs
Is there a dress code or specific clothing recommended?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and sunglasses. Swimwear under clothing is advisable if you plan to swim during the stops.
Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional local lunch is included in the price, offering good value considering the scenic stops and activities.
How long is the entire trip?
The trip departs around 10:20-10:30 a.m. and returns in the late afternoon, providing a full day of exploration.
Can I see the sunken city clearly from the boat?
While the ruins are visible and perfect for photos, they are underwater and protected so swimming over them isn’t allowed. Visibility from the surface can be limited, but cruising alongside offers great views.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the day, but keep in mind the boat can be crowded, and some stops involve walking or climbing.
What should I bring for the day?
Sunscreen, water, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone to capture the scenery.
Are there any environmental concerns I should be aware of?
Yes, some reviews mention the importance of respecting wildlife, especially the turtles. Feeding or touching them is discouraged, and travelers should be mindful of trash and pollution.
Final Thoughts
A boat trip from Demre to Kekova offers a well-rounded day filled with scenic views, historical intrigue, and relaxing swims. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Turkey’s coast without the hassle of complicated logistics or expensive guided tours. The inclusion of a hearty local lunch, multiple swim stops, and picturesque scenery makes it a solid choice for travelers looking for an authentic, value-for-money adventure.
While it may not satisfy those seeking in-depth historical tours or solitude, it’s perfect for waterways enthusiasts, families, and anyone eager to soak up the natural beauty and laid-back charm of Kekova. With friendly crew and stunning landscapes, this trip provides memories that will last long after you leave the boat.
Whether you’re chasing photos of sunken ruins, eager to swim with turtles, or simply want a relaxing day on turquoise waters, this tour from Demre hits the right notes for most travelers. Just be sure to bring your patience and respect for nature — and enjoy the ride.
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