Thinking about cruising along Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast? We’ve looked into the private speedboat tour from Demre to Kekova and Sunken City, and it’s a trip that offers both breathtaking scenery and a bit of adventure. Perfect for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience away from the crowds, this tour promises a relaxed way to explore some of the most iconic sights in the area.
What stood out to us? First, the personalized nature of the trip, allowing you to tailor your stops and pace. Second, the cruise itself, which gives you the chance to enjoy the wind in your hair and the sea stretching all around you. But, as with any experience, there are a few considerations to keep in mind — mainly the relatively short duration and the fact that it might not be suitable for everyone, especially those who are prone to seasickness or non-swimmers.
This tour seems best suited for those who love the idea of a private, customizable outing—whether you’re traveling with a small group of friends, a couple, or even solo—who want a taste of the coast’s highlights without a large tour group or packed schedule.
Key Points
- Private & customizable: Tailor your stops and pace for a more relaxed experience.
- Stunning scenery: Enjoy the views of Kekova’s sunken city, the village of Simena, and the turquoise waters.
- Swim and snorkel: Plenty of opportunities to cool off and explore beneath the surface.
- Short but sweet: The tour lasts around 2 hours, so it’s ideal for a quick, scenic escape.
- Limited group size: Up to 6 guests, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere.
- Not for everyone: Not suitable for wheelchairs, non-swimmers, or seasickness-prone travelers.
What to Expect on the Tour
This private speedboat adventure is all about enjoying Turkey’s coast from a different perspective. Starting from Cayagzi Andriake Harbour in Demre, you’ll hop on a comfortable boat with your captain — usually the driver — and set off to explore some of the most visually striking spots in the area.
The first stop is the Sunken City of Kekova, which you’ll cruise over slowly for about 15 minutes. We loved the way the boat glided over the water, giving a clear view of the submerged ruins that appear just beneath the surface. It’s a captivating sight, especially if you’re into unique landscapes or shipwrecks. One reviewer mentioned, “Seeing the sunken city from the boat was unforgettable — like looking at a piece of history just below the waves.”
Next, you’ll pause at Simena Castle for around 15 minutes. This is a fantastic photo spot, with panoramic views of the bay and the charming village of Simena below. The castle itself isn’t the main focus, but the scenery from the top is truly worth a quick stop. Expect to soak in the coastal beauty and maybe snap a few photos to remember.
Finally, your boat will return to Cayagzi Andriake Harbour, completing the roughly 2-hour journey. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the gentle ocean breeze, perhaps some light snorkeling if you wish, and the chance to relax without feeling rushed.
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The Itinerary in Detail
Starting Point: Cayagzi Andriake Harbour in Demre
This is a straightforward meeting point, with coordinates provided for easy access. The tour begins with a brief check-in and safety instructions, after which you’ll board your private speedboat.
Kekova Sunken City (15 minutes cruise)
Cruising over this archaeological site is the highlight. The ruins are partially submerged, giving the illusion of a lost civilization beneath the clear, blue waters. The boat’s gentle pace allows you to take in the views and even take photos without feeling hurried.
Simena Castle (15-minute stop)
Perched atop a hill, the castle offers one of the best vantage points in the region. It’s a quick stop, but the scenery is worth it. Many reviews mention capturing stunning landscape photos and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Return to Cayagzi Andriake Harbour
After the stops, your boat returns to the starting point, completing your short but memorable adventure.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This private speedboat trip is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized experience. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a tailored adventure. If you love stunning sea views and opportunities to swim, you’ll appreciate the freedom to enjoy the water at your own pace.
However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for those who aren’t comfortable in water, have mobility issues, or are prone to seasickness. The duration is quite short—just 2 hours—so if you’re after a more comprehensive exploration, you might want to look for longer excursions.
The Value of a Private Tour
At its core, this experience offers a more intimate, flexible alternative to larger boat trips. Paying per group (up to 6 guests) means you won’t be stuck with strangers, and the captain can adapt the itinerary to your interests. You can choose to spend more time swimming or exploring, or just relax and soak in the views.
While the price might seem modest for a private experience, keep in mind that it covers only a 2-hour window. For travelers craving a quick taste of Kekova’s beauty without the crowds, it’s a good option. If you want a more immersive or longer exploration, there are other tours with extended itineraries, but they often come with higher costs.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience from Reviews
One reviewer appreciated the peaceful, crowd-free environment, noting, “You get to enjoy the sea without the hustle and bustle of larger tours.” Others highlighted the stunning views of the sunken city, describing it as “a surreal experience to see the ruins just beneath the surface.”
Some pointed out that the timing is tight, given the short duration, but most agreed that the flexibility to customize stops was a significant plus. A few reviews mentioned the importance of bringing your own snorkeling gear and sun protection, as the trip is quite straightforward and doesn’t include extras like equipment.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Since the tour is only 2 hours, packing light is best. Bring essentials like a hat, sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, and your camera. Snorkeling gear is optional; if you plan to snorkel, pack your own. The boat is comfortable, but wear clothes suitable for water activities and be prepared for sunny weather.
Remember, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or non-swimmers, so plan accordingly. If seasickness is a concern, take precautions beforehand. The short duration helps minimize discomfort, but it’s good to be aware.
Final Thoughts
This private speedboat tour from Demre to Kekova and Sunken City offers a peaceful, personalized way to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal sights. You’ll love the stunning scenery, the chance to swim in crystal waters, and the flexibility to tailor your stops. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, intimate outing away from the crowds.
While the 2-hour limit might feel brief, the experience’s exclusive nature and scenic views make it worth considering, especially if you’re looking for a more relaxed alternative to group tours. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy Turkey’s coast at their own pace, with plenty of photo opportunities and time in the water.
If you’re after a memorable, scenic outing that emphasizes comfort, flexibility, and quiet beauty, this tour could be just what you need.
Demre: Kekova Island and Sunken City Private Speedboat Tour
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
Since participants should be comfortable in water and the experience involves boating, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can swim and are comfortable at sea. It’s not ideal for very young children or non-swimmers.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours from start to finish, including all stops and cruising time.
Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private and allows you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences, focusing more on areas you find most interesting.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a camera. If you plan to snorkel, pack your own gear.
Is this tour suitable if I don’t like crowds?
Definitely. Since it’s a private experience for your group, you’ll enjoy the sights without the crowds typical of larger tours.
Are there any accessibility considerations?
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or non-swimmers, so consider your mobility and comfort in water before booking.
In all, this private speedboat experience is a charming way to enjoy Turkey’s coast, especially if you value flexibility and intimacy. It’s not a full-day adventure, but its focus on beautiful views and personalized stops makes it a worthwhile choice for a quick, scenic escape.
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