Kemer: Boat Trip with Swimming and Snorkeling

Kemer: Boat Trip with Swimming and Snorkeling – An Honest Look

Thinking about a day on the water around Kemer? This boat trip promises scenic views, a chance to explore the ancient city of Phaselis, and plenty of swimming and snorkeling. It’s a popular option for travelers looking to relax and enjoy Turkey’s gorgeous coastline, but as with many tours, it’s not without its quirks.

What we really like about this experience is the opportunity to see multiple bays in one day. The boat journey offers a relaxing way to take in the coastline, and the visit to Phaselis lets you step back into history without the hassle of separate sightseeing excursions. Plus, the crystal-clear waters make for fantastic swimming and snorkeling spots, which many travelers find refreshing and fun.

However, a note of caution: the organization and communication can be inconsistent, based on some traveler reviews. If smooth logistics are important to you, this might require a little patience. That said, if you’re flexible and love the idea of a boat-based adventure, this could suit you well.

This trip is best suited for those who value scenic views and water activities over perfect punctuality. It’s a trip that offers a mix of relaxation and exploration, ideal if you’re okay with some potential hiccups along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery and multiple bays to explore.
• Visit to Phaselis ruins offers a mix of history and sightseeing.
• Great for swimming and snorkeling, with plenty of time in the water.
• Organizational issues have been reported, especially regarding pickup times.
• Includes hotel pickup and lunch, adding convenience.
• Suitable for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, water-focused day with some historical sights.

What to Expect from the Kemer Boat Trip

If you’re considering this tour, here’s a detailed look at what you’re signing up for. We’ll break down each part of the day, so you can picture yourself on that boat and decide if it fits your travel style.

The Start: Pickup and Transfer

The day begins with hotel pickup, which is a plus because it saves you from figuring out how to get to Kemer Marina yourself. The tour provider offers pick-up from your hotel lobby, typically about 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Be aware that some reviews mention that the pickup may run late — in one case, almost 2 hours later — so patience is key here.

The transport itself might not be in pristine condition, as some travelers noted that the bus was in a state of disrepair. While this isn’t uncommon in tours like this, keep it in mind if you’re someone who appreciates comfort and punctuality.

Boarding the Boat

Once at Kemer Marina, you’ll board a boat that will serve as your floating base for the day. The boat promises to take you around four main bays: Kemer itself, Phaselis, Kiris, and Camyuva. The boat is usually inclusive of insurance and often features a crew that speaks English, making communication easier.

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The Ancient City of Phaselis

One of the key highlights is visiting Phaselis, an ancient trading city with impressive ruins. Expect to see aqueducts, an agora, baths, and an antique theater. This is a wonderful way to combine a bit of history with your day on the water. Travelers have appreciated walking among the ruins and imagining life centuries ago.

That said, some have found the exploration time limited, but it’s enough to get a good sense of the site. It’s a valuable stop for history enthusiasts or those who enjoy a break from swimming.

Bay Hopping and Water Activities

After exploring Phaselis, the boat heads to the sheltered pebble beaches of the bays. Here, you’ll find clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The waters are often described as delightful, and the shelter means calmer conditions, which are great if you’re a beginner or just want a relaxing float.

Lunch is served at one of the bays, giving you a break to enjoy some local food and re-energize. Afterward, there’s plenty of time to continue swimming, sunbathing, or snorkelling in the remaining bays.

The Overall Experience

The day lasts roughly 8 hours, with the specific start time depending on availability. The trip is designed to be laid-back, with ample free time in the water, so don’t expect a packed itinerary. Instead, it’s about enjoying the scenery and the water at your own pace.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and insurance, which adds to the overall convenience.

However, you’ll need to bring your own swimwear and towel. Also, if you plan to snorkel, you should bring your own masks — no gear is supplied. Drinks and other personal expenses aren’t covered, so budget accordingly if you want refreshments or souvenirs.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Be ready early for pickup. Due to some reports of delays, arriving on time is a good idea.
• Bring a towel and swimwear to enjoy swimming comfortably.
• Pack your own snorkeling masks if you want to snorkel; the tour doesn’t supply gear.
• Prepare for some variability. Past travelers mention delays and disorganized pickups, so a flexible attitude will serve you well.
• Consider the weather. A sunny day makes the water and scenery even better, but if rain or wind picks up, the experience could be less pleasant.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who prioritize scenic views, historical sights, and water activities. It’s particularly good if you enjoy relaxing on a boat, swimming in calm waters, and exploring ancient ruins without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

However, if punctuality and seamless organization are critical to your enjoyment, you might find the logistical issues frustrating. It’s also not the best choice if you’re looking for a luxury experience, given some of the reported conditions of transport.

Travelers who are flexible, enjoy a mix of history and leisure, and are comfortable with a laid-back pace will likely find this a worthwhile and enjoyable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel lobby is included, and you should be ready about 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.

How long does the trip last?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 8 hours, but start times vary depending on availability.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, you’ll need to bring your own masks if you want to snorkel, as this isn’t provided.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers enjoy the chance to see the ancient ruins of Phaselis and then relax in the beautiful bays for swimming and snorkeling.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so plan to buy refreshments separately if needed.

Is this trip suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the focus on swimming and exploration can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages. Just be aware of the organization and timing issues.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

In the end, the Kemer boat trip offers a lovely way to soak up the coastline, enjoy some history, and cool off in the water. It’s a good pick if you’re easy-going and ready to adapt to some bumps along the way. Keep your expectations realistic, pack wisely, and you’ll have a day filled with scenic views and refreshing dips.

You can check availability for your dates here: