Pirate Boat Tour on the Beautiful Bays of Kemer

If you’re contemplating a day out on the water while in Kemer, Turkey, the Pirate Boat Tour promises a fun, scenic experience. It’s been rated 4.5 out of 5 by those who’ve taken it, with most travelers recommending it highly. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the sea, wonderful views of the coastline, or a glimpse of ancient ruins, this tour has a lot to offer—though, as with any experience, there are a few things worth keeping in mind.

Two things we really like about this tour are its stunning scenery and the delicious included lunch. Cruising past Cleopatra’s bay, Mount Tahtali, and Paradise bay provides unforgettable vistas, especially if you enjoy a good photo op. The onboard meal, often praised as tasty, adds a nice touch to the day, making it feel like a proper escape. However, a possible downside is the variety in guest language—as some reviews mention, the entertainment and commentary tend to be mainly Russian-speaking, which might affect the experience if you’re an English-only traveler.

This tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back day by the sea—perfect if you love swimming, scenic views, and a touch of history with the optional Phaselis visit. It’s especially appealing for those who want to avoid the busy resort scene and prefer a more tranquil, scenic route. Families, couples, and groups of friends are all likely to find something enjoyable here, provided they’re comfortable with a full day at sea.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Kemer’s coastline and notable landmarks like Cleopatra’s Bay and Mount Tahtali
• Relaxing, full-day experience with plenty of swimming opportunities
• Included lunch offers good value and makes the day more enjoyable
• Optional visit to Phaselis, an ancient city, for those interested in history (extra cost)
• Comfortable boat experience with shaded lower decks and open-top sunbathing areas
• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics
• Mixed reviews on the entertainment language, mainly Russian, which might be a consideration for some travelers

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Arriving at your hotel around 9 am, you’ll be picked up and quickly transported to the harbor. The boat departs around 10 am, and from there, the real fun begins. The boat itself has a distinctive Viking-inspired look, adding a bit of playful character to the day. Once underway, you’ll cruise along the coast, enjoying spectacular views of the mountains and the shimmering sea.

The route takes you past several notable spots, like Pirates Caves, Cleopatra’s Bay, and Paradise Bay. These are perfect for photo sessions or just soaking in the scenery. The boat makes multiple stops at the most beautiful beaches, giving everyone plenty of time to swim in the warm, turquoise waters. Whether you prefer lounging on the top deck under the sun or sitting in the shaded lower deck with wooden tables, the vessel caters to different comfort preferences.

For those interested in history, there’s an optional stop at Phaselis, an ancient city founded in the 7th century BC. This is not included in the base price and costs extra, but many find it worth exploring. You can walk through old city walls, see ruins of houses, baths, and the amphitheater—the remnants of a place that once thrived. After the visit, you’ll return to the boat for the scenic cruise back to Kemer, with views of the islands and Mount Tahtali.

The tour wraps up around 3 pm, with hotel drop-offs arranged to make your return smooth. That leaves you with the afternoon free—perfect for relaxing or exploring more of Kemer at your own pace.

The Highlights in Detail

The Scenic Coastline and Bays

We loved the way the boat glided past some of the most photogenic spots along the Mediterranean coast. As some reviews mention, the views of Cleopatra’s Bay and Paradise Bay are especially beautiful. These spots provide clear waters and peaceful surroundings, perfect for a swim. The boat’s route is well thought out to maximize your time in these spots, making it feel like a leisurely cruise rather than a rushed trip.

The Swimming Stops

The frequent stops to swim are a major plus. The waters are described as “crystal clear” and “turquoise,” which is exactly what you want for a day in the sea. Many guests, including one who said, “Belles baignades,” appreciated the opportunity to stay close to the boat or take a dip in the refreshing water. The options to sunbathe on deck or stay in shaded areas mean you can customize your comfort.

The Lunch

The included lunch is more than just a snack—it’s a hearty meal that adds to the value of the tour. Many reviews point out that the food is tasty, making the experience feel more complete. It’s served on the lower deck, with wooden tables, and provides a chance to chat with fellow travelers.

The Optional Phaselis Visit

For history buffs or those curious about ancient sites, the visit to Phaselis can be a highlight—though it costs extra. The ruins of this once-thriving port city, surrounded by pine forests and beaches, provide an interesting contrast to the sea and mountains. Some reviews suggest that the visit is well worth it, adding a layer of cultural interest to the trip.

The Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are positive, there are a few points worth noting. Some travelers have expressed disappointment with the language barrier, as the entertainment and commentary tend to be primarily in Russian. If you’re an English speaker, you might find some of the onboard commentary less engaging or informative.

Plus, one reviewer pointed out a booking mix-up where they were sent on a different boat called Medusa, which was cheaper and not what they expected. This highlights the importance of confirming your booking details and company reputation before going.

The cost of the Phaselis visit is extra, so if you’re interested in exploring this historic site, be prepared for an additional expense. The overall price of around $30 per person is quite reasonable considering the length and inclusions, but you’ll want to factor in extra for optional extras and souvenirs.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Tour

• Book in advance and confirm your reservation to avoid surprises like the reviewer’s experience.
• Arrive early for hotel pickup (around 9 am), especially if your hotel is outside the main area.
• Bring essentials such as sunscreen, a towel, waterproof camera, and some cash for extras like Phaselis entrance fees or souvenirs.
• Dress comfortably for a full day of sun and sea; light clothing and flip-flops are ideal.
• Consider your swimming skills and comfort with boat rides, as multiple stops mean you’ll be in and out of the water several times.
• If you’re a language-sensitive traveler, prepare for mainly Russian commentary and entertainment, or bring headphones if possible.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is well-suited to those wanting a relaxing, scenic day on the water with plenty of swimming, beautiful views, and a tasty meal. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy being by the sea, taking photos, and exploring a bit of history if they choose the Phaselis add-on. It’s also a good choice for anyone looking to avoid the crowds and noise of busy resorts, opting instead for a peaceful cruise.

While it might not satisfy the adventure-seeker looking for high-energy activities or the history buff wanting a comprehensive tour, it hits the spot for most leisure travelers. Families with older children, couples, and groups of friends will find it a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Kemer’s coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy, especially if you’re staying in Kemer or nearby.

How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is approximately 7 hours, with the tour starting around 9 am and ending around 3 pm.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat cruise, swimming stops, and a lunch served on board. Entrance fees to Phaselis are extra.

Can I visit Phaselis?
Yes, for an additional charge, you can explore the ancient city of Phaselis, which involves walking around ruins and historical sites.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the package. You can purchase beverages separately onboard.

What’s the boat like?
The vessel has a Viking-inspired style, with both shaded lower decks and open sun decks. It’s designed to accommodate up to 55 travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed for families, the relaxed nature and swimming opportunities make it suitable for older children comfortable in the water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final thoughts

The Pirate Boat Tour on the Bays of Kemer offers a relaxing way to experience some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal sights. Its value lies in the scenic cruise, swimming opportunities, and the chance to enjoy a simple, good-quality meal. While the language barrier and optional costs might be considerations, most travelers find it to be a worthwhile addition to their stay—especially if they want a peaceful day on the sea, with plenty of chances to unwind and take in the views.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and relatively affordable boat trip that emphasizes chill time over high adventure, this tour could be just what you need. It’s best suited for those who prioritize comfort, scenery, and good company, and who are okay with some optional extras and language differences. Overall, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day in Kemer.