From Demre: Sunset Boat Tour to Kekova

Exploring the Sunset Boat Tour from Demre to Kekova: A Genuine Look

Imagine a warm evening cruise along Turkey’s stunning coastline, with the chance to see ancient ruins, swim in cool waters, and soak up incredible sunset views—all without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. That’s what this sunset boat trip from Demre offers, and from what we’ve gathered, it’s a pretty charming way to spend an evening. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines history, nature, and a touch of adventure—all in roughly three hours.

What really makes this tour stand out are two key things: first, the opportunity to see the underwater remains of Kekova’s Sunken City through glass-bottom boat sections, and second, the chance to enjoy a peaceful swim in Burç Bay, where natural springs make the water feel especially refreshing. Sure, there’s a slight price tag (around $116 per person), but for the unique sights and calming boat ride, many find it to be a good value. One thing to keep in mind is that while the tour is quite flexible and scenic, it’s not geared toward those seeking a high-energy adventure—I’d say it’s best suited for people who want a relaxed, scenic evening rather than a high-octane outing.

If you’re someone who loves beautiful vistas, a touch of history, and a laid-back vibe, this trip could be a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling in the evening and want to combine seeing Kekova’s famous ruins with a peaceful sunset cruise. The tour is also limited to about 25 travelers, which means it feels intimate enough without feeling crowded.

Key Points

• Stunning views and peaceful sunset ambiance provide a memorable backdrop for the evening.
• Multiple stops for swimming and sightseeing, including underwater ruins and natural springs.
• Glass-bottom boat sections allow a peek into Kekova’s submerged city without needing to snorkel.
• A relaxed, roughly 3-hour experience making it suitable for those with limited time.
• It’s a family-friendly activity, with easy, accessible stops—though swimming is optional.
• Free cancellation offers peace of mind in case weather or plans change.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Andriake Harbour

Your evening begins at Andriake Harbour in Demre, a place historically known as Myra, with a colorful past that adds to the charm of your departure. Setting sail at 6:00 p.m., you’ll start the journey with anticipation of watching the sunset over the coast. The ride is just about 30 minutes to the first stop, so you’re not on the water too long before the adventure kicks into gear.

Exploring Kekova and the Sunken City

The first stop at Kekova is where the magic begins. This area is famous for its underwater ruins, remnants of the ancient city of Dolchiste, which sank after an earthquake in the 2nd century. It’s a fascinating site to see from the boat, especially through the glass-floor sections that give you a clear view of the submerged structures. This method is especially handy if you’re not keen on snorkeling but still want to catch the essence of the ruins—an aspect many reviews appreciate, with one traveler saying, “the experience far far exceeded expectations.”

While swimming isn’t permitted directly in the Sunken City, you’ll cruise alongside the ruins, capturing photos through the boat’s viewing glass. It’s a gentle way to connect with history without getting wet, and the boat’s design really helps you get close-up views. Expect to spend around 15 minutes here, enough to take in the sights and snap some memorable photos.

Cruising Past Simena Castle

Next, expect to cruise past Simena Castle, with its ruins perched dramatically on the coastline. It’s a highlight for many, who love the way the ancient fortress and the surrounding city seem to cling to the cliffs. Watching this from the boat, you’ll get a sense of the old world meeting the present, and it’s a perfect backdrop for your photos.

Swimming and Relaxing at Burç Bay

One of the tour’s standout features is a one-hour stop at Burç Bay, a tranquil spot known for its cooler waters due to natural springs. This is where you can dip your toes or take a swim, if you wish. The natural springs make the water feel noticeably brisk, which many travelers find invigorating after a warm day. The gentle, peaceful atmosphere here is ideal for relaxing and just soaking in the scenery.

Exploring the Ağırlı İslahi Deniz Magarasi Cave

Another intriguing highlight is the large, naturally-formed cave at Ağırlı İslahi Deniz Magarasi. The curved entrance makes it visually striking, and it’s fun just to see such a peculiar natural formation. It’s a brief stop, around 15 minutes, but adds a touch of adventure to the cruise.

Wrapping Up at Andriake Harbour

As the sun begins to dip lower, you’ll head back to Andriake Harbour, completing your roughly three-hour journey. The return trip offers a final chance to relax and marvel at the sunset sky, with the coast bathed in warm hues—a truly peaceful way to end the day.

What the Tour Includes and What it Doesn’t

Included in the price are use of snorkeling equipment and the boat trip itself. This is a nice touch, giving you the option to explore underwater with some gear, even if swimming in the Sunken City isn’t permitted. The tour lasts about 3 hours, which is enough to see key sights without feeling rushed.

What’s not included are additional food and drinks, so if you’re hungry or thirsty, you’ll want to bring your own or grab something before departure.

The Group Size and Booking Flexibility

With a maximum of 25 travelers, this tour feels intimate, and you won’t be lost in a crowd. It’s operated by SAILNSTAY, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible in case your plans change. The tour runs at 6:00 p.m., perfect for catching that sunset glow, but you might find morning trips elsewhere if that suits you better.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Based on reviews and the itinerary, this boat trip provides a good balance of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and relaxing stops. The stunning views, peaceful atmosphere, and underwater ruins are main draws, and the experience seems to exceed expectations, especially for first-timers who want a taste of Kekova without a strenuous schedule.

The price, around $116, makes sense when you think about the included stops, the boat ride, and the chance to capture unique photos of submerged ruins and ancient castles. While it doesn’t include meals, the focus on natural scenery and history makes it a worthwhile outing if you’re after a relaxed, scenic evening.

Who Is This Best For?

This tour suits travelers who enjoy gentle sightseeing, photo opportunities, and a tranquil boat ride. It’s ideal if you’re in Demre or Kas and want a memorable, sunset experience without a long day’s commitment. Families with older children who can enjoy a boat ride and scenic stops might also find it appealing. However, if you’re seeking a more active or full-day adventure, you might prefer other options.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable, especially since swimming isn’t mandatory and stops are gentle and scenic. Just keep in mind that it’s a boat cruise, so young children should be comfortable with being on a boat for a few hours.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if you want snacks or beverages.

Can I cancel this trip?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s flexible if your plans change or the weather turns bad.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, you can use snorkeling gear during the tour, which is a nice added option for exploring underwater sights.

What time does the tour start and end?
It departs at 6:00 p.m. and lasts about 3 hours, returning around 9:00 p.m.

Is this trip weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on each boat?
The maximum is 25 travelers, which keeps the experience cozy and manageable.

In essence, this sunset boat trip from Demre to Kekova offers a charming, laid-back way to see a bit of history and nature, all bathed in the glow of the evening sky. It’s a solid choice if your priority is relaxing scenery, a touch of adventure, and beautiful views that won’t overload your day.