From Demre: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

Exploring Kekova by Boat from Demre: A Complete Guide

When it comes to experiencing Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, a boat trip to Kekova from Demre is often recommended—and for good reason. This tour is a chance to combine scenic views, fascinating archaeological sights, and plenty of time for swimming and relaxing on the water. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out, along with some of its less glamorous sides, to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Two things we really love about this trip are the knowledgeable crew and the variety of stops, which keep the day engaging. Plus, the value for money is impressive—especially with the included lunch and the multiple swimming opportunities. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that some of the key sites, like the Sunken City, are only visible from the boat, which might disappoint those eager for underwater exploration. Overall, it’s a good fit for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenery, and time on the sea, and it works especially well if you’re after a laid-back yet adventure-filled day.

Key Points

• Great value: The tour offers multiple stops, a hearty lunch, and scenic views all for around $57.
• Rich history: You’ll get a good overview of Kekova’s sunken ruins and the ancient castle of Simena.
• Excellent for swimming: Plenty of opportunities to cool off in crystal-clear waters, including famous bays like Gökkaya.
• Turtle spotting: Karemlik Bay is known as a habitat for Caretta turtles, making wildlife watching a highlight.
• Well-organized: The trip is booked well in advance on average, with positive reviews praising the crew’s attentiveness.
• Limited access to some sites: The Sunken City is only visible from the boat, and entry fees are extra if you choose to visit certain sites.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at Demre Harbour, where you’ll board your boat between 10 and 10:30 am. The early start means you get a full day of exploration, and most groups stay small enough for a friendly atmosphere. The boat itself is described as beautiful and well-maintained, with reviews mentioning the attentive crew and a good vibe onboard. So, from the get-go, it feels like a relaxed, well-managed experience.

Visiting the Sunken City of Kekova

One of the real highlights is cruising past the ancient Sunken City of Dolchiste, which was submerged after an earthquake in the 2nd century. You can’t swim here because it’s a protected archaeological site, but the boat trip offers a fantastic vantage point for photos and a chance to appreciate the scale and mystery of the ruins. Several travelers mention the experience as being both fascinating and memorable, with many appreciating the clear explanations from the crew.

Stop at Simena Castle and Village

Your boat will anchor at Kaleköy (ancient Simena) for about an hour. Here, you can explore the tiny village, famous for its castle ruins and a necropolis perched on the hillside. If you’re up for a short hike, the views from above are stunning, showing off the rugged coastline and turquoise waters. The entrance fee for Simena Castle is just 1 euro, so it’s a budget-friendly add-on that enhances your visit.

Some travelers opt to stay on the boat and enjoy the water, while others climb up to the castle to soak in the views. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the friendly atmosphere during this stop, which is often considered the most picturesque part of the trip.

Swimming and Relaxation at the Bays

Next, the boat heads to a series of bays for swimming and lunch breaks. The first is Esmeralda Bay (Gökkaya Plajı ve Koyu), where you’ll find peaceful surroundings perfect for a quick dip. It’s a spot that offers tranquility and beautiful scenery, ideal for relaxing and taking photos.

Following that, lunch is served at Burç Bay, renowned for its cooler waters due to natural springs—so it’s a refreshing break after some sunbathing. The reviews mention how the water stays cool and invigorating, which many find a welcome relief during hot summer days.

The highlight for many is Gökkaya Bay, where you can swim in clear, inviting waters and participate in water sports. The bay’s natural beauty and calm, inviting waters make it a favorite for both relaxation and adventure. The reviews note that the 2-hour stop here gives ample time to swim and enjoy the scenery, making it a key part of the day.

Cave Exploration and Turtle Watching

The tour also features a visit to a naturally-formed cave, known for its size and curved entrance. While not much detail is given about the cave itself, it’s another scenic spot for photos and exploration.

Finally, the boat takes you to Karemlik Bay in search of Caretta turtles, which are common in the Mediterranean. Watching these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight for many, and the reviews confirm that turtle sightings are a real possibility here. It adds an element of wildlife appreciation that elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing.

Return to Demre Harbour

Your day ends back at Demre Harbour after a 30-minute cruise, giving you time to relax and reflect on the experience. The reviews frequently mention how well-organized the day was, with the crew’s professionalism shining through.

What Makes This Tour Special?

This boat trip is packed with diverse experiences—from ancient ruins to stunning bays, plus opportunities for swimming and wildlife watching. The balanced itinerary means you’re not just on the move but also have time to enjoy each spot. The knowledgeable crew and positive reviews about the organization add to the feeling that you’re in good hands.

The price point of around $57 makes it quite competitive, especially considering the included lunch and multiple swim stops. Many reviews highlight the good value, with some mentioning they enjoyed more activities than expected.

The tour also seems to attract a range of travelers, with many appreciating the friendly atmosphere and the chance to relax without feeling rushed. The small group sizes, usually capped at 55, help maintain that intimacy and personal touch.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the trip is generally well-received, keep in mind that some sites like the Sunken City are only viewed from the boat—if you’re hoping for underwater exploration, you’ll need a different kind of experience. The entrance fee for Simena Castle is minimal, but it’s good to bring some cash just in case.

The best time to go is during the summer when the weather is warm and the sea is inviting. The tour starts early, so plan your day accordingly. If you have specific dietary needs, the crew’s attention to catering is often praised, but it’s worth confirming beforehand.

If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take precautions, especially since the water can be a bit choppy at times. The boat’s capacity is up to 55 people, so it’s not overly crowded, but booking in advance is recommended since this trip books about a month in advance on average.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who love a combination of history, nature, and water activities. It suits those who enjoy relaxing on boats, swimming in beautiful waters, and seeing archaeological sites from a comfortable vantage point. It’s great for anyone looking to get a relaxed yet adventure-filled day out without breaking the bank.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and swimming, this can be a perfect choice. However, if you’re looking for deep underwater exploration or want to spend hours exploring ruins on foot, you might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What time does the tour start and end?
  The trip begins at Demre Harbour around 10:30 am and usually returns after about 7 hours, giving plenty of time for all stops and activities.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed nature and multiple swimming stops make it suitable for older children who are comfortable on boats and in the water.

• What’s included in the price?
  The tour price covers the boat ride and a delicious lunch. Entrance to sites like Simena Castle costs extra (€4) if you choose to visit.

• Are there options to visit the ruins on land?
  Yes, at Simena Castle, there’s a small fee of 1 euro, and you can explore the castle and hillside for great views. Swimming is also available during the stop.

• Can I see turtles during the trip?
  Karemlik Bay is known as a turtle habitat, and many travelers report seeing Caretta turtles in their natural environment.

• What are the main stops?
  Stops include the Sunken City, Simena Castle, Esmeralda Bay, Burç Bay, Gökkaya Bay, a natural cave, and Karemlik Bay.

• Is there free time at each stop?
  Yes, each stop provides free time for swimming, sightseeing, or walking around, typically ranging from 30 minutes to two hours.

• What should I bring?
  Bring swimwear, sun protection, cash for optional site fees, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case for photos.

• How crowded does it get?
  The tour caps at 55 travelers, so it’s generally a comfortable size, and reviews mention a nice atmosphere without feeling rushed or overcrowded.

To sum it up, this boat trip from Demre to Kekova offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to enjoy Turkey’s stunning coastline and ancient sites at a reasonable price. The combination of beautiful bays, historical ruins, and wildlife watching makes it a solid choice for travelers looking for a memorable day on the water. The positive reviews about the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the stops suggest it’s a trip that’s worth considering if you’re in the Kas and Demre area.