Sail Turkey: Gulet Cruise Demre to Kas Via Kekova

If you’re dreaming of exploring Turkey’s famed Lycian coast from a laid-back, sea-breezy perspective, a gulet cruise like this one from Demre to Kas could be just what you’re after. We haven’t personally been on this exact tour, but from what we gather, it offers a well-rounded mix of scenic sailing, historical sights, and relaxing swim stops.

Two things we really like about this experience? First, the chance to sail the beautiful Lycian coastline without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Second, the opportunity to watch the sunset atop Simena Castle, which sounds like a postcard-perfect moment. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the relatively short duration—just four days—so if you’re craving a deep-dive into every site or more time to relax, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience on the water, with enough time to see key highlights without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also a great pick if you’re looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and leisure, and you’re okay with the modest price point for all that included.

Key Points

• Comfortable sailing experience along Turkey’s stunning Lycian coast
• Includes all meals and snorkelling equipment, making it easy to relax and enjoy
• Highlights include Kekova Sunken City and Simena Castle, with accessible swimming stops
• Short but packed itinerary perfect for a quick coastal escape
• Evening stops in Kas give you a taste of local nightlife
• Flexible cancellation and payment options provide peace of mind for planning

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Gulet Cruise

The Starting Point: Demre and First Impressions

Your adventure kicks off in Demre, a charming town known for its proximity to ancient ruins and the story of St. Nicholas. The tour begins around 4:00 pm, when your crew helps transfer your luggage to your cabin. This early evening start leaves plenty of time to settle in, enjoy a delicious dinner onboard, and soak in the atmosphere among fellow travelers. The boat itself is a classic gulet, offering a cozy, traditional vibe that’s perfect for unwinding after the day’s travel.

Demre’s harbor location makes it convenient for travelers arriving from nearby areas, and it’s a good launching pad for exploring the coastline. While the tour doesn’t emphasize sightseeing in Demre itself, the focus quickly turns to the scenic and historic spots ahead.

Day 1: Cruising to Kekova and Camlik Bay

We loved the way the tour starts with a gentle cruise towards Kekova, a famed sunken city that’s a must-see. The first night’s mooring at Camlik Bay depends on weather conditions, which is worth keeping in mind—bad weather could shift plans slightly, but flexibility is part of the charm.

Dinner onboard is described as delicious, helping you settle into the rhythm of life at sea. This is where you’ll meet your fellow travelers and get a sense of the upcoming days. The boat’s crew is helpful, and overall, the start feels relaxed but purposeful.

Day 2: Exploring Kekova and Tersane Bay

This is the day for some serious sightseeing. You’ll cruise to Kekova Island, with a stop at Katir Iskelesi for lunch and a swim. The waters are said to be refreshingly clear, perfect for snorkeling. The Sunken City of Kekova is a highlight—flooded during an earthquake around 2,000 years ago, it offers a unique glimpse into ancient ruins submerged just beneath the water’s surface.

Afterward, the boat continues to Tersane Bay, home to a Roman shipyard and Byzantine church. This site allows for some quiet exploration and a chance to appreciate the layers of history in the region. The night at Tersane Bay provides a peaceful setting, away from bustling towns, ideal for star-gazing or simply unwinding.

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Day 3: From Kekova to Kas

Waking up early, you’ll enjoy a breakfast with beautiful views as the boat heads towards Limanagzi. Here, you’ll have another chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, a recurring theme that adds to the relaxed, aquatic vibe of the trip.

The afternoon takes you into Kas, a lively town known for its bohemian atmosphere and nightlife. The cruise ends here around midday, giving you free time to explore, shop, or just soak up the lively harbor scene. This overnight stay is ideal if you want to experience local dining and perhaps a walk along the waterfront.

Day 4: Wrap-up and Departure

Your gulet cruise concludes at 11:30 am in Kas, allowing enough time for a smooth transfer back to your next destination. While brief, this trip packs in enough highlights to feel satisfying, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see a snapshot of Turkey’s coast.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The balance of sailing, swimming, and cultural stops makes this trip appealing. Boat trips naturally lend a sense of freedom and leisure, and the inclusion of snorkelling gear and a free cooking class adds value—especially for those who enjoy a bit of hands-on experience.

The scenic views at each stop and the chance to see ancient ruins underwater are genuinely memorable. Plus, the evening in Kas offers a lively finish, allowing you to extend your Turkish adventure into the night.

The Value of Included Meals and Activities

At $477 per person, the tour is priced reasonably, considering full board meals (3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners), snorkelling equipment, and a cooking class—these extras mean you can relax without worrying about extra costs, which often add up on other tours.

Potential Drawbacks

The main thing to consider is the short duration, which might leave some travelers wanting more time at each stop. If you’re a history buff or prefer longer, in-depth explorations, this quick trip might feel a bit rushed. Also, since the itinerary depends on weather, plans can shift, so flexibility is key.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travellers seeking a relaxing yet scenic escape with a taste of history and local culture. It’s well suited for those who enjoy sailing and swimming and want a guided experience that takes care of logistics. If you prefer a leisurely pace with plenty of opportunities to lounge and enjoy the views, you’ll find this tour quite satisfying.

It’s a great option for first-timers to the Lycian coast who want a structured overview without the hassle of planning every detail. However, if you’re after an in-depth exploration of every site or longer stay in each location, you might want to look for a longer or more flexible itinerary.

Final Thoughts

The Sail Turkey Gulet Cruise from Demre to Kas via Kekova offers a taste of everything that makes the Mediterranean coast appealing: beautiful sailing, historic sites, and inviting waters. Its reasonable price point and included amenities make it accessible, especially for those new to gulet cruises or Turkey’s coast.

While it’s a short trip, it’s packed with enough highlights to feel like a well-rounded introduction to the region. For travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic adventure with some cultural touches, this cruise hits the mark. Just be prepared for a quick pace and some flexibility around weather conditions.

If your idea of a perfect getaway involves sailing, swimming, and enjoying gorgeous sunsets, this tour will leave you with plenty of memories—and maybe a wish to come back for more.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for families?
While the tour is primarily designed for adult travelers, it could be suitable for families with older children who enjoy swimming and boating. There’s no specific mention of family activities.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the swim stops and on deck.

Are the meals included?
Yes, all meals are included—three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners—plus drinking water during meals.

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

What activities are included?
Snorkelling equipment is provided, and there’s also a free cooking class onboard.

Where does the tour end?
The cruise concludes at Kas, with the last stop at Kas Belediyesi Yat Limani around 11:30 am.

Is the itinerary weather-dependent?
Yes, the first night’s mooring at Camlik Bay depends on weather conditions, so plans can shift if the weather isn’t cooperative.

How many people will be on the boat?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, tours like this typically have a small to medium-group feel, fostering camaraderie without feeling crowded.

Is there free time in Kas?
Yes, the overnight stay in Kas allows for exploring, shopping, and enjoying the local nightlife at your leisure.

If you’re after a short but satisfying way to explore Turkey’s coast by sea, this gulet cruise offers a fine balance of scenery, history, and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: