From Demre: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

A full-day boat trip from Demre to Kekova offers an engaging mix of history, natural beauty, and water activities, all for $57.62 per person. This tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet adventurous day on the Turkish Mediterranean coast, with around 7 hours of exploring and swimming. The trip departs from Demre Harbour and includes visits to the Sunken City, Simena Castle, and various bays perfect for swimming and water sports. The guided cruise offers a chance to see the 2nd-century underwater ruins and look for Caretta turtles in Karemlik Bay, a highlight for nature lovers. With positive reviews praising the crew’s care and organization, this tour provides excellent value, especially for those who enjoy water-based sightseeing.

A notable feature of this trip is its flexibility and variety — you get multiple stops, snorkeling time, and a scenic cruise along the coastline. The lunch included adds convenience, and the maximum group size of 55 helps maintain an intimate, friendly atmosphere. While the tour is mostly suitable for most travelers, it involves some walking (like the trek to Simena Castle), and swimming in natural bays. Overall, it’s a well-rated, well-organized day that balances history, nature, and fun on the water.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Demre for $57.62, lasting approximately 7 hours.
• Multiple scenic stops including Gökkaya Bay, Karemlik Bay, and Simena Castle.
• Opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and spot turtles in their natural habitat.
• Visit the Sunken City ruins and cruise past the underwater remains of Dolchiste.
• Lunch is included, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxation.
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of the area’s history and geology.

Departing from Demre Harbour to Begin the Adventure

The tour begins at Demre Harbour between 10 and 10:30 am, where guests meet the crew and board the beautiful boat. This departure time sets a leisurely pace for the day ahead, with the boat ready to explore the Kekova coastline. The mobile ticket system simplifies check-in, and the group size is capped at 55 travelers, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere. The organizers have earned praise for their professional and attentive service, making sure every guest’s needs are met, including dietary preferences.

Once on board, the crew provides an overview of the day’s plan and safety instructions. The boat offers ample space for relaxation and sightseeing, with plenty of shade and comfortable seating. As the vessel pulls away from Demre, the scenic coastline and the promise of a day filled with history and natural beauty come into view.

Discovering the Sunken City of Kekova from the Water

A key highlight of this tour is the cruise alongside the Sunken City ruins of Dolchiste. These 2nd-century underwater remains were flooded after an earthquake in the 2nd century, creating a captivating sight. Since swimming is not permitted in this protected area, the boat cruise offers a fantastic way to admire the ancient remains without disturbing the site.

The photo opportunities are outstanding as the boat glides past the submerged structures. The guides share stories about the history of the city and the earthquake that changed the landscape forever. This experience is especially memorable for those interested in archaeology and natural disasters, though it’s purely viewing from the boat.

Exploring Simena Castle and the Authentic Village of Kaleköy

The tour’s first stop is at Simena (Kaleköy), where the boat anchors for about one hour. Visitors have the chance to visit the small village, which is famous for its castle ruins and necropolis. The castle entrance fee is approximately 1 euro, and the walk up the hillside offers magnificent views across the Kekova region.

The village exudes authentic charm with narrow streets, traditional houses, and a relaxed atmosphere. The castle itself provides a panoramic vantage point to survey the coastline and nearby bays. During this time, visitors can also walk through the village, soak in local life, and take photos of the quaint scenery.

If preferred, there’s an option to stay on the boat and enjoy more time swimming in the surrounding waters, as the sunken city ruins are visible from the boat for a different perspective. The 30-minute stay at the ruins is free of charge; the additional 30 minutes for the castle visit involves the entrance fee.

Swimming and Relaxing at Esmeralda Bay and Burç Bay

The tour offers ample time for swimming and relaxing at two stunning bays after the cultural stop. First, at Gökkaya Bay (Esmeralda Bay), guests are encouraged to enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters for about 2 hours. The bay is renowned for its natural beauty and offers various water sports options.

Next, the boat heads to Burç Bay, where guests can swim for 40 minutes. The waters here tend to be slightly cooler due to natural underground springs, making it an excellent place to cool off and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. These stops are perfect for snorkeling or simply lounging on the deck.

The length of time at each bay is designed to balance leisure with exploration. The swimming breaks are well-appreciated by reviews, with many noting the quality of the waters and the relaxing environment.

Gokkaya Plaji ve Koyu: The Natural Cave and Water Sports

A fascinating feature of this trip is the large, curved cave at Gökkaya Bay. This naturally-formed cave is known for its size and distinctive entrance, offering a unique photo opportunity. Visitors often swim near the cave, and some may choose to explore inside or around it.

The Bay itself is a highlight for water lovers, with calm waters suitable for snorkeling and paddleboarding. The natural scenery and the cave’s impressive shape make it one of the most memorable stops on the tour.

Karemlik Bay: Turtle Watching in Their Natural Habitat

The final stop involves a visit to Karemlik Bay, where there is a real chance to see Caretta turtles in their natural environment. This bay is famous for its turtle population, with five of the eight known Mediterranean turtle species residing in the area.

Guests can observe these majestic creatures while snorkeling in the bay, making this stop especially appealing for wildlife enthusiasts. The opportunity to see turtles in the wild adds a special touch to the overall experience.

The Scenic Return and Wrap-Up at Demre Harbour

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and sightseeing, the boat heads back to Demre Harbour. The return journey lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The trip concludes at the starting point, where guests are free to explore local dining options or continue to their next destination.

The organized nature of the return and the overall smooth operation of the trip receive praise in reviews, with many mentioning the friendly crew and professional service.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and Tips for Booking

The tour includes a tasty lunch, served onboard, which complements the water activities and cultural visits. The entrance fee for Simena Castle is about 4 euros and is not included in the tour price, so travelers should bring some cash if they wish to visit the castle.

Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and typically booked around 33 days in advance. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour makes it a risk-free choice for most travelers.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Kekova

The combination of water-based activities, historical sights, and wildlife viewing makes this 7-hour boat trip an appealing way to experience Kekova. The crew’s attentive service and knowledgeable commentary enhance the experience, providing both entertainment and education.

The diversity of stops — from ancient ruins to tranquil bays — ensures a well-rounded day. The included lunch and swimming breaks cater to both relaxation and adventure, making it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

While swimming near the Sunken City is not allowed in the protected area, cruising past the ruins still offers a powerful visual experience. The possibility of spotting turtles in Karemlik Bay adds a wildlife-watcher’s thrill to the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the boat trip from Demre to Kekova?
The tour costs $57.62 per person, including lunch and guided commentary.

How long does the trip last?
The overall duration is approximately 7 hours, starting around 10 am and returning by early afternoon.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Demre Harbour, with departures between 10 and 10:30 am.

What stops are included on the trip?
Stops include Gökkaya Bay, Karemlik Bay, Simena Castle, and the Sunken City ruins viewed from the boat.

Is swimming allowed near the Sunken City?
No, swimming is not permitted in the protected Sunken City area. However, swimming is allowed at other bays.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
There’s a strong chance to spot Caretta turtles at Karemlik Bay, where they live in their natural habitat.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, a lunch is provided onboard, offering a convenient meal during the day.

Are entrance fees included?
The Simena Castle entrance fee (about 4 euros) is not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by SAILNSTAY, known for its professional crew and well-organized trips.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking involved at Simena Castle and swimming may be more suitable for active guests.

What makes this trip stand out compared to other Kekova tours?
Its variety of stops, combination of history and nature, and friendly crew make it a comprehensive and relaxing way to explore the Kekova region.