Kekova Small-Group Boat Tour From Demre

Explore the Crystal Waters and Historic Sites of Kekova Small-Group Boat Tour

The Kekova Small-Group Boat Tour from Demre offers an engaging day on Turkey’s stunning coast, lasting approximately 7 hours. Starting from Demre Harbour, the tour takes you through Gökkaya Bay, Karemlik Bay, and more, with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and photograph iconic sights. The tour is designed for small groups, providing a personalized experience with a friendly guide, all led by SAILNSTAY.

A highlight is the chance to swim with turtles in Karemlik Bay, one of the rare spots in the Mediterranean where these majestic creatures are often seen. Travelers will also get to visit the Kekova Sunken City, a submerged ruin of the ancient city of Dolchiste, and explore Simena Castle, perched above the charming village of Kaleköy. The tour balances relaxing swimming stops with cultural exploration, making it ideal for those who wish to combine nature, history, and leisure.

While the tour offers a fantastic mix of sights and water activities, it’s important to note that entrance fees are not included for Simena Castle, which costs 4 euros, and drinks are also not covered. The tour starts at 10:30 a.m. from Demre Harbour, with flexible cancellation policies allowing full refunds when canceled 24 hours in advance. With an average rating of 4.6, it’s a well-loved choice for visitors seeking a memorable day on the Turkish coast.

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Key Points

• Seven-hour small-group boat tour departing from Demre Harbour at 10:30 a.m.
• Swim with turtles in Karemlik Bay, a rare opportunity in the Mediterranean.
• Visit the Kekova Sunken City, an underwater archaeological site visible from the boat.
• Explore Simena Castle and its hillside necropolis, with an optional hike for panoramic views.
• Enjoy a lunch break and swimming at Esmeralda Bay, followed by a swim in Burç Bay.
• Swim in Gökkaya Bay and discover the Pirates Cave, a large, curved natural formation.

Meeting Point at Demre Harbour and Group Size

The tour begins at Demre Harbour, where a guide from SAILNSTAY greets guests with a sign marked “SAILNSTAY”. The group is kept small to ensure a personalized experience, making it easier to interact with the guide and enjoy the stops without crowds. The tour ends back at the same meeting point around 5:00 p.m., providing a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere.

The Route and Stops on the Itinerary

This tour takes travelers through Gökkaya Bay, famous for water sports and inviting waters perfect for swimming. Next, the boat cruises past Kekova Sunken City, where a glass-bottom boat section allows for underwater views of ancient ruins flooded in the 2nd century after an earthquake. Since swimming here isn’t permitted, the boat’s viewing window offers a unique glimpse into the submerged remains.

In Kaleköy (Simena), the boat anchors for about an hour, giving visitors the choice to explore the small village, walk up to Simena Castle for stunning views, or relax in the waters below. Entrance to the castle costs 4 euros, but it’s free with certain museum passes. The site also features a necropolis, which can be admired from the hillside.

The lunch and swimming stop at Esmeralda Bay provides a peaceful break. Here, travelers can enjoy their meal and take a swim in calm, clear waters. Afterward, a 40-minute swim break in Burç Bay offers cooler waters due to natural springs beneath the surface, making it refreshing on a warm day.

Further along, the boat makes a stop at Gökkaya Bay, known for its beautiful scenery and water sports activities. The Pirates Cave nearby is a must-see natural formation, notable for its size and curved entrance, adding an element of adventure and discovery to the trip.

The tour concludes with a return to Demre Harbour at 5:00 p.m., leaving travelers with a comprehensive glimpse of Kekova’s waters, history, and wildlife.

Water Sports and Scenic Swimming Opportunities

Gökkaya Bay is a favorite for water sports, offering options to participate in various activities. The bay’s natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for swimming, relaxing, or trying out water sports available on-site. The water temperature can vary, especially at Burç Bay, where cold springs influence the waters, providing a refreshing experience.

The stops here are well spaced to prevent fatigue and maximize enjoyment. The swimming breaks are timed to give plenty of relaxation or exploration time, whether you prefer floating in the sea, taking photos of the rugged coastline, or simply soaking up the sun.

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Discovering Kekova’s Underwater Secrets

The Kekova Sunken City remains one of the most compelling sights on this tour. The flooded ruins of Dolchiste are best appreciated from the boat, where a glass-window section allows for underwater viewing. Since swimming isn’t permitted in this protected area, the boat’s vantage point offers a rare opportunity to see the submerged structures without disturbing the site.

This exploration provides a tangible connection to the past, with the ancient city’s remnants still visible beneath the water. The guide shares insights about the history, making this stop both visually stunning and educational.

Visiting Simena Castle and the Village of Kaleköy

An hour-long stop at Simena Castle offers flexibility. Visitors can hike up the hillside for panoramic views of the Kekova region, or stay below to enjoy the waters of Kaleköy. The castle ruins are accessible, and the small village beneath has an authentic, laid-back vibe.

The necropolis near the castle adds a historical layer to the visit, with stone tombs visible along the hillside. The entrance fee of 4 euros applies if you wish to go inside the castle, but it’s optional. Many choose to enjoy the scenic views, take photos, or relax by the water.

Lunch and Relaxation at Esmeralda Bay

The lunch stop at Esmeralda Bay is a highlight for many. The bay’s tranquil waters and natural beauty create the perfect setting for a leisurely meal and swimming. The guide provides a lunch included in the tour, allowing travelers to unwind before continuing the adventure.

Afterward, the swim in Burç Bay offers a cool-down, with waters affected by natural springs, making it somewhat colder than other stops. This provides a refreshing contrast and a chance to cool off in a serene environment.

The Hidden Gem of Pirates Cave

The Pirates Cave is a naturally formed cavern with a large curved entrance, adding an element of intrigue to the tour. Known for its size, the cave is accessible from the boat and offers excellent photo opportunities. Its distinctive shape makes it a memorable feature during the cruise along the coast.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes a delicious lunch, but entrance fee for Simena Castle at 4 euros is not included, nor are drinks. To make the most of the day, travelers should bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. The boat tour is conducted in English, and the small group setting fosters a more intimate experience.

The flexible cancellation policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when planning ahead. Booking is simple, with the option to reserve now and pay later, keeping your plans adaptable.

Who Will Love This Tour Most

This 7-hour boat adventure suits travelers who enjoy both relaxation and exploration. The mix of swimming, historical sites, and scenic vistas appeals to those interested in nature, culture, and wildlife. The opportunity to see turtles in Karemlik Bay enhances appeal for wildlife enthusiasts, though water sports are optional.

The small-group format fosters a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking a more personalized experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced day out in Turkey’s coastal waters will find this tour particularly satisfying.

Kekova Small-Group Boat Tour from Demre: A Well-Rounded Day on the Water

The Kekova Small-Group Boat Tour combines stunning scenery, historic ruins, and wildlife sightings in a single day. With stops at Gökkaya Bay, Kekova Sunken City, and Simena Castle, the tour offers a comprehensive look at Kekova’s natural and cultural treasures.

The small-group setting ensures intimacy and flexibility, allowing guests to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. The inclusion of lunch and multiple swimming stops makes this a full, satisfying day for those who want to relax while exploring.

While entrance fees and drinks are extra, the overall value is high for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, history, and leisure. This tour is especially suited to travelers who appreciate scenic waters, wildlife encounters, and photo opportunities with ancient ruins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour departs around 10:30 a.m. from Demre Harbour.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is included in the tour package.

Can I visit Simena Castle?
Yes, you can visit the castle ruins during the one-hour stop at Kaleköy. The entrance fee of 4 euros applies if you choose to go inside.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price, so it’s recommended to bring your own.

What wildlife might I see?
You have the chance to see turtles in Karemlik Bay, which is known for being a habitat for 5 of the 8 turtle species worldwide found in the Mediterranean.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the 7-hour schedule with swimming and cultural stops suggests it’s suitable for families seeking a relaxed day on the water.

How do I cancel this tour?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your plans.

Do I need any special gear?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear for comfort during swimming and sun exposure.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of snorkeling opportunity with turtle sightings, the visit to the Sunken City with glass-bottom viewing, and the small-group setting all contribute to a memorable experience in Kekova.

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