From Demre: Private Boat Trip to Kekova

Exploring Kekova from Demre: A Private Boat Trip Worth Your Time

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic day on the Turkish coast, the private boat trip from Demre to Kekova offers a splendid way to experience this area’s natural beauty and intriguing history. For a flat fee of around $370 per person, you get roughly 7 hours of personalized boating, with your own group and a dedicated crew. The tour typically departs around 10 am from Demre harbor, heading toward the famed Sunken City of Kekova, with stops that include swimming in picturesque bays, exploring charming villages, and climbing to ancient castles.

What we especially appreciate about this trip is how flexible and intimate it feels — you’re not part of a large crowd but rather enjoying the waters and sights with your friends or family. The views from Simena Castle are genuinely breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline, and the underwater ruins of Kekova are endlessly fascinating. You’ll also love the variety of swimming spots, from the lively Aquarium Bay to the tranquil Burç Bay, each providing perfect opportunities to cool off and soak in the scenery.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the walk-up to the castle and some stops are not included in the price; if you’re keen on visiting the castle or exploring the Sunken City from land, you’ll need a little extra time or money. This tour is well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of relaxed cruising, light hiking, and swimming — ideal for travelers who want a more personal experience away from crowded tour groups.

If you like the idea of combining history, stunning scenery, and time in the water, this trip caters well to adventurous spirits and those wanting a taste of local life and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private boat means your group’s schedule and stops, with full crew attention.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning views from Simena Castle and underwater photography opportunities at Kekova.
• Variety of Stops: From swimming in bays to exploring villages and castles, there’s plenty of variety.
• Historical Insight: The underwater ruins of the Sunken City are a highlight, especially if you enjoy history and archaeology.
• Flexible Timing & Departure: Recommended start around 10 am, with the opportunity to tailor your day.
• Value for Money: The cost includes lunch and snorkeling gear, offering good value for an all-day private tour.

The Full Experience: Breaking Down the Itinerary

Departure from Demre Harbor

The tour kicks off in the morning, with most groups beginning around 10 am. This timing gives you a relaxed start, avoiding the early rush and allowing the day to unfold smoothly. The boat departs from Demre harbor, a lively little town famous for its church and proximity to ancient sites. As you leave the harbor, you’ll enjoy the gentle morning sunlight reflecting off the water, setting a peaceful tone for the day ahead.

First Stop: Kekova Sunken City

Your first real highlight is the Sunken City of Kekova, submerged due to an earthquake in the 2nd century. The boat cruises along the ruins, offering spectacular photo opportunities — you can see what remains of walls, staircases, and houses beneath the waves. It’s an ideal moment to appreciate how nature’s forces shape history and landscape.

Because the area is protected, swimming is not permitted here, but you’ll get a close-up view from the boat, which many find more than enough. Several travelers note that the boat’s vantage point is perfect for capturing unforgettable images, especially if you love underwater archaeology or simply enjoy dramatic scenery.

Stops for Swimming and Relaxation

Aquarium Bay is the first swimming stop — a small, gorgeous cove with calm, clear waters where you can take a refreshing dip. The water here is inviting enough for a quick swim, and the bay’s natural beauty makes it a favorite among visitors.

Next, the boat anchors in Gökkaya Bay and Burç Bay for more swimming. In Burç Bay, you might find the water cooler due to natural springs underneath, adding an unusual and refreshing touch to your swim. These bays offer a peaceful setting that’s perfect for relaxing in the sun or exploring underwater with snorkel gear included in the tour.

Visiting Kalekoy (Simena) and Its Castle

The boat drops anchor in Kalekoy Harbor, a small, authentic Turkish village with narrow streets, quaint cafes, and Castle Ruins. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore this charming spot. Many find the village’s simplicity and unspoiled charm a refreshing break from busier tourist areas.

A short hike uphill brings you to Simena Castle, where the panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding islands are worth the climb. While the entrance fee isn’t included, the vistas alone justify the effort, and many travelers comment on the “magnificent views” they enjoyed from the castle.

Exploring the Underwater & Above-ground Ruins

The Sunken City of Kekova is best appreciated from the boat, but if you prefer, you can also take a quick dip near the ruins. The remaining time can be spent swimming or just relaxing on deck, savoring the scenery.

Final Swim and Cave Discovery

The tour wraps up with another swim near Gökkaya Bay, where you can also explore a naturally-formed cave famous for its curved entrance. This adds a bit of adventure and discovery to the day, rounding out a memorable experience.

Return to Demre Harbor

As the afternoon turns to evening, the boat heads back to Demre harbor, where the tour concludes. Demre itself is worth a quick exploration, with sites like the ancient Lycian ruins or local eateries.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The scenery is truly breathtaking — from the castle views and sunken ruins to the shimmering bays. Many reviews mention how seeing turtles up close was a highlight, and the waters are often teeming with marine life, perfect for snorkeling.

The food provided on board is another standout, with travelers praising the quality and variety, making the day feel indulgent without breaking the bank. The inclusion of snorkel gear means you can explore the waters comfortably, adding an active element to your relaxation.

Personalized service makes a difference. Unlike large group tours, this private experience creates a relaxed atmosphere where everyone’s preferences matter, whether for swimming, photography, or simply soaking in the sights.

Considerations Before Booking

A couple of potential drawbacks include the language barrier, as some staff members may have limited English, which can be a minor inconvenience when asking questions or seeking guidance. Also, the cost is on the higher side compared to group tours, but the exclusivity, flexibility, and personalized attention often justify the premium.

If you’re the type of traveler who values comfort, quiet, and tailored experiences, this trip checks all the boxes. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid crowded tours and prefer a more relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to explore at your leisure.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This private boat trip from Demre to Kekova offers a tailored, scenic, and culturally enriching day at an accessible price point for what you get. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want to enjoy the Turkish coast without the noise of larger tours. If you love the idea of swimming in serene bays, exploring ancient ruins, and taking in spectacular views with a dedicated crew, this tour is well worth considering.

The balance of relaxation, history, and natural beauty makes it a compelling choice, especially if you’re seeking a more personal and immersive experience. While it’s not the cheapest option, the comfort, flexibility, and memorable stops make it a good value for those wanting a day of genuine discovery and scenic beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
Most groups begin around 10 am, giving you a relaxed start and plenty of daylight for the day’s activities.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including stops for swimming, exploring villages, and enjoying the scenery.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers the boat ride, lunch, and snorkeling equipment, providing a comfortable and enjoyable day on the water.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee to Simena Castle is about 4 euros, and some stops—like hiking up to the castle—are not included in the basic tour price.

Is this tour suitable for kids or non-swimmers?
Yes, especially since snorkeling gear is provided, and swimming is optional at each stop. Just keep in mind the walk to the castle if you choose to hike up.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you have some flexibility to focus on your interests, whether that’s more swimming, exploring villages, or taking photos of the castles.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, towel, water shoes if you like, and your camera. A light bag for personal items is recommended.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather may cause cancellations, but in that case, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this private tour from Demre to Kekova offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances scenic beauty, history, and relaxation. It’s perfect for travelers who value personalized service and authentic moments over crowded buses and rushed schedules. Whether you’re into archaeology, nature, or simply a peaceful day on the water, this trip has something special to offer.