Kekova Boat Trip

Experience the Charm of Kekova on a Private Boat Trip

Imagine gliding along the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean in a private boat, with the freedom to customize your journey. For about 7 hours, from Demre, you’ll explore the famous Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Village, and other scenic spots — all while enjoying the comfort and intimacy of a small group. Priced at around $412 for a group of up to six, this tour offers a personalized way to see this beautiful stretch of Turkey’s Lycian coast.

Two things we really love about this experience are the flexibility to tailor the itinerary and the chance to swim and snorkel in pristine waters without the crowds. Plus, having a dedicated boat captain means you can truly relax and enjoy each stop at your own pace. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that drinks are not included, so you might want to bring your own refreshments. Still, this trip is best suited for travelers who value quiet, scenic exploration over large group tours and prefer a relaxed, intimate day on the water.

If you’re looking for a memorable, flexible way to discover Kekova’s unique sites, this private boat trip can be a highlight of your Turkish coast adventure. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want to avoid the crowded tour buses and experience the coast on their own terms.

Key Points

• Flexible, private experience tailored to your interests and pace.
• Swim and snorkel in calm, clear Mediterranean waters.
• Visit iconic sites like the Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Castle, and Tersane Koyu.
• Includes local taxes, fuel, and refreshments such as afternoon tea and Turkish coffee.
• No drinks included, so bring your own if you want beverages during the day.
• Duration of about 7 hours, with multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.

A Closer Look at the Kekova Boat Trip

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The journey begins at Ayla Boat Tours in Demre, with the boat leaving promptly around 10:00 am. From here, you’ll set sail in a comfortable private boat, which feels more like your personal vessel than a crowded tour. This setup allows you to enjoy the scenery at your own pace, stopping where and when you want, whether for a quick swim or a longer exploration.

The trip’s 7-hour duration strikes a good balance — long enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed. You’ll cruise along the coast, with opportunities to swim and snorkel in the Mediterranean, which is often cited as a highlight by travelers. The water is typically calm and inviting, perfect for a refreshing dip after exploring ancient ruins or castle battlements.

Exploring the Stops

Kekova Sunken City and the Ruins of Simena

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the Sunken City of Kekova. We loved the way the boat allows you to glimpse the submerged remains of Lycian houses and pathways, a quiet reminder of a village that was partially flooded centuries ago. While admission to the ruins isn’t included, the view from the boat is striking, especially if you’re lucky with the weather.

Next, you’ll visit Simena Village, a charming hillside settlement with a castle offering sweeping views of the bay. You can explore the castle of Simena, which takes about an hour and provides a fantastic panorama of the coastline. From the reviews, it’s clear that many travelers enjoy the peaceful ambiance here, far from tourist crowds — as one traveler described, it’s a place to “enjoy calmly the places away from noisy groups.”

Tersane Koyu and Kekova Island

Afterward, the boat stops at Tersane Koyu, a tranquil bay where you can take a leisurely walk or relax on deck. It’s a good spot for photos and soaking in the scenery. Continuing to Kekova Island, you’ll have an hour to explore or snorkel in the calm waters, enjoying the unspoiled beauty of this protected area.

Swimming and Relaxation Breaks

The tour includes two short swimming stops at Aquarium Bay and Gökkaya Plajı ve Koyu. Travelers appreciate these moments to cool off and enjoy the natural surroundings, often describing the water as crystal clear and inviting. These brief breaks are thoughtfully timed — not too long, but enough to refresh before the next sightseeing.

Food and Refreshments

While the tour includes afternoon tea, coffee, and biscuits, drinks such as soft beverages or alcohol are not included. Many travelers find this fine, but it’s wise to bring some bottled water or other drinks if you prefer. The captain’s service is frequently praised for making the day enjoyable, with some reviews mentioning the friendly service and Turkish tea served onboard.

Cost and Value

At approximately $411 for up to 6 people, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, considering this is a private experience with a dedicated guide and the flexibility it offers, many find it excellent value. The sense of freedom, personalized stops, and the chance to avoid large groups add significant value, especially when you consider the cost of similar group tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for those who prefer privacy and flexibility over large, scripted group tours. It suits families, couples, or small groups looking for a leisurely day on the water with plenty of time to explore, swim, and relax. If you enjoy authentic experiences with a personal touch and want to see Kekova without the bustle of crowds, this tour is a safe bet.

Travelers who enjoy scenic sailing, historical ruins, and tranquil beaches will find this experience rewarding. Just remember, if you’re after a highly structured, all-inclusive day with meals included, this might not be the best fit. But for those wanting a customized, peaceful boat journey, it delivers on every level.

Practical Tips

• Bring your own drinks if you want something other than the tea and coffee provided.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
• Don’t forget your snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater.
• Sun protection — hat, sunscreen, sunglasses — is essential.
• Confirm your meeting point in Demre and arrive a little early to start on time.
• Since it’s a private tour, communicate your interests or preferred stops with the captain beforehand.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The trip runs for approximately 7 hours, allowing plenty of time to explore and relax.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, beverages are not included, but afternoon tea and Turkish coffee are provided onboard.

What stops are included?
Stops include Kekova’s Sunken City, Simena Castle, Tersane Koyu, Kekova Island, Aquarium Bay, and Gökkaya Bay.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there are designated swimming breaks at Aquarium Bay and Gökkaya Bay — many travelers say these are among the trip’s best moments.

Is the itinerary fixed?
The trip is customizable, so you can adapt it to your interests and pace, which many reviews praise.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and possibly drinks if you prefer something other than what’s provided.

Does the tour include transportation to the meeting point?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to meet at the designated location in Demre.

How is the weather impact?
Since this is a sea-based tour, weather can affect visibility and comfort. Always check the forecast and prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts

A Kekova boat trip like this offers a wonderful way to experience Turkey’s coast with all the benefits of privacy and ease. You’ll see the submerged Lycian ruins, enjoy panoramic views from a castle, and have plenty of time to relax and swim in serene waters. Its personalized nature, combined with comfortable amenities and a dedicated captain, makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking an authentic, laid-back adventure.

While the price reflects the private, tailored experience, many find it well worth the cost for the chance to avoid the hustle of larger tours and enjoy the coast at their own rhythm. It’s especially suited for those who value quiet, scenic exploration and want a day that balances sightseeing with leisure.

In the end, this tour offers a beautiful blend of history, nature, and tranquility — all wrapped into a flexible, intimate package that can become a memorable part of your Turkish journey.