The 10 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Demre

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The 10 Best Boat Tours & Cruises in Demre

Demre is a treasure trove of coastal beauty, where history and crystal-clear waters collide. It’s a prime spot for boat tours because of its proximity to the Sunken City of Kekova, ancient ruins of Myra, and scenic bays. Whether you want a relaxing day at sea, an intimate private cruise, or an adventurous snorkeling trip, Demre offers a variety of options. One of our favorites is the Day Trip to Kekova by Boat, which combines a scenic cruise with stops at pirate caves and an authentic village.

If you're feeling more ambitious, the Full-Day Tour from Antalya blends plenty of history with a relaxing boat ride and a delicious onboard lunch. For those seeking privacy, a private boat tour offers a personalized experience perfect for families or small groups. With such a rich variety, Demre’s boat excursions are truly a highlight for any traveler exploring Turkey’s southern coast.

Quick Overview

This list covers a wide range of boat experiences in Demre, from half-day trips perfect for a quick taste of the coast, to full-day explorations combining history, swimming, and sightseeing. There are small-group tours, ideal for those who want a more intimate adventure, as well as luxury private charters for special occasions. All tours highlight scenic bays, ancient sites, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. Ready to choose? Let's dive into the details.

1. Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

Sailing from Ucagiz, this day trip to Kekova offers a full seven hours of sun, sea, and history. The tour visits Kekova’s most stunning bays, like Akvaryum Koyu, where you can snorkel in clear waters, and Gokkaya Bay, with a delicious onboard meal. The highlight is a visit to the Sunken City of Kekova, where submerged ruins peek through the water—an eerie reminder of the area’s volcanic past.

The tour also takes you to Pirates Cave, another memorable stop, and the scenic Simena Castle, which offers panoramic views of the coast. A one-hour swim break gives ample time for cooling off and exploring. The guide shares interesting stories behind the ruins and the small, authentic village of Simena. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a balance of history, swimming, and leisure. It’s great value at $59 per person, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and relax.

Bottom line: This tour is best suited for those who want a full taste of Kekova’s beauty with a comfortable pace and some snorkeling. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing and water fun.

2. Antalya: Myra, Demre, and Kekova Tour With Boat Tour & Lunch

For around $91, the full-day tour from Antalya combines history and leisure beautifully. The tour includes a visit to the ancient Lycian city of Myra, known for its rock-cut tombs and Roman theater, and a stop at the Church of St. Nicholas, revered as Santa Claus’s final resting place. The boat cruise around Kekova is a standout, with guide-led exploration of the Sunken City.

What sets this tour apart is its lunch onboard, served as you cruise along the coast. You’ll have time for swimming and snorkeling in the Mediterranean’s clear waters. The combination of archaeological sites and water activities appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. The reviews praise the well-organized itinerary and the opportunity to learn about Turkey’s ancient past while enjoying scenic vistas.

Bottom line: If you want a day of cultural discovery paired with relaxing boat time and good food, this tour offers a balanced experience for a fair price.

3. From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Tour with Boat Trip

This day trip from Alanya offers a well-rounded experience, including swimming in the Mediterranean, sightseeing in Myra, and exploring the Sunken City. The 2-hour boat ride is a highlight, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenic coast. It also includes visits to the museums that house relics from the Lycian era, making it perfect for history-minded travelers.

The tour’s mystical vibe is enhanced by the visits to ancient ruins and the chance to see sunken structures firsthand. The itinerary is flexible, with enough time for photos, exploring, and swimming. The price offers good value considering the length and scope of the trip.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a mix of history, culture, and seaside fun without spending a full day at sea.

4. Kas: Private Kekova Boat Tour including transfers

If you’re after a personalized experience, the private Kekova boat tour from Kas is a top choice. For $567 per group (up to 6 people), you get a tailored day exploring Kekova Island, with visits to Sunken City, Simena Castle, and the Pirates Cave. The boat is yours, meaning flexible stops and personalized attention.

This tour emphasizes comfort and exclusivity. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends celebrating a special occasion. The guide shares detailed insights about the sites, and the boat’s privacy makes it easier to relax and take your time. You may also spot Caretta Carettas, the loggerhead turtles that frequent these waters.

Guests love the flexibility and the chance to avoid large tour groups; one review states, “We explored some truly beautiful places, stopped for lunch in Kekova, and swam with turtles — all with Musa Captain’s excellent guidance.” The main drawback is the higher price, but for a personalized day in paradise, it’s well worth it.

Bottom line: Ideal for couples or small groups seeking privacy, comfort, and flexibility.

5. Kekova Private Boat Tour from Demre

For a fully customized day, the private Kekova tour from Demre at $397 for up to 6 people offers an intimate and exclusive experience. It includes visits to Sunken City, Simena Castle, and stops at Pirates Cave and Gokkaya Bay. The itinerary is tailored to your preferences, with a typical 7-hour duration.

Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to choose where to spend more time. The guide shares detailed explanations of each site, enhancing your understanding of the area’s history. The tour also offers snorkeling opportunities and scenic photos.

A typical review notes, “We explored some truly beautiful places, stopped in Kekova for lunch, and swam with turtles — all with Musa Captain’s excellent guidance.” The premium price reflects the exclusivity and flexibility, making it suitable for travelers who want a luxury, private experience.

Bottom line: Best for those who want a bespoke, stress-free day at sea with plenty of time for exploring and relaxing.

6. Kekova Small-Group Boat Tour From Demre

If you prefer a more intimate experience, this small-group tour offers a 7-hour adventure with a focus on swimming and snorkeling. It visits key sites like Gökaya Bay, known for water sports, and Karemlik Bay, famous for spotting Caretta Carettas.

The smaller group size ensures a more relaxed atmosphere where you can ask questions and get personalized tips. The tour includes refreshing swims, scenic views, and a chance to explore Kekova’s underwater ruins. The reviews highlight the quality of the swim stops and the knowledgeable crew.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a more personal, interactive trip with plenty of time in the water.

7. From Demre: Shared Full-Day Boat Trip with Swim Stops

This shared full-day trip is an affordable way to enjoy Demre’s coast, priced at $40 per person. It includes stops at beautiful coves for swimming, snorkeling, and turtle spotting.

The highlight is the chance to experience the Mediterranean’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning. The skipper’s narration adds context to the sites, making it a good choice for first-time visitors. The trip’s reviews praise the breathtaking scenery and the friendly crew.

Bottom line: Best for budget travelers who want a comprehensive day of sea, sun, and sea turtle watching.

8. Myra, Demre, and Kekova Tour w/ Boat Tour & Lunch

Similar to the second tour but with a slight variation, this combo tour focuses on archaeological and scenic highlights. It includes the rock-cut tombs of Myra, the Church of St. Nicholas, and a boat cruise around Kekova, with a tasty onboard lunch.

The guided boat tour offers insights into the ancient Lycian civilization and marine life, with plenty of swimming opportunities. The review mentions the excellent timing for sightseeing and the chance to relax on the boat. It’s a well-rounded option for history buffs who want a bit of everything.

Bottom line: Great for those looking for a full-day adventure combining culture, scenery, and sea in one trip.

9. Sail Turkey: Gulet Cruise Demre to Kas Via Kekova

For a multi-day experience, the Sail Turkey Gulet Cruise offers 4 days of sailing along the Lycian coast. It includes visits to Andriake Harbour, Tersane Koyu, and Camlık Bay, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

Guests love the luxury of the gulet, the sunset views from Simena Castle, and the chance to unplug and enjoy Turkey’s coast from the water. The itinerary balances relaxation with adventure, making it perfect for those wanting a true escape.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, multi-day cruise with plenty of swimming and stunning scenery.

10. Sail Turkey: Gulet Cruise Kas to Demre Via Kekova

This 5-day cruise is a comprehensive journey along Turkey’s Lycian coast. It covers Kas, Kekova, and Demre, with stops at Aperlai, Akvaryum Koyu, and Kocakarı Koyu. The focus is on sailing, snorkeling, and exploring historic sites.

Travelers appreciate the luxury of the boat, the scenic sunsets, and the chance to see Caretta Carettas. The cruise offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, suitable for those who want an extended, immersive experience.

Bottom line: Best for seasoned travelers who want a luxurious multi-day cruise with plenty of options to explore Turkey’s coast.

How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Demre

Picking between these options depends on your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after a full cultural experience with history and swimming, the Antalya tour is hard to beat. For a more personalized, private day, the private Kekova boat tour provides flexibility and comfort.

Budget travelers should consider the shared full-day trip, while those craving luxury and longer adventures can opt for the multi-day Gulet cruise. When planning, remember to check the availability and consider booking early, especially in peak season.

Final Thoughts

Demre’s boat tours showcase Turkey’s stunning coastline, where ancient ruins meet turquoise waters. For history lovers, tours that include Myra and Kekova are unbeatable. Water enthusiasts will appreciate the swimming and snorkeling stops at bays like Gökaya and Karemlik. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking privacy, the private boat excursions are hard to beat.

Whether you’re after a short cruise or a multi-day sail, Demre offers plenty of options. The key is choosing the experience that matches your interests and pace. Book early to secure your spot, especially during the busy summer months. Whatever you choose, one thing is certain—your time on the water in Demre will be unforgettable.