Kemer Pirate Boat Trip: A Day of Sun, Sea, and Ancient Ruins

When you think of a full-day boat trip along Turkey’s stunning coast, picture turquoise waters, lively boat rides, and visits to beautiful beaches. From Kemer, this Pirate Boat Trip offers exactly that—seven hours of sailing, swimming, and exploring, all for around $29 per person. Expect to visit Cennet Koyu (Paradise Bay), enjoy a delicious onboard lunch, and optionally wander around Phaselis’s ancient ruins, all with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What we love most about this cruise is its focus on relaxation and fun. The stops at scenic bays like Tekirova and Korsan Koyu are perfect for swimming in calm, clear waters. Plus, the lively atmosphere on board, combined with the chance to see some ancient Greek and Roman ruins, makes for a well-rounded day.

One potential drawback? The itinerary can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to spend more time exploring Phaselis or other stops. Entrance fees aren’t included for the ruins, so budget extra if you plan to visit. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of leisure and light exploration, especially those happy with a group experience and looking for good value.

If your idea of a good day involves beautiful bays, a bit of history, and a lively boat ride, then this trip will likely hit the spot. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value hotel transfers and a cost-effective way to see multiple spots along the coast without the hassle of organizing transportation themselves.

Key Points

Kemer Pirate Boat Trip - Key Points

  • Convenient transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included
  • Variety of stops: beaches, ancient ruins, and scenic bays
  • Good value: includes lunch and many swimming opportunities
  • Flexible options: visit Phaselis ruins at your own pace (cost not included)
  • Lively atmosphere with a friendly crew
  • Potential for a quick schedule if you want to explore ruins in-depth

Exploring the Kemer Pirate Boat Trip in Detail

Kemer Pirate Boat Trip - Exploring the Kemer Pirate Boat Trip in Detail

What’s Included and How It Matters

Starting your day with hotel pickup between 09:30 and 09:45 makes it easy to relax rather than worry about logistics. The departure from Kemer Marina at 10:00 AM sets the tone for a well-organized day. For around $29, the lunch is included, and so is transportation, which adds significant value, especially since arranging your own transport could cost more and be less convenient.

The tour is designed to be around 7 hours long, which balances enough time for each stop without feeling overly rushed. Expect to arrive back at Kemer Marina around 4:30 PM, giving plenty of time to unwind afterward.

The Stops: Beaches, Ruins, and Bays

Cennet Koyu (Paradise Bay)

Your first stop, Cennet Koyu, is a highlight. Known as Paradise Bay, it’s as idyllic as the name suggests. The clear waters here make it perfect for swimming or just relaxing on the boat. The admission ticket is included, so you can hop off and enjoy the natural beauty without extra hassle.

One reviewer, Bryce_K, mentioned some communication issues around pickup, but everyone agrees the bay itself is stunning. The two-hour visit is enough to unwind, take photos, and cool off in the water.

Phaselis Koyu and Ancient Ruins

Next is Phaselis, a famous ancient city just a short walk from the beach. The tour includes lunch on board, but visiting the ruins is optional, with entrance fees not included. You might find that exploring the classical ruins is the highlight for history buffs, though the tour doesn’t guarantee sufficient time for a full exploration—the visit is about an hour.

Many travelers, like Theodor_S, praise the overall experience, stating, “Super Tour, can only recommend it,” appreciating the clarity and friendliness of the guides. However, Carola_M pointed out that the tour wasn’t in German as she expected, which underscores that language might be an issue for some.

Tekirova and Çamyuva Bays

The stops at Mehmet Ali Bükü and Alacasu (Paradise Bay) are free, offering opportunities for swimming and relaxing in calmer waters. These are less crowded spots, perfect for travelers who want a peaceful break.

Korsan Koyu (Pirate Bay)

The final stop at Pirate Bay is a fun, lively spot, with admission included. It’s a great way to end the day with some playful photo opportunities and a lively atmosphere.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Onboard, you’ll find a lively, friendly crew that keeps the energy upbeat. The boat itself is comfortable enough for the group size (max 55 travelers), and the mobile ticket system makes check-in straightforward.

The lunch served on board is generally appreciated, though not gourmet. Expect simple, tasty fare suited for a day on the water—filling enough to keep you going through the afternoon.

The Real Traveler Perspective

Reviews offer a balanced view. The majority (91%) recommend this tour, citing value and scenic stops as strong points. Bryce_K’s one-star review highlights communication issues and misaligned expectations, which suggests that travelers should confirm pickup details in advance.

Meanwhile, Theodor_S raves about the “super tour”, emphasizing that it’s well-organized and suitable for those who understand English or just want a straightforward fun day. Carola_M’s concern about language indicates that non-English speakers might want to clarify what languages the tour is conducted in.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the cost, the variety of stops, and the inclusion of lunch and transfers, this trip offers good value for money. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water, with enough options to swim, see some ruins, and enjoy the lively boat atmosphere. It’s less suitable if you’re looking for a deep exploration of Phaselis or prefer a more structured, guided tour with guaranteed timings.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book?

Kemer Pirate Boat Trip - Final Thoughts: Who Should Book?

This boat trip is perfect if you’re after a cost-effective way to enjoy the Turkish coast’s bays and beaches without the hassle of organizing transport or activities yourself. It’s suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate flexibility—especially since the ruins visit is optional.

If you’re comfortable with group tours and want a lively, fun day with plenty of swimming and scenic views, this experience will meet your expectations. However, if you’re a history buff looking for a detailed exploration of Phaselis or prefer a more tranquil experience, you might want to consider other options or add a private guide.

FAQs About the Kemer Pirate Boat Trip

Kemer Pirate Boat Trip - FAQs About the Kemer Pirate Boat Trip

What time does the tour start?
Pickup from your hotel is between 09:30 and 09:45, with departure from Kemer Marina at 10:00 AM.

How long does the entire trip last?
The total duration is around 7 hours, with the tour returning to Kemer Marina around 4:30 PM.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a simple lunch is served onboard, included in the price.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you’ll need to buy your own if you want beverages.

Can I visit the ancient ruins at Phaselis?
Yes, you can visit the ruins, but entrance fees are not included, and the visit time is about an hour, so plan accordingly.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for your convenience.

Is there a limit on the number of travelers?
The tour accommodates up to 55 travelers, keeping it lively but manageable.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and swimming stops make it suitable for families with kids who enjoy water activities.

What language is the tour conducted in?
While reviews suggest some communication issues, the tour generally provides explanations in English, but language options are not specified. It’s worth confirming if language is a concern.

To sum it up, the Kemer Pirate Boat Trip offers a lively, scenic, and reasonably priced way to enjoy Turkey’s coast. With beautiful bays, some history, and onboard convenience, it’s a solid choice for those who want a fun and relaxed day on the water. Just be aware of the schedule’s pace and potential language limitations, and you’re set for a memorable day out.