Sail Turkey: Lycian Coast Cruise Tour

Discover the Beauty of Turkey’s Lycian Coast on a Gulet Cruise

Imagine spending a week aboard a traditional Gulet, sailing from Demre to Kas and exploring the remarkable sights of Turkey’s Lycian Coast. For around $1,127.90 per person, this 8-day cruise offers a relaxed yet adventurous way to see some of Turkey’s most cherished attractions — from UNESCO-listed sites to shimmering bays perfect for swimming.

What we appreciate most about this trip is how it combines natural beauty with cultural landmarks, all while providing a comfortable, social environment. The small group size—capped at 16 travelers—makes for a friendly, intimate experience, especially if you’re traveling solo or with a small group of friends. Two standout features are the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and explore ancient ruins that have stories to tell.

One potential consideration is the weather, as the itinerary is weather-dependent, which could mean adjustments or cancellations if storms roll in. Still, this is a common caveat for outdoor trips, and the tour providers seem committed to offering alternatives or full refunds if needed.

This cruise suits travelers who love authentic experiences, enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling, and are eager to explore historical sites at a leisurely pace. It’s especially appealing for those wanting to combine scenic sailing with cultural discovery in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Sailing Experience: Travel on a traditional Gulet, enjoying the slow pace of the Turkish coastline.
• Rich Cultural Stops: Visit UNESCO-listed Kekova, Roman shipyards, Byzantine churches, and ancient cities.
• Ideal for Water Lovers: Plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and water-based activities at stunning bays.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Max 16 travelers ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Varied Itinerary: From lively Kas nightlife to peaceful bays and ancient ruins, there’s a lot packed into one week.
• Good Value for Money: The itinerary, included activities, and scenery make this a worthwhile investment.

A Practical Look at the Lycian Coast Gulet Cruise

Let’s unpack what this tour really offers and why it might be a highlight of your travels in Turkey. The journey begins in Demre around 4:00 pm, where you meet your crew and settle into your cabin on a traditional Gulet. From there, the adventure quickly unfolds with your first stop at Kekova Bay, a UNESCO site famed for its Sunken City and submerged ruins that tell tales of an earthquake from 2,000 years ago.

The cruise itinerary balances sightseeing with ample opportunities for relaxation and water activities. You’ll visit Kekova Island, where lunch is served in a scenic setting, and enjoy swimming at Tersane Bay, home to a Roman shipyard and Byzantine church ruins. These stops allow you to walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations while soaking up the stunning scenery.

Day 2: Exploring Kekova and Its Sunken Secrets

The second day is particularly memorable. After a morning swim at Katir Iskelesi, you’ll visit Tersane Bay to see Roman and Byzantine relics—a highlight for history buffs. The Sunken City of Kekova remains one of the most intriguing parts of the trip. The submerged ruins, partially visible from the surface, give a tangible sense of history, and many travelers find themselves captivated by the stories these waters hold. As one reviewer noted, “Places we’ve visited were stunning,” and snorkeling here is highly recommended, so bring your gear!

Day 3: The Charm of Kas

By morning, you’ll cruise to Liman Agzi for breakfast and a swim, then continue to Kas, a lively coastal town renowned for its bohemian vibe, excellent seafood, and bustling nightlife. Spending the night in Kas means you can enjoy the town’s lively atmosphere, perhaps strolling through its narrow streets or having a drink at a seaside tavern after a day of sailing.

Day 4: Ancient Ruins and Hikes

The fourth day offers a blend of adventure and history. You can choose to hike along the Lycian Way from Aperlai Bay to the Ancient City of Aperlai, exploring ruins and enjoying breathtaking views. Alternatively, you might prefer to relax in the bay and swim before heading to Kocakari Bay for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 5: Ucagiz and Uprising of Ancient Cities

This day is perfect for history enthusiasts. After breakfast, you’ll visit Aquarium Bay for a swim, then cruise to Ucagiz Village. Here, you can explore Teimussa Ancient City and Simaena Castle—a medieval fortress perched above the sea. Walking along the Lycian Way from Ucagiz to Simaena offers stunning coastal views, enriching your appreciation of the region’s layered past. Many reviews mention how “each place has its own unique beauty,” making this day a highlight.

Day 6 & 7: Bays and Pirates, Water Fun

The sixth day takes you to Burç Bay and Karaloz Bay—quiet spots favored for swimming and relaxing. The fifth day culminates in a visit to Pirates Cave, a legendary hideout for seals and possibly pirates. It’s a fun, light-hearted stop that adds a touch of adventure.

The seventh day is a fun-filled highlight. You’ll enjoy Gökkaya Bay, where water activities like jet skiing and waterslides keep the fun going all day. The evening transports you to Smugglers Inn, accessible by small boats—an informal, lively spot perfect for mingling and sharing stories of your day.

Day 8: Farewell in Demre

Your trip ends with a leisurely breakfast at Karemlik Bay before sailing back to Demre Harbor around 9:30 am. The final leg offers a peaceful, scenic send-off, leaving you with plenty of memories and probably a few new friends.

What Makes This Tour Worth Considering

The beauty of this cruise lies in its combination of cultural exploration and laid-back sailing. It’s a chance to see ancient ruins, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the scenery at a gentle pace. Snorkeling and water-based activities are frequent highlights, appealing to travelers who love being in or on the water. The small-group setting enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

Many travelers rave about the delicious food, often describing it as “pretty delicious,” and the friendliness of the crew. The value for money is evident when you consider that most of the included stops are free—be it swimming, exploring ruins, or hiking—adding layers of value beyond just the scenic views.

However, keep in mind that weather can impact the schedule. One review mentions that “apart from weather conditions for one day, everything was top notch.” So flexibility and a sense of adventure are essential.

Who Is This Tour For?

This cruise is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic sailing experience with opportunities for historical exploration and water activities. It’s suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups of friends who enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure. If you thrive on authentic cultural sites and stunning coastlines, this trip ticks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a week of scenic sailing, cultural discovery, and water fun, this Lycian Coast cruise offers significant value. The carefully curated stops—ranging from ancient ruins to lively towns—make it a balanced experience. The small group size and friendly crew create an intimate atmosphere that many travelers find memorable.

This tour’s delicious food, beautiful vistas, and relaxed pace make it an appealing choice for anyone wanting to see Turkey’s coast from a different perspective—on the water, surrounded by history and natural beauty.

While weather can influence the experience, most reviews reflect genuine satisfaction with the journey. It’s a trip that leaves travelers with stories of sunken cities, stunning bays, and lively evenings in Kas.

FAQ

• What is included in the price?
  Most activities like swimming, snorkeling, and visits to ancient ruins are included. Accommodation and meals aboard the Gulet are part of the package.

• How many travelers will be on the tour?
  The tour is limited to 16 travelers, creating a cozy, friendly environment.

• What should I bring?
  Bring swimwear, snorkeling gear if you love snorkeling, comfortable shoes for hiking, and weather-appropriate clothing. Don’t forget sun protection!

• Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer?
  Yes, but you should feel comfortable in water for swimming and snorkeling activities. The itinerary includes many swimming stops, which are usually in calm waters.

• Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
  Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers feeling welcomed and making new friends.

• What is the best time of year to go?
  While not explicitly stated, good weather is essential, so spring or early fall are likely ideal.

• What happens in case of bad weather?
  The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This cruise along Turkey’s Lycian Coast stands out as a well-balanced, authentic way to discover a stunning corner of the Mediterranean, blending history, nature, and lively coastal towns into one unforgettable week.