From Demre: Sunset Boat Tour to Kekova

If you’re looking for a way to combine natural beauty, history, and a touch of relaxation, this sunset boat tour from Demre to Kekova might just fit the bill. Designed for travelers eager to see the Mediterranean coast’s highlights without a long day on the water, this three-hour cruise delivers a memorable experience with plenty of scenic views and intriguing sights.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the opportunity to witness the Sunken City of Kekova from the boat’s glass-bottom view, bringing the ancient ruins to life without getting your hair wet. Second, the chance to enjoy peaceful swimming breaks in bays filled with natural springs and cool waters. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short tour, so if you’re craving a deep dive into the area’s history or more time on the water, you might want to consider longer excursions.

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate stunning scenery, a relaxed pace, and a taste of authentic Turkish coastal life. Whether you’re a history buff or just after some unforgettable vistas at sunset, this trip offers a well-rounded, value-packed half-day adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning views of the coastline, castles, and underwater ruins
• Relaxed itinerary with swimming and sightseeing opportunities
• Educational experience with insight into Kekova’s history and sunken ruins
• Comfortable group size (max 25 travelers) for a personalized feel
• Affordable price point considering all included activities and sights
• Convenient meeting point at Andriake Harbour, with easy access and flexible timing

An In-Depth Look at the Sunset Boat Tour to Kekova

Why This Tour Might Appeal to You

If you enjoy combining scenic beauty with a touch of exploration, this tour offers a perfect slice of Turkey’s coastal allure. It’s not a high-energy adventure but rather a gentle cruise with plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery, take photos, and enjoy some leisurely swimming. The fact that it’s a sunset trip adds a special magic—viewing the coast as the sun dips into the sea creates an atmosphere that feels both peaceful and awe-inspiring.

It’s also a very cost-effective way to see some of the area’s top sights without the hassle of planning multiple stops or paying entry fees. For $116.36 per person, you get a well-organized 3-hour trip loaded with highlights, including the underwater ruins of Kekova and the dramatic castle ruins of Simena.

Starting Point: Andriake Harbour

The adventure kicks off at Andriake Harbour, a location rich with history, as Demre was once called Myra, an important Lycian city. The departure time of 6:00 p.m. aligns beautifully with sunset, making the experience even more romantic. The harbour itself is an accessible starting point, especially if you’re already exploring the nearby town.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Andriake Harbour – This is where your journey begins. You can arrive early and enjoy the local scenery or explore nearby before heading out.

Stop 2: Kekova – Cruising around the Sunken City, you’ll get close enough to see the submerged ruins from the boat’s glass-bottom section. The legend and mystery of this sunken city add an element of wonder. As one reviewer noted, “Two beautiful swims and lots of incredible scenery” highlight this part of the trip, though swimming isn’t permitted directly over the ruins here, reinforcing the importance of viewing from the boat.

Stop 3: Kekova Island – The ancient city of Dolchiste was submerged after an earthquake in the 2nd century. You won’t be able to swim here due to protection rules, but with the glass bottom, you’ll get a good glimpse of the underwater stone streets and structures. Imagine capturing photos of the ruins with the boat in the foreground — a truly unique perspective.

Stop 4: Viewing Simena Castle – As you cruise by, you’ll see the ruins of Simena Castle and the ancient city. It’s a dramatic sight from the water, with the castle perched dramatically above the coastline.

Stop 5: Burç Bay – One of the highlights is the swim stop at Burç Bay, about an hour long. The water here is notably cooler thanks to underground springs, making it refreshing on a warm evening. Many travelers, like the reviewer who called it “an awesome experience,” appreciated these relaxing breaks.

Stop 6: Asırlı Adası Deniz Mağarası – This naturally-formed cave is large and curved, offering a fascinating natural feature to explore and photograph. The brief 15-minute stop allows for a quick look but makes a strong impression.

Return to Andriake Harbour – After a scenic and restful couple of hours, the boat heads back for the return journey, ending around 9 p.m.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price is use of snorkeling equipment and the 3-hour boat trip itself. This means you can try some light snorkeling if you wish, but it’s not a major part of the experience. Food and drinks are not included, so if you’re craving snacks or beverages, it’s wise to bring your own or plan to purchase them at the harbour before departure.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

The single review we have echoes the overall positive impression. The reviewer said, “We had such an amazing time on the sunset trip from Demre and back — Ahmed was a lovely host, and the experience far far exceeded expectations.” They appreciated the beauty of the scenery and the opportunity for two swims, making it clear this trip balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Practical Details: Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $116, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions and the sights. The small group size (maximum 25 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, and the flexibility of cancellation makes it less risky if the weather turns sour. Plus, the sunset timing enhances the atmosphere, making it a memorable evening rather than just a routine boat ride.

Who Would Love This?

This tour suits travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and are interested in history, scenic views, and natural swimming spots. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of Turkey’s coast without committing to a full-day trip. Families, couples, or solo travelers can all enjoy it, especially if they appreciate a gentle, scenic cruise with some photo opportunities.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This sunset boat trip to Kekova from Demre offers a delightful combination of beautiful scenery, historical intrigue, and relaxing stops. The highlight is undoubtedly the chance to glimpse the Sunken City from the boat, which feels almost like peering into an ancient underwater museum. The swimming stops in calm bays provide refreshing breaks, and the views of Simena Castle add a dash of drama to the cruise.

While it’s a shorter tour—just three hours—it packs in a rich variety of sights that are perfect for travelers looking for a balanced blend of history, nature, and leisure. The tour is best suited for those who want an accessible, well-organized experience that emphasizes authentic scenery and a touch of wonder.

If you’re after more in-depth exploration or a longer adventure, you might want to consider other options, but for a relaxing, scenic, and informative sunset cruise, this one hits the mark. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to see the coast’s highlights without too much fuss, especially at sunset when the views become even more magical.

FAQs

When does the tour start and end?
The tour departs at 6:00 p.m. from Andriake Harbour and generally lasts around three hours, returning roughly by 9:00 p.m.

Where does the tour begin and finish?
It begins at Andriake Harbour in Kas and ends back there after the cruise.

Is swimming included in the tour?
There are swimming stops, notably in Burç Bay, which lasts about an hour. You can enjoy the cool waters thanks to natural springs, but swimming over the sunken ruins at Kekova itself is not permitted.

What’s the cost of the tour?
The price is $116.36 per person, which covers the boat trip, snorkeling gear, and sightseeing.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own if needed or plan to buy at the harbour before departure.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 25 for a comfortable experience. However, comfort with boat rides and swimming depends on individual health.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for cooling evening breezes. If you want to snorkel or swim, pack your gear.

How do weather conditions affect the tour?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refunded. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

This boat tour from Demre to Kekova offers a well-rounded, scenic experience with a hint of adventure. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful evening filled with beautiful views, underwater secrets, and a touch of history—all wrapped into one manageable, affordable package.