Turtles and ruins, all in one boat day. This Demre to Kekova trip is built around big coastal scenery, starting with a cruise past the Sunken City ruins and ending with time to swim, stroll, and search for sea turtles. It’s a sun-forward plan for summer days when you want the Mediterranean to do most of the work.

I really like the mix of swim time and built-in sightseeing. You’re not stuck staring at a map all day, and you get several separate water stops (with spots that are known for water activities and others that are calmer). I also like that lunch is included, and the day runs smoothly as staff handle food and snacks while you move between bays.

One consideration: the most famous ruins area is protected, so swimming isn’t allowed right where you’ll cruise past the ancient remains. You’ll be swimming elsewhere, just not in that exact zone.

Key takeaways before you go

• Sunken City photos from the boat: you’ll cruise alongside the underwater ruins where swimming is restricted.
• Kaleköy (ancient Simena) port break: about one hour ashore for castle ruins and a hillside walk.
• Multiple swim bays: including Esmeralda Bay, Burç Bay, and Gökkaya Bay.
• Gokkaya Bay has options: you can choose water sports during the stop.
• Karemlik Bay turtle-spotting: a dedicated chance to look for turtles in their habitat.
• Lunch included: staff prepare lunch and snacks as part of the day.

Demre to Kekova: what a 7-hour boat day is really like

This is a classic long summer half-day that feels like it’s over fast—in the best way. You’ll depart from Demre Harbour between 10:00 and 10:30 am, and you’ll be back at the meeting point (Andriake Harbour) after about 7 hours on the water. The timing matters: you’re on the bays before the late-day heat gets too aggressive, and you still get a relaxed lunch window instead of a rushed snack.

Expect a “move-and-make-time” rhythm. The boat does the driving between sights and swim coves, and then you get chunks of time to either explore on land or get into the water. The group size is capped at 55 travelers, which usually helps the day feel organized rather than chaotic.

One more practical detail I’d plan around: since the trip depends on good weather, you’ll want to keep your day flexible. If weather is poor, the operator offers a different date or a full refund, which is a decent safety net when you book a boat day.

Sunken City and Dolchiste: seeing the underwater ruins the right way

The heart of this trip is the cruise around the Sunken City and the flooded ancient area called Dolchiste. The story goes back to an earthquake in the 2nd century, which is why you can still see the remains underwater today. It’s one of those places where the scale hits differently when you’re looking at the ruins from sea level.

Here’s the key rule you’ll want to remember: the ruins sit within a protected area, so swimming is not permitted there. That means you don’t get the option to hop in right next to the ancient stones. Instead, the boat cruises alongside so you can take photos and look over the waterline with minimal hassle.

What I like about this approach is simple: you get to see the ruins without trampling around in a fragile zone. You also don’t lose time worrying about where the water is safe or where the guides will allow entry. If your main goal is photos and context, this format fits well.

Kaleköy (ancient Simena): castle ruins, necropolis, and a hillside view

At Kaleköy Port (ancient Simena), the boat anchors for about one hour. This is your land break, and it’s just enough time to do something real without letting the day fall behind.

Your stop centers on Simena Castle ruins and a nearby necropolis area. There’s also a hike up the hillside for views over the Kekova region. Even if you keep the walk moderate, you’ll usually come away with better perspective than you’ll get from the shoreline.

Plan for a ticket fee here. The info provided lists a Castle of Simena entrance charge as €4.00 per person not included, and also shows €1 in the stop notes. Either way, don’t assume it’s free. It’s a small extra cost compared with the day’s value, but it’s worth budgeting so the hour ashore stays stress-free.

Swimming at Esmeralda, Burç, and Gökkaya: where the day turns into vacation

This is the part you’ll remember once you’re back on land. After sightseeing segments, the schedule shifts to swim breaks—multiple times—so you don’t feel trapped in one bay that’s too crowded or too choppy.

You’ll stop at Esmeralda Bay for a lunch and swim break. This is the calm reset moment: you eat, stretch out, and get into the water while the day is still cruising steadily. After lunch, you’ll head to Burç Bay for a swim break of about 40 minutes. The sea is said to be cooler there due to natural underwater springs, so it’s a nice change if you start to feel overheated.

Then comes Gökkaya Bay, where you get one of the longer water times—about two hours—and it’s also a spot known for exciting water sports options. The schedule suggests that admission isn’t needed for the stop, which is good news if you want to keep costs down while still playing in the sea. If you’re a “just me and my swim” person, you can stick to that. If you want movement and a bit of thrill, this is your chance.

My practical advice: pack for saltwater and sun. Even if you don’t do water sports, you’ll be wet, then drying, then wet again. Bring a towel if you have one, and keep a dry bag accessible so you aren’t rummaging in your backpack every time you step back on board.

There’s also a stop for a naturally formed cave described as having a large size and a curved entrance. Even if you can’t do anything dramatic there (the schedule doesn’t list special activities), it adds variety to the scenery so the day doesn’t become only swimming and ruins.

Karemlik Bay and turtle-spotting: what to do with your “watch time”

Karemlik Bay is where the trip gets extra wildlife energy. You’ll have a chance to look for turtles at this stop, and the timing is built for watching—slow, patient observation instead of rushing.

The info provided notes that there are 8 known types of turtles worldwide, and 5 of which can be found in the Mediterranean. That’s a helpful reality check: you’re not guaranteed a turtle every minute, but the bay is presented as a legitimate place to search.

How to make this stop work in your favor:

• Stay near the spots where you can see the water surface.
• Don’t let your phone become a full-time job—scan first, then record.
• Be ready for quiet time. Turtle spotting often rewards people who aren’t trying to force it.

If you’re the type who likes animals but doesn’t want a strict wildlife tour with fences and rules, this fits the tone of the trip: look, float, and enjoy the bay as you try your luck.

Lunch, snacks, and the value question: is €60 worth it?

At $60.01 per person for about 7 hours, you’re paying for a full day on the water with several swim breaks and multiple points of interest. The price includes lunch, which matters more than it sounds. Boat days can turn expensive fast once you add drinks and a rushed meal, so having lunch folded into the plan makes the day feel more predictable.

You’re also not paying separately for every sightseeing stop. Most of the time, the key extras are limited to entrance fees where they apply—especially Castle of Simena. Since that fee is listed as not included, plan on spending a few euros there.

Where you really get value is in the pacing. You’re getting:

• Sunken City ruins viewing from the boat (with no need to fight for the best angle on land)
• A shore stop at Kaleköy for castle ruins and views
• Three distinct swim zones plus an extra time at Gökkaya Bay
• A wildlife-focused bay stop at Karemlik

If your goal is one ticket that strings together sights, swimming, and food without complicated switching between transport and multiple tour operators, this format is a smart way to spend the day.

Weather, seasickness, and the practical comfort factor

This is a weather-dependent tour, and that’s not just small print. Since it’s a boat day, the operator specifies that it requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund—useful if you’re booking near your trip’s end.

As for comfort: one review specifically notes the trip is suitable for people suffering from seasickness. I can’t promise every boat and every sea condition will feel the same, but the fact that it’s been singled out tells me the experience is at least considered manageable by some sensitive travelers. If you’re worried, you’ll still want to bring your own seasickness strategy (like medication you trust and timing that works for you).

Finally, aim to arrive ready for sun and water. Departing between 10 and 10.30 am means you’ll feel the light early in the day. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and water shoes are worth their weight in gold.

Who this boat trip suits best

This tour fits best if you want:

• A Mediterranean day that’s mostly outdoors and water-focused
• A chance to see Kekova’s ruins without spending hours hopping between sites
• Multiple swim breaks rather than one quick stop
• A wildlife moment at Karemlik Bay, especially if you enjoy casual turtle spotting

It’s not ideal if you want a long, detailed museum-style experience or if you need to swim at the ruins themselves. The Sunken City is protected, and swimming isn’t allowed there, so the best views come from the cruise.

Also, since it’s offered in English and runs with a maximum group size of 55, it should feel straightforward for most visitors who want an organized day without language headaches.

Should you book the Demre to Kekova boat trip?

If your ideal day includes swimming, classic coastline scenery, and a boat-based look at the Sunken City ruins, I’d say yes. The combination of included lunch, multiple bays, and turtle-spotting adds up to a solid value at $60.01—especially in summer when the water is the main event.

Book it with the expectation that you’ll enjoy the ruins more as a visual experience than a swim experience. You’ll get the underwater history through cruising and photos, then you’ll spend your time where swimming is allowed—so you still come away with that laid-back, water-on-your-skin feeling.

FAQ

FAQ

What time does the Demre to Kekova boat trip start?

The tour starts at 10:30 am, and departure from Demre Harbour is between 10:00 and 10:30 am.

Where is the meeting point and where does the tour end?

The meeting point is Andriake Harbour (Turkey), and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

How long is the trip?

The duration is approximately 7 hours.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included in the tour.

Do I need to pay an entrance fee for the Castle of Simena?

Yes. The Castle of Simena entrance fee is not included (listed as €4.00 per person in the tour details, and also shown as €1 in the stop notes).

Can I swim at the Sunken City ruins?

No. The Sunken City area is protected, and swimming is not permitted there. You’ll explore it by cruising alongside the ruins.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

How big is the group?

The tour has a maximum of 55 travelers.

What happens if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

ISTANBUL: Full-Day Private Tour with Top AttractionsIstanbul: Night Private Guided City TourCappadocia: Horse Safari with Hotel TransferRooftop Photoshoot in Istanbul