If there’s one thing you simply can’t miss while visiting Demre, it’s a boat tour to Kekova and Simena. This isn’t just a touristy cruise — it’s a journey into sunken cities, storybook villages, crystal bays, and timeless Mediterranean magic. Whether you’re into ancient ruins, swimming in turquoise water, or sipping tea in a mountaintop castle village, this tour will be the highlight of your trip.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go!
Why Take a Boat Tour in Kekova?
Because where else can you:
- Paddle or cruise above an entire sunken city?
- Swim in hidden coves you can’t reach by land?
- Visit a village with no roads and a castle built on Lycian tombs?
- Eat lunch on a boat while looking out at ancient ruins?
It’s an unbeatable mix of nature, history, and chill vibes — all wrapped in salty sea breeze.
Where Does It Start?
Most Kekova boat tours depart from Üçağız, a peaceful harbor village about 5 minutes from Demre by car.
- You can reach Üçağız by minibus, taxi, or your own rental car.
- Most boats leave around 10:00–11:00 AM and return by late afternoon.
- You can choose between shared group boats, private boats, or even sea kayaks for a more adventurous experience.
(Pro tip: There are also sunset and half-day options if you’re short on time!)
Typical Route & What You’ll See
Each tour may vary slightly, but most follow a similar and spectacular route:
1. The Sunken City of Kekova
Glide slowly past ancient ruins submerged in the sea — crumbled walls, harbor steps, and foundations from a Lycian-Roman town destroyed by earthquakes. You can’t swim here (it’s protected), but you’ll get fantastic views from the boat.
2. Simena (Kaleköy)
A dreamy hillside village only accessible by foot or boat. Climb up to the Byzantine castle (built atop Lycian tombs!) for the best panoramic view in the entire region. Wander the cobbled paths, sip pomegranate juice, and don’t leave without trying the homemade ice cream.
3. Swimming Stops in Hidden Bays
Depending on your captain’s route and the season, you’ll likely stop at 2–3 quiet bays such as:
- Tersane Bay: Once a shipyard, now a peaceful cove with submerged ruins.
- Aquarium Bay: Famous for its clarity — perfect for snorkeling.
- Kocakarı Bay or Gökkaya Bay: For a dreamy float in calm, warm water.
4. Lunch On Board
Most full-day tours include a home-cooked Turkish lunch, often with grilled fish, meze, salad, and fresh fruit. Simple, delicious, and eaten with a sea view!
What to Bring
- Swimsuit & towel
- Sunscreen & hat (shade is limited!)
- Water shoes or sandals
- Cash for castle entry or snacks in Simena
- Snorkel gear (some boats provide it)
- Camera or phone for photos
What Not to Miss
- Climbing to the top of Simena Castle for views of the whole bay
- Spotting the Lycian sarcophagus sticking out of the sea near Kaleköy harbor
- Swimming in a cove where ancient ruins lie just below the surface
- Watching the changing colors of the water — from deep blue to crystal turquoise
Final Thoughts
A Kekova boat tour is not just a day trip — it’s a little voyage through time and nature. It’s about lazy hours under the sun, breezy conversations with your boat captain, ancient stones below the surface, and unexpected quiet moments that take your breath away.
If you only do one thing in Demre — let it be this.
