Sail Turkey: Gulet Cruise Demre to Kas Via Kekova offers a chance to explore Turkey’s Lycian coast from the deck of a traditional wooden sailboat. This four-day adventure, organized by SAILNSTAY for $477 per person, promises a blend of scenic cruising, historic sites, and relaxing swimming stops. It’s a classic way to experience the coast’s rugged beauty and ancient ruins without the hassle of land-based travel.
What I particularly like about this experience is the chance to sail along the spectacular coastline—the views are as good as you’d hope—and the opportunity to visit the Sunken City of Kekova, which is a rare glimpse into a submerged ancient settlement. Plus, the chance to enjoy sunset views from Simena Castle really captures Turkey’s magical evenings.
A potential consideration is the group size and schedule; since it’s a shared tour with a set itinerary, it might feel a bit rushed for those wanting a fully unstructured experience or plenty of time at each stop. Also, while the full-board meals are included, drinks are not, so budget accordingly if you enjoy local wines or soft drinks on board.
Key points / Takeaways
- Authentic sailing experience on a traditional gulet with friendly crew and scenic views.
- Historical highlights include the Sunken City of Kekova and Simena Castle, both rich in stories and photo opportunities.
- Swimming and snorkeling are core parts of the trip, with equipment provided at key stops.
- The itinerary balances scenic cruising with time onshore for sightseeing and exploring Kas nightlife.
- The tour is full-board, making meal planning straightforward, but drinks are extra.
- The cost offers good value given the inclusion of meals, snorkeling gear, and the unique experience of sailing along Turkey’s coast.
An In-Depth Look at the Gulet Cruise Experience
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Starting at Demre Harbor: Setting Sail into the Aegean
The adventure begins in Demre Harbor around 4 pm, where the crew helps with luggage and introduces you to your vessel. The gulet, a classic Turkish wooden sailboat, immediately sets the tone—evoking a sense of traditional maritime charm. As you settle into your cabin, you realize that this isn’t just a cruise; it’s an intimate, floating getaway.
The first evening involves cruising toward Kekova, with the chance to enjoy your first onboard dinner while watching the coastline’s sunset. Depending on the weather, the boat may anchor at Camlik Bay for the night. This initial stretch offers a gentle introduction to Turkey’s coast, promising tranquility and spectacular views.
Day 2: Exploring Kekova’s Sunken Secrets and Ancient Ruins
This day packs a lot into a relatively short window, which is typical for a cruise of this nature. The morning involves cruising towards Kekova Island, with a stop at Katir Iskelesi for swimming and snorkeling—fancy that, in a bay with crystal-clear waters. The crew’s equipment makes it easy to cool off and explore beneath the waves.
Next up is a visit to Tersane Bay, notable for its Roman shipyard and Byzantine church ruins—a pleasant reminder of this coast’s layered history. The real highlight, though, is the Sunken City of Kekova. Flooded during an earthquake approximately 2,000 years ago, the ruins are still partially visible, and you’ll get a sense of the ancient life that once thrived here. One reviewer notes, “Watching the submerged ruins through the water was surreal, like peering into a lost civilization.”
Day 3: From Kekova to Kas—A Day of Contrasts
The third day starts early with breakfast onboard, followed by a scenic cruise toward Limanagzi. Here, swimming and snorkeling are on the agenda again, with the crystal waters making for an enjoyable cool-down. It’s a day designed for relaxing in nature’s pool, with plenty of opportunities to float and soak up the sun.
The afternoon takes you to Kas, a lively fishing town with a charming harbor. You’ll arrive in time for a walk through its narrow streets, shopping, and enjoying the vibrant local atmosphere. The cruise’s schedule allows you to spend the night in Kas, a big plus for those wanting a taste of Turkish nightlife after days on the water.
Day 4: Farewell and Reflections
After breakfast, your cruise concludes around 11:30 am. While the trip is relatively short, it leaves you with a collection of memories—seaside serenity, ancient ruins, and vibrant local life—all accessible in a compact, well-organized package.
The Logistics: What to Expect
Transportation and Schedule
Starting from Andriake Harbour, the cruise is well-paced, with most stops lasting a few hours—enough to swim, take photos, or explore a bit. The group size is not specified, but the experience is generally shared with a small group, which fosters a convivial atmosphere.
Meals and Drinks
Full-board meals are included—three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners—carefully prepared to showcase Turkish flavors. The meals are a highlight, often fresh seafood and local ingredients, but drinks are extra, which is typical for cruising experiences.
Snorkeling and Equipment
Snorkelling gear is provided, making it easy to take advantage of the clear waters at stops like Camlik Bay and Limanagzi. You might find the snorkeling to be one of the best parts of the trip, especially if you love exploring underwater landscapes.
Cost and Value
At $477 per person, the tour offers solid value considering the included meals, activities, and unique experiences. It’s a convenient way to see a stretch of Turkey’s coast without the hassle of booking multiple land-based excursions or navigating the roads.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This cruise suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, love scenic sailing, and are curious about both natural and historical sights. It’s ideal for first-timers to Turkey or those seeking a low-stress introduction to the Lycian coast. Because of the full-board setup and the focus on outdoor activities, it’s perfect for adventurous individuals and couples alike.
If you’re someone who craves authentic maritime experiences or wants to combine leisure and exploration in a compact timeframe, this tour hits the right notes. It’s less suited for travelers looking for extensive land visits or a very personalized schedule.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For those seeking a taste of Turkey’s spectacular coastline without the hassle of renting boats or planning complicated routes, this gulet cruise offers a well-organized, enjoyable package. The combination of scenic sailing, historic ruins, and lively Kas nightlife** makes it a well-rounded experience.
The value comes from the included meals, snorkeling gear, and the chance to relax on deck, soaking in views you simply can’t get from land. The tour’s moderate price point makes it accessible for many travelers, especially considering the comfort of a private cabin and the intimacy of a small group.
This cruise is best suited for adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and those wanting a memorable sea voyage along Turkey’s legendary coast.
FAQ
What is the starting point of this cruise?
It begins at Andriake Harbour, a convenient spot to launch into Turkey’s coast and get onboard quickly.
How long does the entire trip last?
The cruise lasts for four days, with the tour ending around 11:30 am on the final day in Kas.
Are meals included?
Yes, full-board meals are included—three breakfasts, two lunches, and three dinners—featuring local ingredients and fresh seafood.
Are snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to explore the underwater scenes at several stops.
What are some highlights of the itinerary?
Key highlights include the Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Castle, and scenic cruising along the Lycian coast.
Is drinks other than water included?
No, drinks are not included in the price and will need to be purchased separately onboard.
Who is this tour ideal for?
It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic sailing, history, and relaxed outdoor activities—ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick coastal escape.
This 4-day gulet cruise along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast offers a balance of scenic sailing, historic sites, and relaxing swims, all wrapped in an authentic maritime experience. If you’re drawn to the idea of exploring Turkey’s coast from the deck of a traditional boat, this trip might just be the perfect introduction—and a memorable way to see a side of Turkey that few land-based tours can match.