Sail Turkey: Lycian Coast Cruise Tour

Getting a feel for Sail Turkey’s Lycian Coast Cruise
This 8-day Gulet cruise along Turkey’s Lycian coast offers a fantastic blend of history, scenic beauty, and relaxed sailing. Starting from Demre and winding back around Kekova, the journey takes you through clear waters, ancient ruins, and lively coastal towns. From the reviews, it’s clear that travelers are often captivated by the stunning vistas and the delicious local food — especially the tapas-style meals onboard, which seem to be a highlight.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it balances historic exploration with leisurely swims in some of Turkey’s most inviting bays. The stops at sites like the Sunken City of Kekova, Ucagiz Village, and the ancient city of Aperlai strike me as perfect for those who love authentic ruins and scenic hikes. Plus, the chance to hop in the water almost daily makes it a hands-on experience that’s more than just sightseeing from a distance.

However, a word of caution: this cruise is especially weather-dependent. A few reviews mention that if the weather turns sour, your plans might shift or even be canceled — so packing a flexible attitude and some rain gear is wise. Also, consider that the trip is shared with a maximum of 16 travelers, which is cozy but might not be ideal if you prefer complete privacy or your own cabin.

All in all, this tour seems to strike a good balance of value and genuine experience — especially if you’re keen on exploring Turkey’s coast with a friendly group and a knowledgeable crew. Keep reading for an in-depth look at what each day offers and who will get the most out of it.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Ancient Sites: You get to visit ruins like Aperlai and Teimussa, often led by guides who enrich your understanding of the area’s history.
• Water Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and even optional hikes along the Lycian Way give you plenty of ways to enjoy each stop.
• Lively Coastal Towns: Spending a night in Kas gives you a chance to explore shops, cafes, and lively nightlife, making it a well-rounded trip.
• Delicious Food & Shared Meals: Many reviews rave about the onboard meals, describing them as tasty, fresh, and perfect for sharing in the convivial atmosphere.
• Flexible Schedule: The itinerary balances planned visits with free time, giving you moments to relax or explore on your own.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour’s success depends on good weather; bad weather could lead to canceled activities or route adjustments.

Entering the World of the Lycian Coast: An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Demre and the First Night in Camlik Bay
Most travelers begin their adventure around 4 pm at Demre Harbour, a scenic spot known for its ancient churches and proximity to Myra’s ruins. The crew helps transfer your luggage to your cabin, often a cozy shared space, perfect for connecting with fellow travelers. You then cruise towards Kekova, with the first night spent at Camlik Bay. This initial stop is usually weather-dependent, but it offers a gentle introduction to the sailing experience, setting the tone for a week of relaxed exploration and good company. Many reviewers mention how friendly and attentive the crew is, making you feel at home quickly.

Day 2: Kekova Island, Sunken City & Byzantine Ruins
The second day is packed with highlights. You’ll cruise towards Kekova Island and arrive for lunch at Katir Iskelesi, where swimming in clear waters is often the first activity — a favorite among guests. Later, visiting the Tersane Bay’s Roman shipyard and Byzantine church offers a glimpse into the region’s layered history. The real star of this day is the Sunken City of Kekova, flooded during an earthquake roughly 2,000 years ago. Many guests, including one reviewer, noted snorkeling here as a “must-do,” citing the vibrant underwater scenery. It’s a chance to see submerged walls and ancient ruins up close, making it a truly unique experience.

Day 3: Kas and Liman Agzi
Waking up early for breakfast, you sail towards Liman Agzi, where the scenery is striking. After a hearty lunch and a swim, the cruise ends in Kas Harbour, a lively town famous for its cafes, shops, and nightlife. Spending a night here means you can stroll through Kas’s charming streets, try fresh seafood, and enjoy the bustling evening vibe. Many travelers appreciate this balance of activity and leisure, as it breaks up the cruising days and offers a taste of modern Turkish coastal life.

Day 4: Aperlai and Kocakari Bay
The day starts with a sail to Ufakdere Bay, where breakfast is served amid scenic surroundings. Here, you can choose to hike the Lycian Way to explore the ruins of Aperlai, a former port city with intriguing remains. The half-hour exploration is enough to get a sense of ancient life, and many find the combination of hiking and sailing very refreshing. The cruise then takes you to Sicak Bay and Kocakari Bay for dinner and overnight, highlighting the day’s mix of history, nature, and good food.

Day 5: Ucagiz, Aquarium Bay, and Teimussa
This day emphasizes authentic village life and ancient ruins. You’ll stop at Aquarium Bay for swimming and relaxing, then cruise to Ucagiz village. Here, options include following parts of the Lycian Way to visit Teimussa and Simena Castle — a favorite among those who enjoy a walk with spectacular views. Ucagiz’s small, authentic charm is often praised, and one reviewer loved exploring the approximately 30 houses in the village. Spending the night at Simena Castle offers a peaceful yet lively atmosphere, with opportunities to explore and dine.

Day 6: Burç Bay and Karaloz Bay
The waters here are said to be cooler due to underwater springs, making for a more invigorating swim. The cruise continues to Karaloz Bay, with more swimming and relaxing in stunning surroundings. This day emphasizes the natural beauty of the coast, with fewer historic stops but plenty of time for water fun and soaking up the scenery.

Day 7: Pirates Cave and Gokkaya Bay
The last full day is one for adventure. You’ll wake to sail past Pirates Cave, rumored to be a pirate hideout and winter refuge for seals. The afternoon is dedicated to watersports at Gokkaya Bay — jet skiing, banana boating, and waterslides — making it the most lively part of the trip. In the evening, you’ll visit Smugglers Inn, reached by small boats, for drinks and socializing, giving the trip a memorable end-of-journey vibe.

Day 8: Farewell at Karemlik Bay
On the final morning, after a leisurely breakfast, you sail to Karemlik Bay, ending your cruise back in Demre by around 9:30 am. Most travelers describe this as a bittersweet farewell, with many wishing they had more time to linger in this beautiful stretch of coast.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for those who want to combine sailing, history, and beach days in one package. If you enjoy authentic ruins, swimming in crystal waters, and lively coastal towns, you’ll find plenty here. Families, couples, and groups of friends all seem to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to meet fellow travelers. The shared cabins keep costs reasonable, but keep in mind that your experience hinges on good weather and favorable wind conditions — so flexibility is key.

This trip also suits travelers who appreciate delicious local food; many reviews mention how tasty and well-prepared the onboard meals are, often with a tapas feel. People who love a mix of laid-back days and engaging excursions will find this balance appealing. However, those seeking complete privacy or luxury might find the shared cabins and simpler accommodations a bit limiting.

Price and Overall Value

At just over $1,100 per person, this 8-day experience offers what many would consider excellent value. The inclusion of almost daily swimming, visits to ancient sites, and the chance to explore real Turkish towns makes it competitive compared to standalone tours or private charters. The price includes all onboard meals, which many guests describe as delicious and plentiful — a real perk considering how much you’ll be eating throughout the week. The limited group size (max 16) helps keep the experience intimate and personable, often cited as a major plus.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Cruise?

If you’re eager for a relaxed week of sailing around the Lycian coast, filled with history, waterfun, and authentic Turkish culture, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy group travel, shared experiences, and outdoor adventures. The variety of stops — from ancient ruins to lively villages — ensures there’s something for all. Just remember that your experience depends on good weather, and the shared cabins may not suit those seeking total privacy.

For anyone looking for a balance of adventure, culture, and leisure, this cruise offers a memorable way to see a beautiful stretch of Turkey’s coast without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The reviews suggest it’s a well-organized, friendly, and authentic trip that leaves many guests with stories to tell for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days does the cruise last?
It lasts about 8 days, starting in the late afternoon on Day 1 and ending in the morning of Day 8.

What is included in the price?
The price covers most meals onboard and the entire cruise itinerary. Specific inclusions like excursions or entrance fees are free, but check with the provider for details.

Can I cancel if the weather’s bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are possible, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the experience is canceled.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 16 travelers ensures a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Do I need my own water gear?
Many guests enjoy snorkeling, so bringing your diving or snorkeling equipment is recommended to fully enjoy the underwater sights.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers feeling welcomed and making new friends onboard.

Are there options for hikes or exploring on foot?
Yes, some days include optional Lycian Way hikes, such as at Aperlai or Ucagiz, providing scenic walks and ruins exploration.

What’s the best way to experience Kas?
Spending a night in Kas allows you to explore its lively streets, cafes, and shops — a highlight for many guests.

How do I get to Demre?
Most travelers start from Demre Harbour, which is accessible from nearby airports and towns; local transport options are available.