THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
A compact, three-hour boat cruise from Demre that visits Kekova Island, the sunken city of Simena, Pirate Cave and two swim stops—ideal for snorkelers and history-minded travelers. Expect clear water, Lycian ruins near the surface, and a chance to spot sea turtles.
A compact, three-hour boat cruise from Demre that visits Kekova Island, the sunken city of Simena, Pirate Cave and two swim stops—ideal for snorkelers and history-minded travelers. Expect clear water, Lycian ruins near the surface, and a chance to spot sea turtles.
Salt and wind come first: the boat slips from Demre Harbour and the Lycian coast widens, low limestone ridges giving way to bright coves. Waves nudge the hull as passengers scan the water for glints of turtle carapace and clusters of stone that mark the edge of the sunken city.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Before Travel Agency · Demre, Antalya Province
Salt and wind come first: the boat slips from Demre Harbour and the Lycian coast widens, low limestone ridges giving way to bright coves. Waves nudge the hull as passengers scan the water for glints of turtle carapace and clusters of stone that mark the edge of the sunken city.
This half-day cruise threads natural and human history. The Kekova coast bears stacked stories—Lycian tombs cut into cliffs, Byzantine ruins submerged after seismic shifts, and Ottoman-era fishing hamlets clinging to sheltered bays. The geology is simple and striking: karst limestone cliffs, pebble beaches, and shallow shelves that let underwater ruins sit close to the surface.
Expect three hours focused on water, ruins, and swimming: a pass by Pirate Cave and Gokkaya Bay, a snorkeling stop in Burc Bay, a slow glide past the sunken outlines of Simena, and a second swim before returning to harbour. The sea here often pushes you forward—warm, clear, and alive with fish—while sheer rock faces offer shelter from the wind.
Practicalities are straightforward. Boats typically carry restroom facilities and snorkeling gear for rent; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and a lightweight wind layer. Morning departures give calmer water and cooler light for photos; mid-season bookings fill fast, so reserve in advance. Respect protected areas: avoid stepping on ruins, keep distance from nesting turtles, and use mooring points rather than anchoring over archaeological sites.
This trip is compact but rich: a concentrated taste of Mediterranean history, marine life, and easy coastal adventure suitable for most travelers.
The trip is approximately three hours and typically includes stops at Pirate Cave, Gokkaya Bay, Burc Bay for swimming/snorkeling, a pass by the sunken city of Simena, and a final swim before returning to Demre Harbour.
Yes—there are planned swim/snorkel breaks; bring or rent a snorkel set and follow crew safety briefings regarding currents and water depth.
Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) are present in the region and sightings are possible, especially near quieter coves and seagrass areas; sightings are not guaranteed.
The excursion is rated easy and suitable for families; non-swimmers can still enjoy views from the boat but should wear provided life vests during swim stops.
Before Travel Agency operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Salt and wind come first: the boat slips from Demre Harbour and the Lycian coast widens, low limestone ridges giving way to bright coves. Waves nudge the hull as passengers scan the water for glints of turtle carapace and clusters of stone that mark the edge of the sunken city.
Salt and wind come first: the boat slips from Demre Harbour and the Lycian coast widens, low limestone ridges giving way to bright coves. Waves nudge the hull as passengers scan the water for glints of turtle carapace and clusters of stone that mark the edge of the sunken city.
This half-day cruise threads natural and human history. The Kekova coast bears stacked stories—Lycian tombs cut into cliffs, Byzantine ruins submerged after seismic shifts, and Ottoman-era fishing hamlets clinging to sheltered bays. The geology is simple and striking: karst limestone cliffs, pebble beaches, and shallow shelves that let underwater ruins sit close to the surface.
Expect three hours focused on water, ruins, and swimming: a pass by Pirate Cave and Gokkaya Bay, a snorkeling stop in Burc Bay, a slow glide past the sunken outlines of Simena, and a second swim before returning to harbour. The sea here often pushes you forward—warm, clear, and alive with fish—while sheer rock faces offer shelter from the wind.
Practicalities are straightforward. Boats typically carry restroom facilities and snorkeling gear for rent; bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and a lightweight wind layer. Morning departures give calmer water and cooler light for photos; mid-season bookings fill fast, so reserve in advance. Respect protected areas: avoid stepping on ruins, keep distance from nesting turtles, and use mooring points rather than anchoring over archaeological sites.
This trip is compact but rich: a concentrated taste of Mediterranean history, marine life, and easy coastal adventure suitable for most travelers.