Where to Go When Renting a Boat in Demre?

Although Demre generally remains in the shadow of Kas among popular holiday routes, it is known as the "real gateway to Kekova" in the maritime world. While it takes up to 3 hours to reach Kekova by boat from Kas, you reach the heart of history in just 20 minutes when you depart from Demre Cayagzi Port.

As Limancepte.com, with our 10 years of field experience, we can clearly say: If your goal is "I don't want to waste time on the road, I want to see the Sunken City immediately and eat Blue Crab", the right address is Demre boat rental. This is the coast of Myra, the spiritual capital of the Lycian civilization, and bears the footprints of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus).

Here are 5 strategic boat routes departing from Demre where history and flavor intertwine:

1. Kekova Sunken City (Dolchiste): Closest Point to History

Shortly after leaving Demre Cayagzi Port, you reach the ancient city of Dolchiste, which was submerged by earthquakes in the 2nd century AD.

Advantage: The biggest advantage of tours departing from Demre is here; while boats coming from Kas are only halfway, you are already gliding over the Sunken City. While your private boat sails slowly parallel to the shore; you can watch the stairs and bath ruins in the water from the glass-clear water.
Technical Note: This place is under protection. Swimming and diving are prohibited, only "cruising" is allowed.

2. Simena (Kalekoy): An Ice Cream Break Inside a Postcard

After passing the Sunken City, your route turns to Simena Ancient City, accessible only by sea. When your boat docks at the pier, the famous Lycian sarcophagus standing alone in the water welcomes you. When you go ashore and climb the castle, the iconic view of Kekova is laid under your feet. The real secret of Simena is in its flavor. Returning without eating the "Peach & Almond" or "Banana" homemade ice cream made by the village aunts means leaving this route incomplete.

3. Pirates Cave: Magic of Natural Light

Located at the western tip of Asirli Island, Pirates Cave is the most mysterious stop of the Demre route. According to legend, this cave, where pirates hid their booty, fascinates with its turquoise color today. If you rented a large gulet, you have the chance to approach the mouth of the cave and swim inside. The phosphorescent light refractions inside the cave turn the color of the water into electric blue.

4. Gokkaya Bay: Water Sports and Peace

Gokkaya is the largest and most sheltered bay of the Kekova region. The sea here is as calm as a lake. Boats departing from Demre generally prefer this place for lunch and long swimming breaks. Cold water sources at the bottom of the bay create a natural air conditioning effect for you to cool off in the summer heat.

5. Karemlik Bay: Date with Caretta Carettas

On the way back to Demre port, the most special point your captain will take you to is Karemlik Bay. This is the feeding area of Caretta Caretta sea turtles, the symbol of the region. Not if you are lucky, but almost certainly, you will see turtles here. Thanks to the silence of the private boat, the turtles are not afraid of the boat and come right up to you.

Bonus: Blue Crab Experience

The gastronomic difference that distinguishes the Demre boat tour from all other routes is "Blue Crab". This crab species, living in the lagoons where bitter and fresh water mix in the region, is a rare delicacy in the world. You can eat freshly caught and cooked Blue Crab during your boat tour or at the port at the end of the tour.

Comparison: Departure from Kas or Demre?

Here is the table that will help you decide in 10 seconds: