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Best Gulet options in Demre
Sail from Demre, heart of Lycia, to Kekova’s mystical waters on our gulets. An unforgettable journey intertwined with history.
Built on the legacy of ancient Myra, Demre is one of the most significant sites of the Lycian civilization and today serves as the direct gateway to Kekova, Turkey's most enchanting Blue Cruise destination. To charter a gulet from Demre is to begin your holiday at the very heart of history and nature. From the wooden deck of a traditional gulet, you will witness the mysterious ruins of a Sunken City, climb the timeless castle of Kaleköy, and swim in turquoise coves, offering an experience that is truly without equal.
Demre's greatest asset is its strategic location. When you set sail from here, you don't need to cruise for hours to reach the world-famous wonders of Kekova-you are already there. A gulet is the perfect vessel to match the soul of this region. Its slow, gentle pace allows you to absorb the historical tapestry and natural beauty surrounding you. The spacious decks provide a perfect viewing platform for the sights of Kaleköy and the Sunken City, while the professional crew takes care of everything, leaving you free to simply enjoy the moment.
The sailing season in the Demre and Kekova region is longer than on the Aegean coast, typically running from April to early November.
Departing from Demre's Çayağzı Harbour, you first cruise slowly over the Sunken City. Next, you stop for a swim at Tersane Bay, the site of an ancient shipyard. In the afternoon, you visit Kaleköy (Simena), a village accessible only by sea, famous for its castle. The day often ends with another swim in the large, sheltered Gökkaya Bay.
Gulet charters from Demre depart from Çayağzı Harbour, located a few kilometres from the town centre. The nearest airports are Antalya (AYT) and Dalaman (DLM). A private transfer from either airport to the harbour takes approximately 2.5 hours. For weekly charters, check-in is typically on Saturday afternoon.
A gulet sailing the calm waters of Kekova reflects the soul of the region. With its spacious decks, comfortable cabins, and fully equipped galley, it provides a comfortable home on the sea. The crew (captain, chef, deckhand) manages all the navigation, cooking, and cleaning, allowing you to completely disconnect and enjoy your holiday.
All charter gulets are commercially licensed, fully insured, and meet strict safety standards. The Kekova region is a specially protected area with its own set of rules. Your captain will inform you of these, which include the strict prohibition of swimming, diving, or anchoring directly over the ruins of the Sunken City to preserve this precious heritage.
Demre's main advantage is its location right at the heart of the Kekova region. Starting here gives you immediate access to the Sunken City, Kaleköy (Simena), and beautiful bays. Unlike charters from Fethiye or Antalya, which require a day of cruising to reach this area, a Demre charter immerses you in the magic of Kekova from the very first moment.
Demre is located roughly halfway between two major airports: Antalya (AYT) and Dalaman (DLM). The transfer from either airport to Demre's Çayağzı Harbour takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. Your charter agent can easily arrange a private transfer for you.
Kekova is a protected Special Environmental Protection Area, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and culture. It is famous for the Sunken City, the Crusader castle at Simena, and incredibly clear turquoise waters where you can see ancient Lycian sarcophagi just below the surface.
The charter fee generally covers the rental of the gulet, the professional crew (captain, chef, deckhand), standard yacht equipment, and Turkish port taxes. Expenses like fuel, food and beverages (provisions), private marina fees (e.g., in Kaş), and crew gratuity are usually extra.
Yes, this is a highly recommended and very popular itinerary. A one-way charter allows you to explore the entire Lycian coast from Kekova and Kaş to Kalkan, Ölüdeniz, and the beautiful bays of Fethiye without backtracking, offering maximum discovery in one week.
No. To protect the archaeological site, the area of the Sunken City is strictly protected. Your gulet will cruise slowly over the ruins, offering a spectacular view from the deck, but swimming, diving, and anchoring directly over the site are forbidden.
It's a paradise for history buffs, archaeology lovers, and nature enthusiasts. It's ideal for couples, families, and groups seeking a tranquil holiday focused on culture and natural beauty, far from crowded resorts and nightlife.
Before your trip, you'll receive a detailed preference list to fill out with your dietary needs and favorite foods. Your crew's chef will then do all the shopping. The cost is covered by an APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance), a pre-paid budget you provide for all your onboard expenses.
Decide on your ideal trip. Do you want to spend a week immersed in the tranquility of Kekova, or embark on a one-way journey of discovery towards Fethiye? Finalize your group size and preferred dates.
Choose a gulet that matches your group's size and comfort level. Ask your charter agent for current photos and specifications to find the right floating home for your holiday.
Contact a professional charter broker to discuss route options departing from Demre. They will provide tailored suggestions and detailed quotes for suitable gulets.
Once you have chosen your gulet, carefully review the charter agreement. After confirming that all details are correct, secure your booking with a deposit.
Finalize your menu preferences, inform the crew of any allergies or special occasions, and arrange your airport transfers to Demre's Çayağzı Harbour.
Arrive at the harbour via your pre-booked transfer. Meet your welcoming crew, settle into your gulet, and set sail on an unforgettable Blue Cruise into the heart of ancient Lycia.
