Charter Gulet in Demre

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.

The Advantage of the Demre & Gulet Combination

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.

Who Is It For?

• History and Archaeology Buffs: Those eager to explore world-class sites like the Sunken City, Simena Castle, the rock tombs of Myra, and the Church of St. Nicholas.
• Seekers of Nature and Peace: Anyone wishing to spend a holiday in the untouched, protected bays of Kekova, far from the crowds and noise of modern life.
• Photography Enthusiasts: A region that offers postcard-perfect views at every turn, from underwater ruins to historic castles against a Mediterranean sunset.
• Families Seeking a Calm Holiday: The protected, calm waters of the Kekova region provide an exceptionally safe and enjoyable environment for a holiday with children.

Season & Weather

The sailing season in the Demre and Kekova region is longer than on the Aegean coast, typically running from April to early November.

• April-May & October-November: These shoulder months offer ideal weather for exploring historical sites on foot, with pleasant air and sea temperatures and the fewest crowds.
• June-September: This is the high season, with the hottest weather and warmest sea temperatures. It's perfect for those who want to spend their days swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the sun. The waters inside the Kekova sound remain remarkably calm.

Sample Itineraries

1-Day Route: Kekova Discovery Tour

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.

2–3 Day Route: Deeper into Kekova & Beyond

• Day 1: Enjoy the classic Kekova tour and spend a magical night anchored under the stars in Gökkaya Bay.
• Day 2: Sail west to the charming and vibrant harbour town of Kaş. Explore the town's boutiques and enjoy dinner at one of its excellent restaurants.
• Day 3: On the return journey to Demre, stop for swims at lesser-known spots like the cave-like İnönü Bay or the coast of the ancient city of Aperlai.

1-Week Route: The One-Way Lycian Adventure (Demre to Fethiye)

• Days 1 & 2: Immerse yourself in the Kekova region, exploring the Sunken City, Simena, the pirate's cave in Gökkaya, and the fishing village of Üçağız.
• Day 3: Arrive in Kaş and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town.
• Day 4: Swim at the world-famous Kaputaş Beach and anchor for the night in Kalkan Bay.
• Day 5: Visit the legendary Butterfly Valley and anchor near the stunning lagoon of Ölüdeniz or at St. Nicholas Island.
• Day 6: Explore the Byzantine ruins on St. Nicholas Island and discover the quiet bays of the Fethiye Gulf, like Cold Water Bay.
• Day 7: Spend a final day island-hopping around the world-famous bays of Göcek before ending your tour in Fethiye or Göcek.

Marina, Transfer & Check-in

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.

The Gulet & Onboard Life

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.

Cost Items

• Charter Fee: The weekly rental price for the gulet and its crew.
• Fuel: For the standard itinerary's engine and generator use.
• Provisions: The budget for all your food and drink preferences.
• Port Fees: Charges for docking in private marinas like Kaş.
• Site Entrance Fees: Tickets for historical sites like the Myra ruins, St. Nicholas Church, or Simena Castle.
• Crew Gratuity: A tip to show your appreciation for the crew's service, traditionally 5-15% of the charter fee.

Safety, Insurance & Rules

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.

Local Highlights

• The Sunken City of Kekova: The ruins of an ancient city, submerged by an earthquake in the 2nd century AD, visible just below the water's surface.
• Kaleköy (Simena): A stunning, authentic village with no car access, crowned by a medieval castle offering the best panoramic views of Kekova.
• Ancient City of Myra: Located in Demre, this site features a magnificent Roman theatre and impressive Lycian rock-cut tombs carved into the cliff face.
• Church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus): The church in Demre where St. Nicholas, the historical figure who became Santa Claus, served as bishop.
• Üçağız Village: A quaint fishing village surrounded by Lycian sarcophagi, offering a glimpse into local life.

Tips

1. Consider a One-Way Charter: A trip from Demre to Fethiye or Göcek allows you to see a much wider and more diverse section of the beautiful Lycian coast.
2. Bring Your Snorkel: The water in Kekova is incredibly clear, and you can spot ancient amphora fragments and vibrant marine life in many of the bays.
3. Make Time for Land Excursions: Don't just stay on the boat. Plan with your captain to make time to visit the incredible inland sites of Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas.
4. Pack Comfortable Shoes: You'll need good walking shoes or sandals for climbing up to Simena Castle and exploring the ancient ruins.