Demre Yacht & Boat Charter

Demre is not just a starting point for a boat holiday; it's a gateway to another world. Known in antiquity as Myra, this is the heart of the ancient Lycian civilization and the legendary home of St. Nicholas. Chartering a yacht from Demre means setting sail directly into the Kekova region, a protected marine wonderland where history is not just in museums but lies literally beneath your keel. It's a journey defined by turquoise waters, sunken ruins, and timeless stone villages accessible only by sea.

Advantages of Chartering a Yacht in Demre

The primary advantage of a Demre charter is immediate access to the spectacular Kekova region. Unlike other ports that require a day's sail to reach this area, from Demre's Çayağzı port, you are exploring the sunken city within an hour. The waters here are exceptionally calm and protected by islands, making it one of the safest and most serene cruising grounds in the Mediterranean. It offers a unique blend of profound history and stunning natural beauty, creating a holiday experience that is both relaxing and enriching.

Who Is It For?

• History Enthusiasts: Those who will be thrilled to sail over a 2,000-year-old sunken city, climb a Crusader castle, and explore ancient Lycian sarcophagi scattered across the landscape.
• Underwater Explorers: Snorkelers and swimmers who dream of exploring crystal-clear bays where fragments of ancient amphorae can still be spotted on the seabed.
• Seekers of Tranquility: Couples and families looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The Kekova region is remarkably peaceful, with no large resorts or noisy nightlife.
• Authentic Culture Lovers: Travellers who appreciate visiting car-free villages like Kaleköy (Simena), tasting homemade ice cream, and interacting with locals whose way of life has changed little over centuries.

Season & Weather

The charter season on the Lycian coast runs from May through October, offering reliably beautiful weather.

• May - June: The landscape is lush and green, wildflowers are in bloom, and the sea temperature is pleasant for the first swims of the season.
• July - August: These are the hottest months, with long, sunny days perfect for life on the water. The sea is wonderfully warm, and the protected bays offer calm anchorage.
• September - October: Many consider this the best time. The intense summer heat subsides, the sea remains very warm, and the archaeological sites are less crowded.

Sample Itineraries

1-Day Itinerary: The Kekova Classic Tour

Depart from Çayağzı Port (Andriake). Cruise past the protected ruins of the Sunken City of Kekova. Anchor at Tersane Bay, where you can swim among submerged Byzantine chapel ruins. Moor at Kaleköy (Simena) to hike up to the medieval castle for breathtaking views. Finish with a swim stop at a secluded spot like Burç Bay before returning to port.

2–3 Day Itinerary: Deeper into the Bays

• Day 1: Follow the classic Kekova tour itinerary, but instead of returning, anchor for the night in the vast and tranquil Gökkaya Bay.
• Day 2: Enjoy a morning swim and explore the nearby Pirate's Cave. Sail west towards the ancient port of Aperlai, another sunken site perfect for snorkeling. Anchor for the night in a quiet cove like Karaloz Bay.
• Day 3: Have a leisurely breakfast and a final swim before the scenic sail back to the port of Demre.

1-Week Itinerary: The Lycian Explorer (Demre to Kaş & Back)

• Day 1: Depart Demre, explore the Sunken City, and overnight in a bay near Kaleköy.
• Day 2: Sail west to the bays surrounding the charming town of Kaş. Explore Limanağzı Bay, with its Lycian rock tombs.
• Day 3: Enjoy the town of Kaş in the morning. In the afternoon, sail to a nearby anchorage like Firnaz Bay.
• Day 4: Head further west towards Kalkan, with a swim stop at the world-famous Kaputaş Beach.
• Day 5: Begin the journey east, exploring different bays you missed on the way out, perhaps stopping at İnönü Bay.
• Day 6: Return to the heart of the Kekova region. Visit the secluded bay of Aperlai and enjoy a final peaceful night.
• Day 7: One last morning swim in the turquoise waters before returning to Çayağzı Port in Demre.

Port, Transfer & Check-in

The main port for charters is Çayağzı Port, also known as the ancient port of Andriake, just a few kilometers from Demre town center. Transfers are typically arranged from either Dalaman Airport (DLM) or Antalya Airport (AYT). Both are scenic drives of about 2.5-3 hours. Standard check-in time is Saturday afternoon.

Yacht & Equipment

The quintessential vessel for this region is the Turkish Gulet. These spacious wooden motorsailers are perfect for the calm waters, offering large decks for lounging, dining, and sunbathing. Their slow, steady pace is ideal for appreciating the coastal scenery and historical sites. Motor yachts and sailing yachts are also available, but the gulet experience is perfectly in tune with the relaxed spirit of the Lycian coast.

Cost Components

• Charter Fee
• Fuel Costs
• Provisioning (Food & Beverages)
• Port & Mooring Fees (Generally low in this less-commercialized region)
• APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) / Security Deposit
• Crew Gratuity (Customarily 5-15% of the charter fee)

Safety, Insurance & Rules

All charter vessels are commercially registered, fully insured, and equipped with all necessary safety gear. The Kekova region is a Specially Protected Area. Your captain will be knowledgeable about the specific regulations, which include restrictions on anchoring and swimming in certain archaeological zones to protect the underwater heritage.

Local Highlights

• The Sunken City of Kekova: The main attraction-a partially submerged ancient Lycian city, viewable from the deck of your boat.
• Simena Castle (Kaleköy): A stunningly preserved medieval castle built atop a Lycian necropolis, offering panoramic views of the entire region.
• Myra Ancient City: Located inland in Demre, famous for its impressive rock-cut tombs carved into a cliff face and a large Roman theatre.
• Church of St. Nicholas: The original church of the 4th-century bishop who became the basis for the legend of Santa Claus, located in the center of Demre.
• Tersane Bay: A beautiful bay on Kekova Island with the underwater and shoreline ruins of a Byzantine chapel.
• Üçağız Village: A quaint and authentic fishing village nestled in a calm bay, surrounded by Lycian sarcophagi.

Tips

1. Pack Snorkeling Gear: The real magic of Kekova is underwater. Bring a good mask and snorkel to fully appreciate the submerged history.
2. Wear Good Shoes: If you plan to hike up to Simena Castle, wear sturdy footwear as the path is ancient, uneven, and cobbled.
3. Respect the Ruins: The area is an open-air museum. Listen to your captain about where you can and cannot swim or anchor to help preserve these treasures.
4. Cash is Useful: While larger restaurants in Kaş accept cards, the small, family-run cafes and shops in villages like Kaleköy and Üçağız often operate on a cash basis.
5. Look for Sea Turtles: The Kekova region is a nesting ground for Caretta Caretta sea turtles. Keep an eye out for them as you swim and sail; seeing one in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.