The gulet cruise is the classic way to experience the Turkish coast, and the stretch between Kaş and Demre is one of the best. A gulet is a traditional wooden sailing boat with comfortable cabins, a sunbathing deck and a crew that cooks, cleans and navigates. You board in Kaş, sail east along the Lycian coast with several swim stops each day, visit the Kekova channel and its sunken ruins, and end in Demre, where you can visit Myra and the church of St Nicholas. At night the boat anchors in quiet bays, where you sleep to the sound of water and wake to a swim before breakfast. The programme in this entry is a shared small-group cruise rather than a private charter, which makes it more affordable, and it brings a mixed crowd of travellers who often become friends during the days on board. Meals are prepared by the crew and served on deck, and are typically a mixture of Turkish breakfasts, salads, grilled fish or meat and fresh fruit. Days follow a gentle rhythm of sailing, swimming, snorkelling, reading and sunbathing, interrupted by lunch and perhaps an optional excursion ashore.
Route highlights
From Kaş the boat usually sails among the small islands off the coast, passes along the Kekova shore and anchors near Üçağız or Kaleköy. Ashore you can walk up to the castle at Kaleköy for views of the sunken city and the many Lycian sarcophagi, or take a kayak out over the ruins if the cruise offers one. The final day lands in Demre, from where visitors can see Myra and the church, although some programmes do not include the excursions, so check what your cruise offers.
Life on board
Cabins are small but comfortable, often with private bathrooms in newer boats, and air conditioning is common but not universal. There is plenty of deck space for lounging and for sleeping outdoors on a warm night if you wish. Expect simple, friendly service and informal dress. Bring swimwear, a hat, sun protection, light clothing, a sweater for evenings and a small day bag. Water shoes help in rocky coves.
What is included and not
Meals and some drinks are usually included, with alcohol and soft drinks paid for separately, and a local port fee or fuel supplement may apply. Tips for the crew are customary at the end of the cruise. Always check the inclusions, the group size and the type of boat before you book.
Choosing a cruise
If you have only a day or two, the day boat from Kaş to Kekova is a fine alternative. If you want to unwind and see more of the coast, a multi-day gulet gives time to slow down, swim in places that day boats do not reach and watch the stars from the deck.
Cruises run from late spring to autumn, with the warmest sea in July to September. Book early for peak weeks. The sea can be rough in strong winds, and captains may change the route to keep the passengers comfortable.
Making the most of it
Bring a good book, a refillable water bottle and a small waterproof bag. Tell the crew in advance about dietary needs, and ask about the schedule for shore visits. Gulet life rewards flexibility, since the captain may change plans for wind, and some of the best moments are unplanned, such as a swim in an empty bay at dusk.
What to expect
The experience
A multi-day small-group gulet cruise with cabins, meals on board, swim stops and nights at anchor.
Best time
June to September for warm water, May and October for calmer, quieter sailing.
How long
Several days.
Tips
Check what is included, pack light, bring water shoes and a sweater and carry cash for tips and drinks.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want to slow down and see the coast from the water.
- Families
- Many cruises accept children. Ask about cabins and age limits.
- Couples
- Swim, eat and sleep under the stars on the deck.
- Pair with
- Kekova, Demre and Myra, and a day in Kaş before or after.
- Time needed
- Several days.
Good questions
Is this a private charter?+
No, it is a shared small-group cruise. Private charters cost much more.
Are meals included?+
Meals on board are usually included. Drinks may cost extra.
Do I need to swim?+
It helps, but life jackets are available and swim stops are optional.
Can I visit Myra from the cruise?+
Often, at the end in Demre. Check your programme.
When do cruises run?+
From late spring to autumn.