Sailing and Hiking in Turkey: Trekking the Lycian Way with a Gulet Cruise Adventure

Sailing and Hiking in Turkey: Trekking the Lycian Way with a Gulet Cruise Adventure

Discover the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation on this unique Lycian Way trekking and sailing tour, combining guided hikes with a traditional gulet cruise along the Mediterranean. Walk through ancient Lycian trails, explore the historic cities of Myra, Simena, and Aperlai, and witness the Sunken City of Kekova from the deck of your gulet. Unlike standard trekking tours, this experience allows you to hike light while your boat follows the route, offering comfortable accommodation, delicious onboard meals, and daily swimming stops in hidden bays. Whether you’re looking for a Lycian Way hiking tour, an active Blue Cruise, or an adventure that blends nature, history, and relaxation, this journey delivers an unforgettable experience along Turkey’s stunning coastline.

Tour Essentials: Lycian Way Trekking and Blue Cruise

Lycian Way & Kekova Hike and Sail Tour Details
  • Start Icon
    Start: Port of Demre

    The tour begins at the Port of Demre, where you’ll board the gulet for a hike and sail adventure.

  • Duration Icon
    Duration: 7 days 6 nights

    Explore the Lycian Way and Kekova coastline with daily hikes and gulet accommodation.

  • Departure Days Icon
    Departure Days: Every Saturday

    Depart every Saturday for a unique hiking and sailing experience.

  • Accommodation Icon
    Accommodation

    Stay onboard a gulet, enjoying private cabins with en-suite bathrooms.

  • Finish Icon
    Finish: Port of Demre

    The journey ends back at Demre after exploring Kekova’s scenic landscapes.

  • Meals Icon
    Meals

    Includes 6 breakfasts, 6 dinners onboard, and light lunches during hikes.

  • Wi-Fi Icon
    Wi-Fi

    Free Wi-Fi is available onboard throughout the trip.

Lycian Way and Gulet Cruise Route

Day 1: Arrival & Boarding

Meet in Demre, visit Lycian Civilizations Museum, explore Andriake Harbor, and board the gulet.

Day 2: Karemlik to Kapakli

Hike the Lycian Way from Karemlik to Kapakli, then sail to Buzaglik Bay.

Day 3: Burc Bay & Gokkaya

Hike to Burc Bay, explore Simena’s observation tower, then visit Gokkaya Bay.

Day 4: Simena, Ucagiz & Sunken City

Walk to Simena Castle, trek to Ucagiz, then sail over the Sunken City.

Day 5: Aperlai & Kocakari Bay

Hike to Aperlai, swim among ancient ruins, and anchor in Kocakari Bay.

Day 6: Sailing to Kas

Stop at Inonu Bay, arrive in Kas, and enjoy free time to explore.

Day 7: Return to Demre

Depart Kas, sail back to Demre, and enjoy a final breakfast onboard.

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Sailing and Hiking in Turkey: Trekking the Lycian Way with a Gulet Cruise

Starting Price: 9,997.00

Male
Female

Pay a deposit 1,999.40

What to Expect on a Lycian Way Hiking and Sailing Tour

Full Description

Day 1: Arrival in Demre & Boarding the Gulet

Guests arrive in Demre, where they board their traditional gulet and settle into their cabins. Depending on arrival time, the journey may begin with a visit to the Lycian Civilizations Museum and a short walk around Andriake Harbor. The gulet then sets sail to Karemlik Bay, known for its Caretta Caretta sea turtles and as the starting point of this Lycian Way trekking tour. After relaxing by the turquoise waters, we head to Cagilli Beach, where we anchor for the night.

Day 2: Hiking from Karemlik to Kapakli & Sailing to Buzaglik Bay

The day starts with a scenic 8.5 km hike (3.5 hours) from Karemlik to Kapakli Village, following the Lycian Way along ancient ruins and breathtaking coastal views. After the hike, guests rejoin the gulet at Buzaglik Bay (or Camlik Bay), where they enjoy a peaceful overnight stay.

Day 3: Trekking to Burc Bay & Exploring Gokkaya Bay

Today’s route takes us on a 7 km trek (3 hours) from Buzaglik Bay to Burc Bay, passing through the historic ruins of Simena Castle. From the castle’s observation tower, guests take in panoramic views of Kekova’s coastline. At Burc Bay, we board the gulet to explore Gokkaya Bay, famous for its sea caves and untouched nature. The evening is spent anchored at Burc Bay or Gokkaya Bay.

Day 4: Walking to Simena & Ucagiz, Sailing Over the Sunken City

The morning starts with a 5 km scenic hike (2 hours) from Burc Bay to Simena Castle via Kalekoy, followed by a short trek to Ucagiz Village. After a break, we sail over the legendary Sunken City of Kekova, where ancient Lycian ruins lie beneath the sea. Swimming is not permitted, but guests can admire the submerged city from the boat. The evening is spent anchored at Tersane Bay, an ancient shipyard site.

Day 5: Trekking to Aperlai & Overnight in Kocakari Bay

Today’s route includes an 8 km hike (4 hours) from Ucagiz to the ancient city of Aperlai, a partially submerged Lycian settlement. Here, guests can swim among the ruins before rejoining the gulet. The day ends with a scenic sail to Kocakari Bay, a peaceful anchorage perfect for relaxation.

Day 6: Sailing to Kas & Exploring the Town

With the hiking portion complete, we sail toward Kas, stopping at Inonu Bay for a refreshing swim. Upon arrival in Kas, guests have free time to explore the town’s Lycian ruins, charming streets, and local market. Those interested can experience Kas’s famous nightlife before returning to the gulet, which anchors in a quiet nearby cove.

Day 7: Sailing Back to Demre & Departure

On the final morning, guests enjoy breakfast on board before sailing back to Demre Port. After disembarkation, the Hiking & Sailing adventure along the Lycian Coast comes to an end.

Highlights

  • Hiking the Lycian Way
  • Gulet sailing and accommodation
  • Exploring Simena Castle
  • Sailing over the Sunken City of Kekova
  • Swimming in Aperlai’s ancient ruins
  • Relaxing in secluded bays
  • Discovering Kaş and its historical sites
  • A unique journey blending history, nature, trekking, and sailing
  • Perfect mix of adventure and relaxation

Not suitable for

  • Pregnant women
  • Wheelchair users
  • Children under 6 years
  • Individuals with walking difficulties or low fitness levels

Includes

  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, 5 o’clock tea, and fruit platters
  • Standard yacht equipment: board games, snorkel, goggles, fishing rod
  • Professional hiking & tour guide
  • Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks, such as fruit, yogurt, nuts, or chocolate
  • Clean sheets and bath towels
  • Free Wi-Fi

Excludes

  • All beverages, including water, are available on board for a reasonable fee. Bringing your own drinks is not allowed.
  • Guests should bring their own towels for personal use.
  • Entry fees for historical sites are not included.
  • Optional land excursions, site entry tickets, and diving costs are excluded.

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FAQs: Lycian Way Hiking and Blue Cruise

The hiking part is generally of medium difficulty. It’s suitable for those who want to do a bit of nature walking. Some of the trails may be a bit uphill, but our guide will always be there to assist and ensure you enjoy the journey.

Our guide is an experienced professional with deep knowledge of the region, local history, and culture. During the hikes, they will provide insights about nature and historical sites, guiding you every step of the way. You can always ask questions and make the most of your adventure.

This tour eliminates the challenges of hiking, such as carrying heavy loads, cooking, or worrying about accommodation. Your belongings will be left on the boat, and you’ll easily reach the overnight stops. The meals are pre-arranged and served on board, so you won’t have to worry about food preparation. You’ll enjoy hiking while also having a relaxing sea vacation with comfortable accommodation.

Yes, the route can be fully customized based on the group’s preferences. The group can decide which areas to explore and hike, and if some members prefer not to hike, they can stay on the boat and enjoy their time there. For those who want to walk, the hike will proceed as planned, but there is no obligation for everyone to participate in every part of the hike. It’s all about what the group decides!

Fly into Antalya or Dalaman Airport

  • Antalya Airport: A 1.5 to 2-hour transfer will get you to Demre. This is the most convenient option as Antalya is closer to Demre.
  • Dalaman Airport: The transfer takes approximately 3.5 hours. This is a good alternative if flights to Antalya are limited.

Private Transfer Options
You can arrange a private transfer directly from Antalya Airport to Demre or from Dalaman Airport to Demre. This is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach your destination.

From Antalya to Demre by Public Bus

  • Take a taxi from Antalya Airport to the central bus station (Otogar). The taxi ride costs around 10 euros.
  • At the Otogar, look for minibuses (dolmuş) heading to Demre. You don’t need to purchase a ticket in advance; the driver usually collects the fare on board.
  • The bus ride to Demre takes about 2.5 hours, including stops along the way, and costs approximately 6 euros per person.

From Dalaman to Demre by Public Bus

  • From Dalaman Airport, take a short taxi ride (approximately 5 euros) to the Dalaman bus station (Otogar).
  • First, take a bus from Dalaman to Fethiye, then transfer to another bus heading to Demre.
  • Keep in mind that Dalaman Airport is smaller and has fewer daily flights, so plan accordingly.
  • Starting Point:
    Olympos Village, Antalya, Turkey
  • Olympos Meeting Location:
    Bayrams Tree House at 10:00 AM
  • Gulet Cruise Departure:
    Demre Harbor, Demre, Turkey at 1:00 PM
  • Gulet Cruise Ends:
    Demre Harbor,Demre, Turkey between 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM

Couples are assigned their own private cabins. For solo travelers, cabin arrangements may vary, and you could be placed in a twin, double, triple, or quad cabin, depending on the group composition.

If you’re booking as a couple, please make sure to mention this in the notes section during your reservation.

This trip includes accommodation in shared cabins. If available, you can upgrade to a private twin, double, or triple cabin with an ensuite bathroom.

Yes, it is possible to change your departure date based on availability. A minor fee will be charged, and if the new date has a higher cost, you’ll need to cover the difference. Alternatively, you can transfer the amount you’ve already paid to another trip of equal or greater value, as long as it’s outside the notification period.

All of our boats are traditional gulet yachts, handcrafted in Southern Turkey. These two or three-masted sailing yachts are fully equipped with ensuite cabins, a professional kitchen, dining spaces, and deck mattresses for those who wish to sleep under the stars.

For your comfort and ease of movement inside the cabin, we suggest bringing a small or medium-sized suitcase or backpack.

Boat licensing regulations prohibit bringing your own alcohol on board. However, reasonably priced drinks can be purchased on the boat using a tab system, which must be settled on the day of check-out.

All of our gulet cruises include a traditional Turkish breakfast, a vegetarian lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner as part of the package.

Upon request, we can accommodate Jain, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, and Kosher dietary preferences.

You’re welcome to bring additional snacks for the trip. Drinks are available for purchase on board using a tab system, which is payable on the day of disembarkation.

Unfortunately, bringing your own drinks (including water) on board is not permitted. However, you’re welcome to bring snacks like peanuts, chips, cookies, and similar items.

Bar Payments:
Please note that bar expenses must be paid in cash on the last day of the trip. Since ATMs may not be available at all ports, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. However, there’s no need to worry about withdrawing cash before the trip, as ATMs will be accessible in Kas Port town on the second day of the journey.

Some boats are equipped with power sockets in the cabins, while others have them only in the common salon area. These sockets are functional when the engine or generator is running.

Beach Towels Not Provided:
Beach towels are not supplied on board, so we kindly ask guests to bring their own for beach use. Bath towels are available but are not intended for use at the beach. If needed, towels can be easily purchased from shops in towns across Turkey.

Air Conditioning Usage:
Gulet boats have limited energy capacity, so air conditioning is typically used for 4-6 hours daily to conserve fuel and maintain efficiency. This also helps protect the generator and supports eco-friendly practices by encouraging natural ventilation. Running the generator overnight can be noisy and may disturb other guests, so finding a balance between comfort and sustainability is essential.