Antalya to Kemer: Mega Star Boat Trip with Lunch & Pickup

4.75

(147 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

You know that hollow thud of bare feet on a wooden deck? That’s how our day started, stepping onto the Mega Star at Kemer port after a quick hotel pickup in Antalya. The air was already warm and salty, and I could hear someone from the crew humming — not sure what song, but it matched the lazy sway of the boat as we pulled away. Our guide waved us up top for “the best view,” and she wasn’t kidding. There’s something about watching the city fade behind you while gulls circle overhead that makes you feel like you’re sneaking away for a secret.

First stop: Phaselis Bay. The water looked almost fake, that clear turquoise where you can see straight down to your toes (or fish if you’re luckier than me). We had ninety minutes to swim or just float — I tried both, then gave up and just let myself drift. Somewhere nearby they were grilling chicken for lunch; it mixed with the smell of sunscreen and seaweed. My friend tried to chat with one of the crew in Turkish — mostly hand gestures and laughter, but somehow he ended up with an extra helping of salad. Still don’t know how he managed that.

Cennet Bay came next, quieter somehow. Maybe everyone was sleepy from swimming or maybe it was just the way the light bounced off the cliffs there. Kids were running around below deck (there’s a mini club for them), while upstairs a few of us got roped into a foam party. Not really my thing but I ended up with bubbles in my hair anyway — hard not to join in when everyone’s grinning like idiots. Kiris Bay was our last swim stop; by then I’d lost track of time completely. It felt good.

On the way back toward Antalya, I sat near an open window and let the breeze dry my skin. One of the crew handed out tea — strong and sweet — and people swapped stories about their favorite bay (mine was still Phaselis). I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed after nine hours at sea, but honestly? I still think about that view over the water as we drifted home.