Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island

Explore the Historic Sunken City and Crystal Waters of Kekova Island

The Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island offers an engaging full-day adventure priced at $79 per person. With a 9-hour duration, this tour caters to those eager to see the famous Sunken City of Kekova, enjoy multiple swimming stops, and explore charming coastal villages. Starting with a pickup from Petrol Ofisi, the journey includes a boat trip that takes you through some of Turkey’s most scenic waters, with opportunities to marvel at ancient ruins, relax in bays, and uncover local history.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at Kekova’s natural beauty and archaeological sites, all with the comfort of a guided boat trip. While the itinerary is packed with stops, the tour’s focus on scenic views and underwater ruins makes it ideal for photography lovers and history buffs alike. A key consideration is the modest entrance fee of 4 Euros for Simena Castle, which is not included in the price.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $79, this 9-hour boat tour provides excellent value for access to multiple scenic stops and the Sunken City.
• Start and End Points: The tour departs from Petrol Ofisi in Kalkan and returns there at the end of the day, with flexible pick-up times communicated via WhatsApp or email.
• Highlights Include: Visiting Simena Castle, swimming in Akvaryum Bay, and exploring the Sunken City of Kekova from the boat, with stops at several bays.
• Activities Offered: Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops at Gökkaya Bay, Esmaralda Bay, and Burç Bay, along with a photo stop at Asrl Island.
• Tour Logistics: The boat trip includes a lunch, but drinks are not included, and there’s a small entrance fee for Simena Castle.
• Language and Flexibility: The activity is led by an English-speaking host, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

From Pickup to Drop-Off: Convenient Meeting and Return in Kalkan

The tour begins with a pick-up in Kalkan, with timing details provided a day before via WhatsApp or email. After being transported to Ucagiz/Demre harbor, the boat departs between 10:20 and 10:40 am, kicking off the day of exploration. The group size is shared, creating a friendly atmosphere for meeting fellow travelers.

The return to Petrol Ofisi marks the end of the tour, typically around late afternoon, providing a seamless experience that fits into a full day of sightseeing. The transport service ensures a stress-free start and finish, leaving time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Visiting the Sunken City of Kekova and Its Underwater Mysteries

The Sunken City of Kekova is the centerpiece of this tour. Once known as Dolchiste, this area was submerged by an earthquake in the 2nd century, leaving behind a submerged landscape of ancient ruins. From the boat, visitors can admire the underwater remains without swimming, as access is protected to preserve the site.

The boat ride offers scenic views of the preserved ruins, making it a perfect opportunity for photography and historical interest. The prohibition on swimming here helps maintain the site’s integrity, but the boat’s proximity offers an up-close look at what lies beneath the surface.

Enjoy Multiple Swimming Stops in Beautiful Bays

Throughout the day, the tour makes several swimming and snorkeling stops at stunning locations like Akvaryum Bay, Gökkaya Bay, and Esmaralda Bay. The Akvaryum Bay stop is notable for its breathtaking beauty and is ideal for a one-hour swim. The cooler water temperature at Burç Bay is caused by natural springs underneath, offering a refreshing break from the heat.

Gökkaya Bay provides a scenic setting for lunch and water activities, while Esmaralda Bay offers a peaceful spot for swimming amidst tranquil surroundings. These stops allow visitors to cool off, relax, and take in the natural beauty of the Turkish coast.

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Exploring Simena Castle and the Village of Kaleköy

After a series of bay stops, the boat anchors at Kaleköy, also called Simena, for about an hour. This small, authentic village is home to castle ruins and a necropolis, and offers panoramic views of the region. Visitors can choose to hike up the hillside for scenic vistas or stay near the water for a swim.

The castle ruins provide a glimpse into the area’s history, while the village’s quaint streets invite exploration. The boat trip’s flexible schedule allows for both sightseeing and leisurely relaxation, making this stop a highlight for history enthusiasts and those seeking scenic photos.

The Practicalities of the Tour: Managing the Day

The itinerary includes a series of stops, such as Akvarium Koyu, Kekova Island, Esmaralda Koyu, and more, each offering opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and photo sessions. The group moves at a relaxed pace to maximize enjoyment at each location.

Participants should bring sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable throughout the day. The lunch provided on board adds to the convenience, while the optional entrance fee for Simena Castle provides access for those interested in exploring further.

Ease of Booking and Flexibility

Booking is simple, with options to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for travel plans. The free cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. Communication about pick-up times is handled efficiently via WhatsApp or email, ensuring travelers are well-informed.

This tour operates in English, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. The host or greeter ensures a smooth experience from start to finish, guiding guests through each stop with informative commentary.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Kekova Experiences

This full-day boat trip stands out for its comprehensive itinerary, including multiple bays and a visit to Simena Castle. Compared to other experiences such as private tours or kayaking trips, this option offers a good balance of scenic views, historical sights, and swimming opportunities at an accessible price point.

The inclusion of lunch, along with the 9-hour duration, provides good value for travelers seeking a full day of exploration without the complexity of organizing individual activities.

Who Would Most Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, photographers, and water lovers who want to see Kekova’s underwater ruins and enjoy swimming in stunning bays. The organized boat trip allows all participants to relax and focus on the scenery, making it a good choice for those who prefer guided experiences over self-directed exploration.

While the tour offers plenty of water activities, it does involve a moderate amount of walking at the Simena village, so travelers with limited mobility should consider this. Since drinks are not included, bringing your own beverages is recommended for comfort.

Kekova Island Full-Day Tour: A Scenic and Historic Journey

The Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island combines natural beauty, archaeological intrigue, and relaxation into a well-rounded experience. Its scenic stops, ancient ruins, and charming village visits make it a rewarding choice for those wanting a full day on the Turkish coast.

The price point, length, and diverse activities give it solid value, with the boat trip serving as the highlight. While some stops are more about visual appreciation than physical activity, the overall pace ensures a comfortable and engaging day.

Travelers who enjoy scenic views, historical sites, and fresh seafood lunches will find this tour a satisfying way to explore Kekova without the hassle of self-guided planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat trip?
The boat trip lasts 9 hours, starting between 10:20 and 10:40 am, with a return to Petrol Ofisi in Kalkan in the late afternoon.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes lunch, the boat trip, and guidance in English. It does not include drinks or the entrance fee of 4 Euros for Simena Castle.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins with a pick-up in Kalkan at a designated location and ends back at the same point after the boat trip.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the relaxed itinerary with swimming stops and scenic views makes it suitable for families, though some walking at the village may be necessary.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done easily with the reserve now & pay later option, and confirmation details including pick-up times are provided via WhatsApp or email.

Is there a limit on group size?
The tour is a shared boat experience, but specific group size details are not provided; it’s designed to accommodate a typical group comfortably.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of scenic bays, ancient ruins, and the authentic village of Kaleköy makes it a memorable way to explore Kekova’s highlights in one day.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience that includes both water activities and historical exploration in a single, organized day.

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