From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova Island

Dive into the Details of the Kas to Kekova Island Boat Trip

The Day Trip to Kekova Island departing from Kas, Turkey offers a fantastic way to explore some of the region’s most intriguing maritime sites. For $69.81 per person, this 9-hour excursion is perfect for those eager to see the Sunken City of Kekova, visit the charming Kaleköy village, and enjoy multiple bays for swimming. The trip is organized by SAILNSTAY and is highly booked, with most participants reserving their spots 6 days in advance. With a mobile ticket, travelers can easily access the tour, which departs in the late morning and offers an excellent balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

This tour suits those interested in ancient ruins, beautiful bays, and authentic Turkish villages. While the price includes lunch, entrance fees for Simena Castle are not included, costing an additional 4 euros. The group size typically does not exceed 55 travelers, ensuring a comfortable shared experience. The tour’s reliable crew and well-structured itinerary make it a dependable choice for a full day on the water.

Key Points

• Price & Duration: At $69.81, this 9-hour tour offers good value, with most of the day spent exploring and swimming.
• Main Highlights: Underwater ruins of Kekova’s Sunken City, panoramic views from Simena Castle, and swimming in bays like Aquarium and Tersane Bay.
• Stops: The trip includes breaks at Aquarium Bay for an hour-long swim, Tersane Koyu to observe underwater ruins, and Kaleköy for exploring Simena village and its castle.
• Activities: Besides sightseeing, expect swimming in several bays and photo opportunities along ancient ruins.
• Included: A lunch is part of the experience, ensuring you stay energized for the day.
• Important Note: Entry to Simena Castle costs 4 euros, which is not included in the tour price.
• Accessibility: The tour departs from Andifli, Kas, with pick-up arranged from a designated meeting point. It’s suitable for most travelers, given the moderate physical activity involved.
• Weather Dependency: The tour requires good weather; cancellations due to poor conditions will result in a full refund or rescheduling.
• Reviews: The tour receives an overall rating of 4.0, praised for great service, stunning views, and snorkeling opportunities. Some reviews mention unexpected disruptions during the return trip, which is worth considering.

From Kas to Ucagiz: Starting the Adventure

The day begins with a pick-up from Andifli in Kas, leading to a short transfer to Ucagiz/Demre harbor. From here, the boat departs between 10:20 and 10:40 am, setting the stage for a day filled with exploration. Travelers can anticipate a smooth start, with the crew providing safety instructions and overview of the day ahead.

Exploring Aquarium Bay: The First Swimming Spot

The tour’s first major stop is Aquarium Bay, where travelers get a full hour to swim and relax. This picturesque bay is famed for its clear waters and scenic surroundings, making it a perfect way to cool off after the morning transfer. The admission to this bay is free, allowing plenty of time for snorkeling or simply soaking in the views.

Discovering Kekova’s Underwater Ruins at Tersane Koyu

Next, the boat cruises to Tersane Koyu, on Kekova Island, where the Sunken City is visible from the boat. Here, the crew offers a 45-minute stop to observe the underwater remains, which include churches, castles, and wall structures submerged after an earthquake in the 2nd century. Since swimming is not permitted in this protected area, viewing from the boat provides a unique perspective and fantastic photo opportunities.

Cruising Along the Sunken City’s Underwater Walls

The main highlight here is the Sunken City of Dolchiste, which was flooded due to seismic activity. The boat’s cruise alongside the ruins allows guests to capture unforgettable images of the ancient remains while enjoying the calm waters. This vantage point offers a unique insight into the area’s history without disturbing the site.

Visiting Kaleköy and Simena Castle

The boat anchors at Kaleköy, also known as ancient Simena, for a full hour. Travelers can wander through the authentic village, exploring its castle ruins and necropolis. A hike up the hillside rewards visitors with magnificent panoramic views of the coastline and islands. Alternatively, staying by the water offers a chance to swim again in the turquoise waters or relax onboard. Entrance to the castle is not included, costing about 4 euros.

Swimming in the Bays of Kekova

After visiting Simena, the boat makes stops at pristine bays like Burç Bay, known for its beautiful waters. Swimming here provides an excellent opportunity to dive among ancient underwater ruins or simply enjoy the calm, clear waters. The tour’s emphasis on swimming and relaxation makes it ideal for those who love water-based activities.

Returning to Kas with Scenic Views

The tour wraps up with a 30-minute cruise back to Kas. This part of the journey offers more scenic views of the coastline, allowing guests to reflect on the day’s adventures. The return transfer concludes at the same meeting point in Andifli, making the day’s logistics straightforward.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

The meeting point is in Andifli, Kas, with the activity starting at 9:00 am. The timing allows travelers to enjoy the morning transfer and the late morning departure. Since the tour is most popular and booked 6 days in advance, early reservation is recommended. The lunch included is a key feature, providing a meal during the boat trip, while the additional fee for Simena Castle should be prepared for if you wish to explore the castle itself.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This shared boat trip emphasizes diverse stops—from underwater ruins to village exploration and bays for swimming. The reliable crew and exciting itinerary ensure a smooth experience, while the scenic waters and historical sites make it a standout option for those wanting to combine relaxation and discovery. The price point and lunch inclusion add to its appeal, providing a comprehensive day out at an accessible cost.

Final Thoughts on the Kas to Kekova Journey

The Day Trip to Kekova Island offers a well-rounded experience for lovers of history, nature, and water. The beautiful bays, ancient ruins, and authentic village combine to create a memorable outing. While entry to some sites costs extra and weather dependency is a consideration, the overall value and convenience make this tour a solid choice for a full day of adventure from Kas.

This tour is especially suited for water enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxed yet engaging day on the water. Expect a smooth, enjoyable experience with outstanding scenery, cultural sights, and opportunities to swim in some of the most stunning bays in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes boat transportation, lunch, and stops at Aquarium Bay, Tersane Koyu, and Kaleköy. Entrance fees for Simena Castle are not included but are approximately 4 euros.

How long is the boat trip from Kas?
The total duration is roughly 9 hours, with most of the day spent on the water, sightseeing, and swimming.

Where does the tour depart from?
The meeting point is in Andifli, Kas, with pickup arranged from this location. The trip departs between 10:20 and 10:40 am.

Is swimming allowed at all stops?
Swimming is permitted at Aquarium Bay and other bays on the trip, but not in the Sunken City area, which is protected.

What should I bring for the trip?
Guests should bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and camera for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring Kaleköy and Simena Castle.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is generally suitable for most, but hiking to Simena Castle involves some uphill walking — travelers with mobility challenges should consider this.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
This activity is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Cancellations due to bad weather are handled with full refunds or rescheduling options.

How crowded does the tour get?
With a maximum of 55 travelers, the group remains manageable, allowing for a comfortable experience without overcrowding.

What do reviewers say about this tour?
The overall rating of 4.0 reflects positive feedback on the scenery, service, and snorkeling experiences, though some have noted unexpected disruptions during the return trip.