Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island

Discover the Unique Charm of Kalkan’s Kekova Island Day Trip

For those seeking a memorable day on the water, the Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island offers an engaging journey that combines history, stunning scenery, and relaxing swimming spots. Priced at $84.27 per person, this 9-hour tour departs from Kas and includes visits to the famous Sunken City of Kekova, Kaleköy (Simena), and tranquil bays like Aquarium and Tersane Bay. With a dedicated crew, well-planned itinerary, and included lunch, it provides a reliable way to explore some of Turkey’s captivating coastal sites.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and leisure, especially if you enjoy boat trips that showcase underwater ruins and panoramic views. Although caves and underwater exploration are key highlights, the tour also offers plenty of time for relaxed stops and a charming village exploration. The group size is capped at 100 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience, and the tour is designed to appeal to a wide audience, including families.

Key Points

• Full-day experience lasting approximately 9 hours, departing at 8:30 am from Kas.
• Visit Kekova’s Sunken City, where submerged ruins tell stories of an earthquake in the 2nd century.
• Swim at Aquarium Bay and Tersane Bay, offering clear waters and underwater sights.
• Explore the village of Kaleköy (Simena) for an hour, with the option to visit castle ruins and a necropolis.
• Includes a hearty lunch on board, with the Simena Castle entrance fee not included.
• Free stops at major scenic points, with optional exploration of ancient sites.

The Start of the Adventure in Kas

The journey begins in Kas, where travelers meet at Petrol Ofisi, Ehitler Cd. No:1. From here, a transfer takes guests to the Ucagiz/Demre harbor, setting the stage for a day on the water. The tour departs promptly at 8:30 am, ensuring a full schedule of stops and activities. The group size, limited to 100 travelers, helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of room to enjoy the scenery.

Exploring the Sunken City of Kekova from the Boat

A key highlight of this trip is cruising along Kekova Island to see the Sunken City, which includes remains of ancient structures submerged after a 2nd-century earthquake. The boat anchors at Tersane Koyu, where guests can observe the underwater ruins such as a church, castle, and walls. During this time, swimming isn’t permitted directly at Kekova, but travelers get excellent views from the boat and plenty of photo opportunities.

Swimming and Relaxing at Aquarium Bay and Tersane Bay

The tour designates an hour at Aquarium Bay, allowing guests to cool off with a swim in its beautiful, crystal-clear waters. This spot is famous for its breathtaking scenery and underwater visibility, making it a favorite for aquatic photography. Afterward, the boat moves to Tersane Bay, where visitors can explore the underwater remains but also enjoy relaxing on the boat or swimming in nearby bays.

Discovering Kekova’s History from the Water

While the protected area of Kekova prohibits swimming, the boat cruise provides an excellent vantage point to admire the ancient ruins. Passing by the site allows guests to capture striking photos of the submerged structures. The 20-minute cruise alongside Kekova’s shoreline offers a chance to appreciate the scope of this historically significant area without the physical effort of walking.

Visiting the Village of Kaleköy (Simena)

The boat anchors at Kaleköy, the modern village at the site of ancient Simena, for one hour. Here, visitors can walk through a small, authentic Turkish village that features castle ruins and a necropolis. The castle of Simena offers panoramic views of the coast, perfect for photo enthusiasts. Although entrance fees for the castle are not included, the village’s charming atmosphere and historical sites make this stop worthwhile.

The Included Lunch and Practical Details

A delicious lunch is served on board, providing a restful break in the middle of the day. The meal is part of the package, adding value to the overall experience. After the village exploration, the tour concludes with a 45-minute return to Kas, where the tour began. The meeting point and end point are the same, simplifying logistics.

Practical Considerations and Booking Info

The tour requires confirmation at booking, with good weather conditions essential for safety and enjoyment. In case of cancellation due to weather or minimum participant numbers, guests are offered alternative dates or a full refund. The activity is accessible to most travelers, and the mobile ticket format ensures convenience. The minimum age requirement is not specified, but the tour is suitable for families, as evidenced by positive reviews mentioning children.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this trip appealing is the combination of historical interest and scenic beauty in a manageable, guided format. The well-organized stops at underwater ruins, bays, and the village of Kaleköy, paired with included lunch, make it a practical choice for day-trippers. The stunning views of the coast, particularly from the castle ruins, are notable highlights.

While the sunken city and crystal-clear bays draw most attention, the overall experience hinges on the relaxed pace and well-coordinated itinerary. The small group size and professional crew contribute to a smooth, enjoyable day on the water.

Kekova Island Day Trip: Who Will Love It?

This tour suits those who enjoy history, scenic boat rides, and swimming in beautiful bays. Families with young children find it particularly appealing due to the shorter stops and included lunch. Adventure seekers can enjoy photo opportunities from the boat, while those interested in ancient architecture will appreciate the castle ruins in Kaleköy.

However, travelers should note that swimming is not permitted in Kekova itself, so those eager for underwater exploration should consider this when booking. The 9-hour duration makes it suitable for a full day out, providing a balance of activity and relaxation.

Final Thoughts on the Kekova Island Day Trip

The Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island offers a comprehensive look at some of Turkey’s most captivating coastal sights. Its well-planned itinerary, professional crew, and included meal make it a convenient option for exploring the area. The tour’s focus on scenic cruising, underwater ruins, and village exploration ensures a diverse experience.

While it’s best suited for those who appreciate history and photography, it also provides enough time for swimming and relaxation. With its high rating and positive feedback, this trip stands as a reliable choice for anyone wanting a full-day adventure in Kas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $84.27 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours from start to finish, departing at 8:30 am.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Petrol Ofisi, Ehitler Cd. No:1, Kas, and ends there as well.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch is included in the tour price.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the Simena Castle entrance fee of 4.00 per person is not included.

Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with young children.

What are the main highlights?
Visitors will see the Sunken City of Kekova, Kaleköy (Simena), and swim at Aquarium Bay and Tersane Bay.

Is swimming in Kekova allowed?
No, swimming is not permitted in Kekova itself, but nearby bays provide excellent swimming options.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, guests are offered alternative dates or a full refund.

How can I book this tour?
Reservations can be made in advance, with confirmation provided at the time of booking through the provider, SAILNSTAY.