From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova Island

Discover Kekova Island’s Sunken Ruins and Crystal Waters from Kas

The From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova Island offers an engaging 9-hour adventure in Antalya Province, Turkey, for $70 per person. This well-reviewed tour, rated 4.7 out of 5 with 93 reviews, takes you on a boat cruise around Kekova Island to explore its famous Sunken City Ruins, swim in stunning bays, and visit the charming village of Kaleköy (Simena).

The tour departs from Ucagiz/Demre harbor, with pick-up arrangements from Kas, making it accessible for travelers based in this popular resort town. The day is packed with multiple swimming stops, historical sights, and a delicious included lunch, offering excellent value for a full day of sightseeing and relaxation.

While the tour’s pace keeps the experience lively, it also provides enough time in each location to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and unwind on the water. This trip is ideal for those interested in history, beautiful beaches, and a comfortable cruise experience, though it is not suited for travelers with mobility issues.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $70 per person for 9 hours, this tour provides a comprehensive day of exploration.
• Highlights: Includes cruise around Kekova Island, visiting the Sunken City Ruins, swimming in various bays, and visiting the village of Kaleköy.
• Multiple swimming stops: Aquarium Bay, Gökkaya Bay, Burç Bay, and Esmeralda Bay offer opportunities to enjoy the clear waters.
• Historical sights: The Simena Castle and necropolis in Kaleköy are accessible for exploration, with options for hiking or relaxing by the water.
• Expert-led experience: The guides are noted for their friendly, helpful attitude, sharing details about each stop and providing guidebooks in different languages.
• Includes lunch: A delicious meal is part of the package, though drinks are not included.

From the Pick-up to the Boat in Ucagiz or Demre Harbor

The tour begins with a pick-up from your meeting point in Kas, after which you are driven to Ucagiz or Demre harbor where the boat awaits. The departure window is between 10:20 and 10:40 am, ensuring plenty of time for a full day’s adventure.

The boat itself is described as well-equipped and spacious, with enough room for comfort during the several hours on the water. The transfer logistics are straightforward, and the meeting point is conveniently located outside Smiley’s Restaurant.

Exploring Kekova’s Sunken City from the Water

The core of this tour is the cruise past the Sunken City of Kekova, where the remains of Dolchiste lie submerged since an earthquake in the 2nd century. As swimming is not permitted in this protected area, the boat offers an ideal vantage point for viewing and photographing the ruins.

This approach allows for unforgettable photos and appreciation of the history without disturbing the site. The boat cruise offers close-up views of the ruins, making it easier to appreciate the scale and mystery of this underwater archaeological site.

Swimming in the Bays with Distinct Charms

The tour features multiple stops for swimming, each with its own appeal. Aquarium Bay is highlighted for its picturesque setting and clear waters, with a one-hour swim break to relax and cool off.

Gökkaya Bay offers a lunch and swim break; the cooler waters here are influenced by natural springs, adding a refreshing twist. Burç Bay provides a chance to swim in waters fed by natural springs, which are typically a little colder, adding variety to the experience.

Esmeralda Bay is another tranquil stop, perfect for enjoying serene waters and peaceful surroundings. The variety of bays ensures plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and taking in the scenery.

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Discovering Pirates Cave and Gök Kaya Bay

The Pirates Cave is a naturally-formed cavern with a large size and curved entrance that intrigues visitors. Its impressive shape makes it a favorite photo spot and a fun exploration point.

Gök Kaya Bay is notable for its lunch break and swimming, with the added excitement of potential water sports options. The bay’s natural beauty and the chance to be active or relax make it a highlight for many travelers.

Visiting Kaleköy (Simena) and Its Castle

The boat stops at Kaleköy, known as Simena, for about an hour. This small, authentic village is home to castle ruins and a necropolis, both worth exploring.

A hike up the hillside offers magnificent views of the Kekova region, but visitors can also opt for a second dip in the waters if preferred. The village’s traditional charm and historic sites provide a peaceful, scenic break from the boat.

The Convenience of the Lunch Break and Water Activities

A key part of the tour is the lunch, which is described as delicious and served during the Gök Kaya Bay stop. The meal adds to the overall value, making the trip suitable for those seeking both relaxation and good food.

While drinks are not included, the focus on fresh, healthy options complements the day’s outdoor activities, ensuring travelers stay energized for the journey.

Ending the Day at Ucagiz/Demre Harbour and Returning to Kas

After a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, the boat heads back to Ucagiz or Demre harbor, where the tour concludes.

From there, arrangements are made to return to Kas, completing the 9-hour experience. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights, with many reviews praising the friendly staff and smooth logistics.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among Kekova Cruises

This particular trip is distinguished by its balance of historical exploration, water activities, and village visits. The expert guides provide informative commentary in English and Turkish, enriching the experience without overwhelming the pace.

The well-equipped boat and multiple swimming stops ensure that travelers can enjoy plenty of time in the water, which many reviewers describe as beautiful and peaceful. The lunch is consistently praised for its quality, adding to the overall satisfaction.

Who Will Enjoy This Day Trip Most

This tour suits nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those who enjoy boat trips and swimming. It is especially ideal for travelers who want a full-day experience that combines sightseeing and relaxation.

However, it is not recommended for people with limited mobility, since some stops involve hiking or walking on uneven terrain. The tour’s pacing is moderate, making it accessible for most active visitors but not for those needing extra assistance.

Final Thoughts on the Kekova Island Day Trip

The From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova Island offers excellent value, with multiple stops for swimming, historic sights, and delicious lunch all packed into a 9-hour package. The friendly guides and well-maintained boat make the day both enjoyable and comfortable.

While the site of the Sunken City cannot be explored underwater, the cruise provides superb views and photo opportunities. The variety of bays and the small village exploration make this a well-rounded experience.

This trip appeals most to those seeking a relaxing yet active day on the water, with enough variety to keep everyone engaged. It’s a popular choice for travelers staying in Kas who want to see the highlights of Kekova without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up from Kas and transport to Ucagiz/Demre harbor where the boat departs.

Are drinks provided during the trip?
No, drinks are not included, but a delicious lunch is part of the package.

Can I visit the Kekova Sunken City underwater?
Swimming in the Sunken City is not permitted because it is a protected area. The cruise offers a close-up view from the boat.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
No, the tour not recommended for people with limited mobility due to possible walking or hiking involved in exploring Kaleköy or other stops.

What should I bring for the day?
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and towels for swimming.

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