From Kas: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

Explore Kekova’s Ancient Sunken City by Kayak

The From Kas: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour offers a unique way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating sights. Priced at $68 per person and lasting around 6 hours, this tour takes you along the Lycian coastline to explore the Sunken City of Kekova, Tersane Bay, and Theimussa, with a visit to Simena Castle and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax.

This guided experience suits those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a blend of adventure and history. The tour is accessible to beginners, with a safety briefing and paddle instruction provided. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer an active day out, as the itinerary combines paddling, sightseeing, and leisure.

While the tour involves about 4 hours of sea kayaking, the pace is manageable, and the support vessel ensures safety throughout. The included lunch in Üçaiz adds a satisfying finish to the day, making this an enjoyable choice for those looking to combine physical activity with cultural highlights.

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Key Points

• Guided sea kayaking tour from Kas lasting 6 hours, with $68 per person
• Visit the Sunken City of Kekova and paddle along ancient ruins
• Charming stops at Tersane Bay and Simena Castle
• Suitable for beginners with safety instructions and paddle guidance
• Includes lunch and transfer between Kas and Uçaiz village
• Small group experience limited to 15 participants for a more personalized trip

Starting Point and Transportation from Kas

The tour begins with a pick-up in Kas, specifically in front of Smiley’s Restaurant, where a transfer takes travelers to Uçaiz village. The drive lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving travelers scenic views and time to settle before the adventure begins.

Arrival at Uçaiz marks the start of the kayaking activity, with a safety briefing and paddle instructions. The tour guides ensure everyone, regardless of experience, feels confident before hitting the water.

The return transfer is included, bringing everyone back to the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward for participants.

The 6-Hour Itinerary and Key Stops

The day unfolds with a carefully planned schedule that balances paddling, sightseeing, and relaxation. After departing Uçaiz, the group heads southwest along the coast.

Tersane Bay is the first major stop around 10:15 a.m., where swimmers can enjoy a 40-minute break to cool off in the clear waters. This bay offers stunning scenery and is an ideal spot to take photos and relax. Swimming here is permitted, providing a chance to unwind after paddling.

Next, the Sunken City of Kekova appears just offshore. While swimming isn’t allowed in the protected area, paddling past the ruins offers a unique vantage point to capture photos of the submerged ancient structures. This area’s history and beauty make it a highlight of the tour.

By 11:30 a.m., the group reaches Simena, a small village perched on a hillside. Here, participants can visit the castle ruins, explore the charming streets, or simply enjoy panoramic views of the region. Those who prefer a leisurely moment can relax or take additional dips in the blue waters.

In the afternoon, attention shifts to Theimussa to see more Lycian sarcophagi and other archaeological remnants. The paddling continues with scenic views along the coast before heading back to the base.

The tour wraps up with a lunch at 1:15 p.m. in Üçaiz, featuring local dishes that complement the day’s outdoor activities.

Detailed Stop at Kekova Sunken City

The Sunken City of Kekova is among the most striking sights on the tour. The city’s ruins are visible from the water, creating a dramatic scene of submerged structures contrasting with the vibrant blue of the sea. Since swimming isn’t permitted in the protected zone, kayaking alongside the ruins provides an intimate way to explore without disturbing the site.

This stop offers highly photogenic moments, with the chance to capture the ancient walls and ruins from eye level. Paddling here is gentle, and the support vessel ensures safety for all participants. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the history of the city.

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Visiting Simena Castle and Exploring the Village

Arriving at Simena, the group has approximately 45 minutes to explore. The castle ruins atop the hillside offer stunning panoramic views over the Kekova region, making it a perfect spot for photos. Visitors can walk around the fortress or hike up to the top for a broader perspective.

The village of Kaleköy (Ancient Simena) is charming, with traditional houses and local shops. It’s an excellent opportunity to shop for souvenirs or enjoy the scenery. If preferred, some prefer to relax by the water and take another swim before heading back.

The hike up the hillside to the castle is rewarding, offering sweeping vistas, and adds a light physical activity to the day.

The Impressive Lycian Sarcophagi at Theimussa

The last significant archaeological stop is Theimussa, where the group observes Lycian sarcophagi and ancient tombs carved into the rocks. The up-close view of these structures gives insight into the region’s ancient civilization.

This part of the tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in archaeological sites. The scenery here is picturesque, with the coast providing a fitting backdrop for exploring these ancient relics.

Return to Kas and Lunch in Üçaiz

After completing the kayaking and sightseeing, the group returns to Uçaiz to enjoy a lunch at 1:15 p.m.. The meal offers local cuisine, providing a satisfying finish to the active day. The included transfer ensures a hassle-free return to Kas, with the activity concluding back at the starting point.

Practical Details: Group Size and Booking

The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a small-group atmosphere that allows for personalized attention from the guides. The guides lead the group in English and Turkish, making communication clear and friendly.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with the option of full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. The meeting point is conveniently located in Kas, with pre-arranged pick-up times communicated via WhatsApp or email.

The tour includes lunch and the transfer but does not cover entrance fees for Simena Castle, which costs around 4 euros.

Why Choose This Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour?

This tour stands out for offering a hands-on experience of Kekova’s natural beauty and ancient sites. The kayaking allows a closer view of the Sunken City and Lycian sarcophagi than typical boat trips. The small group size enhances the experience with more personalized guidance.

Many reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, magnificent scenery, and good value for the price. The paddle instruction is clear enough for beginners, and the support vessel adds reassurance.

However, the physical activity can be tiring, especially in hot weather, so participants should be prepared for some exertion. The timing fits well for those who want a full day without feeling rushed.

Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour from Kas: An Active Day of History and Nature

This guided kayaking trip offers a refreshing way to explore Kekova’s legendary ruins and stunning coastline. The combination of paddling, sightseeing, and relaxing in charming villages makes it an enriching experience. The lunch in Üçaiz and small group atmosphere add comfort and intimacy.

The tour’s strength lies in its personalized guidance, staying flexible enough for beginners to enjoy. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking active outdoor adventures intertwined with a touch of history and culture. While it involves physical effort, the support vessels and manageable pace make it accessible for most.

Those eager to see Kekova’s underwater ruins up close and enjoy a day of scenic paddling will find this tour both enjoyable and memorable. It’s a well-balanced option for anyone looking to combine outdoor activity with cultural discovery in Turkey’s beautiful Antalya Province.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for beginners, with safety briefings and paddle instructions provided. The paddling is comparable to a brisk walk, making it accessible to most.

What is included in the price?
The $68 fee covers guided kayaking, lunch in Üçaiz, and transfers between Kas and Uçaiz. Entrance to Simena Castle is not included, costing about 4 euros.

How physically demanding is the tour?
While the tour involves around 4 hours of paddling, it’s paced to suit most fitness levels, and the support vessel helps manage challenging conditions or fatigue.

What are the main sights I will see?
You’ll paddle past the Sunken City of Kekova, visit Tersane Bay for swimming, explore Simena Castle, and observe Lycian sarcophagi at Theimussa.

What should I bring?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing and sun protection. It’s advisable to bring a waterproof camera, towel, and possibly a hat or cap for sun protection.

Are there any additional costs?
Apart from the entrance fee for Simena Castle, which is 4 euros, everything else — including lunch and transfers — is included in the price.

This Kekova sea kayaking tour from Kas offers an engaging blend of history, scenery, and active fun. With guidance, beautiful views, and a relaxed pace, it suits those eager to explore Turkey’s legendary coast by water.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby