Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour

The Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour offers an engaging 8-hour journey exploring some of Turkey’s most captivating coastal sights. Priced at $77 per person, this tour departs from Kas and takes you across the waters of Antalya Province to discover the Sunken City, Simena Castle, and other scenic spots. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 204 reviews, this experience appeals to those who enjoy a mix of history, natural beauty, and leisurely swimming.

This tour stands out thanks to its well-maintained boat, generous swimming stops, and delicious onboard lunch. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a full day of exploration without too much walking or strenuous activity. Some visitors note that the tour is very well planned, with a balanced itinerary that includes plenty of time for both sightseeing and relaxing in the water.

Key Points

• 8-hour boat trip from Kas offering visits to Kekova Sunken City and Simena Castle
• Price of $77 per person includes a lunch onboard and multiple swimming stops
• Many stops including Inonu Bay, Aquarium Bay, Kekova Island, and Tersane Koyu
• Experienced crew and guide ensure a smooth, informative experience
• Stunning views and crystal-clear waters make for an enjoyable day of swimming and sightseeing
• Not included: drinks and castle entry fee

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Starting Point Near Kas Harbor with Easy Access

The tour begins at the Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Kas, located close to the harbor and opposite the mosque. Travelers will meet the crew here before boarding the spacious boat that will be their home for the day. The group size tends to be comfortable, allowing guests to move freely and enjoy the experience without feeling crowded.

The pick-up and drop-off locations are straightforward, making it easy for those staying in Kas to join the tour without hassle. The departure times vary depending on availability, so checking in advance is recommended. The 8-hour duration allows for a relaxed exploration, with each stop carefully timed to balance sightseeing and swimming.

The Boat and Crew: Comfort and Professionalism

The boat used for this tour is described as well maintained and clean, with ample space on the deck for relaxation. Many reviews praise the professionalism of Captain Ergun and his crew, emphasizing their friendly attitude and attentiveness throughout the day. The guide provides clear explanations of each site, adding context to the scenic views and ruins.

Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere onboard, with plenty of space to lounge and enjoy the sunny deck. Some reviews mention that the boat has showers and refrigeration for drinks, enhancing comfort after swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

The Stops on the Itinerary: Highlights of the Day

The tour’s itinerary is packed with stunning stops that make the most of Kekova’s natural and historic appeal.

Inonu Bay: A Peaceful Start

Inonu Bay provides a calm environment for the first swim of the day. Its scenic surroundings and tranquil waters make it perfect for relaxing and acclimating to the day’s activities. Guests enjoy swimming and snorkeling in a peaceful setting.

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Aquarium Bay: Snorkeling in Pristine Waters

Known for its crystalline waters, Aquarium Bay is a prime spot for snorkeling and observing marine life. Its name reflects the clarity of the water, making it a favorite for those eager to see underwater scenery. The short stop here allows plenty of time for refreshing swims.

Kekova Island and the Sunken City: A Window into the Past

The main highlight of the tour is the Kekova Sunken City, where submerged ruins are visible from the boat deck. The guided cruise passes by these ancient remains, giving a sense of the area’s historical significance. Visitors can also explore Kekova harbor on foot during an hour-long stop, with cash needed for the castle entrance fee.

Simena Castle and Village: Exploring a Medieval Fortress

The visit to Simena Castle offers breathtaking panoramic views from the top of this medieval fortress. The village of Kalekoy beneath the castle features narrow streets and a charming seaside atmosphere. Guests have free time for walks, swimming, and ice cream tasting—famous in this area.

Tersane Koyu and Üzüm Skelesi: Scenic and Relaxing

Tersane Koyu is known for its historic shipyard ruins and scenic coastline, making it a relaxing swim stop. Later, the Üzüm Skelesi spot provides an opportunity for tea, snacking, and more swimming, with scenic views along the way.

Karakol Islands and Shipyard Bay: Marine Life and History

The Karakol Islands serve as a scenic break point with chances for marine life viewing and short sightseeing walks. Shipyard Bay offers a historical perspective, once a busy shipbuilding harbor, now a peaceful swimming stop.

Lunch and Refreshments: A Delicious Onboard Meal

The lunch served on the boat is widely praised as amazing and generous. Many reviews mention a buffet-style meal with fish, chicken, kofteh, and various sides. Watermelon and tea are offered as refreshing snacks after swimming. The drinks are priced similarly to onshore venues, with no extra charge for water and non-alcoholic beverages.

Guests note that no drinks are included in the base price, but there is an onsite fridge to store personal beverages.

The Quality of Swimming and Snorkeling Spots

Each swimming stop provides crystal-clear water ideal for relaxation and snorkeling. Akvaryum Bay and Kekova Island are especially loved for their tranquil waters and visibility, often described as breathtaking. The swimming opportunities are well spaced throughout the day, ensuring guests are not rushed and can enjoy each location fully.

A common praise point is the availability of life jackets and noodles, making swimming accessible even for less experienced swimmers. The dolphin sighting on the way back is an extra treat reported by some.

The Return and Overall Experience

The return to Kas is timed to ensure guests arrive on schedule. Many guests mention that the crew keeps everything tidy and well-organized, adding to a smooth day.

The overall feedback highlights that this boat tour offers great value for the price, with stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly staff. The comfortable boat, enough swim stops, and informative guide combine to make this an enjoyable and relaxing way to explore Kekova’s coast.

Who Would Enjoy this Boat Tour the Most?

This 8-hour trip suits those seeking a mix of history, scenery, and leisure. It’s ideal for families, couples, and friends looking for a comfortable and well-organized day on the water. The moderate physical effort required for some castle climbs and walking means it’s best for those without medical restrictions like heart problems or epilepsy.

Travelers who appreciate good food, stunning views, and friendly service will find this tour especially satisfying. The small group size and informative guide ensure a personalized experience that many reviews commend.

Final Thoughts on the Kekova Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour

The Kas boat tour to Kekova provides a comprehensive, relaxing, and scenic exploration of this beautiful coastline. The well-maintained boat and professional crew set the tone for a smooth day, while the diverse stops offer plenty of swimming and sightseeing opportunities.

While not including drinks in the base price might be a minor point for some, the delicious onboard lunch and stunning scenery more than compensate. This tour is most suitable for those who want a relaxed, informative, and scenic day with enough time for swimming and exploring.

Overall, it’s a highly rated experience that delivers excellent value and memorable moments for anyone visiting Kas who wants to see the Sunken City, Simena Castle, and enjoy the beauty of Kekova from the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 8 hours, with departure times available depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
The price includes a lunch onboard and the boat cruise. Drinks and the castle entry fee are not included.

Is the boat suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but climbing to Simena Castle may be challenging for some. Always check specific accessibility needs in advance.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring passport or ID, beachwear, and cash for entrance fees like the castle fee.

Are there swimming stops?
Yes, the tour features multiple swimming stops, including Inonu Bay and Aquarium Bay, ideal for snorkeling and relaxing.

Can I buy drinks on board?
Yes, the crew offers drinks at similar prices to onshore. Water, tea, and soft drinks are available.

Is this tour good for families?
Yes, it suits families and groups seeking a leisurely day with swimming and sightseeing in beautiful surroundings.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made online through GetYourGuide, with options to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely. The friendly crew, stunning views, and delicious lunch make this a highly enjoyable and value-packed experience for any visitor to Kas interested in Kekova’s waters and ruins.

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