Shared Sunken City of Kekova Boat Tour including lunch

Explore the Sunken City of Kekova on a Guided Boat Tour from Kas

A full-day boat trip for $74.52 per person offers an immersive experience of Turkey’s underwater archaeological marvels, combining history, stunning scenery, and relaxation. This 8-hour tour departs from Kas at 9:30 am and takes visitors on a journey through the calm waters of the Demre district, with multiple stops along the way. The highlight is the chance to see the famous submerged Lycian city of Kekova, which has mostly slipped beneath the waves due to ancient earthquakes.

Travelers are treated to a modern yet traditionally styled wooden boat that comfortably hosts up to 100 guests. The tour includes lively commentary from an experienced guide, refreshments, lunch, and visits to several scenic and historic spots. This experience is ideal for those interested in ancient ruins, beautiful swimming spots, and authentic Turkish cuisine—all in one day.

Key Points

• Cost of $74.52 per person for an 8-hour guided boat tour from Kas.
• Includes lunch, coffee/tea, and local taxes with no extra charges for stops.
• Embarks on a modern wooden boat with traditional design, offering comfortable seating.
• Features multiple stops at famous locations: Inönü Bay, Aquarium Bay, Tersane Koyu, and the Sunken City of Simena.
• Offers swimming opportunities in clear waters and photo sessions of ancient ruins.
• Free cancellation available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Departure Location and Schedule

The tour begins at the Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Liman Sk., Andifli, Kas, at 9:30 am. The boat departs promptly, ensuring a full day of exploration, and returns around 6:00 pm. Travelers meet at the office, where the shared boat tour is organized, and the experience is capped at 100 participants, maintaining a lively but manageable group size.

The Traditional Wooden Boat: Comfort and Style

This tour features a 24-meter traditional wooden boat that combines modern comfort with classic charm. The boat is recently built and designed to echo traditional Turkish boat architecture, providing ample space for relaxing under the sun or enjoying the sea breeze. The live commentary keeps guests informed about each stop and shares insights into the area’s history, making the voyage both enjoyable and educational.

First Stop: Inönü Bay for Swimming and Refreshments

After setting off, the boat cruises for approximately 1.5 hours to Inönü Bay, where guests can swim in the calm, crystal-clear waters. Refreshments are offered onboard, allowing everyone to relax as they take in the scenic views of the coastline. This stop provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the refreshing Mediterranean Sea before heading towards the next highlights.

Visiting Kekova Island’s Aquarium Bay

The second notable stop is Aquarium Bay near Kekova, famous for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Guests are encouraged to dive into the water and experience the underwater scenery firsthand. Here, the tour offers a delicious lunch of barbecued chicken, along with a selection of Turkish salads and appetizers, served on the boat. The 2-hour stay allows plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and capturing photos of the surrounding ruins.

Exploring Tersane Koyu and the Sunken City

Next, the boat cruises to Tersane Koyu, where visitors observe the remains of an ancient shipbuilding yard. From this point, travelers get their first clear view of the famous sunken Lycian city of Kekova, which has mostly slipped beneath the water due to earthquakes in the 2nd century CE. The submerged ruins sparkle beneath the surface, providing excellent photo opportunities.

The journey continues over the sunken city of Simena, a Lycian settlement now partially underwater. Guests enjoy 30 minutes here to admire the stone ruins and submerged structures, capturing images of the ancient Lycian sarcophagi still visible in the water.

Free Time in Kalekoy Village and the Castle

The final stop is Kalekoy, accessible only by boat or foot, which is built on top of the ancient city of Simena. Visitors get one hour of free time to explore the village, browse the local shops, visit the castle, or simply enjoy homemade ice cream by the sea. The castle offers panoramic views of the bay and ruins, providing a perfect photo opportunity.

All-Inclusive Experience: Food, Drinks, and Guided Commentary

This tour’s value is boosted by the included lunch, which features barbecued chicken and Turkish salads, served on board. Guests also receive coffee and/or tea, afternoon tea, and local taxes without extra charges. Drinks, including alcoholic options, are available for purchase, giving guests the freedom to enjoy a drink as they cruise.

The local guide provides live narration throughout the day, sharing stories and details about the ancient ruins, natural beauty, and local culture. This adds depth to the sightseeing and makes the experience more engaging.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with confirmation provided at booking. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18. The activity operates near public transportation, making it accessible from Kas and nearby areas.

Most travelers prefer to book around 21 days in advance, indicating strong interest. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this Kekova boat tour especially attractive is the combination of historical sights and relaxing swimming stops on a well-maintained traditional boat. The delicious included lunch, informative commentary, and scenic cruise make it a full, satisfying experience.

The stunning underwater views of the sunken Lycian city and the calm, turquoise waters are particular highlights that set this tour apart from more basic excursions. With positive reviews praising the quality of the staff, boat, and overall value, it’s clear that this experience resonates well with those seeking an authentic day on the water.

The Sum Up: A Memorable Day in Kekova

This full-day boat trip from Kas offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and leisure. The modern wooden boat, combined with multiple scenic stops and delicious Turkish cuisine, makes it an appealing choice for anyone interested in exploring Turkey’s underwater archaeological treasures.

While the itinerary is packed, the relaxed pace allows ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying the authentic Turkish lunch. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day on the water, with informative guides and beautiful scenery at every turn.

Those who appreciate stunning sea views, underwater ruins, and a taste of local culture typically find this trip rewarding. Its affordable price and flexible cancellation policy make it a practical option for a well-organized, memorable adventure in Kas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a delicious Turkish lunch with options like barbecued chicken and salads, served onboard.

What is the duration of the boat tour?
The entire trip lasts approximately 8 hours, from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.

Are drinks included?
Coffee and tea are provided, but alcoholic drinks are available for purchase during the cruise.

How many stops are there, and what are they?
There are six main stops, including Inönü Bay, Aquarium Bay, Tersane Koyu, the Sunken City of Simena, and the village of Kalekoy with its castle.

What features make the boat comfortable?
The 24-meter traditional wooden boat offers modern comfort, with ample space for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult, but must meet the minimum age for alcohol, which is 18 years.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility details; travelers with mobility concerns should inquire directly.

How far in advance should I book?
Most reservations are made about 21 days in advance due to high demand.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.