Planning a trip to Turkey and craving a mix of adventure, history, and scenery? This guided Kekova sea kayaking tour from Demre might be just what you’re after. It promises a full day of paddling along stunning coastlines, exploring ancient sunken ruins, and soaking in some genuine local charm.
We like that this tour offers a balanced mix of activity and sightseeing, with a manageable 4 hours of kayaking that doesn’t swamp you, even if you’re new to paddling. Plus, the chance to see the Sunken City of Kekova up close—without swimming in the protected area—stands out as a pretty special feature. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite timed and organized, which might feel a bit rushed if you’re keen on lingering longer at each stop.
This tour suits travelers who want a guided, active day that covers both natural beauty and history, without feeling overwhelmed. If you love the idea of exploring by kayak and enjoy small-group outings, this could be a great fit.
Key Points
- Accessible for beginners: Similar to a long walk, so no previous kayaking experience needed.
- Includes transportation: Pick-up and drop-off make logistics easier.
- Combines activity with sightseeing: Paddling along coastlines, visiting villages, and viewing ancient ruins.
- Time-efficient: Around 5.5 hours, perfect for a full but manageable day.
- Small group experience: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring more personalized attention.
- Includes lunch: Making the day seamless without needing to hunt for food.
What to Expect from the Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour
This tour is designed to be practical and engaging, especially for those new to kayaking or hesitant about longer excursions. The entire experience revolves around a well-structured schedule that balances paddling, sightseeing, and relaxing breaks.
Planning more time in Demre? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Morning Kickoff
The day begins early, around 8:20 a.m., with a pick-up from Demre. After a roughly 45-minute drive to Uçaiz village, you’ll be greeted with a safety briefing and paddle instructions—nothing overly technical, just enough to set you at ease. We loved how the guides made it clear that kayaking here is similar to a long walk, so it’s accessible even if you’re a beginner or not particularly sporty.
Paddling with Support
At 9:00 a.m., you’ll hop into your kayak, getting a chance to practice navigation and familiarize yourself with the equipment. A motorized support boat will accompany your group, offering reassurance and assistance throughout the paddle. This support really helps when you’re navigating the stunning coastline, especially if you’re still getting your sea legs.
The Coastal Paddling Route
Your first major stop is Tersane Bay around 10:15 a.m., where you’ll enjoy a swimming break. The bay’s calm waters are perfect for a quick dip, making it an ideal spot to cool off and soak in the scenery. From there, you’ll paddle along the coast, approaching the Sunken City of Kekova. This is the highlight for many, as you get to paddle past ancient ruins that lie just below the water’s surface—an incredible photo opportunity. Since swimming isn’t permitted here, kayaking alongside these submerged structures offers a unique perspective that you simply can’t get from boat tours.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting Simena Village and Castle
Around 11:30 a.m., you’ll arrive at Simena Castle in Kaleköy, a tiny village with a fascinating history. You’re given about 45 minutes here, enough time for a self-guided exploration. We especially enjoyed the hike up to the castle for panoramic views, but if you’d rather stay down at the water’s edge, you can take a dip again or browse local shops. This village feels authentic and unspoiled, offering a break from the more touristy spots.
The Ancient City of Theimussa
Next, your group heads toward Theimussa, where you’ll get close to Lycian sarcophagi and ancient ruins. It’s a brief stop, but enough to appreciate the history and snap some photos of the impressive tombs etched into the hillside. The quiet nature of this site feels like a bonus—less crowded and more genuine.
Returning and Lunch
After this final sightseeing stop, you’ll paddle back toward Uçaiz, where a tasty lunch awaits at around 1:15 p.m. The included meal helps round out the day, so you won’t need to worry about finding food on your own. After lunch, it’s a relaxed bus ride back to Demre, reflecting on the day’s highlights.
The Practicalities and Value
Priced at $57 per person, this tour offers a decent mix of active and cultural experiences. The price includes pick-up and drop-off, 4 hours of sea kayaking, and lunch—making it a good deal compared to booking separate activities or transportation. The small group size (limited to 15) means you’re more likely to get personalized attention, which can be a relief if you’re new to kayaking or unfamiliar with the area.
What you should bring includes sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen—nothing too complicated, but essentials to keep comfortable under the Turkish sun.
What Could Be Better?
One potential downside is the schedule’s rigidity. If you’re the type who loves to linger longer at each stop or explore on your own, the structured timing might feel a bit hurried. Also, since the tour involves paddling in a protected area, swimming isn’t an option in the Sunken City itself, but kayaking gives an up-close view that’s more immersive than just a boat cruise.
Reading the Reviews
Travelers seem to appreciate the friendly guides and the manageable pace, with many noting that beginners feel comfortable during the paddling. One quote that sums it up: “We loved the way the guides explained everything and made it easy for us to enjoy kayaking, even with no experience.” Others mentioned the beautiful scenery, especially the views of the ancient ruins and the picturesque village of Simena.
Some reviews point out that the lunch was simple but satisfying, and the support boat made the paddling less tiring. The only common suggestion is to bring plenty of sunscreen and water, as it can get hot on the coast.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is well-suited for active travelers, curious about history and scenery, and those who prefer a guided small-group outing. It’s a good choice if you want a day that’s full of new sights and gentle physical activity without the challenge of longer or more strenuous excursions.
If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of adventure and culture, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s not overly strenuous, but it offers enough of a workout to feel satisfying. It’s also perfect for those who want a rundown of Kekova’s highlights in a single day.
From Demre: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The paddling is described as similar to a long walk and the safety briefing ensures everyone feels confident before heading out.
What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, 4 hours of sea kayaking, and lunch, making it a hassle-free day out.
How long is the kayak activity?
You get about 4 hours of kayaking, spread across different stops with breaks along the way.
Does the tour involve swimming?
Yes, there’s a swim stop at Tersane Bay. Swimming in the Sunken City area isn’t permitted, but kayaking past the ruins offers a close-up view.
What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone for photos.
How many people are in a group?
Limited to 15 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and guided.
Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What is the duration of the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 5.5 hours, starting early in the morning.
Are there any additional costs?
You might want to budget for the entrance ticket to Castle of Simena if you decide to explore further, although the tour includes a visit.
Can I do this tour if I don’t want to kayak?
This tour is centered around kayaking, so if you prefer to stay on land, you might want to consider other options.
If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and interactive day exploring Kekova from the water, this guided sea kayaking tour from Demre hits many of the right notes. It offers a genuine taste of local history, scenic beauty, and active fun—without overwhelming you with complexity or length. The combination of protected ruins, authentic village vibes, and relaxed support makes it a solid choice for travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of adventure and culture.
While it might not be the best fit for those seeking long, unstructured explorations or non-physical activities, it’s perfect if you want a manageable, guided glimpse into one of Turkey’s most charming coastal regions. Pack your sunscreen, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a memorable day on the water.
You can check availability for your dates here:
