Kalkan: Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip

Kalkan: Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip – A Relaxed Day on the Water with Historic Charm

If you’re considering a day out on the water in Turkey’s stunning Antalya Province, the Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip is worth a look. This tour offers a blend of history, scenic views, and relaxing swimming spots—all from a comfortable boat that lets you take in the Mediterranean’s beauty without the fuss of planning every detail yourself.

What we really like about this trip is how it combines the thrill of discovering ancient ruins—both above and below water—with the simple joy of lounging in the sun and swimming in clear, calm bays. The inclusion of a homemade ice cream in Simena is a sweet touch that many travelers find memorable. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a full-day tour, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy spending time on the water and are comfortable with a structured schedule. It’s ideal for those who want a hassle-free way to explore multiple scenic spots in one day without having to organize transport or meals.

This experience tends to attract curiosity seekers who love history, beautiful landscapes, and a good boat ride. It’s also well-suited to travelers who appreciate value for money, as the price includes transportation, a guide, and a buffet lunch. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic day with plenty of swimming and light exploration, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The trip covers pickup, transfer, a guide, and lunch, making it straightforward for travelers.
• Multiple Stops for Swimming: Six bays, including famous spots like Tersane Bay and Gokkaya Bay, give plenty of chances to cool off.
• Historical and Underwater Viewing: You’ll see ancient ruins both on land and beneath the waves, adding an educational element.
• Beautiful Scenery: The route through the crystal waters showcases some of Turkey’s most picturesque coastal landscapes.
• Authentic Local Touch: The homemade ice cream at Simena is often a highlight, providing a personal, local flavor.
• Value for Money: At $68 per person, considering all included features and the full-day experience, most reviews agree it’s a good deal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip

This tour is designed as a relaxed but comprehensive exploration of Kekova’s coastal treasures. Starting from Ucagz village, you will be picked up from your hotel in Kalkan or Ka, and then head out on a boat that becomes your floating base for the day. The total duration is around 9 hours, which includes plenty of time for stops, swimming, and enjoying the scenery.

The Journey Begins—Cruising to Kekova

The boat trip kicks off with a roughly one-hour sail from Ucagz village to the heart of Kekova. This initial ride is a good chance to settle in and get excited about what’s ahead. Once you arrive, the first major highlight is Tersane Bay, where you’ll get your first swim break while enjoying views of the famous sunken city ruins.

The underwater remains of this ancient Lycian town lie just below the water’s surface, visible from the boat, and many travelers find it fascinating to see the submerged structures through the boat’s viewing windows or simply by peering into the water. As one reviewer put it, “The places we stopped to swim were wonderful,” and the scenery really does live up to expectations.

Gokkaya Bay and the Open Buffet Lunch

Next, the boat heads to Gokkaya Bay for a tasty buffet lunch. The food is described as delicious, with plenty to go around, providing a welcome break and fuel for the rest of the day. While eating, you’ll be surrounded by stunning blue waters and rugged coastlines, making the meal feel like part of the adventure. Many guests appreciate the value here, especially since drinks are available at reasonable prices on board.

After lunch, there’s another chance for a swim in Gokkaya’s clear waters. The bay’s calm, shallow waters are perfect for relaxing or splashing around with minimal worry.

Exploring Caves and Bays

The boat then visits notable spots like the Pirate Cave and Burc Bay. The Pirate Cave, with its intriguing name, offers a moment to explore or simply enjoy the views from the boat. These stops add variety to the day, mixing swimming with sightseeing.

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The Highlight—Simena Village and Castle

The final stop is Simena, a charming village with a medieval castle perched above the bay. Here, you have a choice: ascend to the castle for spectacular panoramic views or wander through the village to sample the home-made ice cream that travelers rave about. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of this historic spot.

The ice cream is a real treat, often mentioned as a standout moment by visitors. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that adds a personal touch to the day. If you decide to walk up to the castle, the view over the bay is truly worth the climb—imagine rugged coastlines meeting ancient ruins, all bathed in warm sunlight.

Final Swim and Return

Before heading back to Ucagz village, the boat makes a last stop near Ucagz Village for one more swim. The water here is inviting, and it’s a nice way to round out the day. The journey back is a good time to relax, reflect on the day, and chat with fellow travelers.

The Logistics—Details That Matter

This tour is designed for comfort and convenience. Pickup is included from your hotel in Kalkan or Ka, which simplifies the logistics. The total duration of about 9 hours makes it a full but not overwhelming day. The trip is guided in both Turkish and English, ensuring everyone can understand the commentary and learn about the sites.

The price of $68 per person covers the transfer, guidance, and a buffet lunch. You’ll want to bring extra money for drinks or souvenirs, but the included meal and scenic stops make this a good value. Entrance fees are not included, so if there are any additional site charges, they’d be on you.

What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, with visitors praising the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and value for money. One reviewer said, “Mehmet was a great guide and all the crew were fabulous fun,” capturing how friendly and engaging the crew tends to be. Another mentioned that the lunch was delicious and that the pricing of drinks was fair, making the whole experience feel well-organized and enjoyable.

A few minor notes: the boat description mentions a glass bottom, but one reviewer pointed out this wasn’t available, so don’t expect underwater viewing that way. Still, the views from the boat and the water are impressive enough.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits those who want a relaxed day of sightseeing with plenty of swimming in beautiful bays. It’s perfect for travelers interested in history but not looking for an overly complex or strenuous activity. If you enjoy being on the water and want a hassle-free way to explore Kekova’s highlights, this tour provides a solid, enjoyable experience.

It’s also a good choice if you value good guides and delicious food, and prefer paying one price that covers most expenses. While it’s not tailored specifically for families with young children, older kids and teenagers who enjoy swimming and history generally find this day engaging.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For around $68, this boat trip offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, history, and leisure. The stops at multiple bays, the chance to see submerged ruins, and the delicious homemade ice cream at Simena add layers of appeal. The company’s guide and crew get consistent praise for their friendliness and knowledge, making it feel like a personal tour rather than just a commercial activity.

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring small coastal villages, and taking things at a leisurely pace. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic day with good food, friendly guides, and memorable views, this Kekova Sunken City boat trip could be just what you’re looking for.

However, if you’re not a fan of structured tours or want a more active or private experience, you might want to explore other options. But for most, this outing offers a nice mix of relaxation and discovery—perfect for a straightforward day in this gorgeous part of Turkey.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkel?
Yes, if you have one, it’s recommended to bring your snorkel to enjoy underwater views more closely.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including transportation, stops, and swimming time.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is provided, and many reviews praise its quality and variety.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included but can be purchased on board at reasonable prices.

Can I visit the castle at Simena?
Yes, you have the option to walk up to the castle for scenic views, or explore the village and enjoy the local ice cream.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically targeted at families, older children who enjoy swimming and history will likely enjoy the trip.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guidance is available in Turkish and English.

Do I need to worry about entrance fees?
Entrance fees are not included in the price, so check if any sites you want to visit require an additional fee.

If you’re after a day of scenic cruising, swimming, and light exploration in Turkey’s Mediterranean waters, the Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip offers a relaxed, engaging way to experience some of the region’s best.

You can check availability for your dates here: