From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova Island

If you’re exploring Turkey’s Lycian coast, a boat trip to Kekova Island from Kas is often on the list. This tour promises a full day of swimming, historical sights, and a taste of local village life. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, from what I’ve gathered, it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a balance of scenery, history, and relaxation.

What really draws people in are the gorgeous stops for swimming in turquoise waters and the chance to see the famous Sunken City ruins from the boat—two features that seem to make this tour stand out. That said, it’s not without its quirks: the day’s pace can be quite packed, especially with multiple stops, and some might find the boat a little crowded or the tour a tad long if they prefer more leisure. Though, this trip fits well for those who enjoy a mix of water activities, gentle hiking, and a sprinkle of history.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want an accessible, well-organized day out without too much hassle—perfect if you like guided experiences and want to cover a lot of ground in one go. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues, as there’s some walking involved and limited accessibility. Families with older children or teens who love swimming and exploring picturesque villages will likely find this trip a highlight.

Key Points

• Comfort and convenience are prioritized with pick-up from Kas and a well-equipped boat.
• Multiple stops for swimming in stunning bays, including Aquarium Bay, Burç Bay, and Esmeralda Bay.
• Historic highlights like the Sunken City ruins and Simena Castle provide a rich visual and cultural experience.
• Engaging guides and friendly staff help make the day informative and relaxed.
• Delicious lunch included, making the day feel complete without worrying about food.
• Some downsides: the day can be long, and swimming at the Sunken City isn’t allowed, so viewing is from the boat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: Easy Pickup and Departure

Most travelers report a smooth start, with pickup arranged outside Smiley’s Restaurant in Kas, which makes meeting up straightforward. The pickup times can vary depending on the season, but you’ll be notified a day in advance—an extra touch of organization that helps keep stress levels low. From there, it’s a short drive to Ucagiz or Demre harbor, where the boat awaits, ready for a day on the water.

The Boat and Group Dynamics

The boat itself is described as spacious and well-equipped. Reviewers mention a friendly, professional crew that makes the experience special—guides who are knowledgeable and eager to share stories about Kekova’s history and natural features. Group sizes seem to range from small groups to larger parties, but most find the atmosphere relaxed. The boat trip lasts around 9 hours, so it’s a full-day commitment, but most agree the experience is worth the time.

The Stops: Swimming and Sightseeing

Aquarium Bay kicks off the water stops with a solid hour to cool off. The bay’s calm, clear waters are perfect for a swim, and the scenery is just as picture-perfect as you’d hope. Many reviews highlight how beautiful the turquoise waters are, and a few mention turtles spotted during their swims.

Next, you cruise past the Sunken City of Kekova, where swimming isn’t permitted directly at the ruins—it’s protected, after all. But the boat’s position allows for fantastic photos and a chance to appreciate the submerged remains of the ancient city of Dolchiste, which was flooded by an earthquake in the 2nd century. Reviewers love how much history can be soaked in from the boat, even if they can’t dive directly into the ruins.

Gökkaya Bay offers another swim spot, with the added bonus that the colder, spring-fed waters make for a refreshing break. Here, you might choose to get in the water again or simply relax on the boat.

Pirates Cave provides an opportunity for some fun exploration, with its large, curved entrance inviting curiosity. Not every reviewer mentions exploring inside, but it’s a scenic highlight. Similarly, Gökkaya Bay and Esmeralda Bay give you more chances to swim, relax, and enjoy the surroundings—some reviewers comment that the waters here are especially tranquil.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Simena (Kaleköy)

One of the tour’s highlights is a stop at Kaleköy (Ancient Simena), a tiny village with castle ruins and a necropolis that are fun to explore. Visitors typically get about an hour here, enough to stroll around, snap photos, or hike up to the castle for sweeping views of the bay. Several reviews mention that walking up provides fantastic photo opportunities and a taste of local life. If you prefer not to hike, you can stay by the harbor and enjoy another swim.

Lunch and Rest

Most travelers say the included lunch is tasty, often described as a good Mediterranean-style meal, sometimes with fresh fruit. It’s a welcome break in the middle of the day, especially since you’ll be active in the water beforehand. The meal helps balance out the day’s energy needs and rounds off the experience nicely.

Returning to Kas

After the day’s adventures, the boat heads back to the harbor, with most reviews noting a smooth and timely return. The journey back offers chances for reflection or some final photos of the coastline. The entire experience usually wraps up in the late afternoon, leaving travelers with a sense of having seen a truly special part of Turkey’s coast.

Practical Considerations

Price and Value

At $70 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the included lunch and the multiple swimming stops. The reviews consistently highlight the friendliness of the guides and the well-organized nature of the trip, making it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a hassle-free day on the water.

What to Bring

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a towel—things you’ll definitely appreciate after a swim or a walk around the village. Keep in mind that drinks aren’t included, so bringing some cash (for small purchases or entry fees at certain sites like the castle) is a smart idea.

Accessibility and Suitability

If you have limited mobility, this tour might not be ideal, as there’s some walking involved and no special accommodations mentioned. It’s best suited for those comfortable with boat travel and walking on uneven surfaces.

Weather and Season Notes

Since the boat departs between 10:20 and 10:40 am, the boat is out in the sun for most of the day. A sun hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water are highly recommended. The tour operates year-round, but the experience is especially pleasant in spring and summer when the weather is warm and the sea is inviting.

Final Thoughts

This Day Trip to Kekova Island from Kas is a reliable choice for anyone wanting a full day of water-based adventures, history, and stunning scenery. The multiple stops for swimming, the visit to the charming village, and the chance to see the famous sunken ruins make it a well-rounded experience. The good reviews about the friendly staff, tasty lunch, and beautiful views suggest most travelers leave satisfied.

It’s an especially good option if you’re looking for an organized, guided day that takes the stress out of planning your own trip, and if swimming and sightseeing are high on your list. Just be ready for a packed schedule and a full day out on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, older children and teenagers who enjoy swimming and exploring villages tend to enjoy this trip. However, it’s not specifically designed for very young children or those with limited mobility.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a towel, and some cash for optional expenses or entry fees. Don’t forget sunscreen!

Does the tour include drinks?
No, drinks are not included, so it’s best to bring your own water or beverages if you like to stay hydrated.

How long is the entire trip?
It lasts about 9 hours, from pickup in Kas to return, including all stops, swimming, and sightseeing.

Is the boat crowded?
While group sizes vary, reviews mention a friendly atmosphere and spacious boats, but it can feel busy during peak times, especially at popular stops.

Can I explore Simena village during the stop?
Yes, you have about an hour to walk around, visit the castle ruins, and enjoy views of the bay.

In the end, if you love a day of swimming, history, and relaxed exploration, this trip from Kas offers a balanced mix. It’s a good way to see Kekova’s highlights without fuss, provided you’re comfortable spending a full day on the water and walking around some historic sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: