If you’re dreaming of a mix of adventure, history, and stunning coastal views in Turkey, the Kekova Guided Sea Kayaking Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally paddled these waters, I’ve checked out what this experience offers, and it seems like a solid choice for those who enjoy active sightseeing with a touch of history.
What I really like about this tour is how it combines a manageable time frame—just four hours—with a rich lineup of sights. Plus, the focus on kayaking means you’ll get a more intimate, hands-on way to see the area, rather than just snapping photos from a boat. On the flip side, the tour involves some paddling, which could be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to it.
This experience will suit travelers who enjoy a bit of physical activity, want expert guiding, and are interested in seeing Kekova’s highlights up close. It’s also perfect if you’re after a mixture of adventure and sightseeing without committing an entire day. Families with active kids might find it fun, but keep in mind the paddling and hiking involved.
Key Points
- Unique perspective: Kayaking allows you to get close to Kekova’s sunken ruins and caves that boats can’t access.
- Stunning views: The hike up Simena Castle and the panoramic scenery are real highlights.
- Expert guides: Visitors praise knowledgeable guides who keep the experience engaging.
- Good value: The tour provides a full itinerary—including kayaking, sightseeing, and a delicious lunch—for its price.
- Moderate activity level: Suitable for those comfortable with paddling and hiking; not ideal if you prefer a relaxed, sit-back experience.
- Limited swimming options: Swimming is available at designated spots but not in the Sunken City itself due to protected area restrictions.
What to Expect from the Kekova Guided Sea Kayaking Tour
This tour kicks off early in the morning, departing from Ucagiz around 9:30 am. From there, you’ll be ferried by a motorized support vessel to your starting point at Tersane Bay. This support boat is essential—it keeps the pace steady and provides a safety buffer for paddlers, which is reassuring whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-timer.
The first part of your adventure involves paddling southwest along Turkey’s scenic coastline toward Kekova Island. The highlight here is the Sunken City of Kekova, an area protected from swimming but perfect for kayaking. As you glide past the ruins, you’ll be able to snap photos from close quarters—something many reviews highlight as a real plus. Since swimming isn’t allowed in the Sunken City itself, viewing it from your kayak offers a unique perspective that simply can’t be matched from land or boat.
After about 10 minutes of cruising past the ruins, you’ll reach Tersane Bay, where you’ll take a swim break. The water here is described as gorgeous, making it a perfect spot to cool off and relax. The guides tend to keep the group moving at a gentle pace, so even if you’re not an experienced paddler, you’ll likely feel comfortable.
Following the paddle, you’ll head to Simena, a charming fishing village with an ancient castle perched above. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes to explore the small village, walk around the ruins of Simena Castle, and enjoy the incredible views of the Kekova region. The hike up to the castle is a chance for panoramic photos, and some guests say it’s well worth the effort. If you prefer not to hike, you can spend your time relaxing by the water or exploring the quaint streets.
The afternoon includes a visit to Theimussa, an ancient Lycian city, where you’ll get a close-up look at impressive sarcophagi and kayak past more ruins. The whole route is designed to balance activity and sightseeing, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and learn about the area’s history.
Finally, after returning to your kayak base, you’ll head to Üçaiz for a well-deserved lunch around 1:15 pm. The tour includes a tasty midday meal, often praised for its quality. Keep in mind, the entrance fee to Simena Castle is not included—just a small additional expense.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
- Start: Ucagiz, 9:30 am departure with support vessel
- Tersane Koyu: kayaking and swimming for about 30 minutes
- Kekova Island Sunken City: close-up kayaking and photos, 10-minute pass-by
- Simena Castle: 45-minute stop for exploration, photos, and scenic views
- Theimussa: 10-minute kayak pass-by with ancient ruins
- Return: back to base, then lunch at Üçaiz around 1:15 pm
Throughout the tour, you’ll be in a small group with a live guide speaking English and Turkish. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest it can be somewhat large, so managing the group might be a bit busy for the guide.
What the Reviews Say
The majority of reviews are glowing, with an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 20 travelers. Many mention the guides as a highlight, describing them as knowledgeable, energetic, and helpful. One reviewer appreciated their guide Yasar, calling him wonderful and one of the best parts of the trip.
Viewpoints are consistently praised—”amazing views” and “beautiful sites” pop up regularly. Many are especially fond of the kayaking experience, calling it the perfect way to explore the coast, with one reviewer stating it was “a peaceful time on the water.” The swim spot at Tersane Bay also earns compliments for its stunning nature.
While most are delighted, a few comment that paddling can be tiring if you’re not used to it, and managing a large group can make some parts feel hurried. One review mentioned that the Sunken City didn’t impress everyone as much, which is worth noting if you’re expecting a full-on archaeological site experience—it’s more about the view and the kayaking than exploring the ruins deeply.
Is This Tour Worth It?
Considering the value, this tour offers a lot for the price. You get a well-rounded experience with kayaking, sightseeing, hiking, and lunch. The guides’ local knowledge and the stunning scenery make it a trip worth considering if you’re active and want to experience Kekova from a different angle.
It’s also flexible enough to appeal to those who want to avoid a long, full-day tour but still see key highlights without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a support vessel adds an extra layer of safety and comfort, especially for those who might be a little unsure about paddling.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Book This Tour?
If you love engaging with a destination in a hands-on way, enjoy outdoor activities, and want a mix of adventure and sightseeing, you’ll likely find this tour very satisfying. It suits travelers who are comfortable with some physical activity—paddling and hiking—and appreciate guided insights into local history.
Families with active kids might find it fun, especially if they’re used to paddling or hiking, but younger children should be prepared for some exertion. It’s not suited for travelers who prefer relaxed, seated excursions or those with mobility issues, given the hiking aspect and paddling.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for people who don’t kayak regularly?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible, with a support vessel escorting the group. The kayaking is manageable, and you can choose how much to paddle vs. relax.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear and a towel. It’s also wise to have sun protection like sunscreen and a hat, especially since you’ll be out on the water.
How long is the entire tour?
The main activity lasts about four hours, starting at 9:30 am. The itinerary includes kayaking, sightseeing stops, hiking, and lunch.
Is there any entry fee I need to pay?
You’ll need to pay a small entrance fee (around 4 euros) if you visit Simena Castle, which isn’t included in the tour price.
Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, you can swim at Tersane Bay and other designated spots. Swimming isn’t permitted in the Sunken City itself due to protected status.
What languages are the guides speaking?
The guides speak English and Turkish, so language shouldn’t be a barrier for most travelers.
Is this tour family-friendly?
While it involves some paddling and hiking, active families with older children or teenagers who enjoy outdoor activities should find it fun. It may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility concerns.
How many people are in a group?
The size isn’t specified, but some reviews suggest that managing large groups can be challenging for guides, so expect a sizeable group.
What’s the lunch like?
Lunch is included in the tour and is generally well-regarded, offering a tasty break after the morning’s activities.
Kekova Guided Sea Kayaking Tour
“What an amazing day on the water!! Amazing views!! We werent impressed by the sunken city, but we were so glad we booked this trip to have some pea…”
Final Thoughts
The Kekova Guided Sea Kayaking Tour offers a wonderful mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight—all within a manageable four-hour window. If you’re someone who appreciates active exploration and loves the idea of paddling alongside ancient ruins while taking in fantastic views, this trip could be a highlight of your time in Antalya Province.
The experienced guides, the opportunity to see Kekova from a different perspective, and the chance to enjoy a delicious local lunch make it a solid choice for travelers looking for a balanced, engaging outing. Just be prepared for some physical activity, and you’ll come away with a memorable experience that combines nature, history, and a touch of adventure.
Feel inspired? Check the availability and see if this unique kayaking adventure fits into your Turkey itinerary. It might just be the best way to experience Kekova’s special charm.
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