Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour

If you’re heading to Kas and looking for a way to combine stunning scenery, historical intrigue, and some well-deserved relaxation, a boat tour around Kekova Island might just be the highlight of your trip. This full-day excursion offers a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food, all on a spacious boat with friendly crew. It’s designed for travelers who want a laid-back day exploring Turkey’s beautiful coastline, with plenty of time to swim in crystalline waters and discover ancient ruins.

Two things we really like about this tour are the quality of the boat and the crew — the reviews consistently praise how well-maintained and comfortable the vessel is, along with the friendly, professional staff. Plus, the variety of stops means you get to see everything from sunken ruins to medieval castles and lush bays, all without feeling rushed. A potential consideration? The tour is quite long (around 8 hours), so if you’re not used to full-day boat trips or have limited stamina, you might find it a bit tiring. But overall, this tour suits those craving a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore.

Whether you’re into history, nature, or just relaxing on a boat, this experience hits a lot of the right notes. It’s especially good for those who love being on the water, appreciate good food, and don’t mind a busy, packed itinerary—though there’s ample time to enjoy each stop. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and downtime should find this trip offers good value and memorable sights.

Key Points

• Well-maintained Boat: The vessel and facilities are praised for being spotless and comfortable.
• Friendly Crew & Guides: Expect warm, engaging staff who make the day enjoyable.
• Variety of Stops: From sunken ruins to castles and bays, each offers a unique experience.
• Excellent Value: The $77 price includes a tasty onboard lunch and multiple swimming stops.
• Long but Balanced Day: An 8-hour schedule with plenty of time for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.
• Good for Water Enthusiasts: Multiple swim stops, snorkeling opportunities, and crystalline waters are highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect on This Kekova Boat Tour

Starting Point & Logistics

Your day begins at the Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office near the harbor in Kas, conveniently located opposite the mosque. From there, you’ll board a spacious yacht that’s been described as well-kept, clean, and comfortable. The tour runs around 8 hours, with flexible starting times, so it’s worth checking availability in advance. You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, which is handy if your plans are still flexible.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with an initial cruise of about 45 minutes, setting the tone for a relaxed, scenic ride. The first major stop is Inonu Bay, where you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch, guided tours, and plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. This bay is known for its peaceful waters and gorgeous scenery, perfect for a refreshing dip.

After that, you’ll hop back on the boat for a 45-minute cruise to Karakol Islands, where you’ll get another break, some regional food, and enjoy the scenery. The islands are a lovely spot for marine life viewing, and the itinerary allows enough time to relax or explore.

Next, the highlight for many is the Sunken City of Kekova. Here, you’ll get around 30 minutes to pass by the submerged ruins visible from the boat. It’s one of the most Instagram-worthy parts of the trip, and the historical perspective adds a layer of fascination. Reviews mention how impressive the ruins are and how they mix a sense of mystery with natural beauty.

Exploring Simena Castle & Village

A full hour is set aside for Simena Castle, a medieval fortress perched above the quaint village of Kalekoy. Visitors can walk around the ruins, enjoy panoramic views, and even take a quick swim or explore the narrow streets. Several reviews highlight how much they enjoyed these stops — one user called it “the most and best experience ever” due to the well-organized pace and friendly staff.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Stops & Swimming Opportunities

Throughout the day, you’ll visit several bays such as Tersane Koyu, Üzüm Skelesi, and Pine Bay, each offering different scenery and swimming conditions. These stops are carefully chosen for their crystal-clear waters and natural beauty, perfect for snorkeling or just relaxing on deck. Reviewers note the water clarity and the variety of spots that are just accessible by boat, making each stop feel special.

Food & Refreshments

A major highlight, according to reviews, is the onboard lunch — often described as “amazing” and “top-notch.” The included meal features regional dishes, fish, chicken, kofte, and plenty of sides, served buffet-style on deck. Some reviews mention additional treats like fresh watermelon and tea at the end of the day. Be aware you’ll need to bring cash if you want to visit the castle or buy drinks, as those aren’t included.

The Crew & Overall Experience

What keeps most guests coming back for this tour is the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, especially the captain, Ergun. Many reviews highlight how helpful and accommodating they are, with some guests mentioning the crew even took drone shots or provided extra snacks. The boat’s size means it doesn’t feel crowded, giving everyone space to relax or move around freely, which is a big plus.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Bring your passport or ID, especially if you plan to visit the castle or explore the villages.
• Beachwear and towels are essential for swimming stops.
• Cash is handy for castle entrance fees or tipping.
• The tour isn’t suitable for people with certain medical conditions like heart problems or epilepsy, so check if you have pre-existing issues.
• The day can be quite long, so wear comfortable clothes and bring a light jacket or extra towel for the return trip, especially if the wind picks up.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

What’s most reassuring is how consistent the praise is. Many guests mention how the boat is well-maintained and spotless, with “friendly staff” who go the extra mile. One guest shared that it was “the best in business,” noting the captain’s 20-25 years of sailing experience. Others loved the quality of the food, with some calling it “delicious” and better than expected, adding to the feeling of good value.

The freedom to choose your seat, move around, and enjoy multiple swimming stops makes this trip feel personalized despite being part of a larger group. Several reviews mention the crystal-clear water and how the organized stops allowed for plenty of swimming and snorkeling, giving a real sense of freedom and adventure.

The Value Proposition

At $77 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day packed with sights, activities, and food. The price includes all the boat stops, lunch, and the guided tours, making it a good deal compared to other options. Guests consistently mention the excellent value for money and how the experience exceeded expectations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for water lovers, history buffs, and those looking for a relaxing day without the hassle of planning. It works well for couples and solo travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food. But it might be a long day for travelers with limited stamina or mobility issues, given the full duration and some walking involved, especially at the castle.

It’s also perfect for those who appreciate a well-organized, professional crew that makes the day smooth and enjoyable. If you’re seeking a quieter, intimate experience, the good news is the boat isn’t overcrowded, so you can spread out and enjoy the sights at your own pace.

FAQs

Is the boat tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the tour involves swimming and exploring ruins, so children who are comfortable in water and can handle a full day outside might enjoy it. Keep in mind the boat tour involves some walking and a full day’s schedule.

What is included in the price?
The tour price of $77 covers the boat cruise, guided tours at key stops, and a buffet lunch onboard. Drinks and castle entrance fees are not included, so plan for cash if needed.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 8 hours, with flexible starting times. It includes multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing.

Is the boat comfortable?
Guests say the vessel is well-maintained, spacious, and equipped with comfortable lounges on the top deck. The boat doesn’t get overcrowded, allowing space to relax or move around.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, beachwear, towels, and cash for optional extras. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also recommended.

Is there any special equipment on board?
Guests mentioned the availability of snorkel gear for rent, and some reviews noted the crew’s drone footage shots, which added a fun element to the day.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour from Kas to Kekova offers an immersive, well-organized way to explore Turkey’s stunning coastline and historical sites. The blend of crystal waters, ancient ruins, and delicious local food makes for a memorable day that’s worth every cent. The consistent praise for the friendly, professional staff, and the quality of the vessel really stands out, ensuring you’ll feel comfortable and well cared for throughout.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet engaging day on the water, with plenty of opportunities to swim in pristine waters and discover intriguing ruins, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a balance of sightseeing, leisure, and good food, all in a manageable, enjoyable package.

For those who appreciate a clean boat, knowledgeable guides, and spectacular scenery — and don’t mind a full day — this trip could easily become one of your best memories in Kas. Just remember to bring cash, be ready for a busy schedule, and learn about the stunning sights and sounds of Kekova.

You can check availability for your dates here: