From Kas: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

Exploring the Turkish Coast by Kayak: A Review of the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour from Kas

If you’re looking to experience Turkey’s gorgeous water in a relaxed, well-organized way, this guided Kekova sea kayaking tour might just be your best bet. It’s a popular choice among travelers with a lot of praise—rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 23 reviews—and recommended by 96% of participants. For about $64, you’re getting a full day of adventure that covers scenic paddling, historic sites, and some tasty local lunch, all without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

What we really love about this tour is how comprehensive and stress-free it is. The fact that all transport, kayaks, and lunch are included means you can simply show up and enjoy the day. Plus, the chance to learn about the area’s fascinating past from an experienced guide adds a layer of depth to what might otherwise be a just pretty paddle. That said, if you’re not a fan of group activities or prefer a quieter, solo experience, this might feel a bit crowded or structured.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—while quite reasonable for a full-day experience, it’s worth noting the entrance fee to Simena Castle isn’t included, so bring some cash if you want to explore that. This tour suits travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity, are interested in scenery and history, and appreciate having all logistics handled.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Transport, kayaks, and lunch are included, making it very convenient.
• Guided Insight: The knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with local history and tips.
• Beautiful Scenery: You’ll paddle past sunken cities, ancient ruins, and breathtaking viewpoints.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops include swimming, exploring ruins, and a hike to scenic viewpoints.
• Good for Active Travelers: The tour involves paddling and walking, so some mobility helps.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting early in Kas at around 8:00 am, your day kicks off with a comfortable 45-minute bus ride to Ucagiz, a charming village that serves as the launch pad for your adventures. Once there, you’ll transfer onto a support vessel that escorts your group as you begin paddling southwest along the coast. This escort isn’t just for safety—it’s also a chance to enjoy the scenery and get a feel for the region’s layout before you even hit the water.

Ucagiz and First Swimming Break

By around 9:30 am, you’ll set out with your group and support boat heading toward Tersane Bay, arriving at around 10:15 am. Here, you’ll take your first swim in the clear waters, a perfect way to cool off after the drive. This break lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to relax and snap some photos.

Kayaking Over the Sunken City of Kekova

Next, your group will paddle over the famous Sunken City of Kekova, a site that’s both visually stunning and historically intriguing. Because this is a protected area, swimming here isn’t permitted, but the view from your kayak offers plenty of photo ops. Many travelers love this part—one reviewer mentions that kayaking alongside the ruins offers an “unforgettable” perspective, and others highlight how breathtaking the environment is. It’s a chance to get close to ancient Lycian remains from a unique angle.

Exploring Kekova Island and Simena Castle

Your next stop is Kekova Island, where the group continues to explore the submerged ruins by kayak. This area’s appeal lies in getting up close and personal with the remnants—something that many reviews praise heavily. It’s a chance to capture fantastic photos and enjoy the serenity of the water.

Later, you’ll arrive at the small village of Kaleköy (also known as Simena). The tour allocates about 45 minutes here for you to visit the castle ruins and the necropolis, and to soak up the authentic atmosphere of this tiny fishing village. One reviewer praises their guide Ibrahim, saying, “He is the best,” emphasizing the importance of knowledgeable guides in enriching the experience.

The Hilltop Views and Additional Swimming

A short hike up the hillside provides panoramic views of the region, making it a memorable photo spot. If you prefer, you can simply relax by the water and enjoy a dip in the blue waters again—many travelers mention that these swimming opportunities are highlights of the day.

Final Stops and Lunch

In the afternoon, the tour heads toward the ancient city of Theimussa, where you can admire more Lycian sarcophagi and enjoy the scenic drive back. The trip concludes around 13:15 pm with a delicious lunch at Ucagiz, after which you’ll be transported back to Kas.

The Experience in Detail

Transportation: Starting from Kas, the tour’s pickup option makes it easier to coordinate your day. The 45-minute drive to Ucagiz sets a relaxed tone—no rushing, just anticipation for the day ahead.

Group Dynamics: With a cap of 15 travelers, the tour offers a friendly atmosphere with plenty of space for connecting with others. Many reviews highlight the guide’s role in making the day special, with praise for Yasar and Ibrahim, who are described as knowledgeable and friendly.

kayaking & Safety: The support vessel escort is a thoughtful touch—especially for those new to kayaking. It adds a layer of security that allows you to focus on enjoying the paddling without worries.

Stops & Highlights: Each stop is designed to maximize your experience—whether it’s swimming in Tersane Bay, paddling over the sunken city, or hiking to lookout points. The inclusion of scenic views and the chance to explore the ruins from different angles makes the day feel varied and engaging.

Cost & Value: For $64, the price includes all the essentials—transport, kayaks, and lunch. While the entrance fee to Simena Castle isn’t included, at just 4 euros, it’s a modest add-on. Considering the full-day adventure and the scenery, many travelers feel they get good value for money.

Reviews & feedback: Enthusiastic comments about the environment and guides dominate. One person describes the experience as “fabulous,” and another calls kayaking “awesome.” The guide’s ability to explain the sights and keep things fun is a recurring theme, adding to the overall positive vibe.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour shines for those who want an active day on the water but don’t want to plan all the details themselves. It’s suited for travelers who value guided experiences with interesting commentary and enjoy scenic outdoor activities. If you’re comfortable paddling a kayak and appreciate historical sites, you’ll probably find this day memorable.

It also works well for small groups—up to 15 people—which fosters a friendly, less crowded atmosphere. The inclusion of a scenic hike and stops for swimming and exploring make it a good choice for those who like a mix of physical activity and relaxing breaks.

While it’s not specifically designed for families with young children or those seeking a quiet, solitary experience, older kids with some fitness should be fine. Just keep in mind the physical nature of kayaking and walking involved.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic adventure that combines history, nature, and a bit of physical activity, this guided Kekova sea kayaking tour from Kas hits most of the right notes. You’ll get to paddle along stunning coastlines, explore ancient ruins from a rare perspective, and enjoy a relaxing day with a friendly guide. Plus, the all-inclusive aspect means you don’t need to worry about logistics—just show up and paddle.

This experience is especially ideal for travelers who want to make the most of their time in Kas without any fuss. It offers a good balance of adventure and culture, with enough flexibility to suit different interests. The positive reviews and high ratings reflect how much people enjoy the environment and the guides’ expertise.

For anyone curious about the region’s past or simply looking for a memorable day on the water, this tour delivers genuine value, beautiful scenery, and friendly company. Just bring some cash for the castle entrance, a sense of adventure, and a swimsuit—and you’re set for an unforgettable experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfers from your hotel or meeting point in Kas, making it very convenient.

What’s the typical duration of this tour?
The whole experience lasts roughly 4 to 6 hours, with most of the time spent paddling, swimming, and exploring.

Are all the necessary equipment provided?
Yes, all the kayaks and safety gear are included, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Can I visit the Castle of Simena?
Yes, you can pay a small entrance fee (about 4 euros) to explore the castle and necropolis area.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly geared toward families, older kids comfortable with paddling and walking should be fine. The physical activity is moderate but requires some mobility.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In short, this guided Kekova sea kayaking tour from Kas is a fantastic way to see the region’s beauty in a day, with the right balance of activity and relaxation. It’s a compelling choice for travelers wanting a memorable, hassle-free adventure on Turkey’s stunning coast.