Ultimate Sea Kayaking Tour of Kekova

If you’re considering a day on the water exploring the coast of Turkey’s Kekova Island, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally paddled along this route, I’ve gone through countless reviews and the detailed itinerary to give you a clear picture. This experience earns top marks, with a perfect 5.0 rating based on over 340 reviews, and it’s highly recommended by everyone who’s tried it.

What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is its accessibility. Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or someone trying water sports for the first time, you’ll find this trip approachable. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and a tasty lunch make it feel like a well-rounded adventure. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the need for good weather—since it’s an outdoor activity, wind or rain could impact your day.

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of active exploration and cultural sights, and who want a safe, guided introduction to kayaking in the stunning setting of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.

Key Points

• All levels welcome: Suitable for experienced paddlers and newcomers alike.
• Expert guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and able to tailor the pace.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect stunning views, ancient ruins, and secluded harbors.
• Excellent value: A full day with kayaking, sightseeing, and a delicious included lunch.
• Good group size: Small groups (max 14) ensure a personal experience.
• Weather considerations: The tour operates in all weather conditions, but be prepared for changes.

What’s Included and What You’ll Experience

The Basics of the Tour

This 7 to 8-hour adventure takes you around the coast of Kekova Island, a protected national park known for its underwater ruins and rugged coastline. The tour begins with a pickup from selected hotels, followed by transport in a minivan to the starting point—convenient and hassle-free. Once there, a brief tutorial will get you comfortable with the kayak, whether you’re a novice or seasoned paddler.

The tour is designed to be accessible—just a few hours of paddling are involved, making it doable even for those with moderate fitness levels. Children aged 5 and above can join if accompanied by an adult, and a written permission is required for those aged 14-17.

The Itinerary in Detail

First Stop: Learning and Paddling in Kekova Bay

Your day kicks off in a quiet bay opposite Kekova, where your guide will teach you the basics of kayaking. This part is especially good for beginners, as many reviews mention feeling comfortable on the water after just ten minutes of instruction. Becca, a pregnant reviewer, appreciated that it wasn’t too strenuous and that the guide purposely kept the group small to ensure a relaxed pace.

Exploring Kekova Island and its Highlights

Once everyone feels confident, you’ll paddle out towards Kekova itself. The island is famed for its secluded harbors, underwater ruins, and labyrinth of rocks. As you paddle along, you’ll get a chance to admire breathtaking vistas and spot intriguing sights like ancient structures partially submerged or hidden in caves.

A major highlight here is the chance to view the underwater remains—a feature that keeps this experience from feeling purely recreational. Being able to see the ruins from your kayak, combined with the natural beauty of the coast, makes for a memorable outing.

Stop in Simena Village for Lunch and Exploration

Midway through, you’ll arrive at the picturesque village of Simena. This tiny, charming spot is accessible only by boat, which adds a special touch to your visit. Here, you’ll enjoy a complimentary lunch—a highlight praised repeatedly in reviews for its deliciousness and authenticity. After lunch, there’s often time to wander around, soak in the atmosphere, and explore Simena Castle (though the entrance fee is extra).

Additional Activities and Sights

Many reviews mention the opportunity for swimming, relaxing on the quiet beaches, or exploring by foot. Barbaros, one of the guides, is renowned for his wealth of knowledge about the area’s history and flora/fauna, enhancing the experience with stories and insights that deepen your appreciation.

Why Travelers Love This Kayaking Tour

Experienced Guides Making a Difference

Multiple reviews rave about Barbaros and other guides, highlighting their knowledge, patience, and friendly approach. One reviewer said, “Barbi is a fantastic host, thoroughly enjoying the day and sharing Turkish culture.” This personalized attention makes the trip more engaging and less intimidating for beginners.

Scenic, Peaceful Paddling

The views along Kekova are stunning, with many reviewers highlighting how much they enjoyed paddling amidst ancient ruins and natural rock formations. The calm waters and manageable paddling time make it an ideal introduction to sea kayaking for most.

Tasty, Well-Prepared Lunch

The included lunch is often described as more than just a meal—it’s a chance to relax and refuel. Many reviewers mention it exceeded expectations, with some wishing they’d brought snorkeling masks to explore underwater sights further.

Good Value for Money

At about $68 per person, the tour offers a full day—guiding, equipment, transport, and food included. Several reviewers like Ellen and Fiona emphasize how this experience was the highlight of their trip and a fantastic value.

Small Group Dynamics

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tour feels intimate, allowing for better interaction with guides and fellow participants. Barbaros is praised for his small group approach, ensuring everyone is comfortable and engaged.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Group Size and Timing

The tour’s capped at 14 people, creating a friendly and manageable atmosphere. It starts early in the morning (around 8 am by some accounts), with pickup included from selected hotels—perfect for avoiding long travel times and maximizing your day.

Duration and Pacing

Expect about 7 to 8 hours, with a mix of paddling, sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The paddle itself is only a few hours, making it feasible for most fitness levels, especially since the pace is tailored to the group.

What to Bring

Comfort is key—wear water shoes or sandals (avoid flip-flops), bring sun protection (hat, glasses, sunscreen), and pack a change of clothes. The provided dry bags help keep your valuables safe, but it’s best to leave expensive items in your hotel.

Weather and Safety

While the tour runs in all weather conditions, keep in mind that wind or rain might alter plans or affect comfort. The tour requires basic swimming skills and a moderate physical fitness level, but as many reviews note, even first-timers feel confident after a short instruction.

Cost Breakdown

The price includes the guide, kayak use, hotel pickup and drop-off, and lunch. Extra costs are minimal but include optional entrance fees (like Simena Castle) and purchases such as drinks and souvenirs.

The Authentic Experience from the Traveler Perspective

Many reviewers comment on the value brought by knowledgeable guides. Becca mentions, “He is very knowledgeable about the area’s history,” and others highlight the friendly, relaxed vibe, which makes the experience enjoyable rather than stressful.

Several mention how smooth the entire process was—from pickup to return—thanks to the organized approach of Go Lycia. The included lunch and the opportunity to swim and explore add to the overall satisfaction, making this more than just a kayaking trip—it’s a well-rounded day out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a manageable adventure with a good mix of activity and cultural sights. It suits families with older children, active travelers, and anyone interested in a safe, guided introduction to kayaking in a stunning coastal setting. Those seeking a high-adrenaline challenge might find it too relaxed, but if you’re after scenic views, history, and a fun day on the water, this trip hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Ultimate Sea Kayaking Tour of Kekova offers an excellent way to see Turkey’s breathtaking coast from the water. With friendly guides, manageable paddling, and a tasty included lunch, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a relaxed yet memorable experience. The small group sizes and rich storytelling make it feel personalized, while the standout scenery keeps everyone captivated.

If you’re after a combination of gentle adventure, cultural insight, and gorgeous views, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly suited for those who value good organization and authentic experiences, making it more than just a kayak trip—it’s a chance to connect with the area’s natural beauty and history.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for those new to kayaking. The guide provides a short tutorial, and many travelers report feeling comfortable after just a few minutes.

What should I wear? Wear water shoes or sandals, sun protection like a hat and sunglasses, and bring a towel and change of clothes. Waterproof gear is recommended for phones and cameras.

How long is the paddling? The kayaking itself involves only a few hours of paddling, spread across the day with breaks. The overall experience lasts about 7 to 8 hours.

Are children allowed? Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate if accompanied by an adult, with written permission required for ages 14-17.

What’s included in the price? The package covers the guide, kayak use, transportation (hotel pickup and drop-off), and lunch.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, receiving a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What is the group size? The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad? The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This kayaking trip around Kekova combines natural beauty, history, and friendly guidance—all wrapped into one affordable, memorable day. Whether you’re a water sports novice or a seasoned paddler, you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your Turkish adventure.