Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

Exploring the Turkish Riviera by Kayak: A Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour Review

If you’re considering a day on the water exploring Turkey’s famous Kekova area, a guided sea kayaking tour might be just the thing. From what we’ve seen and heard, this experience offers a mix of adventure, history, and scenic beauty that can really make a trip memorable. It’s perfect for those who love being active but still want a well-organized, hassle-free outing.

What really stands out about this tour is how it combines kayaking with a bit of sightseeing and hiking — all organized by a knowledgeable guide. Plus, the opportunity to paddle around the Sunken City and visit ancient Lycian ruins makes it more than just a paddle in the water. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that due to restrictions, swimming near the sunken city isn’t always allowed, which might be a bummer if swimming was your main goal.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural exploration, and it works well even if you’re new to kayaking. If you’re traveling with friends or family who are comfortable with moderate physical activity, this could be a fantastic way to see the area from a different perspective. Overall, it offers great value and a chance to see some of Turkey’s remarkable history and natural beauty in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Well-organized tour with all logistics handled – Kayaks, navigation, and safety instructions are included.
• Stunning views and historical insights – Explore ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic vistas over Kekova.
• Active experience with balanced movement – Kayaking, hiking, and swimming opportunities blend adventure with relaxation.
• Affordable price point for a four-hour guided outing – At just under $54 per person, it delivers good value for what’s included.
• Limited swimming options near the Sunken City – Restrictions prevent underwater exploration at this site.
• Small group size (up to 15 travelers) – Ensures a more personal experience and attentive guides.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Ucagiz Village, the tour kicks off with a brief safety chat and paddle instructions. If you’re new to kayaking, don’t worry — the guide makes sure everyone’s comfortable before heading out. The first big highlight is the trip to Kekova Island, famous for the Sunken City. Although swimming isn’t permitted near this area, paddling around the submerged ruins is still a fascinating sight. You’ll get close enough to see the ancient Lycian remains, which lie beneath the water in a way that’s both eerie and captivating.

Next, you’ll visit Simena Castle, perched above the water, offering some of the best views of the coastline. The guide will share stories about the castle’s history and point out Lycian sarcophagi scattered nearby. This part of the tour is especially appealing for history buffs and photo enthusiasts alike, thanks to the impressive scenery and ancient structures.

After exploring the ruins, the group usually heads back to Ucagiz for a well-earned lunch. The inclusion of a tasty meal is a nice touch, providing energy after all the paddling and hiking. The tour concludes back at the meeting point, with plenty of time to chat about the day’s adventures.

What to Expect on the Water

Once on the water, expect a gentle to moderate paddle, depending on your comfort level and physical condition. The guide points out the best spots for swimming — although, based on recent reviews, restrictions mean you might not be able to snorkel or swim close to the Sunken City itself. However, there are other swimming spots nearby, and the scenery alone makes the paddling worthwhile.

The guide’s knowledge about the local history and geography adds depth to the experience. As one reviewer put it, “The guide shows you the best spots and shares insights about Turkish ancient culture,” making the journey both enjoyable and educational. The small group size means the guide can give personalized attention, answer questions, and ensure everyone feels safe and engaged.

The Views and Photo Opportunities

You’ll love the views from the hike up to a vantage point over Kekova. The guide takes you up to a spot with breathtaking panoramas, perfect for snapping some photos. Whether it’s the shimmering water, the colorful villages, or the ruins beneath the surface, your camera will thank you.

Most travelers report that the highlight is seeing the ancient ruins from a different vantage point. The combination of kayaking, hiking, and sightseeing makes this tour feel like a well-rounded day out rather than just a boat or kayak trip. Because the tour is run by SAILNSTAY and is priced at just under $54, it’s a pretty reasonable way to experience a mix of history and nature.

The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Group Size

At about $54 per person, this guided tour offers good value, especially considering all logistics and the inclusion of lunch. The whole experience takes roughly four hours, starting at 8:30 am, which makes it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social interaction and personalized attention. Most people book about 29 days in advance, so it’s a popular choice for visitors planning ahead.

The Real Deal from Reviews

One reviewer noted that, “it was my first time doing kayaking so 9.5 km was quite intense but I succeeded,” which highlights that even beginners can take part, provided they’re prepared for some physical activity. Another review pointed out that restrictions prevented swimming near the Sunken City, but overall, the experience was still highly enjoyable thanks to the guide’s insights and the stunning surroundings.

These honest perspectives remind us that while the tour might not be perfect for everyone (especially if swimming is your priority), it still offers a memorable way to connect with Turkey’s stunning coast and ancient past.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This kayaking adventure is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of light physical activity, history, and scenic views. It’s suitable for those who don’t mind a 9.5 km paddle and appreciate guided commentary. If you’re traveling with friends or family comfortable with moderate exertion, this tour can be a highlight of your trip.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a leisurely boat cruise or underwater snorkeling experience, given the restrictions near the Sunken City. If you’re curious about the Lycian ruins and want to explore at a relaxed pace with all logistics sorted, this tour hits the right note.

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour offers a unique way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating coastal sights. It combines physical activity with cultural insights, all within a well-organized package that handles the details so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

While swimming near the Sunken City isn’t permitted, the views and historical sights make up for it. The small group size and knowledgeable guide help create a friendly, educational atmosphere that feels more like a day spent exploring with friends than a typical tourist outing. If you’re up for a bit of paddling and exploration, it’s a solid choice that many travelers recommend.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible, with paddle instructions provided at the start. Most travelers can participate, even if it’s their first kayaking experience.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the kayak, navigation, safety gear, a guide, and lunch. You’ll need to pay an entrance fee of 4.00 per person for the Castle of Simena.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately four hours, starting at 8:30 am, with time split between kayaking, hiking, sightseeing, and lunch.

Can I swim during the tour?
While the guide shows you the best spots for swimming, restrictions mean you may not be able to swim near the Sunken City. You might find other nearby spots to take a dip.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a more personal experience and attentive guide.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 29 days ahead, as the tour is quite popular.

Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour is best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for water and sun protection, a camera, and a sense of adventure.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re looking for a balanced, active day that combines history, scenery, and some exercise, the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour ticks a lot of boxes. It’s a great way to experience Turkey’s coast in a different way, especially if you enjoy being on the water and exploring from a new angle.