Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island

If you’re planning a trip to Kas and want a day filled with stunning scenery, intriguing history, and relaxing swims, a boat trip to Kekova Island might just be your best bet. Although I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, it’s a popular choice among travelers looking to see some of the most captivating sights along Turkey’s coast. From what I’ve gathered, it offers a good mix of exploration, leisure, and cultural highlights—all wrapped up in roughly nine hours.

What really stands out about this experience are the beautiful bays where you can swim and the fascinating Sunken City ruins that make Kekova a must-see. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to the small village of Kaleköy (Simena), with its castle and quaint streets, adds a charming touch. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that some sites, like the castle, require an extra entrance fee—so be prepared for that. This tour seems well-suited for those who enjoy scenic days on the water, good company, and a bit of history thrown in.

If you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized trip with reliable service, and you’re keen on seeing Kekova without much hassle, then this could be a great fit. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even family, as the itinerary balances fun, exploration, and relaxation. Just keep in mind that since it’s a full-day tour, it’s better suited for those comfortable with a long day on the water and a bit of walking.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and swimming spots make this trip highly photogenic and relaxing
• Historic ruins of the Sunken City offer a unique glimpse into the past
• Includes a visit to Kaleköy village, with castle ruins and panoramic views
• A well-organized day with reliable crew and service ensures you won’t be left wondering what’s next
• Price provides good value, considering lunch, boat rides, and multiple stops
• Some sites require an entrance fee, so budget accordingly

An In-Depth Look at the Kekova Day Trip

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour kicks off early at around 8:30 am from Kalkan, meeting at Petrol Ofisi, a convenient location near public transportation. From there, you’ll be transferred to Ucagiz or Demre harbor, the starting point for your boat adventure. The atmosphere at this stage tends to be relaxed, as travelers mingle and prepare for the day ahead. The crew is known for being reliable and friendly, which sets a positive tone right from the start.

The Boat Experience

Once aboard, you’ll notice the boat is described as “great”—a key factor since comfort and safety matter when spending hours on the water. The service on deck is often praised, which helps the day feel smooth and enjoyable. Expect a well-planned itinerary that maximizes your time exploring and swimming, with a decent group size (up to 100 travelers), so you get a lively but not overwhelming atmosphere.

Aquarium Bay: The First Swim

Your first stop is Aquarium Bay, where you’ll have about an hour to cool off. This bay isn’t just pretty—it’s an ideal spot for a swim, with calm waters and a view that really makes you want to grab your snorkel. The bay’s natural beauty makes it easy to lose track of time while floating in the clear waters. Many reviews highlight how this break is a highlight, giving everyone a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Tersane Bay and the Sunken Ruins

Next, the boat heads to Tersane Koyu, the starting point of the Sunken City. Here, you’ll spend about 45 minutes exploring underwater ruins that include a church, castle, and walls—all remnants of a civilization submerged in the 2nd century after an earthquake. This is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience, and you might find yourself marveling at how history can be preserved beneath the water.

From the boat, you’ll get a chance to see these ruins from different angles—crucial since swimming isn’t permitted in certain protected areas. The boat cruise alongside the submerged remains allows for some incredible photo ops and a broader appreciation of the area’s history.

Kekova Island and the Sunken City

The next stop is Kekova Island itself, where you’ll cruise past the sunken city, observing the ruins from the water. It’s a brief stop, giving you about 20 minutes to soak in the views and snap photos. The experience is all about sighting and appreciating the submerged structures without actually swimming here, due to preservation rules.

Kaleköy (Simena) and Castle Visit

The highlight for many is the visit to Kaleköy, the ancient village also known as Simena. The boat will anchor here for an hour, giving you time to wander the narrow streets, check out the castle ruins, and enjoy panoramic views. If you decide to hike up the hillside, you’ll be rewarded with even more stunning vistas and the chance to explore the small necropolis nearby.

While entrance to the castle costs an extra 4 euros, the walk around the village is free, and it’s a charming spot that feels untouched by modern tourism. The castle’s ruins and the quaint village offer a different vibe from the busy boat deck—a perfect spot for photos and soaking in local life.

Swimming and Relaxing

Throughout the day, you’ll also have the chance to swim, especially at Burç Bay, a protected area where swimming is permitted and the water is inviting. The tour emphasizes relaxation, and many travelers report having a fun time just floating in the bays or relaxing on the boat deck.

Ending the Tour

After a full day, the boat heads back to Kalkan around 4:30 pm, where your tour concludes. The return trip offers one last chance to chat with fellow travelers and soak in the views.

The Cost and Value

At $84.27 per person, this tour offers a pretty good deal. The price includes lunch—a hearty meal that keeps everyone energized—and the boat rides, which are the core part of this experience. The only additional expense is the entrance fee to the castle, but overall, you’re paying for a well-organized day with multiple stops, scenic cruising, and friendly service.

Travelers consistently mention the value of this experience, especially for the stunning scenery and the chance to see the Sunken City from different angles. The positive review from a family of four with young children suggests that it’s suitable for a broad range of travelers, provided they’re comfortable on the water.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable clothing and bring swimwear, towels, and sun protection.
• Pack some snacks or water, though lunch is included.
• Be aware of the entrance fee at Kaleköy if you plan to visit the castle.
• Keep your camera or phone ready for photos—there are plenty of scenic moments.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for water lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a day away from crowded beaches. It’s great for couples, friends, or families who enjoy scenic boat rides and exploring small villages. If you’re seeking a relaxed, yet interesting day with plenty of photo opportunities, this is a good choice.

FAQs

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Petrol Ofisi in Kalkan, near public transportation options, making it easy to access.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts roughly nine hours, from around 8:30 am to late afternoon, including stops and travel time.

Is swimming included?
Yes, you get time to swim at Aquarium Bay and Burç Bay, with the boat providing a convenient platform for relaxing in the water.

Are the ruins accessible to explore?
You can explore the village of Kaleköy and see the castle ruins, but swimming in the Sunken City is not permitted for preservation reasons.

What is not included in the price?
The main additional cost is the entrance fee to Kaleköy castle, which is 4 euros per person.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a hearty lunch is included in the tour, saving you the hassle of finding somewhere to eat during the busy day.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, it appears suitable for families, as evidenced by reviews mentioning young kids on board.

How many people typically join?
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, so expect a lively but manageable group.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—so your safety and comfort are prioritized.

Final Thoughts

A day trip to Kekova Island offers a wonderful balance of nature, history, and relaxing waters. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating coastline without the hassle of planning multiple logistics yourself. From the dramatic underwater ruins to the charming village of Kaleköy, this tour covers a lot of ground in a scenic package.

It’s especially suited for travelers who love the water, enjoy exploring quaint villages, and appreciate beautiful vistas. If you’re after a full day of scenic cruising and discovery, this trip will likely meet your expectations. Just remember to bring your camera, some sunblock, and a sense of adventure.