Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour

Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour – A Detailed Look

Thinking about exploring Turkey’s Mediterranean coast? This Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour from Kas has become a popular choice, and it’s easy to see why. With a top rating of 5.0 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews, many travelers find it to be a highlight of their trip—often recommended by nearly all who book it.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of stops — from swimming in eye-wateringly beautiful bays to marveling at ancient ruins submerged beneath the water. Second, the well-organized itinerary and the friendly, knowledgeable crew that add a personal touch, making the day both fun and informative.

One thing to consider is that it’s a full-day experience, lasting around 8 hours. While this means plenty of time to see and do many things, it’s also a longer day, which could be tiring if you prefer a more relaxed pace or smaller group sizes. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of history, scenic views, and water activities—and those ready for an active, full-day adventure.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money, with a comprehensive itinerary and included meals
• Multiple swim stops in clear, inviting waters, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing
• Visiting the Sunken City Ruins of Simena offers a unique glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past
• Well-rated guides who share stories and insights about the sites visited
• Delicious buffet lunch and afternoon tea onboard, making the day enjoyable and convenient
• Limited hotel transfer options, so you’ll need to meet at the starting point

What’s Included and What’s Not

When you book this tour, you’re getting quite a good package. The price of around $74.15 per person covers most essentials, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers who want a full experience without surprises.

Included in your ticket are lunch, afternoon tea, fuel, landing, and facility fees, plus the driver and guide. You’ll get to enjoy a buffet-style lunch, with vegetarian options available if you specify ahead of time, and a relaxing tea service later on. The group size is usually up to 65 travelers, which keeps it lively but not overcrowded.

However, drinks—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—are extra. You may also want to bring some cash for beverages or souvenirs at various stops, such as Simena. Note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, usually Kas harbor.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

This tour is designed to give you an immersive day on Turkey’s coastline, mixing beach time, history, and stunning scenery. Here’s what you can expect at each stop:

Start: Kas at 9:30am

The day kicks off early, so be ready to board around that time. The boats are modern and comfortable, with plenty of shaded and sunbathing areas. The crew is generally described as friendly, with many reviews praising their storytelling and helpful attitude.

Stop 1: Inönü Bay (45 minutes)

This charming bay is your first stop. It features a small canyon that visitors can explore if they wish. Many find this to be a perfect introduction to the day’s adventures — a chance to stretch, enjoy the views, and take some photos. Reviewers like Eram_A mention the “very beautiful scenery wherever you look,” and the calm waters make it easy to relax.

Stop 2: Aquarium Bay (45 minutes)

This is a real highlight for many. The name says it all: the waters are so clear that marine life and vibrant coral reefs are visible from the boat’s glass bottom. Snorkelers are especially thrilled, with reviews praising the “colorful fish darting among coral” and the “immersive underwater experience.” The backdrop of cliffs and greenery adds to its postcard-perfect appeal.

Stop 3: Sunken City Ruins of Simena (30 minutes)

Here’s where history fans will get excited. The Lycian city of Kekova was flooded after an earthquake, and its ruins now rest beneath the water. What’s fascinating is that many parts—houses, stairs, a Byzantine church—are still visible through the transparent waters. Tourists often remark on how surreal it feels to see these ancient structures so close. Some, like Annabel_T, mention that it’s “a wonderful way to enjoy the coast,” though they wish for more time to explore on land.

The Heart of Kekova Island (Remaining stops)

As the boat continues, you’ll visit Kekova Island’s rocky coastline, with its secluded coves and beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The island’s submerged ruins, remnants of the Lycian city of Dolchiste, are another intriguing sight through the water.

Stop 4: Castle of Simena (1 hour)

Perched on a hilltop, the castle offers stunning panoramic views of the coast. The village of Kaleköy (or Simena) is charming, with whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and a relaxed vibe. Many reviews mention the spectacular vistas from the castle, and some suggest it’s a good spot for photos.

Stop 5: Kalekoy Harbor (1 hour)

This quaint village is perfect for a quick walk around. You can explore Lycian necropolises, wander the narrow streets, or just soak in the tranquil scenery. The harbor is lively but peaceful, with plenty of cafes where you can grab a drink and enjoy the view.

Final Stops: Üçaz and Tersane Koyu (each around 45 minutes)

Üçaz offers a peaceful setting with lush greenery and historical traces, while Tersane Koyu, with its shipyard history, provides secluded waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Here, many reviewers enjoy the calm, turquoise waters and the lush surroundings, making for a relaxing end to the day.

Last Stop: Camlik Bay (45 minutes)

This final swim stop is often praised for its tranquility. Surrounded by pine trees, the waters are calm and inviting—perfect for a last cooling dip.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Opinions & Tips

Reviewers consistently highlight friendly crew members who share interesting stories and make everyone feel welcomed. Many mention the delicious buffet lunch, with some describing it as “absolutely fabulous,” featuring fish, salads, and fresh fruit like watermelon. The onboard afternoon tea with snacks is another small but appreciated touch.

Swimmers especially love the clear waters and plenty of stops to refresh, with some reviewers noting the “awesome spots” for snorkeling. A few mention that the boat is well-maintained and comfortable, with enough space for everyone to relax, sunbathe, or take photos.

Not all reviews are perfect. A minority mention rudeness from crew members or crowded conditions, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm. Many travelers emphasize the value for money — considering the multiple stops, meals, and the scenery, most say it’s a worthwhile investment.

Who Is This Tour For?

This boat tour is ideal if you’re looking for a full day of scenic beauty, historical sights, and water fun. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy organized excursions and don’t mind a group setting. If you’re keen on snorkeling, swimming, and exploring, you’ll love the multiple stops in pristine waters.

It’s also great if you want to combine history with relaxation — seeing the submerged Lycian city and castle ruins while lounging in beautiful bays. However, keep in mind the duration and group size might be tiring for some, especially if you prefer a slower pace or more private experiences.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at Kas harbor, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, likely to secure a spot on the popular boat.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are offered—just be sure to specify your preference when booking.

How many stops are there for swimming?
There are at least four designated swim stops, including Aquarium Bay, Camlik Bay, and others, all praised for their crystal-clear waters.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is about 65 travelers, which keeps it lively but not overwhelming.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
It requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While mostly suitable for all ages, children should be supervised during swimming and walking around uneven terrain.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but they are not included in the ticket price.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, from departure at 9:30am to returning to Kas.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If your idea of a memorable day includes crystal-clear waters, historic ruins, and scenic coastal views, this Kekova boat tour hits a lot of the right notes. Many travelers rave about the friendly crew, delicious food, and stunning stops. The inclusion of lunch and snacks makes it convenient, particularly if you want a hassle-free experience.

This experience really shines if you’re curious about Turkey’s ancient past, love spending time in nature, and enjoy being on the water. It’s well-suited for those who don’t mind a full day of activity and are eager to explore multiple sites in one go.

That said, if you prefer a more relaxed, private experience or are traveling with very young children, you might find the group size and schedule a bit limiting. Still, based on the glowing reviews and great value, this trip offers a comprehensive and rewarding taste of Turkey’s beautiful coast and history.

Final Tips

• Wear comfortable clothes and bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Pack a towel and waterproof camera or phone for photos.
• Arrive early to meet at Kas harbor, since transportation isn’t included.
• Consider bringing some cash for drinks and souvenirs.
• If you’re vegetarian, just tell the organizers in advance to ensure dietary needs are met.

Enjoy your trip planning, and hopefully, you’ll have a fantastic day exploring Kekova and its captivating surroundings!