Shared Sunken City of Kekova Boat Tour including lunch

Discovering the Sunken City of Kekova: A Practical Review of the Boat Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Kas and love a mix of history, scenic views, and relaxing sea time, the Shared Sunken City of Kekova Boat Tour is worth considering. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, reviews and details paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that appeals to many travelers. It’s particularly appealing if you’re after a comfortable boat ride with a touch of ancient mystery.

What we really like about this tour is how smoothly it combines beautiful cruising with historical sights – all topped off with a delicious included lunch. Plus, the boat itself, a recently built traditional wooden vessel, adds authenticity and comfort. The only thing to keep in mind? The day’s itinerary is busy enough that you’ll want to be ready for a fair bit of movement, and if you’re not a fan of early mornings, that 9:30 am start might be a consideration.

This trip is perfect for those who enjoy being on the water, want a convenient way to see Kekova, and don’t mind a full day out. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a family-friendly, well-organized excursion with plenty of opportunities to swim and explore.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat: Recent construction in traditional style offers a cozy, authentic experience.
• Includes lunch: No need to worry about finding food, as Turkish salads, grilled chicken, and afternoon tea are all part of the package.
• Variety of stops: From swimming at Inonu Bay to exploring the castle ruins in Kalekoy, each stop offers something unique.
• Historical sights: The cruise over the sunken city and visits to ancient shipyards deliver a fascinating glimpse into the past.
• Flexible booking & cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour helps with planning.
• Group size: With a maximum of 100 travelers, it feels social but not overcrowded.

The Itinerary in Detail

Meeting at Larsoy Office and Departure

The tour begins at the Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Kas at 9:30 am. This convenient central location makes it easy to join the group. The journey kicks off with a 1.5-hour cruise on a modern, traditionally styled wooden boat, which immediately sets a relaxed tone. The boat is brand new, about 24 meters long, and equipped to make your day comfortable.

You’ll appreciate the live commentary and local guide providing insights about the region, adding context to what you’re seeing. During the cruise, you’ll be offered coffee and tea—a simple but thoughtful touch that keeps you comfortable.

First Stop: Inonu Bay

After setting sail, your first stop is Inonu Bay, about 1.5 hours into the cruise. Here, you’ll get a chance to swim in the calm, clear waters and enjoy the sun—perfect for relaxing and soaking in the scenery. According to reviews, the refreshing sea and beautiful environment make it a highlight. It’s a good way to shake off any travel fatigue and get into holiday mode.

Second Stop: Kekova Island and Aquarium Bay

Next, you’ll visit Kekova Island, famed for its triangle of underwater ruins. The bay here, called Aquarium Bay, lives up to its name with colorful marine life visible in the crystal-clear water, giving you a chance to snorkel and take pictures.

The highlight is the lunch, which is served on the boat—grilled chicken and a variety of Turkish salads and appetizers. This is a big plus because it means no stress about finding a restaurant onshore; you’re fed well while enjoying the scenery. One review mentioned the delicious food and tapas-like presentation as a memorable part of the trip.

Third Stop: Tersane Koyu (Shipyard Bay)

After lunch, the boat cruises to Tersane Koyu, an ancient shipbuilding site. From here, you’ll get close-up views of the famous sunken Lycian city, visible from the water. The underwater ruins are spectacular to see glittering below the surface, and you’ll get plenty of chances for photos.

This part of the trip is particularly appreciated for the history and the unique perspective it offers of the submerged city, which was left underwater by earthquakes in the 2nd century CE.

Fourth Stop: Sunken City of Simena

Next, the boat moves over the sunken city itself. Here you get an unobstructed view of the ancient ruins, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the submerged stone structures shimmering in the water. The reviews mention how striking the ruins look, giving a real sense of connection to the past.

Final Stop: Kalekoy & Castle Visit

Your last stop is Kalekoy, a tiny village accessible only by boat or foot. You get about an hour here to wander the narrow streets, check out the shops, or climb up to the castle for sweeping views.

Although the castle isn’t included in the price, many visitors find it worth exploring. You can also indulge in some home-made ice cream by the sea—an ideal way to end the day.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views and delicious food. One traveler called it “a day out that will never be forgotten,” highlighting the beauty of the boat, the friendliness of the crew, and the overall experience. Another shared that the surroundings felt magical and historic, with plenty of informative commentary that made the trip educational as well as relaxing.

Some mention the well-organized logistics and the convenience of being picked up in Kas, with the entire day running smoothly. The small group size and modern boat help keep the experience intimate yet social.

Potential Downsides

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that this is a full-day tour, so it requires good stamina for being on the water, swimming, and long periods outdoors. The start time at 9:30 am might be early for some, and the schedule is quite packed, especially if you prefer a more leisurely pace. Also, the castle visit at Kalekoy isn’t included in the price, which might be a minor extra for some.

Price and Value

At around $74.52 per person, this tour offers a lot—boat cruise, guided commentary, lunch, visits to multiple stunning sites, and plenty of swimming. For many, the all-inclusive nature (excluding drinks) makes it feel like good value, especially considering the quality of the boat and the experiences. You’re paying for a well-organized day with minimal hassle, which appeals to travelers wanting a worry-free adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who enjoy water-based activities, like swimming and snorkeling, as much as they enjoy learning about ancient sites. It’s ideal if you prefer a comfortable, guided tour rather than navigating on your own. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers alike will find it engaging. If you’re not too keen on early mornings or long days on a boat, just be prepared for the schedule.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a local guide, live commentary, coffee and tea, lunch (Turkish salads, grilled chicken, etc.), local taxes, and a ticket to the Sunken City.

What is not included?
Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, along with some drinks. The castle of Kalekoy is not included in the price, so if you want to visit, you’ll need to pay separately.

How long is the cruise?
The total tour lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning around 6 pm, with the cruise itself being roughly 1.5 hours to each major stop.

Is this suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and while the experience can be family-friendly, it’s better suited for older children comfortable with boat trips and swimming.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel for swimming stops. The boat provides refreshments, but you might want to bring extra drinks if you prefer your favorites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

How crowded does it get?
The maximum group size is 100 travelers, but reviews suggest the boat’s size and organization keep the experience comfortable.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, it’s a recently built, traditional wooden boat that balances authenticity with modern comfort.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic day trip from Kas that combines swimming, history, and great food, this Shared Sunken City of Kekova Boat Tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a solid choice for those who want to see the underwater ruins without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. The included lunch and beautiful views make it an enjoyable, memorable experience.

While it’s a full-day commitment, most travelers who’ve done it rave about the stunning scenery and the friendly crew, which help justify the price. If you’re after a relaxed yet enriching excursion, this tour has a lot to offer.

Happy traveling, and I hope this helps you decide if Kekova’s sunken city is on your must-see list.