Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip

Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip: An Authentic Coastal Adventure

When you think of Turkey’s Antalya Province, you likely picture sprawling beaches and bustling resorts. But for those who prefer to escape the crowds and explore with a bit more intimacy, the Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip offers a wonderfully different perspective. This full-day adventure is perfect for those eager to see the famous sunken city of Kekova from the water, paddling past ancient ruins, and enjoying the unspoiled Lycian Coast. Led by an expert guide, with options including transportation from Kalkan or Ka, this tour promises a relaxed yet immersive experience—complete with a traditional Turkish lunch.

What we really love about this tour is its beginner-friendly approach. You don’t need to be a seasoned kayaker to have a good time, thanks to clear instructions and attentive guides. Plus, the stunning views of the coast and the chance to see turtles and maybe even jump off cliffs make it a memorable outing. That said, if you’re not comfortable in water or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit, as it involves paddling and some walking.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate history and scenic beauty, and want a less touristy, more authentic experience of Turkey’s coast. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a guided, well-organized day will find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly paddling ensures everyone can enjoy the experience.
• Expert guidance enhances learning and safety while sharing fascinating local stories.
• Multiple stops include sunken ruins, swimming, and a castle visit, making the day varied.
• Local Turkish lunch provides a taste of regional cuisine and relaxing breaks.
• Small group size offers personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Flexible timings allow you to choose a start time that suits your schedule.

An In-Depth Look at the Kekova Kayaking Experience

Setting Out on a Coastal Adventure

The tour kicks off from multiple pickup points, including options from Kalkan and Ka, making logistics straightforward if you’re based in these towns. After a short ride to Ucagiz, you’ll meet your guides and fellow travelers. Expect a friendly introduction, safety briefing, and a quick demonstration of your gear—paddles, life jackets, and waterproof barrels for valuables.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small group size, ensuring you won’t be lost in a crowd. As you set out on the water, you’ll quickly notice the pristine coastline, with rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and the legendary sunken city just beneath the surface.

Exploring the Sunken City of Kekova

The core highlight is paddling over the ruins of the ancient Lycian city submerged after a series of earthquakes centuries ago. Guided by an expert, you’ll learn about the history and significance of these ruins, which are just enough beneath the surface to be visible from your kayak. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Barbaros, who makes the history come alive.

Imagine gliding past crumbling stone walls, ancient steps, and boat docks—these visible remnants give a sense of a lost civilization. Many travelers, including Qian, say that kayaking around the sunken city was a mesmerizing experience, with views that leave you in awe. The guided commentary often enhances the experience, adding historical context and local lore.

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Enjoying the Scenery and Swim Breaks

Throughout the day, the pace remains relaxed, with three 45-minute kayaking segments interspersed with opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat. The guides are known for taking free photos during swim breaks, a nice touch that helps you cherish the memories without fussing with your camera.

Some travelers might get lucky and spot friendly sea turtles swimming nearby—an added bonus, as one review mentions. Weather permitting, there’s even a chance to cliff jump, which adds a dash of adrenaline to an otherwise tranquil day.

Visiting Simena Village and the Castle

A highlight is the lunch break in Simena Village. You’ll enjoy a traditional Turkish meal—with options for chicken or vegetarians—set in a charming village atmosphere. Afterward, there’s time to explore Simena Castle on foot—if you choose to hike up (about 15 minutes), you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the coast and the bay.

The castle visit adds a historical dimension, with some guests appreciating the local charm and scenic vistas. The lunch and castle visit are not included in the basic kayaking experience but are part of the tour package, making it a well-rounded day.

Returning and Reflecting

As the day winds down, you’ll paddle back to Ucagiz, with the guides ensuring everyone stays safe and comfortable. The entire trip lasts between 6 and 8.5 hours, depending on availability and pace, so be prepared for a full but rewarding day. The guides’ patience and knowledge, combined with the stunning scenery, leave many travelers saying it’s a “perfect day”.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Itinerary Breakdown

While the exact schedule can vary, the tour generally follows this pattern:
– Pickup and transfer from your hotel or designated meeting point.
– Briefing and gear setup at Ucagiz.
– Three kayaking segments around Kekova Island, with time for swimming and sightseeing.
– Visit to Simena Village for lunch and castle exploration.
– Additional kayaking and optional hiking.
– Return transfer and drop-off.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are transfers from Kalkan or Ka (if you choose), kayaks, paddles, safety gear, and a delicious Turkish lunch. The entrance fee for Simena Castle and drinks during lunch are not included, so you might want to bring some cash. The small safety barrels are a thoughtful addition, keeping your valuables dry.

What to Bring

To enjoy the day fully, pack:
– Sun protection (sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen)
– Change of clothes and a towel
– Sandals or water shoes
– Water to stay hydrated
– Personal medication if needed
– Cash for optional expenses
– Passport or copy, just in case

Considerations and Suitability

While the tour is beginner-friendly, it involves paddling, some walking, and being in open water. Those with mobility issues or discomfort with water might find it challenging. The group size and professional guidance make it safe, but always communicate any concerns beforehand.

The tour’s flexible timing allows you to choose a start time that fits your schedule, and full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

Authenticity and Value

This trip offers a great balance between adventure and comfort. The expert guides are a standout feature, making the experience informative and fun, while the stunning coastline scenery provides plenty of photo opportunities. The inclusion of a local lunch and the chance to explore Simena Castle make this a comprehensive day trip.

Compared to boat tours, kayaking offers a more intimate view of the ruins and coast, and the small group sizes ensure personalized attention. The price reflects this value, especially when considering the full-day itinerary, lunch, and guided activities.

Why It’s Worth It

If you’re after a more active, close-up experience of Kekova’s sunken ruins, this tour delivers. The knowledgeable guides turn what could be a simple paddle into a fascinating history lesson, coupled with the chance to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty. It’s especially well-suited for beginners, families with older children, or anyone wanting a less touristy way to see the coast.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This kayaking trip is perfect for those who love outdoor activities but don’t want to spend the entire day on a boat. It’s ideal for travelers looking to combine history, scenic views, and physical activity in one relaxed package. If you enjoy small group experiences, personalized guidance, and authentic local cuisine, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

However, if you prefer more leisure time or have mobility challenges, you might want to look into alternative tours, like boat trips, which require less paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The tour is designed with beginners in mind, with clear instructions and safety guidance provided by certified guides.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, a change of clothes, a towel, sandals, water, cash, and personal medication. Don’t forget your passport or a copy.

How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts between 6 and 8.5 hours, depending on availability and pace, including transfers, kayaking, lunch, and sightseeing.

Are transfers included?
Transfers from Kalkan or Ka are included if you select that option; otherwise, you’ll need to meet at the starting point.

What is the maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on small group tours suggests a limited number of participants, providing a more personalized experience.

Can I see turtles or do cliff jumping?
Yes, weather permitting, guides may take you close to turtles and even allow cliff jumping during swim breaks.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes. Entrance fees for Simena Castle and drinks during lunch are not included and should be paid in cash if you wish to visit or purchase.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, but it’s best suited for older children who are comfortable in water and able to paddle. Not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

The Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip offers a genuinely engaging way to connect with Turkey’s coastal history and natural beauty. With the guidance of knowledgeable guides, you’ll enjoy the thrill of navigating quiet coves, paddling over sunken ruins, and climbing up to castle views—all at a relaxed pace. The inclusion of a traditional Turkish lunch and swim breaks ensures this is a well-rounded experience, blending adventure with cultural flavor.

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor exploration, appreciates history and scenery, and seeks a less touristy, more authentic experience, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially great if you value small-group intimacy and want to learn from guides who are passionate and knowledgeable.

However, keep in mind that it involves paddling and some walking, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues. For active travelers eager for a hands-on, scenic, and educational day along Turkey’s coast, this kayaking trip is a superb choice.

In essence, this tour combines stunning scenery, fascinating ruins, and authentic local touches into a memorable day that’s better than just a boat ride. It’s a chance to see Kekova from a different angle—literally—and leave with stories to tell for years to come.

You can check availability for your dates here: