From Kas: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

Exploring Turkey’s Coastal Gems with the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

Imagine gliding along turquoise waters, passing by sunken ruins, and stopping for swims in secluded coves — all without the hassle of planning logistics. That’s exactly what you get with the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour departing from Kas. For about $64.09 per person and lasting around 4 to 6 hours, this tour offers a seamless way to connect with the region’s aquatic beauty and ancient history. Led by knowledgeable guides like Yasar and Ibrahim, it’s a well-organized outing that combines adventure with cultural insights.

We love how the tour includes all transport, kayaks, and lunch, making it a worry-free day. It’s perfect for those who prefer to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than stressing over the logistics. The group setting, capped at 15 travelers, fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the pickup from your hotel in Kas helps save time and effort.

A few considerations: The entry fee to Simena Castle (around 4 euros) isn’t included, so bring a bit of cash if you want to explore this charming village. Also, since swimming isn’t permitted in the Sunken City of Kekova itself (a protected area), you’ll be paddling past underwater ruins rather than diving into them.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a mix of gentle adventure, cultural exploration, and stunning vistas — especially if you enjoy guided experiences with a personal touch. If you’re comfortable on water and eager to see some of Turkey’s most iconic sights from a unique perspective, this kayaking trip will satisfy.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transport, kayaks, and lunch are included, so travelers can relax and enjoy.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Yasar and Ibrahim are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Unforgettable Views and History: Paddling past the Sunken City of Kekova and exploring ruins provides both visual and cultural richness.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect a more personal experience.
• Flexible Highlights: Options to swim at various stops or hike to viewpoints add variety.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: The tour suits those comfortable on water and interested in a balanced mix of adventure and sightseeing.

A Deep Dive into the Kekova Kayaking Experience

Starting the Day: From Kas to Uçaiz

Your adventure begins early, around 8:00 am, with a pickup in Kas—a friendly startup that sets the tone for a relaxed day. The 45-minute drive to Uçaiz village offers scenic glimpses of the coast, and it’s a good chance to get to know your fellow travelers. The tour’s small group size ensures a personal touch, and most travelers find this part smooth and stress-free.

Navigating the Coast: From Uçaiz to Kekova

Once at Uçaiz, you’ll board a motorized support vessel that escorts the kayaks—an important detail that makes paddling less strenuous. This support is appreciated, especially if you’re new to kayaking or prefer a little extra safety. Starting around 9:30 am, your group heads southwest along the coast, paddling towards the Sunken City of Kekova.

The first stop at Tersane Bay around 10:15 am is perfect for a swim and photo ops—clear waters, rocky coves, and a chance to stretch your legs after the drive. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking the scenery is here, with Katy describing it as “loved every moment,” and Ross praising the “fabulous environment” and “brilliant guide.”

Paddling Over History: The Sunken City and Kekova Island

The highlight for most travelers is the period spent paddling alongside the ancient Lycian ruins of Kekova, which are partially submerged. Since the area is protected, swimming isn’t permitted here, but you’ll get a close-up view of the ruins from your kayak — a unique perspective that photos can hardly do justice to.

Kekova is a spectacular sight, with its sunken walls and ancient streets just below the water’s surface. You’ll love how the guides share stories and details about this submerged city, making the experience more meaningful. According to Suhjung, “Ibrahim is the best,” and his explanations made their time extra special.

Exploring Simena: Castle and Village

Next, you’ll paddle to Kaleköy, the village also known as Simena, arriving around 11:30 am. Here, you can explore the castle ruins and the necropolis perched on the hillside, with about 45 minutes allocated for this visit. The castle entrance fee isn’t included, so be prepared to pay a small amount if you want to climb up and explore the ruins.

Many travelers enjoy wandering the narrow streets of this authentic village, soaking in its charm. The views from the hilltop are magnificent — great for photos or just soaking in the scenery. If you prefer, you can also spend your time relaxing by the water or taking another swim.

Hike and Views: The Hillside and Beyond

Post-lunch, a short hike up the hillside offers spectacular panoramas of the region, from the shimmering blue waters to the ancient ruins scattered along the coast. If hiking isn’t your thing, just relax with a swim or gaze at the scenery from the water.

Final Stop: The Ancient City of Theimussa

In the afternoon, the tour heads to Theimussa, where more Lycian tombs and ruins await. The ancient sarcophagi and stone carvings make this a worthwhile stop, especially for history buffs or those with an eye for archaeology. The tour then concludes back at your kayaking base, ready for the return journey.

Lunch at Uçaiz

Your day wraps up with a lunch in Uçaiz around 13:15, a satisfying way to reflect on the day’s highlights. It’s included in the tour price, emphasizing the all-inclusive nature that makes this trip especially convenient.

What We Think About the Value

At $64.09, this tour offers a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price, especially considering it includes all transportation, kayak equipment, a knowledgeable guide, and a substantial lunch. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and better interaction with guides like Yasar and Ibrahim, both praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

Several reviews highlight how guides “explained the sights and the history,” which adds depth to the experience beyond just paddling around. The inclusion of stops at multiple scenic points — from the submerged ruins to hillside viewpoints — maximizes what you get for the price.

Practical Considerations

• The entry fee to Simena Castle isn’t included, so budget around 4 euros if you want to explore inside.
• The duration of 4 to 6 hours means you should be prepared for a full, active day — suitable for those comfortable on water and with moderate physical activity.
• The group size cap of 15 keeps the experience intimate but means booking well in advance is advisable, as most travelers book about 18 days ahead.

Who Should Join This Tour?

This expedition is especially suited for active travelers who love the outdoors and want to combine light adventure with cultural sights. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided commentary, stunning scenery, and is comfortable paddling in a group setting. It’s also a good fit for travelers who want a hassle-free day — everything is organized, from transport to lunch.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy light trekking, swimming, and history, this trip will check many boxes. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed boat cruise or prefer not to kayak, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This guided Kekova sea kayaking tour from Kas delivers a blend of scenic beauty, ancient ruins, and cultural storytelling — all wrapped into one well-organized day. With inclusions like transport and lunch, plus the personal touch of expert guides, it offers a genuinely worthwhile experience for those eager to see Turkey’s coast from a fresh perspective.

The highlight for most is the chance to paddle past the Sunken City of Kekova and explore the historic Simena village, all while soaking in some of the most beautiful scenery the region has to offer. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a bit of physical activity, appreciate local history, and want to avoid the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

If your travel style leans toward guided adventures that combine nature, culture, and a friendly group atmosphere, this tour is likely to be a memorable highlight of your trip to Kas.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers round-trip transport from Kas, all kayaking equipment, the support vessel, and a lunch. It also includes visits to multiple scenic stops and historical sites.

Do I need to bring my own kayak gear?
No, all necessary kayaking gear and support are provided as part of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed to be accessible, with the support vessel escorting the group. However, you should be comfortable in water and active for about 4 to 6 hours.

Can I swim at the stops?
You can swim at several stops including Tersane Bay and other coves, but swimming isn’t permitted in the Sunken City of Kekova itself due to protection rules.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 30 to 45 minutes, giving you time to relax, explore, or take photos.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 18 days before, as the tour is popular and spots fill quickly.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for optional entrance fees, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, water, and swimwear if you plan to swim.

Embarking on this Kekova sea kayaking adventure from Kas promises a day filled with stunning views, ancient mysteries, and lively company. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting an active, scenic, and culturally enriching experience in Turkey’s captivating coastline.