Private Boat Tour to Kekova and Sunken City From Antalya Incl.Transfer

Exploring Kekova and the Sunken City on a Private Boat Tour from Antalya

A day spent sailing along Turkey’s coast to visit Kekova and the Sunken City offers a rare blend of natural beauty and ancient mystery. For around $830 per group (up to 12 people), this private boat tour lasts approximately 8 to 11 hours and includes convenient transfer from Antalya or nearby areas like Kemer and Kaleici Marina. The experience is tailored to smaller groups, which means you’ll enjoy a more relaxed, personalized day out—something that’s often lost on large, crowded tours.

What stands out most about this tour are two specific features: first, the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear bays and explore underwater ruins with snorkeling gear, and second, the delicious, simple local lunch, which includes fresh fruit and drinks. The boat itself is described as beautiful and very clean, with many reviewers mentioning how comfortable it is, even for larger groups.

One potential consideration is that entrance fees to sites like the Castle of Simena are extra, so you should budget for that if interested. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent—cancellation due to poor weather is possible—it’s best to plan for a clear, sunny day.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy authentic coastal experiences, leisurely exploration, and a chance to see an ancient sunken city that’s accessible only by boat. It suits those who appreciate personalized service, want to avoid the hassle of arranging multiple transports, and are eager to swim and relax in scenic bays.

Key Points

• Pure Private Experience: Only your group participates, offering flexibility and intimacy.
• Historical and Natural Mix: Combines swimming, sightseeing, and a glimpse of Lycian ruins.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Tour guides, especially Captain Ergun, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and pick-up from Antalya or Kemer make logistics smooth.
• Culinary Simplicity: Lunch includes tea, coffee, fruit, and traditional Turkish fare.
• Weather Dependent: The experience relies on good weather, with options to reschedule or get a full refund.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with pick-up from designated meeting points—either from your accommodation in Kemer or Antalya’s Kaleici Marina. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you’re comfortable during the roughly two to three-hour transfer. This is especially valuable because it saves you the trouble of navigation and parking, allowing you to focus on the anticipation of a day on the water.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Akdeniz Transfer and Kemer Pickup
This initial pickup is essential if you’re staying in Kemer, ensuring a smooth start. The transfer itself is included, and the pickup times are scheduled to maximize your day.

Second Stop: Kaleici Marina
If your accommodation is in Antalya, the pickup from Kaleici Marina makes it easy to connect with the boat. It’s a relaxed 3-hour window, giving time for briefing, gear distribution, and boarding. The reviews praise how clean and well-maintained the boat is, which makes all the difference when you’re spending hours on it.

Main Attraction: Kekova Island and the Sunken City
Once on board, the tour begins with cruising toward Kekova. This island is famed for its ancient Lycian ruins visible beneath the water—part of the Sunken City—which you’ll pass close enough to see during the boat ride. Expect to stop in several bays for swimming and snorkeling, with snorkeling gear provided. Reviewers highlight how crystal-clear the waters are, making underwater exploration memorable, especially when observing turtles and jellyfish.

Historical Stop: Castle of Simena
This small town and its crusader castle are optional stops. Visitors can wander the narrow streets, take photos, and enjoy panoramic views. Entrance fees are not included, so if you want to explore thoroughly, budget a few extra euros. Some reviews mention that the castle and town are charming and worth a quick visit.

Final Stop: Return and Relaxation
After a leisurely day, the boat heads back to the starting point, with time to process the day’s highlights and enjoy the beautiful coastline.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers use of snorkeling equipment, lunch with tea and coffee, and a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The lunch is described as simple but delicious, with a variety of mezes and fresh fruit, and many reviews praise the quality and freshness of the food. The drone shots of the coastline are a bonus, allowing you to capture the scenery from above.

However, alcoholic beverages are not included and are sold separately on board. Entrance to the castle is extra, so if you’re interested in exploring the castle or other sites, plan accordingly.

Authentic, Personalized Service

Reviewers rave about Captain Ergun and the crew’s knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness. Many mention how they felt like part of a family or a close group, with comments like “a family atmosphere” and “kind and helpful staff.” This personalized touch elevates the experience beyond just a boat ride.

The Value of Small Group Touring

Because this is a private tour, you won’t share the boat with strangers, and the itinerary is flexible. If the weather shifts or a particular bay captures your interest, the crew can adjust the schedule. The reviews show that this flexibility and personal attention resonate strongly with guests, making it a worthwhile investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who thrives on authentic experiences, loves swimming in beautiful bays, and enjoys learning local history from engaging guides, this tour is a solid choice. It also appeals to families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a more intimate, relaxed day. Conversely, if you prefer a highly structured, large-group tour with more sightseeing and less flexibility, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour to Kekova and the Sunken City offers a balanced mix of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and comfortable leisure. The small-group, personalized approach means you’re not just along for a ride but part of an authentic experience led by knowledgeable guides like Captain Ergun.

The crystal-clear waters, underwater ruins, and delicious local lunch make for a memorable day, especially if you appreciate uncrowded bays and scenic views. The fact that many reviewers describe the boat as beautiful, clean, and well-equipped speaks volumes about the value of this experience—particularly for those looking for a hassle-free, private excursion.

While weather can be unpredictable, the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind. If you’re staying near Antalya or Kemer and want a personalized, scenic, and historical day out on the water, this tour checks many boxes. It’s best suited for those who value authenticity, comfort, and good storytelling over just checking off the sights.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from either Kemer or Kaleici Marina is included in the price, and the transfer is via air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 8 to 11 hours, with the main boat time and transfer included.

What is the price per group?
The tour costs $830.08 for up to 12 people, making it a good deal for families or small groups wanting a private experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you may bring your own if preferred.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch, tea, coffee, and fruit are included. Alcoholic drinks are extra and available for purchase on board.

Can I visit the Castle of Simena?
Yes, if you wish to explore the castle, you can, but entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided for free, and many reviewers mention how clear and inviting the waters are.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather is poor, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a full refund if canceled due to weather.

How flexible is the schedule?
Since it’s a private tour, the schedule can be adjusted based on your preferences and weather conditions.

Who would most enjoy this tour?
Travelers who appreciate intimate, scenic boat experiences, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and value knowledgeable guides will find this tour particularly rewarding.

To sum it up, this private boat trip to Kekova and the Sunken City offers a genuine taste of Turkey’s spectacular coastline, balancing historical sights, relaxing swims, and delicious local food. It’s a flexible, well-reviewed choice for those seeking a personalized, authentic day at sea—sure to leave you with lasting memories of Turkey’s beautiful coast.