Exploring the Sunken City of Kekova by Boat: A Balanced Look at One of Kas’s Most Unique Experiences
Imagine drifting on calm turquoise waters, surrounded by ancient ruins shimmering beneath the surface, while enjoying a delicious Turkish meal onboard a traditional wooden boat. This Shared Sunken City of Kekova Boat Tour offers just that—an approximately 8-hour adventure starting from Kas, Turkey, for around $75 per person. Led by friendly guides and captained by experienced skippers, this tour takes you through a series of stops that blend history, natural beauty, and local culture.
Two things we especially love about this experience are the modern yet traditionally styled boat—which combines comfort with authenticity—and the well-planned itinerary that balances swimming, sightseeing, and free time. You’ll get to explore Kekova’s underwater ruins, relax in beautiful bays, and wander the charming village of Kalekoy, all with the reassurance of a lunch included.
One potential consideration is that the tour’s schedule is quite full, which means you’ll spend a good part of the day on the water and moving between stops. For travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed, especially during the busy summer months.
This tour is perfect for those who enjoy historical intrigue with a splash of adventure, love swimming in clear waters, and are eager to see hidden corners of the Demre district that most visitors miss. It’s a fantastic choice for first-timers in Kas wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Kekova’s underwater marvels, scenic bays, and local villages.
Key Points
- Unique Experience: Combines sightseeing of submerged Lycian ruins with swimming and relaxing on the water.
- Included Lunch: Offers a tasty Turkish meal with drinks, saving you the hassle of finding food during the day.
- Comfort & Style: Operated on a modern, traditional-style wooden boat, blending authenticity with comfort.
- Rich Stops: Visits include Inonu Bay, Aquarium Bay, Tersane Koyu, and the castle of Kalekoy, each offering different sights and experiences.
- Authentic Culture: Explore the village of Kalekoy, only accessible by boat or foot, and enjoy local shops and homemade ice cream.
- Good Value: For the price, you get a full day of varied activities, scenic views, and historical sights—an excellent package for the cost.
An In-Depth Look at the Kekova Boat Tour
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Starting Point and Overall Experience
The tour kicks off at the Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Kas, usually around 9:30 AM, with a return around 6:00 PM. On this day-long cruise, you’ll be aboard a brand new, 24-meter traditional wooden boat—a vessel that marries the charm of Turkish maritime tradition with the comfort of modern safety standards. As seasoned guides and crew members share their knowledge, you’ll find the journey relaxing yet packed with interesting sights.
We loved the way the boat’s design offers a glimpse into traditional Turkish boat-building, which adds an authentic touch without sacrificing amenities like sunbathing space and shade options. The live commentary helps to contextualize the ruins and local geography, making the experience engaging even for those not well-versed in ancient history.
The First Stop: Inonu Bay & Swimming
Around 10:00 AM, after a brief transfer from the meeting point, the boat departs from Kas harbor, cruising through the calm waters towards Inonu Bay. This first stop offers a wonderful opportunity to swim in the clear, refreshing sea, with refreshments available on the boat. The 1.5-hour cruise to the bay is smooth, giving plenty of time to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy spectacular views of the coastline.
Travelers repeatedly mention how much they appreciated the peaceful setting and the chance to escape the crowds—a common complaint in busier tourist spots. One review enthusiastically noted, “The price, the Captain, the staff, the boat, and facilities were excellent—definitely recommend this team!”
Exploring Kekova & the Underwater Ruins
The highlight for many is approaching Kekova itself, especially the famous sunken Lycian city. The boat anchors at Aquarium Bay, where you can swim among the ruins—the submerged remains of ancient stone structures glittering beneath the water. The combination of crystal-clear water and ancient stones makes for a surreal experience.
While swimming here, you can marvel at the underwater walls and foundations, which are visible even from the surface. It’s a chance to see history literally beneath your feet—and your snorkel. The lunch is served here, a tasty spread of barbecued chicken, Turkish salads, and appetizers, which travelers say is both generous and flavorful.
One reviewer remarked, “The environment was magical and historic. Very rich in information,” which speaks to how well the guides enhance the experience.
The Shipbuilding Yard & Sunken City Ruins
Post-lunch, the boat continues toward Tersane Koyu, the site of an ancient shipyard. From here, you get a closer look at the sunken ruins of the Lycian city of Simena, visible from the boat’s deck as glittering stones beneath the water.
The cruise over the sunken city itself is a highlight—an awe-inspiring sight that prompts plenty of photo-taking and awe. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, soaking in the historical vibe and marveling at how earthquakes in the 2nd century CE caused these structures to submerge.
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The Village of Kalekoy & Castle
The final stop is the quaint village of Kalekoy, accessible only by boat or foot. You’ll have about an hour of free time here to wander the narrow streets, browse local shops, or enjoy homemade ice cream by the sea. Climbing up to the castle offers a panoramic view of the bay and an opportunity to see Lycian sarcophagi and ancient ruins.
This part of the tour receives high praise, especially for its authentic village atmosphere and relaxed pace. One traveler said, “You can explore the shops or just sit back and enjoy the serenity,” which makes it ideal for those wanting a low-pressure cultural experience.
Practical Details & Value
The tour includes a local guide, live commentary, coffee/tea, and lunch, making it a good value for a full-day experience. The admission tickets for the main stops are included, saving you the hassle of buying tickets separately. Drinks, including alcohol, are available for purchase on board.
The group size is capped at 100, but most reviews suggest a comfortable, friendly atmosphere. The tour runs rain or shine, with a clear weather policy, ensuring you’ll either enjoy a beautiful day or get a full refund if the weather isn’t cooperating.
What Reviewers Say
Authentic feedback from travelers highlights the stunning scenery and delicious food. LutchmanLall_J called it “a day out that will never be forgotten,” praising the “beautiful boat and excellent staff.” Horacio_P shared how the environment was “magical and historical,” emphasizing the beauty of the surroundings combined with informative commentary.
Many reviewers also appreciated the balance of swimming and sightseeing, making it appealing whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience caters well to those who enjoy history with a splash of fun, and who are comfortable spending a significant part of the day on a boat. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see a lesser-known side of Turkey. If you love beautiful scenery, authentic local culture, and delicious Turkish food, this tour hits all the right notes.
Travelers who prefer slow-paced, in-depth explorations might find the schedule a bit packed, but for most, the variety of stops and the chance to swim in clear waters among ancient ruins outweigh the hustle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, a tasty Turkish lunch with salads, appetizers, and drinks is included, making it very convenient and good value.
What is the main highlight of this tour?
The highlight is exploring the sunken Lycian city of Kekova, especially the swimming opportunities among the submerged ruins in Aquarium Bay.
How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours cruising to Inonu Bay, 2 hours swimming and lunch at Aquarium Bay, 1 hour at Tersane Koyu, and an hour in Kalekoy, with a short visit over the sunken city.
Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is a modern, traditional-style wooden vessel that offers plenty of space for sunbathing, shade, and comfort while maintaining an authentic look.
What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sun protection, and possibly a waterproof camera or snorkel gear. Most essentials are included or available for purchase on board.
Can children join this tour?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum drinking age is 18 for alcohol purchases, but kids can still enjoy the boat rides and swimming.
In summary, the Kekova boat tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and historically engaging experience that’s perfect for travelers who want to see underwater ruins, enjoy Turkish hospitality, and relax on the water. Its balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration makes it one of the most compelling ways to spend a day near Kas. Whether you’re a history buff, a water lover, or simply seeking a memorable outing, this tour provides genuine value and a chance to create lasting memories.