Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island

Imagine a day spent cruising along the coast, taking in crystal-clear waters, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying fresh local cuisine—all in a 9-hour adventure that promises both relaxation and discovery. For $79 per person, this trip offers an engaging way to experience some of Turkey’s most picturesque and historically fascinating spots. Led by friendly guides, you’ll visit Kekova Island, with its famous Sunken City, swim in inviting bays, and explore charming villages like Simena.

What we loved about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with interesting history. The stops at Akvaryum Bay and Gökkaya Bay are perfect for cooling off with a swim in turquoise waters, and the visit to Simena Castle provides panoramic views worthy of a postcard. Plus, the boat ride itself offers a comfortable way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning different transport modes.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite packed, so if you’re someone who appreciates plenty of downtime, you might find this schedule a bit brisk. However, if you’re eager to see as much as possible in a day, this trip is a solid choice. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration—ideal for those visiting Kalkan who want a comprehensive snapshot of this stunning region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Views: The trip offers breathtaking vistas of the coast, especially from Simena Castle.
Historical Wonders: See the remains of an ancient Sunken City submerged by an earthquake over 1,800 years ago.
Multiple Swimming Stops: Enjoy swimming in several bays, including Akvaryum Bay, Gökkaya Bay, and Esmeralda Bay.
Authentic Village Experience: Explore the quaint village of Kaleköy (Simena), with options for hiking or relaxing by the water.
All-Inclusive Feel: Lunch is included, making it a convenient, hassle-free day.
Varied Activity Level: Water activities, sightseeing, and some walking make for a dynamic day—be prepared for a full schedule.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins in Kalkan, where your guide will coordinate pick-up times—usually communicated a day in advance via WhatsApp or email. The transfer to Ucagiz/Demre harbor is straightforward, making the start of the day smooth. Once at the harbor, you’ll board a comfortable boat, ready for a 9-hour journey on the water.

The boat is the main mode of transport, and you’ll join a group that’s often moderate in size. This setup makes for a lively yet intimate atmosphere, perfect for exchanging travel tips and making new friends. The timing is scheduled between 10:20 and 10:40 am, giving you a relaxed morning before the water-based fun begins.

The Scenic Boat Trip

From the moment you set sail, you’ll notice the stunning coastline stretching in every direction. The boat ride itself is a highlight—viewing the coast from the water offers a different perspective that’s hard to beat.

Your first stop at Akvaryum Bay is ideal for a refreshing swim and snorkeling. The name means “Aquarium Bay” for a reason: the water is clear, inviting, and perfect for a quick dip. Expect about an hour here, which is just enough to cool off and take in the scenery before moving on.

Next, you’ll cruise past Kekova Island and its famous Sunken City. This ancient city, known as Dolchiste, was overwhelmed by an earthquake in the 2nd century, leaving ruins underwater. While swimming isn’t permitted directly over the site, boat tours often include scenic views of the submerged remains. One reviewer shared, “We loved the way you could see the ruins from the boat—it’s surreal to think this was once a lively town.” The boat ride along the ruins makes for fantastic photo opportunities and a sense of connection with the past.

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Exploring Kekova and Its Surroundings

The next stops are at Burç Bay and Gökkaya Bay for more swimming and snorkeling. Burç Bay, with its cooler waters due to natural springs, offers a unique experience—it’s a chance to enjoy a quick, invigorating dip. Then, at Gökkaya Bay, the scenery is breathtaking, with rugged cliffs and lush greenery framing the water.

One of the highlights is the visit to Simena Castle in the village of Kaleköy. The boat anchors here for about an hour, giving you time to explore the narrow streets, see the castle ruins, and enjoy panoramic views. You can hike up to the hilltop for a sweeping vista of the coast or stay close to the water for a relaxing swim. A visitor quoted, “Climbing up the hillside was worth every step for the incredible view of the coast and the castle ruins.” The village itself feels authentic—no tourist traps—making it a genuine stop.

Lunch and Additional Stops

Gökaya Bay is where the onboard lunch usually takes place—often pre-arranged, offering local dishes like fresh fish, salads, and traditional Turkish bread. After lunch, the boat visits Esmeralda Bay, another tranquil spot ideal for swimming, where you can relax in the peaceful surroundings.

Later, the boat passes Asrl Island, Gökkaya Bay again, and other scenic spots, offering multiple opportunities to cool off or take photos. The itinerary is quite full, and the emphasis is on seeing and experiencing rather than lingering at any one place, which suits travelers eager to maximize their day.

Wrapping Up the Day

The trip concludes back at Ucagiz/Demre Harbor, with a return transfer to Kalkan. The entire journey is designed to leave you with lasting memories of stunning scenery, fascinating history, and fun water activities.

Analyzing the Value

At $79, this tour offers a comprehensive package that combines sightseeing, swimming, and cultural exploration. The inclusion of lunch and the full-day boat trip means you’re getting a lot of value—especially considering the scenic quality and the unique experience of visiting a Sunken City.

Some reviews mention the trip being well-organized and friendly guides making the experience more enjoyable. Others appreciate the variety of stops—from underwater ruins to quaint villages—ensuring there’s something for all.

Of course, the schedule is quite packed, and some might find the multiple swimming stops a little rushed. Also, entrance to Simena Castle costs around 4 Euros, which is not included in the price. If you prefer a slower pace or more time exploring, this might be a consideration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want a balanced experience of scenic beauty, history, and fun. It suits those comfortable with water activities and eager to see multiple highlights in a single day. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy adventure mixed with cultural sights will find it especially rewarding. However, if you prefer more relaxed schedules or want to spend extra time at each site, you might consider a private tour or spreading the experience over two days.

The Sum Up

This Kalkan to Kekova day trip strikes a good balance between scenic beauty, history, and water-based fun. It offers excellent value with inclusive lunch, scenic stops, and a variety of swimming opportunities. The highlight for many is the chance to see the Sunken City from the boat, combined with panoramic views from Simena Castle.

Travelers who enjoy a full, active day that combines relaxation and exploration will find this tour engaging and memorable. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a convenient way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Overall, if you’re visiting Kalkan and crave a scenic, engaging day on the water with a touch of history, this trip offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that’s worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The price covers a 9-hour boat trip and lunch. Entrance fee for Simena Castle (about 4 Euros) is not included.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at Petrol Ofisi in Kalkan, with pickup times communicated a day before via WhatsApp or email.
How long do stops last?
Stops vary but generally allow for about an hour at key sites like Simena and Gökkaya Bay.
Is swimming included?
Yes, there are multiple swimming and snorkeling stops at Akvaryum Bay, Gökkaya Bay, Esmeralda Bay, and others.
Can I hike up to see the castle ruins?
Yes, the village of Kaleköy offers hiking options for those inclined, with stunning views from the hillside.
What should I bring?
Essentials include sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen.
How is the group size?
The tour typically has a moderate group size, which makes it lively but manageable.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.
Is this suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially if your family enjoys water activities and scenic exploration.

This day trip from Kalkan to Kekova unlocks a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and fun—a well-organized way to soak up some of Turkey’s most enchanting coastlines in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: