Imagine cruising through crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, passing by ancient ruins submerged beneath the waves, and stopping for swims in inviting bays. For around $68 per person, you get a 9-hour adventure that combines history, scenery, and a touch of local flavor. Departure points are conveniently from Kalkan or Ka, with pickup and drop-off included, making it easy to focus on enjoying the day.
What makes this trip stand out is the chance to see the remains of a sunken city from your boat or while swimming nearby—an extraordinary experience that brings history to life in a way no museum could match. Plus, the home-made ice-cream at Simena Castle feels like a well-earned treat after a day of exploring. The guidance from knowledgeable guides such as Mehmet, who are praised for their warmth and humor, enhances the experience, making it both informative and enjoyable.
However, travelers should consider that entrance fees are not included, and drinks are an additional purchase, which might feel an extra expense. Also, if you’re expecting a boat with a glass bottom, you might be disappointed to find that this feature isn’t available, despite some descriptions suggesting it. This trip is most suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming in clear waters, and want a taste of ancient history in a relaxed setting.
If you’re after a day that offers stunning views, good value, and authentic local flavor, this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers eager for a comfortably-paced day exploring the coastline’s hidden gems.
Key Points
- Stunning coastal scenery with multiple swimming stops and underwater ruins.
- Guided tour with knowledgeable and friendly guides like Mehmet.
- A delicious barbecue lunch on board enhances the experience.
- Visit multiple bays including Kekova, Gokkaya, and Burc Bay for swimming and exploration.
- Authentic flavors like homemade ice-cream at Simena Village.
- Additional expenses such as drinks and entrance fees are not included in the price.
A Practical Introduction to the Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip
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This full-day boat trip from Kalkan offers a well-rounded adventure that combines history, nature, and local charm. It’s designed for travelers who want to enjoy a leisurely exploration of the Turkish coast without the hassle of organizing their own excursions. The tour covers six different bays, with stops that include the famous Kekova Sunken City, a fascinating underwater archaeological site visible from the boat and in the water.
Starting with a pickup from your hotel in Kalkan or Ka, the journey begins early in the morning, giving you time to relax and take in the scenery. The first leg involves about an hour’s sail from Uçagz Village to the core of Kekova, setting the tone for a day filled with beautiful views and intriguing history.
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What to Expect on the Day
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The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Uçagz Village
Your day kicks off with pickup and a scenic drive to Uçagz, setting sail for the Kekova region. The boat departs early enough to maximize your time on the water.
Stop 2: Tersane Bay
This is your first swim opportunity, and it’s where you’ll see the sunken city ruins through the boat’s windows or while swimming nearby. Julia, one of the reviewers, mentions that the stops for swimming were “wonderful,” indicating how clear and inviting the waters are.
Lunch at Gokkaya Bay
A highlight for many—a buffet lunch served on board, offering a satisfying meal while enjoying the views. This is praised as delicious and plentiful, providing energy for the rest of your day.
Pirate Cave and Burc Bay
After lunch, you’ll visit these locations, which are famed for their cliff formations and cave features. The pirate cave, in particular, adds a sense of adventure and history.
Simena Village and Castle
The final major stop offers a choice: explore the castle with panoramic views or walk through the charming village. Here, you’ll find the famous homemade ice-cream, which reviewers say is well worth the visit. Tracy calls it absolutely delicious and a perfect treat after a day in the sun.
Final swim near Uçagz Village
Before heading back, there’s one more chance to swim, leaving you refreshed and ready for the transfer back to Kalkan.
The Experience of the Boat and Guides
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The boat itself is described as lovely, with some reviews suggesting it provides a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing setting. The guides are highlighted for being warm, funny, and knowledgeable—making the history and local anecdotes engaging without feeling overwhelming.
One reviewer, Saffron, mentions that transfers went smoothly and the lunch was beautiful, underscoring the efficiency and quality of the trip. The absence of a glass-bottom feature was noted, suggesting that description could be updated, but it doesn’t seem to detract from the overall enjoyment.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value of the Experience
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At $68, this tour offers excellent value considering the length of the trip, the multiple stops, guided insights, and the included lunch. The reviews consistently praise the good pricing of drinks onboard and the quality of the food, which adds to the overall value.
It’s also flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the booking process allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing peace of mind as you plan your trip.
Who Will Love This Tour?
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This trip is ideal for history buffs curious about ancient ruins, nature lovers eager for swimming in pristine waters, and relaxation seekers wanting a hassle-free day on the water. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers comfortable with boat travel and looking for an authentic experience. If you enjoy guides who add a personal touch to your journey and appreciate authentic local flavors, this tour ticks those boxes.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
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If you’re in the Kalkan area and want a comprehensive day-trip experience, this boat trip to Kekova offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and history. The stunning scenery and underwater ruins are the stars, with the knowledgeable guides making the experience informative and fun.
While it doesn’t include entrance fees or drinks, the overall value is significant when considering the length of the trip, the quality of the lunch, and the ease of logistics. The limitation of no glass-bottom boat might be a downside for some, but the transparent waters and underwater views from the boat are still impressive.
In short, this tour promises a relaxed, scenic, and informative day out, perfect for travelers who prefer a guided experience with minimal hassle and maximum authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is transportation included in the trip?
Yes, the tour includes two-way transfers from your hotel in Kalkan or Ka to Uçagz Village, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.
How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stops, swim breaks, and lunch without feeling rushed.
What should I bring on the trip?
Bring a snorkel if you have one, as it’s recommended for exploring underwater ruins and enjoying the water. Also, pack sun protection, a towel, and your swimwear.
Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price but can be purchased on board at reasonable prices.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is there an age limit or physical requirement?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour involves swimming and walking around the villages and castles, so travelers should be comfortable with these activities.
This full-day boat adventure from Kalkan offers a wonderful mix of history, scenery, and relaxation. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of sunken cities or the charm of local villages, it’s a guided journey that makes Turkish coast exploration both accessible and memorable.
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