Kekova Sunken City Full Day Boat Trip

A Complete Review of the Kekova Sunken City Full Day Boat Trip

If you’re eyeing a day full of scenic beauty, ancient ruins, and fun water activities in Turkey’s southern coast, the Kekova Sunken City Full Day Boat Trip might just be the adventure you need. From the moment you board in Üçaz, you’re set for roughly seven hours of exploration, with stops that include everything from swimming in crystal-clear bays to marveling at submerged Lycian ruins. The solid 5.0-star rating from many travelers and a consistent 100% recommendation rate speak volumes about its appeal.

What mainly attracts visitors is the chance to witness stunning coastal scenery and a slice of history without diving into complex archaeological sites yourself. We love the way this tour combines natural beauty with ancient mystery — all at a reasonable price of about $64.16 per person. On the flip side, some might find the day a little full or the English translation a bit minimal, but overall, it offers an excellent value for what’s included.

This tour suits travelers who crave an authentic experience that balances history, nature, and leisure. If you’re someone who enjoys being on the water, exploring multiple locations in a single day, and loves a good story behind every stop, this trip will likely tick all your boxes.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: The entire trip offers panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean, perfect for photo lovers.
• Rich Cultural Stops: From the Sunken City of Kekova to Lycian tombs, the itinerary is packed with history.
• Water-Based Activities: Swimming and snorkeling are highlights at Aquarium Bay, Gokkaya Beach, and Adalar Bay.
• Good Value for Money: For around $64, you get a full day of exploration, including lunch and multiple stops.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles make the journey to and from the boat more pleasant.
• Small Group Feel: Although the tour can host up to 95 travelers, many reviews mention a more intimate experience, especially on smaller boats.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Meeting Point and Departure

The adventure begins in the small, picturesque village of Üçaz, with the tour’s office conveniently located near the post office (PTT). From there, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that whisks you away from the hustle of the mainland into the scenic beauty of Turkey’s coast. The drive is roughly an hour, giving you a chance to soak in views of rugged cliffs and olive groves along the way.

Aquarium Bay

Our first stop is Aquarium Bay, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. It’s often compared to an underwater aquarium because of the colourful fish visible from above water. Here, visitors can enjoy swimming or snorkeling — and with admission included, you won’t have to worry about extra costs. Reviewers mention spending about 45 minutes in this calm bay, with many noting the visibility and lively sea life as the highlight.

Sunken City of Kekova

Next up is the main event — the Sunken City of Kekova. This Lycian settlement sank into the sea after seismic activity, leaving behind partially submerged walls, staircases, and buildings visible from the boat or above. The tour doesn’t allow swimming directly among the ruins to protect the site, but boat trips provide incredible views of this underwater relic. One traveler shared, “The ruins are a mesmerizing sight, and it’s amazing how much is still visible from the boat.” The 45-minute stop here is enough to get a sense of the scale and history without diving or swimming in the protected area.

Burc Bay and Castle

After the sunken ruins, the boat heads to Burç Bay, a tranquil spot with crystal waters and a short swimming break. The bay is also home to Burç Castle, a Lycian-period fortress offering stunning views. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, which include walls and towers, while enjoying the cooler water fed by natural springs. The 45-minute stop allows plenty of time for a quick dip and some sightseeing.

Pirate Cave (Quick Pass)

Passing by the Pirate Cave, also called Pirate’s Cove, adds a touch of legend to the trip. While the boat doesn’t stop for an extended visit here, the cave’s natural formations and lore make it a memorable sight. It’s also a protected habitat for Mediterranean monk seals, emphasizing the importance of respecting the environment.

Gokkaya Bay – Lunch and Relaxation

The tour then moves to Gokkaya Bay, a favorite for swimming and relaxing. Here, you’ll have about an hour to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery while the crew prepares a delicious lunch — typically including grilled chicken, pasta with homemade sauce, and fresh salads. Reviewers often mention the quality of the food as a pleasant surprise, especially given the whole day’s value. The bay’s calm waters and sandy beach make it an ideal spot to unwind.

Simena (Kaleköy) Village and Castle

Next is the charming village of Simena, famous for its medieval castle perched on a hill. Visitors can explore Lycian tombs and sarcophagi scattered around, and if they choose, pay a small entrance fee to climb the castle for spectacular coastal views. The village’s narrow streets, local ice cream shops, and friendly vibe make it a delightful stop, albeit optional since the entrance fee isn’t included.

Kekova and Adalar Bay

The final swimming stop is at Adalar Bay, where you’ll have about 45 minutes to cool off one last time. The calm waters and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect ending to the water part of your day. Once finished, the boat turns back towards Üçaz marina, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day.

Return to Üçaz

The tour wraps up with a return to the starting point, usually around 4:30 to 5 pm, depending on the day’s pace. The drive back offers a chance to unwind and enjoy the last glimpses of the coastline.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

What makes this tour stand out is how well it balances scenic beauty, history, and leisure. Many travelers mention the quality of the views — from the boat, you get sweeping vistas of rugged coastlines, ancient ruins, and turquoise waters. The stops at Aquarium Bay and Gokkaya Beach are especially praised for their clarity and tranquility, perfect for swimming and relaxing.

The inclusion of lunch is a significant bonus, especially considering the tour’s price. Many reviews point out that the food, which consists of grilled chicken, pasta, and salads, is a highlight. It’s a simple but satisfying meal that keeps you energized for the rest of the day.

Group size varies, but the tour seems to cater to both small groups and larger crowds. Some travelers appreciated the more intimate feeling on the smaller boats, especially since one review mentioned a mix-up with boat size booking. However, the standard capacity listed is 50 people, which still offers a lively but manageable experience.

Transport and logistics are smooth, with air-conditioned transfers making the journey comfortable. The tour operates with a flexible cancellation policy — free up to 24 hours before — which adds some peace of mind.

What reviewers love most is the combination of stunning scenery and good value. The once-in-a-lifetime feeling of gazing at submerged ruins, combined with swimming in crystal waters, makes it a full-packed, memorable day.

Potential drawbacks are the day’s length and the minimal English commentary, which some travelers might find limiting. One reviewer noted that the tour’s explanation was primarily in Turkish, with limited translation. If you’re after a highly narrated experience, this might be a minor downside.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, historical sights, and water activities. It’s also great for those who prefer a day that includes lunch and multiple stops at a reasonable price. If you’re happy to spend about seven hours on the water and in transit, and you appreciate authentic, natural environments, you’ll find this tour offers great value.

However, if you’re looking for a highly narrated or private experience, or prefer a shorter trip, you might want to explore alternatives or book a smaller boat option.

Final Thoughts

The Kekova Sunken City Full Day Boat Trip offers a well-rounded slice of the Turquoise Coast’s natural beauty and history. The combination of crystal-clear waters, intriguing shipwrecks, and scenic villages makes for a truly engaging day. Many travelers highlight the stunning views and value for money, making it a popular choice for visitors to Kas and nearby areas.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet adventure-filled day with plenty of opportunities for swimming, exploring, and soaking up Mediterranean scenery, this tour hits the spot. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring your camera — the vistas are unforgettable.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered for this tour, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transfers, stops, and lunch.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs approximately $64.16, which covers boat excursions, lunch, and entrance to certain sites.

Are there options to swim at every stop?
Yes, most stops, including Aquarium Bay, Gokkaya Beach, and Adalar Bay, allow for swimming and relaxing in the water.

Is the boat capacity large or small?
Your booking might be on a boat for up to 50 people, but reviews suggest that smaller boats are available and appreciated for a more intimate experience.

Can I visit the castle of Simena?
Visiting the castle requires an optional entrance fee of about 4 euros, not included in the tour price.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable for families, especially those comfortable with boat trips and outdoor activities.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, some cash for optional extras, and waterproof footwear if you plan to explore the castle or rocky shores.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This trip is a fantastic way to experience Turkey’s Mediterranean coast in one day, blending history, natural beauty, and fun water activities. Whether you’re a history buff, a water lover, or someone simply eager to relax and take in stunning views, the Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip delivers on all fronts.