Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

If you’re dreaming of a full day on the water exploring some of Turkey’s most captivating coastal sights, the Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat offers a well-rounded experience. With a duration of around 7 hours, this tour takes you through turquoise bays, underwater ruins, and charming villages, all aboard a spacious boat with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and soak up the scenery.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is how the trip balances scenic sightseeing with active swimming spots and cultural visits. The inclusion of an hour-long swim break at Aquarium Bay and visits to lesser-known areas like Esmeralda Bay and Burç Bay make it stand out from more tourist-heavy options. However, the crowded nature of high season can sometimes diminish the feeling of serenity, especially when multiple boats converge in popular spots.

This tour suits travelers who love being on the water, enjoy snorkeling and swimming, and want a taste of local authenticity in small villages like Kaleköy (Simena). If you’re after a laid-back day with plenty of picturesque moments and a good dose of Turkish charm, this trip hits the mark. Just keep in mind, the boat is a popular choice, which means it can get busy—so if seeking total solitude, it might be worth considering less crowded options or off-peak times.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blending scenic views, swimming, and cultural stops
• Large, comfortable boat with ample space both inside and on deck
• Authentic village visit in Kaleköy, home to castle ruins and scenic hiking
• Multiple swim and snorkel stops in unique bays like Aquarium Bay and Esmeralda Bay
• Delicious onboard meals and fresh fruit services included in the price
• Guided explanations available in English and Turkish, with a friendly crew
• Moderate price point offering good value given the variety of experiences
• Reservations in advance recommended, especially during peak season

The Detailed Experience: What to Expect from Your Kekova Boat Trip

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at Ucagiz Village harbor, conveniently accessible and often the starting point for many travelers exploring this part of Turkey. You’ll want to arrive a little before the scheduled departure time—around 10:20 to 10:40 am—to ensure a smooth start. The boat used for this tour, the Memedim Boat, is known for its spacious design, which helps keep the crowd manageable and adds to the comfort.

Aquarium Bay — The First Swim Stop

Your first major highlight is Akvaryum Koyu (Aquarium Bay), where you’ll enjoy a full hour to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The reviews note this as a “whopping” time to cool off and soak in the scenic surroundings. The onboard service includes turkish tea and biscuits, which makes for a relaxing break after a swim. The bay’s calm, transparent waters make it a favorite for many, and despite the busy season, most find space to enjoy a peaceful dip.

Kekova Island and Sunken City

Next up is Kekova Island’s Sunken City, where you’ll get a guided overview of the submerged ruins of Dolchiste. This site is particularly striking because of the ancient city submerged by an earthquake in the 2nd century. The boat cruise around the Sunken City offers scenic views while your guide shares stories about the archaeological remains. Reviewers have appreciated the informative explanations, with one mentioning that the guide Mustafa did a “really great job” explaining everything in English.

Hidden Gems and Additional Swimming

Following the Sunken City, the boat stops at Burç Bay, where the cooler waters are due to underwater natural springs—a different experience from Aquarium Bay. Here, you’ll get another chance to swim and snorkel, with some reviews mentioning that the freshness of the water is a refreshing change.

Further along, the boat reaches Gökkaya Bay, where you’ll enjoy lunch onboard—a key highlight for many travelers. The meal is often praised as “amazing,” giving you energy for the next adventure. After lunch, there’s time for relaxation or water sports, depending on what’s available at the moment.

Esmeralda Bay — Tranquil Escape

Esmeralda Bay offers a quieter, more peaceful stop for swimming and snorkeling. Many reviews describe this as a “peace and tranquility” moment, perfect for recharging or simply floating in calm waters. This bay’s reputation for serene beauty makes it a favorite for those seeking a gentler experience away from crowded spots.

Time in Kaleköy (Simena Castle)

The highlight for many is the stop in Kaleköy, also known as Simena. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore the small village, which feels authentically Turkish and unspoiled by mass tourism. The castle ruins atop the hillside provide panoramic views of the coastline, perfect for photos or a quick hike. If you prefer to stay on the boat, you can stay in the water or browse local shops in the village. Reviewers consistently mention the magnificent views from the hillside and the charm of the small village.

Return to Ucagiz

After a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and cultural exploration, your boat will head back to Ucagiz harbor. Many find this a perfect wrap-up, with some reviewers noting it’s a good spot to grab dinner or continue exploring.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $59 per person, which includes onboard snacks, fruits, and a full meal, making it a solid value considering the variety of stops and activities. The included audio guide in English and Turkish adds helpful context, especially for those unfamiliar with the region.

The boat’s capacity allows for a comfortable experience, with plenty of space to relax, sunbathe on deck, or enjoy the shaded interior. The group size isn’t explicitly stated but based on reviews, it appears to be a sizable, well-organized tour, which is great for meeting fellow travelers but may mean some busy moments at popular stops.

What to Bring

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sun protection, as most of the day is spent outdoors

Important Considerations

• The Simena Castle entrance fee is only 1 euro, so bring small change if you want to explore the castle grounds.
• During high season, expect crowds and busy spots, but the boat’s large size helps mitigate this.
• Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak months, to secure your spot and preferred times.

Authenticity and Authentic Moments

From the reviews, it’s clear that the tour balances tourist attractions with authentic local flavor. The stop at the small, unspoiled village of Kaleköy, with its castle ruins and hillside views, provides a glimpse of traditional Turkish life. Plus, the knowledgeable guides, with some fluent in English, help make the history and stories of the Sunken City and the surrounding bays more accessible and engaging.

What Travelers Love Most

Many travelers mention the friendly staff and good organization as key strengths. The delicious food onboard, with some reviewers calling it “amazing,” adds a layer of value that makes the tour feel well-rounded. The large boat with enough space for everyone, especially the mattresses to relax on, helps create a comfortable environment despite the busy season.

Potential Downsides

The main drawback highlighted is the crowded nature of the tour during peak season. Multiple boats tend to visit the same spots, slightly affecting the serenity of the experience and the transparency of the water at some locations. Also, some reviews mention that not all stops are as long as some might hope, but overall, most consider the time allocated sufficient for swimming and exploring.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for families, couples, and groups seeking a fun, active day on the water with plenty of swimming and sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who want to combine cultural exploration with relaxation and don’t mind sharing the boat with other travelers. If you enjoy delicious food, scenic views, and authentic villages, this tour delivers on all fronts.

However, if you’re looking for total tranquility or a private experience, you might find the crowds a little overwhelming. Also, those seeking to fully explore the Sunken City underwater might find the time a bit limited.

Final Thoughts

The Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat offers a comprehensive and enjoyable way to experience one of Turkey’s most picturesque coastlines. The combination of swimming in crystal-clear bays, exploring ancient ruins, and visiting charming villages makes it a memorable day out. The well-organized itinerary and friendly guide service enhance the experience, making it accessible and informative.

While it can get busy in peak season, the variety of stops and the inclusive food and drinks make this trip a great value for those looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for travelers who love water activities and want to see authentic local sights without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re after a full, fun day out that showcases the best of Kekova’s natural beauty and historic charm, this tour might just be your perfect match.

FAQ

What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour begins at Ucagiz Village harbor, where you’ll meet your boat, Memedim Boat, and depart around 10:20 to 10:40 am.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including all stops for swimming, sightseeing, and the village visit.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price of $59 includes onboard snacks, fruits, and a full lunch, plus an audio guide in English and Turkish.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, the crew and guides provide explanations in Turkish and English, with some reviews mentioning guides like Mustafa who explain the sites clearly.

Are there any additional costs?
The only extra cost is the entrance fee for Simena Castle, which is just 1 euro.

What should I bring?
Pack your swimsuit, towel, and sun protection, as most of the day is spent outdoors.

How crowded does it get?
During peak season, expect multiple boats at the same sites, which can make some spots feel busier. Still, most travelers find enough space to swim and enjoy.

Can I stay longer at some stops?
The itinerary generally provides about an hour at the village and various swim stops, which is usually enough, but flexibility depends on the day.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, it’s a family-friendly tour with plenty of opportunities for swimming and exploring, though young children should be supervised around water.

In summary, this Kekova boat trip from Ucagiz offers a balanced mix of scenery, history, and relaxation, all at a reasonable price. Its focus on authentic spots, good food, and friendly guides make it a reliable choice for anyone eager to explore Turkey’s stunning coastline in a fun, comfortable way.