From Demre: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

Introduction

A guided sea kayaking tour from Demre to Kekova offers an adventurous way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating coastal sights. This 5.5-hour experience combines gentle paddling with visits to historic ruins, charming villages, and scenic bays. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of activity, culture, and natural beauty without feeling overwhelmed by strenuous exertion.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is for beginners. With a safety briefing and paddle instructions included, it’s designed to make everyone feel comfortable. The highlight? Paddling alongside the Sunken City of Kekova—a genuinely unforgettable sight that you can explore up close from your kayak.

A possible consideration? The trip involves a fair bit of paddling, so a basic level of physical activity is needed, though the tour is described as similar to a long walk. If you’re looking for a very relaxed day with minimal effort, this might require some self-motivation.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure, cultural sites, and stunning scenery—especially those eager to try kayaking in a safe, guided environment.

Key Points

• Accessible for Beginners: The tour includes safety and paddle instructions, making it suitable even for novices.
• Authentic Experience: Paddle alongside ancient ruins, offering a unique perspective not available from land.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Multiple stops, including swimming, sightseeing, and exploring local villages.
• Value for Money: For $57, you get about 4 hours of kayaking, a knowledgeable guide, transportation, and lunch.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Combines light physical activity with cultural and scenic highlights.

A Deep Dive into the Kekova Sea Kayaking Experience

Starting from Demre: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins at SAILNSTAY’s main office, a straightforward meetup point that offers easy access. Travelers staying in Demre can enjoy the added convenience of pick-up and drop-off services, which is a big plus in this region where transportation isn’t always seamless. The initial drive to Uçaiz village takes about 45 minutes, giving you a scenic preview of the Turkish coastline along the way.

The Paddling Day: What It Looks Like

The day kicks off early, around 8:20 a.m., with a safety briefing and paddle instruction—crucial for those new to kayaking. The guide’s calm, friendly approach helps ease any nerves, especially since the activity is described as similar to a long walk, so it’s very manageable for most.

At 09:00 a.m., you’ll get into your kayak with the support of a motorized vessel escort. This support boat acts as a safety net, allowing you to relax and focus on the views rather than managing the boat alone. The group then paddles southwest along the coast towards Kekova Island, with the first stop at Tersane Bay around 10:15 a.m. Here, you can swim in the bay’s inviting waters, a perfect break in the morning’s paddling.

Exploring the Sunken City of Kekova

The highlight of this tour is paddling around the Sunken City of Kekova—a sight that’s hard to match. Due to its protected status, swimming isn’t permitted directly in the archaeological site, but paddling along the submerged ruins offers an up-close look at Lycian history that many find fascinating. As one reviewer pointed out, “There’s something special about seeing the ruins from the water, where you’re immersed in the landscape but still respecting the preservation efforts.”

Visiting Simena Village and Castle

Next, the group heads to Simena Castle at Kaleköy, arriving around 11:30 a.m. The 45-minute stop allows time for exploring this quaint village, famous for its castle ruins and ancient necropolis. The climb up to the castle’s hillside gives panoramic views of the region—an Instagram-worthy moment. For those less inclined to hike, there’s still time to relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters below, or browse some local shops.

The Ancient City of Theimussa

After the castle visit, the tour continues with a stop at Theimussa, where you can marvel at Lycian sarcophagi and other relics. It’s a quieter, less crowded stop but offers rich historical context and photo opportunities for history buffs.

Lunch and Return

The day wraps up with a relaxed lunch back at Uçaiz at 1:15 p.m., giving you a chance to reflect on the morning’s adventures and share photos with your new friends. The group then heads back to Demre, arriving in the late afternoon.

The Realities of the Tour

Many reviews mention how well-paced the day is. “The kayak trip is physically manageable but still offers a good workout,” one reviewer notes, emphasizing how the tour balances activity with leisure. The small group size fosters a friendly vibe, and guides like Gokhan are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness.

Value and Practical Tips

At $57, this experience offers a lot. You get the kayaking, transportation, support boat, and lunch, which adds up to a full day of engaging exploration. Keep in mind, additional expenses such as entrance fees (e.g., for Simena Castle—around 4) are not included, but are minimal.

To get the most out of this tour, bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and sunglasses. The timing leaves you with plenty of afternoon to continue exploring or relaxing on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This kayaking trip appeals to active travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and light adventure. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, safe way to experience Kekova’s coastline without the hassle of planning logistics. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers will find it manageable and rewarding.

If you’re seeking a laid-back day with minimal physical exertion, this might be a bit more energetic than you expected. However, for most, the moderate paddling combined with cultural stops makes it a rewarding experience.

FAQs

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible, with a safety briefing and paddle instructions provided. It’s similar to a brisk walk, making it manageable for most.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials such as sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen. These will help you stay comfortable throughout the day, especially during swimming breaks and sightseeing.

How long do I spend kayaking?
You’ll enjoy approximately 4 hours of sea kayaking, including paddling to different sites, with support from a boat escort.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch is provided, but additional food and drinks are paid separately unless specified. The included lunch typically offers a nice break after the morning adventure.

What are the main sights I’ll see?
You’ll paddle near the Sunken City of Kekova, visit Tersane Bay for swimming, explore Simena Village and its castle, and see Lycian sarcophagi at Theimussa.

Is transportation arranged?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off services are included for travelers staying in Demre, making logistics simple.

What is the group size?
Small groups are limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of attention from the guide.

Final Thoughts

This guided Kekova sea kayaking tour from Demre offers a well-rounded day of activity, history, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to see the coastline from a different perspective while enjoying some light exercise. The inclusion of cultural sites, the chance to paddle in protected waters, and the convenience of small-group guiding make it a smart pick for travelers wanting an authentic and memorable experience.

While it’s not the absolute least strenuous activity out there, the manageable pace and supportive environment mean most active travelers will come away feeling both fulfilled and inspired. Just remember to pack your essentials, bring a sense of adventure, and get ready to create some unique memories on Turkey’s stunning coast.