From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova Island

Kas Day Trip to Kekova Island: Exploring Sunken Cities and Scenic Bays

If you’re planning a trip to Kas and love the idea of discovering ancient ruins while enjoying a day on the water, the Day Trip to Kekova Island promises an engaging mix of history, scenic beauty, and relaxation. Organized by SAILNSTAY, this 9-hour tour offers a chance to see the famous Sunken City, swim in crystal-clear bays, and explore the authentic village of Kaleköy.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines relaxing swimming stops with fascinating history—a balanced experience that appeals to both leisure-seekers and history buffs. However, there are a few considerations, like the possible group size or the need for a bit of walking if you choose to hike up to Simena Castle. This trip is perfect for those who want a well-organized, value-packed day with plenty of opportunities to admire beautiful landscapes and uncover ancient secrets.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, this shared boat tour offers a friendly atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to meet other travelers. Keep in mind, the price is quite reasonable considering the length and inclusions, making it a great choice for budget-conscious adventurers seeking authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Stunning Bays for Swimming: The trip includes multiple swim stops in some of the most picturesque bays like Aquarium Bay and Tersane Bay.
• Historical Highlights: Underwater ruins of the Sunken City and the ruins of Simena Castle offer a glimpse into ancient life.
• Authentic Village Visit: The stop at Kaleköy (ancient Simena) lets you explore a small, charming Turkish village with a castle and necropolis.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Pick-up, boat departure, and return are smoothly arranged, with ample time at each stop.
• Value for Money: At $69.81 per person, including lunch, this tour offers a lot of experiences for a reasonable price.
• Limited Entrance Fees: The main ruins at Simena Castle are not included in the fee, costing about 4 euros, so bring cash if you wish to explore further.

Exploring the Kekova Day Trip in Detail

Starting Out: From Kas to Ucagiz/Demre Harbor

Your adventure begins with a pick-up in Kas—most likely from a central meeting point—and a short ride to Ucagiz or Demre harbor, where your boat awaits. This transfer is straightforward, and most travelers find it convenient. The boat departs between 10:20 and 10:40 am, giving you a relaxed start to a full day on the water.

The First Stop: Aquarium Bay

The first major highlight is Aquarium Bay, where you’ll enjoy a full hour of swimming in the calm, clear waters. Reviewers often mention this as a beautiful and peaceful spot, perfect for cooling off after the morning’s journey. The bay’s pristine conditions make it ideal for snorkelers and swimmers alike, and the calm waters mean even less experienced swimmers can relax comfortably. The admission here is free, making it a fantastic value.

The Sunken City: Tersane Koyu and Underwater Ruins

Next, the boat heads to Tersane Koyu on Kekova Island, the starting point for exploring the famous Sunken City of Dolchiste. Here you’ll see the remains of walls, a church, and a castle submerged beneath the water, visible from the boat or snorkel mask if you choose to bring one. Since swimming is not permitted directly at the ruins for preservation reasons, the best way to take in the sights is from the boat or by diving underwater with a mask.

Travelers have expressed fascination with this site, noting how the underwater ruins are remarkably well-preserved, a testament to the area’s volcanic activity and earthquake history in the 2nd century. A reviewer even noted that cruising alongside the ruins offers excellent photo opportunities—a chance to capture the eerie beauty of ancient structures now beneath the waves.

Visiting Simena Castle and Kaleköy

The highlight for many is the stop in Kaleköy, a quaint village perched on the hillside. Here, you’ll have about an hour to walk around, visit the castle ruins, and enjoy panoramic views of the coast. The Castle of Simena provides a spectacular vantage point, and if you’re keen, a quick hike up the hillside reveals sweeping vistas that are well worth the effort.

One reviewer loved this part, mentioning that the hike up the hill offers some of the best views, while another appreciated the authentic small-town feel of Kaleköy, free from tourist-heavy vibes. If you prefer, you can also relax by the water or dip in the blue bays to cool off again.

The Final Stop and Return: Kas

The boat then heads back towards Kas, with a final half-hour to absorb the scenery and say goodbye to this unique stretch of coast. The return trip offers lovely views of the coastline, often with a few photo opportunities. The tour officially concludes back at the original meeting point, leaving you with a day packed with memorable sights and experiences.

What We Love About This Tour

The knowledgeable guides are a big plus here. One reviewer appreciated their insight into the area’s history and the way they made sure everyone was comfortable during swim stops. The well-paced itinerary means you get enough time for each stop without feeling rushed, and the lunch included helps make the day practical and stress-free.

The value for money can’t be overstated—$69.81 covers transport, multiple stops, a hearty lunch, and the chance to see some of Turkey’s most stunning coastlines and underwater ruins. This trip is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, immersive experience without spending a fortune.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

One area to keep in mind is that entrance fees for Simena Castle are not included, costing around 4 euros. We recommend bringing some cash for this if you’d like to explore inside. Also, the group sizes can go up to 55 people, which might feel crowded to some, especially during busy seasons. If you prefer a more intimate trip, early booking or private options might be worth considering.

A few reviews mention frustrations with the return journey—a guide from a private group allegedly influenced the driver to change stops for his group, disrupting other travelers’ plans. While this seems to be an isolated incident, it highlights that sometimes tour experiences can vary depending on the day and the guides involved.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially since you’ll be exposed on the boat for most of the day.
• Swimwear and a towel are essential for enjoying the bays.
• If you’re interested in underwater photography, pack a waterproof camera or snorkel gear.
• Cash for optional entrance fees or souvenirs at Kaleköy.
• The lunch provided is typically a meal on board—check if you have dietary restrictions beforehand.
• Consider earlier booking—the tour is usually booked about 6 days in advance, and spots fill quickly during peak season.
• The timing means you’ll want to be ready for the pick-up in Kas early in the morning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits curious travelers eager to explore ancient ruins, stunning bays, and authentic Turkish villages all in one day. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a balanced mix of history, nature, and leisure without the hassle of planning multiple activities. Families, couples, or solo adventurers who appreciate guided tours and want to meet fellow travelers will find this especially appealing.

If you’re after a relaxing yet informative day on the water with beautiful scenery and a touch of history, this tour ticks all those boxes. But if you’re looking for a more private or customizable experience, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages participate comfortably, but keep an eye on younger children during swimming stops and hiking.

Does the tour include transportation to and from Kas?
Yes, the pickup is from a designated meeting point in Kas, and the tour ends back at the same spot.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire trip lasts approximately 9 hours, with about 6 hours on the water and stops.

What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, waterproof camera if desired, and cash for optional entrance fees.

Are the bays suitable for non-swimmers?
The bays are generally calm, but non-swimmers should stay close to the boat and use flotation devices if available.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal is provided on the boat, which is both practical and tasty for most travelers.

Can I visit the ruins of Simena Castle?
Yes, you can explore the castle and necropolis during the stop in Kaleköy, but entrance fees are not included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people typically go on this tour?
Up to 55 travelers, so expect a lively group atmosphere.

Is snorkeling included?
While snorkeling gear isn’t explicitly included, many travelers bring their own to enjoy underwater views of the ruins and bays.

Final Thoughts

The Day Trip to Kekova Island from Kas offers an engaging blend of history, scenic cruising, and leisurely swimming. The experience is bolstered by good organization, friendly guides, and the chance to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal spots. For those craving a full-day adventure that balances cultural exploration with relaxation, this tour is a sound choice.

It’s especially suited for travelers who love authentic experiences at a reasonable price and enjoy the camaraderie of shared tours. While not the most private or exclusive experience, the value and the scenic highlights make it a popular option. Just be prepared for a busy day and a fair amount of time on the water—both part of the fun when exploring Kekova’s treasures.

This trip is a reliable way to spend a memorable day, with enough flexibility and scenic beauty to satisfy most adventure lovers.