Shared Sunken City of Kekova Boat Tour including lunch

Exploring the Sunken City of Kekova by Boat: A Smart Choice for History and Nature Lovers

If you’re visiting Kas and want a day filled with scenic beauty, fascinating ruins, and a relaxed vibe, the Shared Sunken City of Kekova Boat Tour might just be your perfect escape. This roughly 8-hour journey offers a chance to see the submerged Lycian city, enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, and savor a tasty Turkish lunch—all aboard a modern, traditional-style wooden boat.

One of the things we love most about this tour is its combination of history and leisure. Cruising on a newly built vessel that mimics traditional Turkish design, you get a chance to relax, sunbathe, and snap photos of glittering underwater ruins. On the downside, the group size is capped at around 100 participants, which keeps things lively but might feel a bit crowded during peak season. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a blend of culture, nature, and good food, especially those eager for authentic experiences without the hassle of organizing their own boat trip.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Lunch, drinks, and live commentary make this tour great value.
• Comfortable Modern Boat: Recently built with traditional styling, ensuring a smooth and scenic ride.
• Unique Historical Sites: See the famous sunken Lycian city and ancient shipyard.
• Ideal for Relaxation: Plenty of swimming stops and opportunities to soak up the sun.
• Authentic Local Insight: Guided commentary enriches your understanding of the area’s history.
• Flexible and Convenient: Pickup from Kas and a set schedule, with free cancellation options.

A Detailed Look at the Kekova Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins early, with a 9:30 am meetup at Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Kas. From there, you’ll board a brand-new 24-meter wooden boat designed to resemble traditional Turkish vessels but with all the modern comfort you could desire. This setup ensures a smooth, stable ride and a cool, shaded area to relax during the cruise. The tour is perfect for those who prefer not to worry about logistics, as it includes local taxes, live commentary, and refreshments on board.

The Journey Begins: Cruising to Inonu Bay

The boat departs from Kas harbor, and your first hour is spent cruising over calm waters toward Inonu Bay. Here, you’re encouraged to swim and cool off in the inviting sea—reviewers mention that the waters are very refreshing and ideal for a quick dip. You’ll also be offered drinks and snacks to keep you energized while enjoying the breathtaking views. This part of the trip sets the tone: a mix of comfort, scenery, and aquatic fun.

Exploring Kekova’s Crystal Waters and the Sunken City

After about 1.5 hours, the boat reaches the first main stop at Aquarium Bay, renowned for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. This is a perfect chance to snorkel or simply float and take in the underwater scenery. The water’s transparency allows for spectacular views of the submerged ruins, which are a highlight of this tour. As noted in reviews, many guests find this part “magical and historical,” with the ruins glittering beneath the surface—definitely the most Instagram-worthy moment.

Lunch with a View

Following a couple of hours swimming and exploring, the group gathers for a delicious Turkish lunch. The meal includes barbecued chicken, fresh salads, and appetizers, served on the boat, offering a taste of local flavors. Reviewers often emphasize how tasty the food is, and having lunch included in the tour adds excellent value. It’s a relaxed, sociable time, with plenty of time to chat and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

Visiting the Ancient Shipyard and Sunken Ruins

Post-lunch, the boat cruises toward Tersane Koyu, where you’ll see the remains of an ancient shipbuilding yard. This is a serious treat for history buffs, as it offers a close-up view of how the Lycian people constructed their ships. The highlight, of course, is cruising over the famous sunken city of Simena. Guests have mentioned how stunning the underwater ruins are—”glittering” and “photogenic,” offering a clear sense of a lost civilization.

Free Time in Kalekoy

The trip culminates in a one-hour visit to Kalekoy, a picturesque village built among the ruins. Only accessible by boat or foot, this charming spot features narrow streets, local shops, and a castle with panoramic views. Reviewers have enjoyed wandering through the streets, admiring Lycian sarcophagi, or grabbing some homemade ice cream by the water. Although the castle entry costs extra, many find the walk and photo opportunities worthwhile.

Wrap-up and Return

The tour ends around 6 pm, bringing you back to Kas harbor. The duration allows ample time for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing, making it a well-paced day.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Authentic Historical Insight and Scenic Beauty: The inclusion of a guide and live commentary enriches the experience, transforming a boat trip into an educational adventure. You’ll learn about the Lycian civilization and the natural forces that created this underwater tableau.

Comfort and Convenience: The recently built vessel is both traditional in style and modern in comfort, which means a stable ride, shaded areas, and easy access to swimming spots. The inclusion of lunch and drinks makes it easier to relax without worrying about additional costs.

Value for Money: At approximately $74.52 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience—covering transportation, entry fees, food, and guided commentary. Reviewers consistently mention that the quality of the boat, the food, and the staff exceeded expectations, offering excellent value.

Photogenic Moments: This trip is tailor-made for capturing stunning photos—whether underwater ruins, panoramic village views, or the glittering surface of the sunken city.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring your snorkeling gear if you wish to get closer to the underwater ruins, although equipment can often be rented locally.
• Sun protection is essential—pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as you’ll spend plenty of time in the sun.
• Waterproof your valuables—a dry bag or waterproof phone case will keep your electronics safe during swimming.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure smooth boarding, especially during peak season when groups can fill up quickly.
• Consider your swimming ability—while most stops are suitable for all levels, some may prefer floating or just relaxing on deck.
• Cash for extras—if you want to explore Kalekoy’s shops or buy an ice cream, bring some small bills.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This boat trip is ideal for history enthusiasts intrigued by underwater ruins, nature lovers eager for swimming in pristine waters, and foodies who enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine. It’s also well-suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day without the hassle of organizing separate transport or activities.

While it’s generally suitable for most ages, those with mobility issues might find some of the walking or climbing around Kalekoy slightly challenging. The group size and structure make it perfect for those who enjoy socializing and sharing a memorable experience in a friendly atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Kas and want a balanced mix of history, nature, and leisure, the Kekova boat tour checks all the boxes. The combination of stunning underwater ruins, delicious local food, and a comfortable cruise makes it a rewarding way to spend a day.

The value is clear, especially with the included lunch and guided insights, and the scenery is simply breathtaking—both above and below the water. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this tour offers a memorable taste of Turkey’s coastal treasures.

Overall, it’s a well-organized, authentic experience that leaves many visitors eager to return. Just pack your swimsuit, camera, and sense of curiosity—and get ready for a day of discovery.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, from the 9:30 am start to the 6:00 pm return.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, a delicious Turkish lunch—including grilled chicken, salads, and appetizers—is part of the package.

Are drinks provided on board?
Yes, tea, coffee, and other refreshments are included, but alcohol and additional drinks are available for purchase separately.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Several stops are designed for swimming and snorkeling, especially in Aquarium Bay and Inonu Bay.

What is the boat like?
The boat is a modern, 24-meter wooden vessel built in a traditional style, offering both comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, a local guide provides live commentary, sharing insights about the sites and their history during the cruise.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult. The minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18.

If you’re after a day full of history, stunning scenery, and relaxed swimming in a charming setting, this Kekova boat tour from Kas offers fantastic value and authentic experiences.