Ultimate Sea Kayaking Tour of Kekova

If you’re looking for an active way to soak up the natural beauty and history of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, the Ultimate Sea Kayaking Tour of Kekova might just be your best bet. This experience offers a full day of paddling, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying scenic views, all in a small-group setting with knowledgeable guides. The tour has earned an impressive 5.0/5 rating from over 340 reviews, and travelers love how it combines adventure, cultural insights, and excellent value.

One thing that truly stands out is the small group size—with a maximum of 14 travelers, you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious, complimentary lunch and the chance to ask guides about the area’s history and flora makes this experience feel authentic and well-rounded. However, it’s worth noting that while the paddling is described as manageable for most fitness levels, you will need basic swimming knowledge and be in moderate physical condition to enjoy it fully.

This tour suits a wide range of travelers: from those with water sports experience to complete beginners eager for their first kayaking adventure. Families with children over 5, couples, or solo travelers looking to combine activity with sightseeing will find this experience particularly appealing. If you’re after a day that balances outdoor activity with cultural discovery, this trip deserves a spot on your Turkey itinerary.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Expert guides are highly knowledgeable about Kekova’s history, flora, and fauna.
• Accessible to most fitness levels with only a few hours of paddling involved.
• Includes a delicious lunch and opportunities for swimming and sightseeing.
• Suitable for children aged 5 and above with proper supervision.
• All-weather operation, so you can paddle rain or shine.

A Deep Dive into the Kekova Kayaking Experience

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

For $68, this tour offers exceptional value. It features hotel pickup and drop-off (at selected hotels), use of tandem kayaks (with some single kayaks available), and transportation by minivan to the Kekova coast. The small group size, capped at 14, allows guides to give more personalized attention and ensure everyone feels comfortable, no matter their skill level.

An added perk most travelers appreciate is the professional guidance from a multilingual guide. Many reviews highlight Barbaros, or “Barbie,” as a standout guide—knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing Turkish culture. He not only ensures safety but also makes the day engaging with entertaining stories and insights throughout.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Kekova Island and the National Park

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel, followed by a scenic minivan ride to the coast. Once there, you’ll receive a quick tutorial on kayaking—perfect for first-timers and those a bit nervous about paddling. The actual paddling around Kekova takes around 6 hours, with frequent stops to enjoy the views.

The first notable destination is the Kekova Island, a protected national park full of secluded harbors, underwater ruins, and striking rock formations. Reviewers mention the “fantastic scenery” and how the paddle in the calm waters is a manageable adventure, even for those with limited experience. The tortoises spotted during exploration and the ** Byzantine ruins** add a layer of intrigue, making the whole experience more engaging.

Stop 2: Simena Village and Lunch

One of the highlights is a stop at Simena, a tiny village accessible only by boat, with a castle and charming narrow streets. Visitors love the delicious Turkish lunch served here, which exceeds expectations given the tour price. Some reviews mention the basic but tasty food, and the friendly atmosphere adds to the authenticity.

This stop isn’t just about food—it’s also a chance to walk around, take photos of traditional Turkish houses, and enjoy ice cream. Many reviewers describe this as a “perfect balance of activity and relaxation”.

Additional Stops & Swimming

The tour includes several opportunities to swim in the warm Mediterranean waters, often during pauses in paddling or after the last activity of the day. Reviewers note that swimming in the clear waters is a highlight, especially during the summer months.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews praise Barbaros’ (Barbie’s) depth of knowledge and enthusiasm for sharing Turkey’s culture and history. His storytelling adds an educational layer to the experience, making the sights more meaningful.

Ease and Comfort: Paddling not too strenuous, with most participants feeling comfortable after just 10 minutes of instruction. Reviewers, including a pregnant woman, mention how the paddling was manageable and not physically demanding.

Good Food & Hospitality: The included lunch, along with the friendly guide, really elevates the experience. One visitor said it was “an excellent value for money,” especially considering the scenic stops, the guide’s expertise, and the delicious food.

Authentic and Scenic Experience: The rock labyrinths, underwater ruins, and quiet harbors are exactly the type of sights that make this tour memorable. Many think it’s the best way to see the coastline compared to boat trips or standard sightseeing.

The Practical Aspects

The tour runs rain or shine, so it’s advisable to dress appropriately—think sun protection, water shoes, and lightweight clothing. The kit includes dry-bags for valuables, but reviewers recommend leaving valuables in your hotel. The minimum age for children is 5, and you should be in moderate physical condition to enjoy paddling comfortably.

Transportation is smooth, with hotel pickups available at select accommodations, making logistics hassle-free. Depending on the season, it’s smart to bring a wind jacket or sun protection. The tour’s seven to eight hours make it a full but manageable day out, especially as it includes breaks, lunch, and free time.

What About the Price?

At $68.36 per person, this tour is a value-packed experience. Considering the included transportation, kayak use, professional guide, and lunch, it’s an affordable way to explore Kekova from a different angle. Plus, small-group sizes mean more personalized attention and a relaxed pace—something worth paying for.

Final Thoughts Based on Reviews

The consistent praise for guides like Barbaros, the stunning scenery, manageable paddling, and delicious lunch make this tour a standout. Visitors mention learning interesting facts, spotting wildlife, and relaxing in beautiful settings, all while feeling safe and well cared for.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys water-based adventures, this kayaking tour offers an authentic, scenic, and educational experience. It’s especially suited for families with children over 5, couples, or solo explorers wanting to combine nature, history, and a bit of fun. While the paddling is approachable for most, those with serious mobility challenges or who dislike being on the water might find it less suitable.

It’s ideal for travelers looking for more than a boat trip, with the bonus of learning about Kekova’s history and enjoying Turkish hospitality. If a full day of kayaking, sightseeing, and delicious food sounds appealing, this experience is worth considering.

The Sum Up

The Ultimate Sea Kayaking Tour of Kekova offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The small-group setting, expert guides, stunning coastline, and authentic Turkish lunch make it an excellent choice for those wanting to see the Turquoise Coast from a new perspective. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value personalized service and meaningful experiences.

While it’s a physically moderate activity, most participants find it accessible and highly rewarding. The consistent glowing reviews highlight how this tour stands out, with many saying they’d do it again and recommend it to others. It’s a fantastic way to combine outdoor activity, cultural discovery, and delicious local food—all at a price that delivers great value.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can participate, provided they are supervised by an adult. The paddling is manageable for children who can do about an hour of walking, and many reviews mention families enjoying the experience together.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a sun hat, and water shoes or sandals—flip flops aren’t recommended. A wind jacket is suggested for spring and autumn. Carrying a waterproof camera or phone in a dry-bag is advisable, and valuables should be left in your hotel.

Are vegetarian or special diet meals available?
The tour includes a complimentary lunch, but specific dietary options aren’t mentioned. If you have particular needs, it’s best to contact the supplier beforehand.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How long is the total tour?
Expect a full-day experience lasting around 7 to 8 hours, including pickup, paddling, sightseeing, lunch, and return transfer.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 14, which helps ensure a relaxed experience with more personal attention from guides.

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-time kayaker, this Kekova tour promises a memorable day filled with scenic views, intriguing ruins, and friendly Turkish hospitality. It’s a fantastic way to see the coast, learn some history, and enjoy the outdoors—all at a reasonable price.