From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova Island

If you’re dreaming of a day spent cruising along Turkey’s stunning coastline, discovering sunken ruins, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, then this boat trip to Kekova Island has plenty to offer. While I haven’t personally taken it, based on detailed reviews and tour descriptions, this experience seems to strike a wonderful balance between adventure, history, and relaxation.

What really stands out are the diverse swimming spots, the knowledgeable guides, and the value for money—especially considering that lunch and multiple stops are included. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, and some may find the schedule a bit packed if they prefer slow-paced explorations. This tour appears ideal for active travelers who love water, history buffs, and anyone looking for a memorable day out on the water.

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Key Points

Stunning swimming locations including Aquarium Bay, Burç Bay, and Esmeralda Bay.
Unique experience of viewing the Sunken City of Kekova without diving, from the comfort of the boat.
Well-informed guides who share interesting stories at each stop.
Delicious included lunch with options for different tastes.
Ideal for active travelers who enjoy multiple swimming breaks and scenic village visits.
Limited mobility considerations, as it requires a lot of walking and boat activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This day trip from Kas offers a well-rounded experience combining scenic cruising, cultural sights, and plenty of opportunities to cool off in the turquoise waters. The balance of history, adventure, and leisure makes it appealing for many types of travelers. With a solid rating of 4.7 from 90 reviews, it clearly provides value and memorable moments.

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Transfer

Your day begins with a pickup from Kas, ferrying you to Ucagiz or Demre harbor. The tour provider, SAILNSTAY, arranges this smoothly, and you’ll be notified of your pickup time a day before—possibly a bit earlier or later depending on the season. The comfortable transfer sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Departure and Cruise

The boat departs between 10:20 and 10:40 am, offering a scenic ride that promises fantastic views of the coastline. You’ll be aboard a well-equipped, spacious boat, as some reviewers noted. The size and comfort of the vessel are appreciated, especially for those who prefer a less cramped experience.

Aquarium Bay: The First Swim Stop

Right after departure, you’ll head to Aquarium Bay for a roughly one-hour swim break. This spot is praised for its breathtaking beauty—calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Reviewers like Victoria mentioned that swimming with turtles was a highlight, adding a touch of wildlife magic to the trip. The bay’s natural surroundings and clear waters make it an ideal place to start your water day.

Kekova’s Sunken City

Next, you’ll cruise alongside the Sunken City of Kekova, which was submerged after an earthquake in the 2nd century. Since swimming here isn’t allowed, the boat’s proximity allows for fantastic photos and observations of the ruins. Guests like Silvia appreciated the “amazing boat tour” and the chance to see this fascinating site from the boat, which offers a safe and comfortable way to explore history without diving.

Burç Bay: A Refreshing Break

The tour then takes you to Burç Bay, where the water tends to be a little cooler, thanks to the natural springs below. This adds variety to your swimming options—some reviewers found the cooler waters invigorating and refreshing after previous stops.

Pirates Cave and Gökkaya Bay

You’ll stop at the naturally formed Pirates Cave, renowned for its large size and curved entrance. It’s a great spot for photos and exploring from the boat. Later, a lunch and swim break at Gökkaya Bay gives you time to relax, enjoy a meal, and pick from water sports that might be available—if you’re feeling adventurous.

Esmeralda Bay: Serenity and Peace

Another highlight is Esmeralda Bay, where you can enjoy peaceful swimming in calmer waters, perfect for unwinding. Reviewers loved this stop for its tranquility, making it a perfect moment to soak up the scenery and the sun.

Kaleköy (Simena) Village and Castle

Finally, the boat drops anchor in Kaleköy (also known as Simena), a charming, authentic village. This stop lasts about an hour, giving you a chance to stroll through narrow streets, visit the castle ruins, and explore the necropolis. A hike up the hillside offers magnificent panoramic views of the Kekova region, appreciated by many reviewers. For those less inclined to walk, there’s plenty of time to swim in the clear waters again.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a delicious lunch—a notable perk given that most similar trips charge extra for meals. The reviews highlight how tasty and satisfying the food was, often described as “great” or “delicious.” Fruit bowls are also provided, adding a fresh touch during the day.

However, drinks are not included, so bringing your own water, soft drinks, or alcohol (if permitted) is advisable. Note that pets, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility due to the walking and boat activities.

How the Experience Feels in Practice

Many reviewers, including families, solo travelers, and couples, have lauded the overall vibe of the tour. The crew, led by friendly guides, is praised for their knowledge and helpfulness. One guest mentioned that the captain provided detailed explanations about each stop, and the guides shared additional information through guidebooks in multiple languages.

The boat itself is spacious and well-equipped, making it comfortable for longer waits or relaxing afternoons on deck. Guests appreciated the opportunity to visit multiple swim spots, especially the chance to see turtles swimming naturally—a true highlight for wildlife lovers.

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The Value Proposition

At $71 per person, this tour offers significant value. It combines scenic cruising, fascinating sights, plenty of swimming opportunities, and a hearty lunch—all in a full-day experience that lasts around 8 hours. The inclusion of multiple stops means you’re getting a variety of environments and sights without paying extra.

The reviews indicate that many find the experience well worth the cost, emphasizing the friendly staff, tasty food, and beautiful locations as standout features. The tour’s flexibility and the opportunity to relax, swim, and explore make it a good choice over self-organized trips, which could end up costing more or be less comprehensive.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for active travelers who want a mix of history, water fun, and scenic views. It caters well to those comfortable on boats and eager to swim in multiple locations. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it appealing, especially with its relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

If you’re after a day that combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and water-based adventure, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just keep in mind that if you have mobility issues, the walking involved and boat activities might not be suitable.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Kas to Kekova Island offers a compelling blend of scenic cruising, historical sights, and multiple swimming stops in stunning bays. The knowledgeable guides, delicious included lunch, and the chance to see turtles and sunken ruins make it a standout choice for travelers looking for a full-day adventure.

The experience’s success hinges on your love for water and exploration—with many reviewers describing it as fun, relaxing, and highly memorable. The price reflects good value considering all the stops and amenities, making it an accessible option for many.

If you enjoy active days on the water, exploring charming villages, and capturing Instagram-worthy photos, this trip is likely to satisfy your wanderlust. It’s a well-organized, friendly, and scenic journey that leaves plenty of room for relaxation amidst the adventure.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pickup times vary depending on the season, but you’ll be notified a day prior. The boat departs from Ucagiz or Demre harbor around 10:20-10:40 am.

How long is the cruise?
The full-day trip lasts approximately 8 hours, including stops, swimming, lunch, and time exploring the village of Kaleköy.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it involves a lot of swimming and walking, so consider the age and mobility of children.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so it’s best to bring your own water, soft drinks, or alcohol (if permitted).

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, and sunscreen are recommended for the day.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the walking and boat activities involved.

Can I snorkel or dive at the stops?
Swimming is allowed at most stops, but swimming is not permitted at the Sunken City itself for preservation reasons.

What’s the food like?
Guests report the lunch as delicious, with options for different tastes, and fruit bowls are provided to refresh during the day.

Is the tour crowded?
The reviews suggest it’s a well-organized, comfortable experience with spacious boats and a friendly crew, so crowds are manageable.

How do I book?
Reservation is easy through platforms like GetYourGuide, with options to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

This trip combines the best of Turkey’s coast—beautiful bays, interesting history, and a laid-back vibe—making it an experience worth considering for your next adventure in Kas.

You can check availability for your dates here: