From Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

Set out on a captivating day trip from Ucagiz to Kekova by boat. Over approximately seven hours, explore ancient ruins, swim in serene Aquarium Bay, and discover the iconic sunken city. Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch at Gökkaya Bay and optional water sports. With free cancellation and bilingual guidance, this trip promises unforgettable memories and a glimpse into Turkey’s stunning coastline. There’s more to uncover about this adventure-filled journey.

Contents show

Key Points

Depart from Ucagiz, Turkey for a 7-hour boat tour to explore the ancient ruins of Kekova Island.
Enjoy a 1-hour swim break at the scenic Aquarium Bay and complimentary Turkish tea and biscuits.
Take a guided tour of the partially submerged 2nd-century ruins on Kekova Island.
Relax with a local Turkish lunch and optional water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding at Gökkaya Bay.
Conclude the tour with a final stop at Esmaralda Koyu for swimming and snorkeling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The day trip to Kekova by boat departs from Ucagiz, Turkey, and lasts approximately 7 hours.

A 7-hour boat trip to Kekova departs from Ucagiz, Turkey.

Priced from $53.43 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guided in both English and Turkish, the experience includes an audio guide.

Highlights include swimming in Aquarium Bay, exploring the ancient ruins of Kekova Island, and visiting Gökkaya Bay for lunch and water sports.

Travelers can also see the Pirates Cave, Simena Castle, and Esmaralda Koyu for more swimming and snorkeling before returning to Ucagiz village harbor.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Demre

Highlights of the Itinerary

Aquarium Bay offers travelers a 1-hour swim break, accompanied by Turkish tea and biscuits service.

Next, the tour explores Kekova Island and the Sunken City, with a guided tour of the ancient 2nd-century ruins.

Visitors will then witness the impressive Pirates Cave, a large, naturally-formed cave.

Gökkaya Bay provides a lunch and swim break, along with optional water sports.

At Simena Castle, guests enjoy a 1-hour stop for sightseeing, shopping, and taking in the scenic views, with a 1 euro entrance fee.

The final stop is Esmaralda Koyu for swimming and snorkeling before returning to Ucagiz Village harbor.

Aquarium Bay: A Relaxing Start

As visitors embark on their day trip, they’ll first enjoy a relaxing 1-hour swim break at Aquarium Bay.

This scenic cove offers:

Crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Complimentary Turkish tea and biscuits served on the boat.
Opportunities to relax on the sun deck or explore the nearby shoreline.
A chance to slowly acclimate to the day’s adventures ahead.

This serene start sets the tone for the rest of the Kekova tour, allowing guests to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the region.

Exploring the Sunken City of Kekova

After the relaxing start at Aquarium Bay, visitors then make their way to the highlight of the tour – the ancient Lycian sunken city of Kekova.

A guided tour explores the partially submerged ruins dating back to the 2nd century. Travelers can see the remains of buildings, streets, and harbor structures under the clear, blue waters.

The guide provides insights into the history and significance of this unique archaeological site. With vivid imagery, they can envision the once-thriving port town that now lies beneath the surface.

This fascinating glimpse into the past is a memorable part of the Kekova boat excursion.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Captivating Pirates Cave

What makes the Pirates Cave such a captivating part of the Kekova boat tour? This naturally-formed, cavernous wonder offers several key highlights:

Impressive Size: The cave’s massive dimensions, with a expansive interior that can accommodate several small boats.
Intriguing History: Legends suggest the cave was once used as a hideout by ancient pirates, adding an air of mystery.
Scenic Beauty: The cave’s rugged, limestone walls create a dramatic, photogenic backdrop for visitors to explore.
Unique Exploration: Guests can venture inside the cave, marveling at its natural formations and taking in the serene ambiance.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Demre

Gökkaya Bay: Lunch and Water Sports

Following the stop at Simena Castle, the tour then arrives at the picturesque Gökkaya Bay, where guests can enjoy a relaxing lunch and partake in optional water sports. Onboard, a delectable lunch is served, featuring local Turkish dishes and refreshing beverages. After the meal, travelers can choose to indulge in various water activities, including:

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Snorkeling | 1 hour |

| Kayaking | 30 minutes |

| Stand-up Paddleboarding | 45 minutes |

| Swimming | Unlimited |

This break allows visitors to unwind, explore the bay’s tranquil waters, and take in the stunning natural surroundings before continuing the journey.

Simena Castle and Esmaralda Koyu

As the boat sails towards Simena Castle, the tour provides a 1-hour stop for sightseeing and shopping.

Visitors can:

Explore the medieval castle, which offers scenic views of the surrounding turquoise waters.
Browse the local shops for handcrafted souvenirs and Turkish delights.
Indulge in a traditional Turkish tea or coffee while taking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Capture the picturesque landscape with stunning photos before returning to the boat.

Next, the tour takes guests to Esmaralda Koyu, where they can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the clear, azure waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing and swimwear suitable for swimming and boat activities during the day trip.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the tour. However, a morning snack, lunch, and fruits are already included in the tour package. Bringing extra items is optional and at the discretion of the participants.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. Families can enjoy the day trip together exploring the beautiful locations along the Kekova coastline.

What Are the Payment Options on the Day?

Customers can reserve the tour and pay later. They’ll check availability for starting times. Payments are accepted on the day of the tour at the meeting point in Ucagiz Village harbor.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim for This Tour?

While swimming is not required for the tour, it’s recommended to know how to swim to fully enjoy the swim breaks at Aquarium Bay and Esmaralda Koyu. Non-swimmers can still participate in the sightseeing portions of the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Ucagiz to Kekova by boat offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Turkey’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Exploring ancient ruins, swimming in serene bays, and indulging in traditional Turkish cuisine make this an unforgettable adventure. With free cancellation and bilingual guidance, this tour promises a seamless and memorable experience for all.