Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour

Exploring the enchanting Kas region of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, the Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour promises a captivating adventure. Visitors can swim in the tranquil waters of İnönü Bay, savor a delightful lunch at the Karakol Islands, and uncover the fascinating history of the Kekova Sunken City. But the true highlight may lie in the awe-inspiring Simena Castle, where panoramic vistas and a glimpse into the past await those who venture forth.

Key Points

• An 8-hour boat excursion from Kaş, exploring the Kekova Sunken City, Simena Castle, and other historical sites along the Turkish coast.
• Highlights include swimming in İnönü Bay, a guided tour of the Kekova Sunken City, and free time at Simena Castle and other coastal locations.
• Priced at €80.00 per person, with availability in English and Turkish, and wheelchair accessibility.
• Offers a unique experience of gliding across turquoise waters to encounter the submerged ruins of an ancient Mediterranean settlement.
• Simena Castle, a well-preserved 13th-century medieval fortress, provides panoramic views of the region’s natural and historical landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour" is an 8-hour excursion that departs from the Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Kaş.

Priced from €80.00 per person, the tour is available in English and Turkish and is wheelchair accessible. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a "reserve now & pay later" option is available.

The tour visits highlights like İnönü Bay, Karakol Islands, the Kekova Sunken City, Simena Castle, Tersane Koyu, and Üzüm İskelesi, offering a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and a regional culinary experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Kaş, where visitors embark on an 8-hour journey to explore the highlights of Kekova Island and its surrounding areas.

Visitors embark on an 8-hour journey from Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Kaş to explore the highlights of Kekova Island and its surrounding areas.

Key stops along the way include:

• İnönü Bay for swimming and relaxation (50 minutes)

• Karakol Islands for lunch and sightseeing (1 hour)

• Kekova Island Sunken City for a guided tour and sightseeing (30 minutes)

• Simena Castle for free time and exploration (1 hour)

• Tersane Koyu for swimming and marine life viewing (45 minutes)

• Üzüm İskelesi for swimming and a tea ceremony (50 minutes).

Kekova Sunken City

As the boat glides across the turquoise waters, visitors can catch a glimpse of the ancient ruins of the Kekova Sunken City. This once-thriving Mediterranean settlement now lies submerged, a result of a 2nd-century earthquake. The sunken city offers a unique window into the past, with stone buildings, streets, and harbor facilities visible beneath the surface. Exploring this underwater archaeological site is a highlight of the tour, providing a captivating encounter with history. The following table outlines key facts about the Kekova Sunken City:

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| History | Thriving Mediterranean settlement, submerged in 2nd century |

| Visibility | Ruins visible from the boat’s surface |

| Architecture | Stone buildings, streets, and harbor facilities |

| Significance | Unique underwater archaeological site |

| Experience | Highlight of the Kekova Island boat tour |

Simena Castle

Towering over the picturesque town of Simena, Simena Castle commands awe-inspiring views of the Kekova region.

This well-preserved medieval fortress dates back to the 13th century and has remained a prominent landmark in the area.

Visitors can explore:

• Imposing stone walls and towers

• Winding staircases leading to panoramic lookout points

• Ruins of ancient Greek and Roman structures

• Intricately carved stone details and architectural features

• Stunning vistas of the turquoise waters and surrounding islands

With its rich history and stunning natural setting, Simena Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Kekova region.

More Great Tours Nearby

Akvaryum Bay

Crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life make Akvaryum Bay a snorkeler’s paradise. This hidden gem of a cove boasts an abundance of diverse aquatic species, from colorful schools of fish to curious sea turtles. Snorkelers can glide effortlessly through the shallow waters, marveling at the underwater world below. The bay’s sheltered location provides a tranquil escape, making it the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature. Akvaryum Bay’s natural beauty is truly captivating, offering a serene respite from the bustling world above.

| Crystal | Clear | Turquoise |

| — | — | — |

| Vibrant | Marine | Life |

| Snorkeler’s | Paradise | Escape |

Culinary Experience

The onboard lunch served during the Kekova Island boat tour offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the region’s vibrant flavors.

Prepared using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the meal typically includes:

• Traditional Turkish meze dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and dolma

• Grilled fish or meat, often served with roasted vegetables and rice

• Fresh salads made with seasonal produce

• Homemade breads and regional cheeses

• A selection of seasonal fruits and baklava for dessert

This culinary journey allows visitors to savor the authentic tastes of the Turquoise Coast while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Kekova.

Important Information

Two important pieces of information to note about the Kekova Island boat tour.

First, travelers should bring their passport or ID as well as beachwear. The tour isn’t suitable for those with heart problems, epilepsy, or other pre-existing medical conditions.

Pets, alcoholic drinks, and drugs are prohibited on the boat.

The tour offers a chance to explore the ancient sunken city, medieval castle, and stunning natural landscapes along the Turkish coast.

With a 4.6/5 rating from past participants, it’s an adventure worth embarking on for those in good health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, guests are not allowed to bring their own alcoholic drinks. However, bringing non-alcoholic drinks and snacks is generally permitted, as long as they do not disturb the other passengers or the tour experience.

Are Lifejackets Provided for the Boat Ride?

Yes, lifejackets are provided for the boat tour. The tour operator ensures the safety of all passengers by supplying the necessary safety equipment throughout the excursion.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?

No, you don’t need to know how to swim to participate in the tour. However, some activities like swimming and snorkeling are offered, so being able to swim would enhance your experience. Life jackets are provided for safety.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour duration is fixed at 8 hours and cannot be extended. However, travelers can inquire about private or customized tours if they’d like to spend more time exploring the historical sites and natural beauty of the region.

What Is the Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

There is no minimum number of participants required for this tour. The tour can be booked by solo travelers or larger groups, subject to availability. Pricing is per person regardless of group size.

The Sum Up

The Kas: Kekova Island Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Turkish coast. With a chance to swim, enjoy a delightful lunch, and discover the fascinating Kekova Sunken City and Simena Castle, this 8-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone visiting the Kas region. At €80.00 per person, it’s a great value for an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: