From Kas: Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour

Exploring the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour from Kas

If you’re searching for a day packed with scenic views, fascinating ruins, and a touch of adventure, the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour from Kas might just be the experience for you. This tour promises a seamless, all-inclusive day where you can paddle along Turkey’s stunning coast, explore ancient sunken cities, and enjoy local flavors without any of the stress of planning.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guidance ensures you’re in safe hands while soaking up the beauty of Kekova’s waters. Second, the easy logistics, including pickup and all transportation, save you from the hassle of navigating on your own. Lastly, the authentic atmosphere of small villages like Kaleköy and historical sites like Simena Castle offers a glimpse into Turkey’s rich past and lively culture.

A possible consideration? The 4 to 6-hour timeframe means you’ll want to pace yourself, especially if you’re not used to paddling or long group excursions. It’s also worth noting that entry fees to some sites like Simena Castle aren’t included, so a bit of cash for extras might be necessary.

This tour appeals most to travelers who love outdoor activities, stunning coastal scenery, and cultural exploration—especially those looking for an active yet relaxed day on Turkey’s coast.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Transport, kayaks, and lunch are covered, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Yasar and Ibrahim are praised for their friendly, informative approach, enhancing the experience.
• Scenic Highlights: Paddle past the sunken city of Kekova, explore Simena Castle, and hike for breathtaking views.
• Authentic Cultural Touches: Visit small villages and ruins that reveal Turkey’s historical charm.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, offering a more personal environment.
• Flexible and Balanced: The itinerary balances adventure, sightseeing, and downtime, with swimming and photo opportunities.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off bright and early at 8:00 am from Smiley’s in Kas, setting out for Uçagiz village. The 45-minute ride is smooth, giving you time to get excited about the day ahead. Many reviewers mention the convenience of this pickup, saving them from the stress of organizing transport themselves.

The Coastal Drive and Uçagiz

Upon arriving at Uçagiz, the group boards a support vessel at around 9:30 am. This vessel escorts you along the coast, creating both a safety net and an opportunity to relax and take in the views. The journey itself is scenic, with the chance to spot local wildlife and rugged shoreline.

Kayaking and Swimming Breaks

By 10:15 am, the group reaches Tersane Bay, where the first swimming break is scheduled. While swimming is not permitted in the protected area of the sunken city, you’ll get plenty of time to paddle close to the ancient ruins of Kekova, capturing memorable photos along the way. As one reviewer noted, kayaking alongside the ruins offers the best vantage point, letting you get close to the submerged structures—something you can’t do while swimming.

Exploring Kekova and Kekova Island

The group then paddles around Kekova Island, soaking in the scenery and snapping countless photos of the sunken city. This part of the tour is often highlighted as a major highlight, with travelers loving the chance to see the submerged Lycian ruins so intimately. The calm waters and clear visibility make it a photographer’s dream.

Visiting Kaleköy and Simena Castle

Next, the tour visits the charming village of Kaleköy, home to Simena Castle. The atmosphere here is authentic and peaceful, with narrow lanes and ancient ruins. Visitors can explore the castle remnants and even visit a necropolis, all within a 45-minute window. Some reviews mention that entrance fees are not included, so bring a few extra lira for this part.

Panoramic Views and Optional Swimming

After exploring the castle, the group has the chance to hike up to viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the coastline or relax with another swim in the blue waters below. The hike offers spectacular scenery, and many enjoy the peace and quiet away from crowded tourist spots.

The Ancient City of Theimussa and Lunch

In the afternoon, the group heads to Theimussa, where impressive Lycian sarcophagi lie just off the coast. This spot provides a final chance for photos and a last dose of history before heading back. The tour concludes with a well-deserved lunch in Uçaiz at around 13:15, where many reviewers praise the quality and variety of the included meal.

The Overall Value

For $64.09 per person, this tour offers an impressive balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Considering all transport, kayaking gear, and lunch are included, it provides excellent value. Plus, the small group size and knowledgeable guides make it feel personalized—something many travelers appreciate.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, discovering ancient sites, and soaking up scenic views without the stress of planning every detail. It’s also perfect for those who want a balance of guided commentary and free time, especially if they love capturing photos of ruins and coastline.

The tour’s pace is friendly, with plenty of opportunities to swim, hike, or simply relax and take in the sights. The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise, making even the less confident paddlers feel comfortable.

However, it’s worth noting that if you prefer a very leisurely, non-active day or have mobility issues, this might be a bit more rigorous than you expected. Also, bring some cash for optional entrance fees, as these are not included.

Final Thoughts

The Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour from Kas offers a rewarding blend of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and scenic beauty. The small group size, expert guides, and all-inclusive approach make it a hassle-free option for travelers wanting to explore Turkey’s coast authentically.

You’ll love paddling past sunken ruins, exploring a quaint village, and enjoying the lush landscape from viewpoints only accessible on foot. It’s a good choice for active travelers or anyone looking to add a splash of adventure to their Turkish holiday.

If you’re eager for a day on the water with spectacular photo ops, friendly guides, and a taste of local history, this tour delivers on all counts.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel or meeting point in Kas are part of the package, making logistics straightforward.

What is the tour duration? Expect the experience to last approximately 4 to 6 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending with lunch around 13:15.

Are meals included? Yes, a lunch is provided, typically featuring local dishes to keep you energized for the day.

Do I need to bring cash? You might want to bring cash for optional entrance fees, such as the 4.00 TL fee for Simena Castle.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, and don’t forget sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.

Can I participate if I’m not an experienced kayaker? Most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed to be accessible, with support vessels escorting the group and guides offering assistance.

To sum it up, this guided Kekova sea kayaking tour offers a fantastic way to discover Turkey’s stunning coastlines, historical ruins, and charming villages—all with the convenience of an all-inclusive package. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, history buffs, and photographers alike. Whether you’re paddling past ancient sunken cities or hiking to scenic viewpoints, you’ll come away with unforgettable memories and plenty of great photos to boot.