Exploring Turkey’s Kekova Island makes the most sense by boat, with tours departing regularly from several coastal towns. Basic day trips from Demre and Kalkan (€36-80) pack good value, while upscale private tours from Kaş and Demre ($200-1,000+) deliver premium experiences. The real highlights? Swimming over the haunting sunken ruins of ancient Dolchiste, climbing to Simena’s Byzantine castle, and watching sea turtles glide through crystal-clear Karemlik Bay. We especially love the small-group tours from Kaş – they avoid crowds and include authentic Turkish lunches. Tours typically last 7-9 hours, perfect for a full day of sightseeing and swimming. Let’s look at our favorite boat excursions around Kekova Island.
Key Points
- Kekova Island offers various day trip boat tours from Demre and Kalkan, ranging from €36 to $1,056.77 per person/group, with durations of 7 to 9 hours.
- Key attractions include the Sunken City of Dolchiste, Simena Castle, Pirates Cave, Lycian Royal Tombs, and Karemlik Bay for turtle spotting.
- Tour inclusions cover lunch, admission fees, on-board refreshments, hotel pickup/drop-off, and snorkeling gear recommendation.
- Boat tours are highly rated, with the Demre tour at 4.8/5 and the Kalkan tour at 4.5/5, praised for scenery, food, and guides.
- Private boat tours from Demre are accessible for wheelchair users, with multilingual guides available and a 5/5 overall rating.
From Demre: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat
Although departing from Demre Harbour, this day trip to Kekova Island offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural and historical wonders.
Priced at €36 per person, the 7-hour tour provides excellent value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include visiting the sunken city of Dolchiste, hiking or swimming at Simena Castle, and swimming breaks at picturesque bays like Esmeralda and Gökkaya.
Travelers can also spot turtles in Karemlik Bay and explore the famous Pirates Cave.
Lunch and admission fees are included, and water sports are available for those seeking more adventure.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 36 reviews, this tour delivers on its promises, offering small group sizes that enhance the overall experience.
Whether seeking history, natural beauty, or a day on the water, this Kekova Island excursion is an excellent choice.
Read our full review: From Demre: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat Review
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Kalkan: Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip
The Kalkan: Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip offers travelers an immersive experience exploring the ancient Lycian, Byzantine, and Roman ruins scattered across the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
Priced from $63.41 per person, this 9-hour tour departs from Kalkan, Kaş, or Patara, and includes comprehensive services like two-way transfers, a buffet lunch, and a live tour guide.
Highlights of the itinerary include sailing through picturesque bays, swimming at Tersane Bay and Gokkaya Bay, and visiting the pirate cave and Burc Bay.
Participants can also explore the historic village of Simena, with its impressive castle and homemade ice cream.
With a 4.5/5 overall rating based on 45 reviews, the tour offers excellent value for money, praised for its breathtaking scenery, delicious lunch, and knowledgeable guide.
Travelers are advised to bring snorkeling gear and check availability for starting times, as the glass bottom boat feature may not be available as advertised.
Read our full review: Kalkan: Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip Review
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Kaş: Private Kekova Boat Tour With Lunch
An immersive private boat tour takes travelers from Kaş to explore the captivating Kekova region. Priced at $1,056.77 for a group of up to 8 participants, this 7-hour excursion offers a comprehensive experience.
Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and discovering the Lycian Royal Tombs and Simena Castle. The highlight is a visit to the 2,000-year-old Sunken City ruins.
During the tour, travelers will also stop at picturesque bays like İnönü, Akvaryum, Shipyard, and Pine. A traditional Turkish lunch with organic, olive oil-based dishes is served on board, along with refreshments.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, and the multilingual guides communicate in Turkish and English. Participants are advised to bring sunscreen, passport or ID, and cash. Pets aren’t allowed.
Guests can check availability and reserve this private Kekova boat tour, with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Read our full review: Kaş: Private Kekova Boat Tour With Lunch Review
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From Demre: Private Boat Trip to Kekova
This private boat trip from Demre offers travelers a chance to explore the captivating Kekova region, a highlight of the Turkish Riviera.
The 7-hour excursion takes guests from Andriake Harbour to the sunken city ruins of Kekova Island, the medieval castle of Simena, and the unique Pirates Cave. Along the way, visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing at Akvaryum Koyu and Gokkaya Bay.
The tour includes private boat transport, admission fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, and on-board refreshments.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. With an overall 5/5 rating from previous guests, this private boat trip promises a memorable experience, showcasing the natural and historical wonders of the Kekova region.
Whether you’re seeking cultural exploration, water activities, or simply breathtaking scenery, this tour provides a comprehensive and tailored introduction to this stunning corner of the Turkish coastline.
Read our full review: From Demre: Private Boat Trip to Kekova Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Duration of a Kekova Boat Tour?
A typical Kekova boat tour lasts around 4-5 hours, giving visitors ample time to explore the island’s ancient ruins, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy the scenic coastal landscapes. The tour often includes stops at key landmarks and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tour?
You can typically bring your own food and drinks on Kekova boat tours. Many tour operators allow passengers to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the cruise. However, check with the specific tour company for their policies.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Boat Tour?
Most boat tours in Kekova Island allow passengers to take photos freely, but they may have restrictions on using flash or tripods. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to understand any specific photography policies.
Is It Possible to Swim or Snorkel During the Boat Tour?
Passengers on the boat tours can typically swim or snorkel during the excursion. Many tour operators offer the opportunity to dive in and explore the clear, calm waters around Kekova Island. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour company’s policies beforehand.
What Should I Bring With Me for the Kekova Boat Tour?
For the Kekova boat tour, it’s best to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, water, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim or snorkel. Bringing snacks and a towel can also be helpful for a comfortable experience.
Recap
Kekova Island offers a range of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the sunken city and nearby landmarks. Travelers can choose from day trips, private tours, and options departing from nearby towns like Demre and Kalkan. These tours provide an opportunity to discover the region’s unique history and natural beauty from the water, making Kekova a popular destination for those seeking a scenic and informative boat experience.