Discover the well-preserved ruins of the Sunken City of Epidaurus on a captivating 12-hour sea kayaking and snorkeling adventure from Athens. Paddle over and explore the remarkably intact foundations of ancient Roman villas, including pottery, structural supports, and floor sections dating back to the 2nd century AD. Admire the submerged remains of this once-thriving coastal settlement, less than 3 meters below the crystal-clear waters of Kalymnios Beach. This unique opportunity offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of ancient Epidaurus, a significant center of healing and religious worship in ancient Greece. For more details on this exceptional experience…
Key Points
- Explore the well-preserved ruins of the 2nd-century Sunken City of Epidaurus by sea kayaking and snorkeling from Athens.
- Discover the foundations of ancient Roman villas, pottery shards, and intact floor sections submerged in less than 3 meters of water.
- Visit Kalymnios beach to observe the remarkable state of preservation of the submerged structures of the once-thriving coastal settlement.
- Learn about the rich history and cultural significance of Epidaurus, an important center of healing and religious worship in ancient Greece.
- Opportunity to venture to the iconic Corinth Canal and witness the impressive scale of the narrow artificial waterway.
👉 Check out our guide to the Best Tours In Epidaurus
Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Activity
- Exploring the Sunken City
- Kalymnios Beach and Ruins
- History of Epidaurus
- Visiting the Corinth Canal
- Included in the Tour
- Exclusions and Limitations
- Practical Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
- Will There Be Any Opportunities to Swim During the Tour?
- How Much Time Will We Spend Kayaking Compared to Snorkeling?
- Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?
- Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Epidaurus
- More Tour Reviews in Epidaurus
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Epidaurus we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Activity
This 12-hour activity provides participants the opportunity to sea kayak and snorkel over the well-preserved ruins of the Sunken City of Epidaurus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Led by English-speaking guides, the small group is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
Visitors will explore the foundations, pottery, structural supports, and floor sections of the Roman villa from the 2nd century AD, located near the ancient port and Acropolis. The ruins are situated in Kalymnios beach at a depth of less than 3 meters, making them easily accessible for snorkeling.
This comprehensive tour also includes a visit to the Corinth Canal.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Epidaurus.
Exploring the Sunken City
As visitors approach the Kalymnios beach, they can gaze upon the remarkably well-preserved ruins of the Sunken City of Epidaurus, which lie just beneath the surface of the crystal-clear waters.
Donning snorkel gear, they’ll discover the foundations of ancient Roman villas, including pottery shards, structural supports, and intact floor sections.
Dating back to the 2nd century AD, these ruins offer a unique glimpse into the history of the ancient port and Acropolis of Epidaurus.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you will explore this underwater archaeological site, paddling in sea kayaks and marveling at the remarkable state of preservation of these submerged structures, which stand in less than 3 meters of water.
Kalymnios Beach and Ruins
At Kalymnios beach, the remarkably well-preserved ruins of the Sunken City of Epidaurus lie just beneath the crystal-clear waters, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s ancient history.
The ruins, dating back to the 2nd century AD, include the foundations of a Roman villa once situated near the ancient port and Acropolis.
Participants can marvel at the intact house foundations, pottery shards, structural supports, and floor sections, all visible at a depth of less than 3 meters.
This captivating archaeological site provides a rare opportunity to explore the submerged remains of a once-thriving coastal settlement, shedding light on the rich history and culture of ancient Epidaurus.
History of Epidaurus
Epidaurus boasts a rich and storied history dating back to the 4th century BC, when it first emerged as an important center of healing and religious worship in ancient Greece. The city was home to the famous Sanctuary of Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine, which attracted pilgrims from across the Hellenic world seeking cures and treatments.
Epidaurus also played a significant role in the cultural and artistic life of ancient Greece, with its renowned theater still standing as a testament to its architectural and engineering prowess.
Key highlights of Epidaurus’ history include:
- Establishment of the Sanctuary of Asclepius in the 4th century BC
- Development of the city as a prominent center of healing and medicine
- Construction of the impressive Epidaurus Theater in the 4th century BC
- Flourishing of the arts, culture, and religious practices in the city
- Eventual decline and abandonment of Epidaurus in the late Roman period
Visiting the Corinth Canal
After exploring the Sunken City of Epidaurus, visitors can venture to the iconic Corinth Canal, a renowned engineering marvel that connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas.
This narrow artificial waterway, which is only 23 meters wide at its narrowest point, is a captivating sight. Cutting through the Isthmus of Corinth, the canal was completed in 1893 after nearly 2,500 years of attempted construction.
Visitors can witness the impressive scale of the canal from the bridge that spans it, marveling at the sheer engineering feat. They can also take a boat tour to experience the thrill of passing through the dramatic walls of the canal.
The Corinth Canal is a must-see destination, offering a unique perspective on Greece’s impressive history and ingenuity.
Included in the Tour
The Athens Sea Kayak Sunken City of Epidaurus tour includes an array of amenities to enhance the overall experience. Visitors can look forward to convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as roundtrip transportation from Athens.
A family-style lunch is provided, ensuring participants stay energized throughout the day’s activities.
The tour also includes:
- Sea kayak and snorkeling equipment
- Certified sea kayak guides to lead the exploration
- The opportunity to learn about the history of Epidaurus
- Access to the ruins of the Sunken City at a depth of less than 3 meters
- All necessary gear and equipment for a safe and enjoyable journey.
Exclusions and Limitations
While the Athens Sea Kayak Sunken City of Epidaurus tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities, there are a few exclusions and limitations participants should be aware of.
Alcoholic drinks and bottled water aren’t included in the tour price, and visitors are responsible for providing their own gratuities.
Plus, the activity isn’t suitable for individuals over 6’6′ (200 cm) or 264 lbs (120 kg) due to physical constraints. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants during the kayaking and snorkeling portions of the tour.
Guests should plan accordingly and pack any personal items they may need that aren’t provided as part of the tour’s inclusions.
Practical Information
To make the most of the Athens Sea Kayak Sunken City of Epidaurus tour, guests should be aware of a few practical considerations. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation to and from Athens, simplifying the logistics for participants. Plus, a family-style lunch is provided during the day’s activities.
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 6 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. It’s important to note that the activity isn’t suitable for individuals over 6’6′ (200 cm) or 264 lbs (120 kg).
Other exclusions include alcoholic drinks, bottled water, and gratuities. Finally, tour participants enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Small group size (max 6 people)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Lunch included
- Height and weight restrictions
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
Yes, customers can bring their own snorkeling gear. However, the tour provider includes snorkeling equipment as part of the activity, so customers may not need to bring their own unless they prefer to use their personal gear.
Will There Be Any Opportunities to Swim During the Tour?
Yes, there will be opportunities to swim during the tour. The activity includes sea kayaking and snorkeling over the submerged ruins, allowing participants to swim and explore the underwater archaeological site at their own pace.
How Much Time Will We Spend Kayaking Compared to Snorkeling?
The tour typically involves about 2 hours of sea kayaking and 1 hour of snorkeling over the submerged ruins. Participants can expect to spend more time exploring the ancient site from the kayaks than while snorkeling in the shallows.
Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?
Pets are not allowed on this tour. The activity description states it is limited to 6 participants, and does not mention accommodations for pets. The focus is on sea kayaking and snorkeling the Sunken City of Epidaurus.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s no minimum age requirement stated, but the activity may not be suitable for very young children. The overview mentions it’s a 12-hour activity, so it’s likely best suited for older kids and adults who can participate actively.
From Athens Sea Kayak Sunken City of Epidaurus
Recap
This thrilling sea kayak and snorkeling adventure from Athens takes history enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts on a captivating journey to uncover the ancient secrets of the Sunken City of Epidaurus.
Accompanied by English-speaking guides, you will dive beneath the surface to explore the well-preserved Roman ruins, before visiting the iconic Corinth Canal.
With hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation, and a family-style lunch included, this tour offers a seamless and unforgettable experience.
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