Kekova Boat Tours

Boat trips to Kekova are one of the most exciting sea adventures awaiting you near the charming town of Kas, in the picturesque province of Antalya, Turkey. These tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the Mediterranean coast, with the main highlight of the route being Kekova Island, famous for its crystal-clear waters, secluded bays, and, most importantly, the mysterious ruins of the sunken ancient city of Dolichiste.

The journey usually takes place on traditional Turkish wooden yachts, known as gulets, or on more modern motorboats. During such a boat trip, you will not only enjoy magnificent seascapes and the fresh breeze but also touch upon ancient history. Excursions often include stops for swimming in emerald waters, snorkeling, and, of course, viewing the underwater ruins through special glass bottoms of the boats or while swimming.

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of antiquity, admiring the remains of buildings, stairs, and amphorae that have rested underwater for centuries. Boat trips to Kekova are not just an excursion, but a true journey through time, combining the beauty of nature, historical mystery, and the pleasure of a seaside holiday. It is the perfect way to spend a day discovering the hidden treasures of the Turkish coast.

To go on a boat trip to Kekova, the most convenient way is to contact one of the many travel agencies and boat tour operators offering their services in the town of Kas or nearby coastal villages such as Üçağız (Kaleköy), where many tours start. Information regarding schedules, prices, and route options can usually be found on their websites, in their offices, or directly at the docks.

We recommend researching different companies in advance, comparing itineraries, and reading reviews from other travelers to choose the most interesting and comfortable sea voyage to the sunken city for you.

The main magnet of boat trips to Kekova is undoubtedly the famous sunken city. You can observe its remains, which are clearly visible through the crystal-clear water directly from the boat. This is a unique opportunity to see ancient walls, building foundations, and fragments of amphorae submerged centuries ago. Some boats are equipped with a special glass bottom for a better view, making the sight even more impressive.

Besides contemplating the historical ruins, the sea voyage offers many other activities. Almost all tours include stops for swimming in picturesque bays, such as the popular Aquarium Bay, where you can refresh yourself in the transparent water. Underwater enthusiasts can enjoy snorkeling to get a closer look at the underwater landscapes and perhaps even some artifacts. A delicious lunch of local cuisine is often organized for tourists right on board the vessel.

Many routes also include landing on shore. One of the frequent stops is the charming village of Kaleköy (ancient Simena), where you can stroll through narrow streets, see traditional houses, and climb to the ancient fortress for breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Some extended tours may include visits to nearby uninhabited islands, secluded beaches, and even the mysterious Blue Cave, if weather conditions permit. Throughout the trip, guides often share interesting facts about local history, culture, and nature, making the journey even more informative.

Getting to the starting point for boat trips to Kekova is easiest from the town of Kas. It is from here, the local port, that many boat tours depart daily, offering a fascinating journey to the sunken city and picturesque bays. You can choose either a group excursion on a large, comfortable vessel or a more secluded private tour on a small boat.

Besides the port in Kas, boat trips to Kekova also depart from nearby coastal villages such as Üçağız (Kaleköy) and Demre. If you prefer to start from these locations, they can be reached from Kas by car or taxi. The drive takes approximately 30-40 minutes, after which you can board a boat and begin your maritime adventure.

For the convenience of tourists, many tour operators organizing boat trips to Kekova offer a transfer service. This means you can be picked up directly from your hotel in Kas and taken to the departure point, whether it is the port of Kas, Üçağız, or Demre. This option makes the journey as comfortable as possible and eliminates the need to organize your own way to the dock.

The history of Kekova Island and its surroundings is rooted in deep antiquity. These areas were inhabited thousands of years ago, as eloquently evidenced by the ruins of an ancient city that once belonged to the powerful Lycian civilization. Tragic earthquakes that occurred in ancient times caused part of this settlement to sink underwater, creating a unique underwater archaeological site that today attracts travelers from all over the world.

In ancient times, Kekova played a significant role as an important trade and maritime center for the region. Today, during a boat trip to Kekova, through the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, you can see the outlines of the sunken city: foundations of ancient houses, stone stairs descending into the sea, remnants of docks, and even entire streets. It is a truly mesmerizing sight, allowing you to touch a bygone era and imagine how life bustled in this city many centuries ago.

Preserving this unique heritage is a priority, so today the sunken city is under state protection. To save the fragile ruins from destruction, swimming and diving directly above them are strictly prohibited. However, boat tours allow you to fully enjoy the view of the underwater structures from a safe distance. Additionally, many tours include a visit to the picturesque village of Kaleköy (ancient Simena), where the ruins of a Byzantine fortress stand atop a hill. Climbing up to it, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Kekova Bay and the surrounding islands.

To fully enjoy boat trips to Kekova and explore all the beauty of this amazing place, it is recommended to set aside a full day. This is not just a short excursion, but a complete maritime journey that will provide plenty of impressions.

Most standard tours to the sunken city and its surroundings are designed for 6-8 hours. This time includes not only the boat ride along the coast and viewing the underwater ruins but also the travel to and from the departure point (if you start from Kas, for example), several stops for swimming in picturesque bays, time for lunch (which is often served right on board), and free time for independent sightseeing on land, such as in the village of Kaleköy (Simena).

Therefore, when planning a trip to Kekova, it is best to expect that it will take a significant part of the day, allowing you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of adventure, history, and the natural beauty of the Turkish coast without rushing.

Boat trips to Kekova are generally organized during the high tourist season, which typically lasts from April to October. Most boat tours depart daily, mainly in the morning hours—roughly between 9:00 and 11:00—returning in the afternoon. It is important to note that the exact schedule may vary depending on the specific tour operator, the chosen route, and current weather conditions.

Since schedules and availability can change, especially during the peak season, it is recommended to check the latest information on operating hours and departure availability directly with tour organizers or at local travel agencies in Kas. Booking in advance is often good practice to ensure a spot on your desired date. If you are unable to check details beforehand, information about upcoming tours can be obtained upon arrival at the port or from local representatives.

While boat trips to Kekova are a truly unforgettable experience and the main goal for many travelers in Kas, you shouldn't limit yourself to just this sea adventure. Exploring the surroundings can significantly enrich your trip, allowing you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this charming region of Turkey. The town of Kas and its immediate surroundings hold many interesting places that can be a pleasant addition to your vacation.

From cozy restaurants to historical monuments—near the departure point for boats to Kekova or in Kas itself, you will find plenty to do. Below is a list of some attractions and interesting places located nearby, with their approximate distances.