Imagine gliding silently over crystal-clear waters, surrounded by ancient ruins slowly claiming their space beneath the surface. That’s what you get on the Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip—a well-reviewed, engaging day that offers a chance to see a sunken city and explore Lycian coastlines with your own paddle.
This tour from Antalya’s Kas region is designed for those who love a mix of adventure, history, and scenic beauty—and who want to do it in a way that’s accessible even for beginners. We’re particularly fond of the knowledgeable guides who bring the area’s stories to life and of the peaceful, crowd-free environment that makes this trip feel more personal than a busy boat tour.
One thing to consider: the tour’s length can stretch from 5.5 to nearly 10 hours, depending on your chosen schedule, so it’s not for someone looking for a short afternoon outing. Still, if you’re craving an active, authentic experience on the water, this trip offers a great balance of exercise, culture, and relaxation.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate local history, and prefer a small-group setting that emphasizes safety and personal attention. If you’re comfortable paddling or eager to learn, this tour can be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Beginner Friendly: No prior kayaking experience needed, thanks to safety instructions and expert guidance.
- Authentic Experience: Explore the famous sunken city of Kekova and Lycian coastlines close-up.
- Well-Organized Itinerary: Multiple stops for sightseeing, swimming, and a traditional Turkish lunch.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the storytelling and safety aspects.
- Flexible Timing: Duration varies, so check availability for your preferred start time.
- Value for Money: For $57, you get transfers, equipment, guiding, and a tasty local meal.
An In-Depth Look at the Kekova Kayaking Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kaleucagiz.
Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins with a convenient pick-up or meeting point, which varies depending on your booking. Options include locations in Kalkan, Kaleüçaz, or other nearby spots. The transfer service is included if you choose that option, making logistics easier for travelers not wanting to navigate unfamiliar roads themselves.
The ride to Ucagiz, the small village that serves as your launching pad, takes about 45 minutes. This scenic drive sets the tone, offering glimpses of the rugged coastline and charming villages along the way.
Safety and Equipment
Before hitting the water, your guides provide clear instructions and safety gear—paddles, life jackets, and small barrels for valuables—so you can focus on the fun. This emphasis on safety is appreciated, especially since the trip is accessible to beginners.
The guides are BCU certified and bring a wealth of local knowledge, making the kayaking safe and educational. As many reviews note, their friendly, patient approach turns what could be a challenging activity into an enjoyable experience for everyone.
The Itinerary: What You’ll Do and See
The tour is divided into three main segments of about 45 minutes each, with breaks for swimming, sightseeing, and lunch. The stops are carefully chosen to give a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
- Kekova Island and Sunken City: Paddling over the remains of this ancient city is the highlight. The submerged ruins, visible from your kayak, are best appreciated at a slow pace. Several reviews mention how mesmerizing the views are, with Qian claiming, “kayaking around the sunken city was such an amazing experience.” The intricate rock formations and the stories shared by guides make this a truly memorable part of the day.
- Swim Breaks and Wildlife: During breaks, you can swim in the turquoise waters or try to spot local wildlife, including friendly turtles, which several reviews mention. Cliff jumping is possible if the weather permits—something adventurous travelers might enjoy.
- Lunch at Simena Village: After paddling, you’ll land in Simena, a charming village with a castle overlooking the bay—reachable by a short hike if you choose. The included Turkish lunch offers chicken or vegetarian options, with many reviewers praising the meal as a highlight, calling it “scandalous” in its goodness. Free time here allows for wandering the narrow streets, visiting the castle, or just relaxing by the water.
- Additional Paddling and Sightseeing: Post-lunch, the trip continues with more kayaking around Kekova, punctuated with opportunities to swim or explore nearby coves.
Group Size and Atmosphere
The small-group format—generally around 10-15 participants—promotes a relaxed, personalized atmosphere. As one review notes, the guides are very patient, especially when some members of the group are less experienced or take longer during the stops.
Duration and Flexibility
The full trip can last from 5.5 to 9.5 hours, depending on your start time and pace. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience—whether you prefer a quick half-day trip or a longer, more leisurely exploration.
The tour operator offers cancelation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides peace of mind if your plans change.
Price and Value
At $57 per person, this tour offers excellent value given what’s included: transfers, kayaks, safety gear, expert guiding, and a hearty Turkish lunch. It’s a cost-effective way to see Kekova’s highlights from a unique water-level perspective, especially compared to boat-based options that might not allow you to get as close to the ruins.
What the Reviews Say
Feedback overwhelmingly praises the guides, especially Barbaros, for their knowledge and friendliness. Alice calls the trip “a real highlight,” and Diane highlights the perfect pacing and organization. The consistent theme: this isn’t just a kayak trip; it’s an educational, immersive experience with a personal touch.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a beginner or someone who’s comfortable with light physical activity, this trip strikes a wonderful balance. It suits travelers who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences over luxury or high-speed adventure. Those interested in history, scenic beauty, and local culture will find this especially rewarding.
However, if you have mobility issues or prefer shorter, less active outings, this might not be the best fit. The outdoor nature and paddling segments require a basic level of comfort with water activities.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
This trip offers a rare chance to explore Kekova’s sunken ruins from the water, guided by friendly experts who make safety and storytelling a priority. The small-group setup ensures a personalized experience, making it feel more like a day with friends than a tourist herd.
The included lunch and flexible timing add to the value, especially considering the stunning scenery and the chance to see turtles and perhaps even do some cliff jumping. It’s a great choice for active travelers seeking an authentic slice of Turkish coast life, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the views.
For families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy outdoor adventure and learning about local history, this kayaking trip offers a memorable, meaningful way to spend the day. It’s not just a sightseeing tour—it’s a chance to get your hands wet and your spirit inspired.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is beginner friendly, with safety instructions and equipment provided. Guides are experienced and patient, making it accessible for those new to kayaking.
How long does the trip last?
The duration ranges from about 5.5 to 9.5 hours, depending on the start time you choose. Check availability for specific schedules.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen), a change of clothes, towel, sandals, water, cash, passport or copy, and any personal medications.
Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch at Simena Village, with options for chicken or vegetarian. Drinks during lunch are not included.
What is the group size?
The tour operates with small groups, typically around 10-15 people, fostering a relaxed, personal environment.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans are uncertain.
To sum it up, the Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip is a well-crafted, authentic adventure perfect for those seeking a mix of physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. It’s a standout choice for travelers eager to see Turkey’s stunning coastline from a unique perspective, with the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable locals.
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