Boat tours from Kas to Kekova’s stunning coastline offer an unforgettable experience for both history and nature lovers. The Kas Kekova Sunken City boat tour is perfect for those looking to spend a day enjoying swim breaks, archaeological ruins, charming villages, and breathtaking views.
We joined the tour from Kaş center, starting in the morning from in front of the Larsoy Travel office. Throughout the tour, we stopped at İnönü Bay, Karakol Islands, the Sunken City at Kekova Island, Simena (Kaleköy), Shipyard Bay, and Üzüm Pier. Each stop was great for swimming, sightseeing, and photography.
Passing over the Sunken City, viewing the ancient ruins through the glass-bottom boat was a highlight. Climbing to the castle in Simena and tasting its famous ice cream was another memorable moment. Lunch onboard was served with beautiful sea views.
This guide covers the Kas–Kekova boat tour route, prices, duration, services included, and who it’s ideal for, all based on our firsthand experience. For those wanting to discover Kekova on a day trip, this is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to do it.
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At a Glance: Kas Kekova Sunken City Boat Tour
If you’re vacationing in Kaş, one of the most popular day trips is the Kaş boat tour. It’s a great way to break from your hotel routine and explore Kaş’s stunning bays by sea. From Yarilan Bay to the Twelve Islands, Pigeon Island, Limanağzı Bay, and Büyük Çakıl Beach, this tour adds color to your trip. It’s not ideal for those staying in Kemer, as the distance is significant.
What to Expect?
The tour typically starts at 9:30 AM and ends around 6:00 PM. You’re picked up from your hotel and taken to the harbor in a modern, comfortable vehicle.
Boats are usually two-decked, with shaded seating on the lower deck and sun loungers on the upper deck. Guests can move freely between decks.
Over 7–8 hours, you’ll visit bays, islands, and beaches around Kaş, stopping for swimming and meals. The most popular stops include:
Yarilan Bay
Twelve Islands
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Pigeon Island
Limanağzı Bay
Büyük Çakıl Beach
Yarilan Bay
The first stop is Yarilan Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and untouched beauty. There’s also a small sea cave, and guides assist those who want to explore. You can swim or relax on deck.
Twelve Islands
Next is the Twelve Islands, a group of small islets famous for their stunning waters and scenic charm. After a swim here, the boat heads to the next destination for lunch.
Pigeon Island
At Pigeon Island, another swim and rest stop is provided. A delicious lunch is served, featuring local dishes. After this break, the tour continues toward its final stops.
Limanağzı Bay & Büyük Çakıl Beach
On the return journey, there are short swim breaks at these two beautiful spots. Their clear waters and scenic settings are the perfect end to the day.
In the late afternoon, the boat returns to Kaş Harbor, and you’re dropped off at your hotel by shuttle.
Kaş Boat Tour Price
The price of a day trip from Kaş depends on the services offered, boat route, and season (especially during public holidays or peak summer).
Our Experience on the Kaş Kekova Sunken City & Historical Sites Boat Tour
One of the most unforgettable highlights of our time in Kaş was the Kekova Sunken City and Simena Castle boat tour. Departing from Larsoy Travel’s office, this full-day tour followed a calm yet fascinating route through history and nature.
🚤 Starting the Kekova Boat Tour
The tour began after we boarded our boat from Kaş center. The first leg was a peaceful 45-minute cruise to İnönü Bay, where we enjoyed our first swimming break. The clear water, quiet surroundings, and sound of nature made for a perfect start.
✔ Introductory commentary by the guide
✔ Opportunities for cliff diving and snorkeling
✔ Lunch prep began onboard
🍴 Karakol Islands & Lunch Stop
Our next stop was Karakol Islands, where we had time for both swimming and lunch. The meal included grilled chicken, salad, and pasta—simple yet tasty. Swimming around the islands, with the changing colors of the sea, was a joy.
🏛️ Kekova Sunken City
The most mesmerizing part of the tour was the Sunken City of Kekova. As the boat glided slowly along the ancient ruins, we could see the submerged stone structures. The guide explained the site’s history, how earthquakes submerged it, and its protected status.
✔ No disembarkation—viewed from the boat only
✔ Great spot for photos
✔ A unique blend of history and sea
🏰 Simena Castle & Kaleköy Village
Next was Simena Castle (Kaleköy). We left the boat for a short uphill walk to the castle. The view from the top was breathtaking. We took photos and enjoyed the famous peach ice cream. Strolling through Kaleköy’s stone streets was a highlight in itself.
💡 Entry to the castle requires a small fee—bring cash.
🏖️ Tersane Bay & Üzüm Pier
The final swim stops were at Tersane Bay, once home to an ancient shipyard with Byzantine ruins, and Üzüm Pier, a quieter spot shaded by pine trees.
✔ Perfect for snorkeling
✔ You can spot ancient ruins underwater
✔ Tea was served on the boat as a relaxing finish
🌊 Who Is This Tour Ideal For?
Travelers who want to combine history and nature
Swimmers and snorkelers interested in historic sites
Visitors wanting to see Kekova and Kaleköy
Families looking for a peaceful, enriching day trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Kekova Sunken City boat tour depart from?
Tours usually begin at Kaş Harbor. Participants gather at the travel office in the morning and board the boat to visit Kekova, Simena, Tersane Bay, and more.
Can you go ashore at the Sunken City?
No, walking on the Sunken City is prohibited. The ruins are submerged and can only be viewed from the boat. The guide provides detailed explanations as the boat moves slowly past the area.
Is there an entrance fee for Simena Castle?
Yes, Simena Castle has an entry fee that’s not included in the tour. Visitors can choose to pay and walk up for incredible views.
Where are the swim stops during the tour?
Swim breaks are typically offered at:
İnönü Bay
Tersane Bay
Aquarium Bay
How long does the Kekova boat tour last?
Tours from Kaş last about 7 to 8 hours, starting in the morning and finishing in the late afternoon with return to the harbor.
Is lunch included on the boat?
Yes, lunch is included—typically grilled fish or chicken, pasta, and salad. Some tours serve it onboard, while others use a lakeside restaurant.
Can children join the Kekova tour?
Yes, it’s suitable for children. Boats are generally safe and provide life vests. Families may prefer less crowded boats for a more comfortable experience.
What should I bring on the Kekova boat tour?
To stay comfortable all day, bring:
Swimsuit and towel
Sunscreen
Sunglasses and a hat
Waterproof phone case
Cash (for castle entry, ice cream, or drinks)
