Kas & Kekova: Sunken City Boat Tour with Simena Castle

Summary

Swim over ancient ruins and wander castle lanes from Kas

You’ll float above Kekova’s sunken ruins, swim in crystal bays near Kas, eat fresh Turkish lunch on deck, and climb Simena Castle for wild sea views—all with a local guide who brings history alive as you go. Expect laughter, salt on your skin, and maybe a new favorite spot you didn’t see coming.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water around Kekova to be that clear—like someone had polished the whole bay just for us. We’d barely left Kaş harbor when our guide, Emre, pointed out the old Lycian tombs peeking out of the hills. The boat was bigger than I thought (and honestly, I was relieved—no crammed benches). As we drifted into Inönü Bay, you could smell pine on the breeze. Some people jumped straight in; I just sat there for a minute trying to take it all in. There’s something about sunlight bouncing off that blue water that makes you forget your phone exists.

Later, at Aquarium Bay, Emre handed me a snorkel mask and said “You’ll see why they call it this.” He wasn’t kidding—little silver fish darting everywhere, rocks covered in soft green fuzz. My friend tried to name every fish she saw (she got maybe two right). Lunch onboard surprised me—grilled chicken, salads with lemony olive oil, bread still warm from somewhere below deck. I ate too much but couldn’t stop. It felt like everyone relaxed after that; people started swapping stories or just lying back with their feet up.

The main keyword for me was the Sunken City of Kekova. You can actually see old stone walls and stairs under the water as the boat slows down—ghostly shapes just below the surface. Emre told us about earthquakes that sent half the city sliding into the sea centuries ago. We weren’t allowed to swim here (protected site), but honestly it made sense—you want those ruins to last another thousand years. Later we stopped at Simena Castle; climbing up those uneven steps with sweat running down my back was totally worth it for the view over all those islands and boats bobbing below. An old woman sold homemade ice cream at the top—I got lemon and pistachio. Still think about that taste sometimes.

On the way back we floated through Shipyard Bay and Camlik Bay—more swimming if you wanted it, or just watching shadows lengthen across the deck. Someone played Turkish pop on their phone but nobody minded. The air smelled salty and sweet at once. By the time we pulled into Kaş again I felt sunburnt and happy in that way you only get after a day outside with strangers who feel a little less strange now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour of Kekova and historic sites

• Begin journey at Kas Harbour
• Explore Inönü Bay and canyon
• Swim and snorkel in Aquarium Bay
• View ruins at Sunken City of Kekova
• Visit Simena Castle and village
• Enjoy Turkish lunch onboard
• Swim and relax at Shipyard Bay
• Swim at Camlik Bay
• Return to Kas Harbour

Top questions

How long is the Kas Kekova boat tour?

The tour lasts a full day, returning to Kaş Harbour in the late afternoon.

Is lunch included on the Kekova Island boat trip?

Yes, a buffet Turkish lunch is served onboard during the tour.

Can you swim at the Sunken City of Kekova?

No swimming is allowed directly above the Sunken City due to preservation rules.

Do you visit Simena Castle on this tour?

Yes, there’s time to climb Simena Castle (Kaleköy) during the trip.

Are snorkeling gear and guides included?

Snorkeling opportunities are available; check with your guide about gear availability onboard.

Is this boat tour suitable for children or wheelchairs?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for families; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Does this Kas day trip include pickup?

The tour includes pickup options; check details when booking to confirm specifics.

What should I bring for swimming stops?

Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and anything else needed for comfort during multiple swim stops.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup options from Kaş Harbour or nearby points, all landing fees and fuel surcharges covered so there are no surprises later on—a local driver-guide leads throughout. Lunch is served buffet-style onboard (vegetarian option available if you mention it), plus afternoon tea before heading back in late afternoon sun.