From Ucagiz: Kekova Sea Guided Kayaking Tour

Kayaking the Sunken City sounds unreal. This half-day tour has you paddling past Kekova’s underwater ruins, then hopping to Simena for castle views and a short hike. It is guided, active, and very doable at a relaxed pace, with support from a motorized escort boat.

I really like that the route is built around the water, not just quick photo stops. You spend time on the kayak near ancient remains, which makes Kekova feel three-dimensional instead of like a postcard. Our guide, Yasar, also kept the group focused on simple rules so you do not end up stressed or flailing.

One thing to plan for: you may need to pay a small extra fee for the Simena Castle entrance ticket. It is only listed separately, so budget for it if you want to go in rather than only view from the village side.

Key highlights worth planning around

• Paddling alongside the Sunken City of Kekova in a protected area where swimming is not allowed
• Simena Castle views from above, thanks to a quick hillside hike
• Tersane Bay swim break paired with calm, guided paddling earlier in the morning
• Pirates Cave and other Lycian landmarks you pass and explore as part of the route
• Theimussa Ancient City sights, including views of more Lycian sarcophagi
• Lunch included in Üçağiz, with a simple meal you can actually enjoy after paddling

Why Kekova makes a sea kayak tour feel different

Kekova is famous for ruins, but the magic comes from perspective. From the shore, you see walls and stone hints. From the water, you can track how the coastline and buildings relate to the sea, and it is easier to understand why this area is protected.

This tour leans hard into that water view. You leave from Ucagiz at 09:30, paddle down the coast with an escort vessel nearby, and spend real time moving through the area around Kekova Island. That matters because it turns Kekova into an experience you feel with your body, not just a history lecture.

And yes, I get it, you might be thinking about practical stuff like, Will I be bored? Will it be chaotic? The reviews suggest it can feel a bit busy at some points, but the overall energy stays positive. The guide work seems to be the difference, especially if you are new to kayaking.

Getting going from Ucagiz at 09:30, with backup on the water

The day starts in Ucagiz at 09:30 am. Right away, there is a motorized support vessel that helps escort the group along the route. For me, that is a comfort factor. Sea conditions can change fast, and having a boat support plan means you spend your attention on paddling, not worrying about the logistics.

You head southwest toward Kekova Island and the next bay stop. The schedule is smooth enough that you do not feel rushed, but also structured enough that you know where you are going next.

One practical note: the meeting coordinates can be a little confusing, so if you rely on maps, double-check your exact pickup point in advance. Showing up with a little buffer time will reduce stress, especially if you are also trying to sort swim gear.

Tersane Bay at 10:15, your first real water break

You arrive at Tersane Koyu (Tersane Bay) around 10:15 am. This is the first stretch where you can swim. It is a guided stop, so you are not wandering around on your own trying to figure out where the water is safe and swimmable.

For beach comfort, think about your feet. The area can involve rocky entry points, so swimming shoes are worth packing if you have sensitive soles. If you do not want to wear shoes in water, at least be ready to step carefully when the shoreline is uneven.

If you are bringing a phone, this is also where a simple waterproof setup helps. A transparent waterproof case or even a floating bag can keep your mind off gadgets and on the experience.

Kekova Island and the Sunken City, paddling alongside ruins

After the first break, you slowly paddle over the ancient Lycian Sunken City of Kekova. This part is special because it is not just a pass-by. The goal is to help you explore alongside the ruins, so you can take photos and understand the ruins in relation to the sea.

Important rule: swimming is not permitted in this protected area. That makes sense, because people trying to swim there would damage something fragile. Instead, the tour focuses on kayaking alongside the remains and getting those close-up angles without breaking the rules.

From the water, you might notice that the sunken remains are harder to fully confirm than when you see them from a viewpoint with a clear sightline. Still, that does not make it disappointing. It often creates that wow moment of, I can see how the coastline and structure line up even if parts sit lower under the surface.

The biggest value here is time. You are not just gliding by. You are moving slowly enough that the guide can point out what to look for, and you can position your kayak for photos.

Kaleköy and Simena Castle: 45 minutes for village ruins and a hillside hike

You reach Simena around 11:30 am and park in Kaleköy, which is the area associated with ancient Simena Castle. You get about 45 minutes here, which splits your time between ruins, a small authentic village atmosphere, and scenic viewpoints.

There are two ways to use your time, and the best choice depends on how active you want your morning to feel. Option one is to visit the village area with castle ruins and a necropolis. Option two is to do the hillside hike for the views over the Kekova region.

I like the hillside approach because it gives you a wider context. After spending time staring at ruins from water level, the view from above helps you mentally map what you saw. And if you prefer not to hike, you might have remaining time to admire the Simena Castle area from below, with a chance for another dip in the blue water if time allows.

One consideration: the Simena Castle entrance ticket is not included. The tour notes a way to skip the ticket line, but you would still need to pay the 4 euro entrance fee if you want to enter. If you are mainly there for the atmosphere and viewpoints, you can still enjoy Kaleköy without rushing to spend extra time indoors.

Pirates Cave and the Lycian storytelling you can actually see

The tour highlights include Pirates Cave, and this is part of what makes the route feel like more than just two locations. Even if you do not get lots of extra time at every stop, the guide’s pacing seems designed to show you distinctive landmarks along the way.

Why I think this matters: Kekova has many layers. You have underwater ruins, then you have castle and village remnants, then you have the coastal mythmaking layer around caves and legends. Seeing even one or two of those landmarks in the same half-day gives you variety without turning the day into a bus tour.

You also get the sense that you are moving through a real historical region, not just checking boxes. The Lycian thread keeps showing up in different forms, especially as you move toward Theimussa.

Theimussa Ancient City and Lycian sarcophagi, up close by sea

In the afternoon, you head back toward Theimussa Ancient City for an up close view of more impressive Lycian sarcophagi. This is another moment where the kayak makes sense, because you can approach the coastline in a way that feels more direct than from a roadside overlook.

You will also pass by other landmarks during the route. Even when the time at each one is short, the combination helps you build a mental map of where settlements sat relative to sea access.

If you are the type who loves details, bring that curiosity. Look for how tomb styles and stone shapes relate to the coast. If you are more relaxed, just enjoy the way the shoreline reveals itself as the group paddles.

Heading back, then lunch in Üçağiz

After the afternoon sightings, you return to the kayak base and then move on to Üçağiz for lunch at around 13:15. Lunch is included, and the feedback on food has been positive for being simple and satisfying after active paddling.

I like this setup because you do not end the day starving and hunting for a meal. You also do not have to guess what kind of food you will get, since it is already part of the plan.

Do note that the pacing can feel a bit busy around transitions, especially for people who are not sure what to do with swim gear and phones. Having a towel and swimwear ready helps. If you can, keep your waterproof phone case easy to access instead of burying it.

What to pack so the day stays fun, not stressful

You only need swimwear and a towel on paper, but I strongly suggest a few smart upgrades based on real paddling realities.

Here’s what helps most:

• Swimming shoes if the entry points feel rocky
• A floating bag or waterproof method for your phone
• A transparent waterproof phone case if you want photos without rushing
• Follow the guide’s rules even if you feel confident. It keeps the group safe and the trip smooth.

Also, do not overthink the kayaking part. If you follow instructions, you usually get the hang of paddling quickly. The key is staying calm and letting the guide set the rhythm.

Price and value: $47 for a guided half-day with real access

At $47 per person, this tour is priced like a solid value for what you get. The big value drivers are:

• Guided kayaking in a famous area, not just a rental
• Motorized escort support on the water
• Multiple landmark stops, including the Sunken City experience
• Lunch included after paddling

The only extra cost clearly stated is the Simena Castle entrance ticket (4 euro). That means you can decide how much to spend based on your interests. If you are happy with village ruins and viewpoints, you can keep expenses low.

Also, the tour includes a way to skip the ticket line. That is not free magic, but it can save you time, which matters when the day is short and every stop has a set timeframe.

Who should book this tour, and who might skip it

This is a great fit if:

• You want to see Kekova’s underwater ruins from the water
• You like guided sightseeing with some physical activity
• You prefer short stops with scenic payoff, not an all-day marathon
• You want lunch handled for you

You might think twice if:

• You hate any hiking. There is a hillside hike option for viewpoints.
• You need lots of time inside museums or formal sites. This is mostly about being outside and moving through the region.
• You dislike a schedule with some transitions. The day has a lot of moving parts, even if it is well organized overall.

If you are traveling with a flexible mindset, this half-day format usually works well, especially during a first visit to Antalya Province’s coast.

Should you book the Ucagiz Kekova Sea Guided Kayaking Tour?

Yes, if your heart wants water-level access to Kekova and you like your history hands-on. The kayaking portion is the star, and it is backed up by escort support and a real guide, including Yasar’s helpful guidance.

Book it if you want a balanced day: Sunken City time, Simena Castle viewpoints, a cave highlight, and sarcophagi sights, followed by lunch in Üçağiz. It is also a good value at $47, with the only clear extra being the small Simena entrance fee.

If you are very sensitive about rocky water entries or you need to keep your phone completely dry, prepare a bit. With swim shoes and waterproof gear, the day stays smooth and fun instead of annoying.

FAQ

What time does the tour depart from Ucagiz?

The tour departs from Ucagiz at 09:30 am. You head out with motorized support and follow the route along the coast.

How long is the Kekova sea kayaking tour?

The total duration is 4 hours. The schedule includes paddling, stops, and lunch.

Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is included, and it is scheduled after you return toward Üçağiz, around 13:15.

Do I need to buy the Simena Castle ticket separately?

Yes. The Castle of Simena entrance ticket is not included, and it costs 4 euro. The tour notes skipping the ticket line.

Where do the first swim and kayaking happen?

You arrive at Tersane Koyu around 10:15 am. The plan includes a swimming break and kayaking time in that area.

Can I swim at the Sunken City of Kekova?

No. The Sunken City area is protected, and swimming is not permitted there.

What languages is the guide available in?

The live tour guide speaks English and Turkish.

What should I bring for the tour?

Bring swimwear and a towel. It can also help to have water-friendly footwear if the entry is rocky.

Is there a cancellation policy?

The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it possible to reserve without paying immediately?

Yes. The tour offers reserve now & pay later, so you can book your spot and pay nothing today.