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Kekova Boat Tour & Sea Kayaking: Discover Turkey’s Sunken City the Right Way

19-02-2026

If you are dreaming of turquoise water, ancient ruins beneath your kayak, and peaceful Mediterranean scenery far from the crowds, Kekova might become your favorite place in Turkey.

Located along the southern coast near KAS and Demre, Kekova is one of the most unique coastal experiences in the country. It’s not just a boat trip. It’s not just kayaking. It’s history, nature, and adventure combined into one unforgettable day.

At Bee Travel Turkey, we design private experiences here — because Kekova deserves more than a rushed group tour.

Where is Kekova?

Kekova is located between Kas and Demre, along Turkey’s Mediterranean coastline. The region includes:

 

Kekova Island - The Sunken City (Batık Sehir) - Simena (Kalekoy) village - Ucagiz harbor


It’s a protected archaeological area, which makes it even more special — and peaceful.

 

The Legendary Sunken City of Kekova

The most famous highlight is the Sunken City, part of the ancient Lycian civilization. After earthquakes in the 2nd century, parts of the settlement slid into the sea.


Today, as you glide over the water, you can see:

  • - Stone staircases descending into the sea
  • - Foundations of houses
  • - Ancient harbor structures
  • - Ruins just beneath the surface


Swimming is not allowed in the protected zone — but that’s what keeps it beautifully preserved.

Seeing 2,000-year-old ruins under crystal-clear water is something photos can’t fully capture.

 

Kekova Boat Tour: Relaxed Mediterranean Luxury

A typical Kekova boat tour includes:

  • - Departure from Ucagiz village
  • - Cruising over the Sunken City
  • - Swimming breaks in turquoise bays
  • - A stop at Simena (Kalekoy) village
  • - Freshly prepared lunch onboard


But here’s the difference.

Many standard tours can feel crowded and rushed. Boats line up in the same bays. Time is limited.

With Bee Travel Turkey, we prefer private boats whenever possible. This means:


  • - Flexible swimming stops
  • - No loud music
  • - No tourist shopping pressure
  • - Just you, the sea, and history


It turns the experience from “nice” into “unforgettable.”

 

Sea Kayaking in Kekova: Floating Over History

If you want something more active and immersive, sea kayaking is extraordinary.

Instead of observing from a boat, you move silently over the ruins. The water is so clear that you can see walls and ancient stones beneath your kayak.

Why kayaking is special:

  • - Closer perspective of the ruins
  • - Peaceful, quiet experience
  • - Light adventure without being extreme
  • - Perfect for couples and small groups


You don’t need to be an expert. Basic fitness and comfort on water are enough. Professional guides always lead the route.

For many of our guests, kayaking over the Sunken City becomes the highlight of their entire Turkey trip.

 

Boat Tour or Kayaking — Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on your travel style:

  • - Prefer relaxation? → Private boat tour
  • - Love active experiences? → Sea kayaking
  • - Want the best of both? → Combine them


We often integrate Kekova into longer itineraries that include:

  • - Kas
  • - Demre (St. Nicholas Church)
  • - Antalya
  • - Fethiye

It pairs beautifully with a coastal Mediterranean route.

 

When is the Best Time to Visit Kekova?

The best months are:

  • - May
  • - June
  • - July
  • - August
  • - September
  • - Early October

 

Why We Design Kekova Experiences Differently

At Bee Travel Turkey, we specialize in private, slow-paced, culturally meaningful journeys.

We believe:


  • - You should never feel rushed.
  • - You should understand what you’re seeing.
  • - Nature should be experienced peacefully.

Kekova is not a checklist stop. It’s a Mediterranean memory.

If you are planning a Turkey itinerary and want to include Kekova the right way, we would love to design it for you.


Contact us and let the adventure begin!

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