A day on the water. That is the point here, and it works. I like how this Kaş to Kekova cruise mixes serious scenery with real time in the swim-and-snorkel bays.

What I love most is the mix of big-ticket history with an easygoing pace—especially the Kekova Sunken City you see from the boat and the walk-time around Simena Castle.

One thing to keep in mind: the cruise is very “water day” focused, so if you want lots of museum-style background, you may wish for more depth in the narration.

Key points before you go

• Multiple swimming stops in clear bays, with time built in so it does not feel rushed
• Kekova Sunken City views from the boat, plus nearby water time for getting in the action
• Simena Castle / Kaleköy time with a real walk for panoramas
• Lunch onboard is included, and it tends to land well after several swims
• Bring your own snorkel setup if you have one; gear may not be included
• Captain Ergun and crew run a tight ship, and the boat experience is kept clean and comfortable

Kaş to Kekova: why this boat day is such good value

If your idea of a perfect Turkey day is half sun, half ancient scenery, this is a smart choice. The price is about $94 per person for an 8-hour outing, and the reason it can feel like value is simple: you are paying for a full day of boat time, multiple stops for swimming/snorkeling, and an onboard lunch.

This is also a practical way to see Kekova without juggling boats, timings, and ferry schedules on your own. Kaş is well placed for these routes, and this tour is designed around a smooth rhythm: ride, swim, history stop, ride, swim again.

You’ll get a live guide in English and Turkish, plus a captain and crew who keep the day moving so you can actually spend time where you came for it—on deck and in the water.

Meeting point and the first thing to do: get to Larsoy on time

Your pick-up is close to the harbor, right opposite the mosque, at Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office (Kaş). It’s the kind of spot where arriving early helps. Parking in Kaş can be tight, so give yourself breathing room.

When you check in, remember what to bring:

• Passport or ID card
• Beachwear

And pack like you’ll be in the sun a while. Even if you do not plan to snorkel, you’ll still want a sun hat and sunscreen.

Also: this is not a bring-your-own-party drinks situation. Outside drinks are not allowed, and alcohol/drugs are also listed as not permitted.

The boat setup: comfortable deck time beats frantic sightseeing

This tour’s “wow” is not only the islands. It’s the boat comfort between stops.

From the feedback you can count on a few consistent themes: the boat is well maintained and clean, with comfortable seating on the top deck (loungers are popular), and the crew runs a disciplined schedule. You’ll also want to know that the boat setup supports rinsing off after swims—handy when you go from saltwater to lunch and back again.

If you’re wondering where to sit, I’d aim for the top deck if the day is calm and sunny. You get better views while passing the coast and you can stretch out during the sailing sections.

Inönü Bay: where the day turns into a real swim day

The cruise starts with about a 45-minute yacht ride, then you reach Inönü Bay for roughly 50 minutes, including lunch, guided time, sightseeing, and swim/snorkel options.

This is a smart first water stop because:

• you’re fresh
• the bay time is long enough to actually get your swim in
• lunch is timed so you do not end up hungry while you’re waiting for later stops

The water here is the kind that makes you understand why people keep coming back to Kekova—clear enough that snorkeling feels worth it even if you’re not a hardcore reef person. It’s also a good place for non-swimmers to dip in with a life jacket and take their time.

Practical tip: snorkeling gear often becomes the make-or-break detail. The tour info says snorkeling is part of the day, and some past guests note that snorkeling gear is not provided, so either bring your own or plan to buy it on board if needed.

Karakol Islands: BBQ, regional flavor, and more water time

After another 45-minute sailing segment, you reach the Karakol Islands area for about 1 hour. This stop includes a break plus lunch/BBQ elements, scenic viewing on the way, and marine life viewing.

This is where the tour shifts from “pretty bay swimming” to “I can’t believe this water looks like this.” The time is long enough for:

• a slower swim
• a short snorkel session
• hanging out on deck without constantly feeling you’re racing the schedule

It’s also one of the best stops if you’re traveling with mixed comfort levels—swimmers can do their thing, and anyone taking it easy still gets beautiful coast views.

Kekova Sunken City: ancient ruins you can actually see

Then comes the headline: Kekova Island Sunken City. You get about 30 minutes here, and it’s structured around a visit with guided explanation plus boat cruising and sightseeing views as you pass.

The key point: the sunken city is not only a dockside story. You see submerged ruins from the boat. That means you’re not stuck with a short hike while the main attraction stays underwater. Instead, you get to watch the line of history laid against the coast.

If you want the most from this stop:

• arrive ready to look down and across the water surface
• listen for the guide’s context as you float by the ruins

One realistic note: on some days the narration can feel more like pointing out sights than giving deep background. Still, even with a shorter explanation, the visuals do most of the work.

Simena Castle (Kaleköy): the walk with the best views

Next is Simena Castle, with about 1 hour for a break, a visit, and free time. The time includes sightseeing and a walk, plus it’s paired with potential swimming/snorkeling if you want to stay in water mode.

This is the stop that helps Kekova feel complete. The sunken city is your underwater time travel; Simena is your land-and-panorama time travel.

What you’ll like here:

• you get a proper walk
• you see the coast from above
• you have space to wander at your own pace

Before you go, keep one practical detail in mind: castle fees are not included. So bring some cash. One helpful reminder from experience is that having cash can save you from last-minute hassle if the payment setup is limited.

Also, wear shoes you’re comfortable climbing in. This is not a flat promenade.

Tersane Koyu: ruins nearby, swimming time right next to them

After another short sailing segment, you hit Tersane Koyu for about 45 minutes. This stop is a mix of break time, sightseeing, free time, and water time with swimming/snorkeling.

Tersane is one of those places where the history sits close to the water line. Even if you’re not focused on every ruin detail, you’ll feel the geography: coves, bays, and a coastline shaped by centuries of earthquakes and invasions.

It’s a great stop if you want a calmer feel than Simena’s climb. You can park yourself in the bay rhythm—rinse off, snack, swim, repeat—without losing the sense that you’re still in the historical zone.

Üzüm İskelesi: tea break plus a final long look at the coast

The last major stop is Üzüm İskelesi. You get about 50 minutes, including break and free time, plus tea ceremony and more swimming/snorkeling.

This is a classic way to end: after a day of saltwater and stairs, tea feels like a soft landing. You also get one more chance to see the coastline from the water’s edge before the long sail back to Kaş (another 45 minutes after this stop).

If the wind picks up on your return, bring a thin layer or extra towel. Some people find the ride back a bit chilly even after a warm swim day.

Lunch onboard: why it feels like part of the day, not a checkbox

Lunch is included, and it matters because you’re not eating a sad sandwich somewhere between sights. The onboard meal is cooked and served with actual care, and you’ll usually find options like fish and other Turkish staples.

On top of the lunch itself, people also note small extras—like watermelon and tea later in the day. That kind of rhythm makes the long boat day feel less like waiting and more like a structured outing.

A key point for expectations: drinks are not included. If you want something beyond water, plan on buying onboard. Alcohol is not allowed from outside, and alcohol/drugs are listed as not permitted.

What you’ll likely remember most (and why)

This tour earns repeat praise for a few reasons that show up again and again:

• The swimming stops are timed well. You get multiple chances, and each bay gets enough time to feel satisfying.
• The boat is comfortable and clean, so the “between stops” time is enjoyable, not stressful.
• The big sights are well placed into the schedule—sunken city views plus a real castle walk.
• The crew keeps things organized. When you’re on a boat for 8 hours, that organization is the difference between fun and chaos.

There’s also a fun photo/video perk. Captain Ergun is known for making drone videos and taking individual shots around the bays, with some people receiving the results afterward. If that sort of souvenir fits your style, it’s a nice bonus.

Price check: what $94 includes, and what could cost extra

At about $94 per person, the tour covers the core “big day” package:

• boat time from Kaş
• multiple stopovers for swimming/snorkeling
• onboard lunch
• guided interpretation and sightseeing time

What is not included:

• drinks (purchased onboard)
• castle fee (relevant for Simena)

So your real cost depends on how much you buy during breaks. If you’re trying to keep it budget-tight, bring water only if the rules allow it—outside drinks are listed as not allowed—then stick to onboard purchases. If you’re okay with a few purchases, this is still a strong value for a full day on the Turkish Riviera.

Who this tour fits best

This one is ideal if you:

• want a relaxed day with real swimming time
• like combining one major history highlight with an easy boat lifestyle
• don’t need a classroom-level lecture to enjoy the ruins and scenery
• want a guided day without planning routes yourself

It might be less ideal if you:

• have health concerns that make boats or day-long outings difficult (heart conditions, epilepsy, and other pre-existing conditions are listed as not suitable)
• expect snorkeling gear to be included automatically
• want long, detailed time at each historical site rather than shorter stops with water time

Should you book this Kaş to Kekova boat tour?

Yes—if your goal is a classic Kekova day made practical: boat comfort, multiple crystal-water swim stops, Kekova Sunken City from the water, and a Simena Castle walk with views.

Book it especially if you’re traveling with a mix of swimmers and non-swimmers, because the schedule gives people options. Skip it only if you’re mainly seeking museum-style history time or you’re not comfortable with a day that includes steps and boat movement.

One last tip: pack for water, wear shoes for uneven climbs, and bring whatever snorkeling setup you can. You’ll get more out of every stop that way.

FAQ

How long is the Kaş to Kekova boat tour?

The duration is listed as 8 hours.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Larsoy Travel & Tourism Office in Kaş, close to the harbor and opposite the mosque.

What’s included in the price?

Lunch is included.

Are drinks included?

No. Drinks are listed as not included.

Are there extra fees for the castle?

Yes. A castle fee is listed as not included.

Do I need snorkeling gear?

Snorkeling is part of the tour, and snorkeling equipment may not be provided, so bring your own if you can.

What should I bring?

Bring your passport or ID card and beachwear.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Wheelchair accessible is listed as true.

What is the guide language?

The live tour guide is listed as English and Turkish.

Who should not take this tour?

The tour is listed as not suitable for people with heart problems, epilepsy, or pre-existing medical conditions.