From Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

If you’re considering a day trip from Kas to explore Turkey’s captivating Kekova area, the boat excursion starting from Ucagiz promises a blend of scenic beauty, intriguing history, and relaxing stops. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a truly memorable experience. It’s a well-balanced mix of swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring sunken ruins, and enjoying authentic local hospitality—all for a reasonable price of around $58 per person.

What I really like about this outing is its focus on authentic, natural experiences. First, the stunning swimming spots—Aquarium Bay, Burç Bay, Gökaya Bay, and Esmeralda Bay—are praised for their clear waters and peaceful vibes. Second, the opportunity to see the Sunken City of Kekova, a submerged ancient settlement, offers a glimpse into history that feels more like an adventure than a museum visit. The chance to cruise past the protected ruins of Kekova Island without swimming restrictions makes this boat trip stand out, allowing you to capture great photos of the ancient remains from the water.

A potential consideration is the timing of stops—some travelers might find the 15-minute visits to certain sites a bit rushed, especially when exploring the small village of Kaleköy (Ancient Simena) with its ruins and castle. Also, the entrance fee for the Castle of Simena isn’t included, so budgeting an extra few euros might be necessary if you want to explore the castle and necropolis in more depth. Overall, it’s a tour designed for those who enjoy a laid-back, scenic day with plenty of swimming and light history—good for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic experience with a focus on natural beauty and historical sights
• Multiple swimming stops in areas praised for their clarity and tranquility
• Accessible ruins like the Sunken City and Castle of Simena with optional exploration
• Delicious lunch included, with some reviews highlighting the quality and presentation
• Perfect for those who love water activities and scenic views
• Flexible timing at stops, but some sites are only given brief visits, so plan accordingly

Exploring the Kekova Boat Trip from Ucagiz

The journey begins in the charming village of Ucagiz, where you meet your boat in the harbor. The departure window, around 10:20 to 10:40 am, gives a leisurely start to your day, and most travelers find the logistics straightforward—especially with the included mobile tickets. Once aboard, you’ll quickly feel immersed in the day’s adventure.

Ucagiz: The Starting Point

The tour kicks off from Ucagiz harbor, a small village with a laid-back vibe, perfect for a relaxed start. It’s worth arriving a little early to soak in the local scenery and maybe grab a quick coffee before setting sail. The boat itself is designed for comfort, and with a maximum of 55 travelers, it’s a balance of intimacy and social buzz. The crew, though not always named, is often praised for their friendly service.

Aquarium Bay: The First Swim

Your first stop, Aquarium Bay, is a classic highlight. Known for its stunning waters, this bay offers an hour and fifteen minutes to swim and unwind. The water here is often described as “beautiful” and “crystal clear,” ideal for cooling off after the morning sun. The crew provides Turkish tea and biscuits—a thoughtful touch that lets you relax and enjoy the view. Many reviews mention how well-organized and friendly the service is here.

Kekova Sunken City: A Peek into the Past

Next, the boat approaches the Sunken City of Kekova, where you get a brief 15-minute glimpse of the ruins submerged after an earthquake in the 2nd century. The sight of ancient walls and structures just below the surface creates a unique photo opportunity. Some travelers find this brief stop perfect for snapping pictures, but if you’re eager to explore more, the nearby boat cruise past the ruins offers plenty of chances to admire the site without getting wet.

Kekova Island: Protected but Photogenic

While swimming isn’t allowed on the island itself—it’s a protected area—cruising along the ruins offers ample chances for photography. Many guests appreciate the chance to cruise past the remains, capturing stunning shots of the ancient stones set against the blue waters—a favorite for Instagram fans.

Burç Bay: A Cooler Swim

Afterward, your boat heads to Burç Bay, where a refreshing swim is on the menu. The water is notably cooler due to natural underwater springs, which adds an extra layer of refreshment. The bay’s tranquility makes it a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun.

Gökaya Bay & Water Sports

Lunchtime arrives at Gökaya Bay, a lively spot that combines natural beauty with opportunities for water sports. The included lunch is often praised for its quality and presentation, with some reviewers noting the good food and regionally inspired dishes. After eating, you’re free to swim or try out water sports, making this stop both delicious and active.

Esmeralda Bay: Calm and Peaceful

Next, Esmeralda Bay offers another opportunity for a peaceful swim. Its calm waters and scenic surroundings make it an ideal place to unwind before heading to the next site.

Kaleköy / Simena: Village and Castle Exploration

The boat slows down at the quaint village of Kaleköy, also known as Simena. Here, you can explore the castle ruins or enjoy a walk through the authentic village streets. The visit lasts about 45 minutes, and while the entrance to the castle isn’t included in the tour fee, many find it worthwhile to pay a small fee to walk around and enjoy the historic views. For those not interested in exploring the castle, it’s a perfect chance to relax by the water and take in the atmosphere.

Sunken City & Hilltop Views

A short hike up the hillside provides panoramic views of the region, an activity recommended for those with a bit of energy and interest in history. For others, lounging and swimming in the blue waters during the remaining time is equally enjoyable.

Returning to Ucagiz

As the day wraps up, you head back to Ucagiz harbor, usually around 3 pm, ending a full day of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and fresh seafood. Many travelers reflect on the value they received: a reasonably priced, well-organized day with enough swimming, viewing, and relaxing to feel like a true getaway—not just a tour.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This boat trip suits travelers who enjoy water-based adventures and want a flexible, scenic itinerary without rushing. Families with kids, couples looking for a romantic day, or solo travelers seeking peaceful water stops will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also ideal for those interested in a bit of history without the overwhelming detail—simply enough to pique curiosity and provide memorable visuals.

On the flip side, if you crave long explorations of ruins or cultural sites, you might find the brief stops a little limiting. Likewise, if exploring the castle or sunken city in detail is your priority, you should budget extra time and money for entrances.

Price and Value

At about $58, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic stops, swimming, and cultural sights, all with included lunch. The reviews highlight the good food and friendly service, making it feel like good value for the price. Plus, the fact that it’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can plan with peace of mind.

The extra cost for visits like the Castle of Simena is minimal, and many see the overall experience as well worth the investment—especially considering the multiple swimming spots and picturesque scenery. It’s a full day of relaxing and exploring, with the convenience of transportation, which adds to its appeal.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Ucagiz to Kekova delivers an authentic taste of Turkey’s coastal charm, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and discovering ancient ruins. It balances leisure and discovery, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers seeking a laid-back yet engaging day on the water.

If you love swimming in clear, peaceful waters surrounded by history and scenic views, this tour will likely become one of your favorite memories. The included lunch, friendly crew, and flexible stops make it a practical choice, especially when considering the value for money.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this experience offers a gentle but immersive way to connect with the natural and historical beauty of the Kekova region and enjoy a day of relaxing adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a full day of sightseeing by boat, multiple swimming stops, and a delicious lunch. The boat has fresh water for showers after swimming.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 10:15 am and returning to Ucagiz around 3 pm.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 18 days in advance to secure a spot at the ~$58 price.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the entrance fee for the Castle of Simena isn’t included, so you should budget a small amount if you plan to visit the castle and necropolis.

Is swimming guaranteed at the stops?
The itinerary offers plenty of swimming opportunities, but actual time in the water depends on weather and group preferences.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
Absolutely. You can enjoy the scenery, take photos, or relax onboard during the stops, especially since much of the beauty is visible from the boat.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 55 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere friendly but not crowded.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a towel, water shoes or sandals, and a camera. Some guests suggest bringing a cover-up or light jacket for the boat.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, if your kids enjoy swimming and boat rides, this could be a fun family adventure. Just be mindful of the water safety requirements.

This Ucagiz to Kekova boat trip offers a thoughtfully curated day out—full of scenic beauty, refreshing swims, and historical sights, all at a reasonable price. It’s a wonderful way to see Turkey’s coast from a different perspective, making for a relaxing yet engaging experience.