A Unique Way to Experience Kekova: Guided Sea Kayaking from Demre
Imagine paddling along Turkey’s stunning Lycian coast, gliding past ancient ruins that sit partially submerged in the sea. That’s exactly what the Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour offers — a chance to explore the legendary Sunken City of Kekova, visit quaint Simena Village, and swim in clear waters, all from the seat of a kayak. The tour, run by SAILNSTAY, is an excellent mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty, all packed into about 5.5 hours.
What I love most about this trip is how accessible it is. The guide’s safety briefing and paddle instructions make it perfect even for beginners. Plus, the support vessel escort makes paddling feel less daunting. The highlight for me? Paddling alongside the ancient Lycian ruins — it’s an extraordinary way to connect with history, while also enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
A potential consideration? The tour involves about four hours of kayaking, which might be a stretch for those who prefer less activity or have physical limitations. While the walking around Simena and Theimussa is optional, the kayaking itself is the star. Also, keep in mind that swimming in the Sunken City isn’t allowed since it’s a protected area, but you’ll get plenty of chances to swim at other stops like Tersane Bay.
This experience combines a well-organized itinerary with authentic sights and a friendly small-group atmosphere. It’s a fantastic choice for those who enjoy outdoor activity, photography, or simply want a different perspective on Turkey’s coastal treasures.
Key Points & Takeaways
- Accessible for Beginners: The tour features a safety briefing and paddle instructions, making it suitable even if you’ve never kayaked before.
- Historical Highlights: You paddle past the Sunken City of Kekova and visit Simena Castle, blending adventure with archaeology.
- Support Vessel: A motorized support boat escorts your group, providing reassurance and assistance throughout the trip.
- Authentic Village Experience: The stop in Kaleköy offers a chance to explore a small, traditional Lycian village with castle ruins and scenic views.
- Flexible Swimming Opportunities: While swimming isn’t permitted at the Sunken City, other stops like Tersane Bay offer perfect spots for a dip.
- Enjoy a Local Lunch: The tour concludes with a tasty lunch at Uçaiz, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on your day.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Demre.
Discovering the Wonders of Kekova by Kayak
I’ll admit, I was a bit skeptical about kayaking as a way to explore ancient ruins. But once I saw the calm, crystal-clear waters of Kekova and understood that the trip was designed for a relaxed, enjoyable pace, I was intrigued. The tour starts early, around 8:20 a.m., with a comfortable bus ride from Demre to Uçaiz village. The scenery on the drive alone — rocky coastlines, olive groves, and glimpses of the sea — hints at the adventure ahead.
The initial safety briefings and paddle instructions are friendly, clear, and aimed at beginners or those who haven’t kayaked in a while. This shows that the guide, often a local with a good sense of humor, understands the importance of making everyone feel comfortable. Once on the water at 09:00, the group splits into manageable groups, with a motorized vessel escorting us. This support vessel is a real boon, especially if you need a break or a quick rest.
Kayaking Past the Sunken City
Paddling towards the Sunken City of Kekova is like entering a living museum. Due to preservation laws, swimming isn’t allowed here, but kayaking along the ruins gives you a close-up view that’s hard to match. I loved how the water’s transparency let me see the ancient walls and foundations just beneath the surface. One reviewer raved about how capturing photos alongside the ruins made the experience unforgettable.
The support boat’s presence meant I didn’t worry about tiring out, and I appreciated the chance to chat with the guide, who shared stories about the Lycian civilization and the history of the wrecks. You get to enjoy the scenery and history without feeling rushed, which is a real plus.
The Beauty of Tersane Bay and Swimming Breaks
After about an hour of paddling, the group arrives at Tersane Bay. Here, the turquoise waters and peaceful surroundings provide a perfect spot for a swim and relaxation. The swim in Tersane Bey was refreshingly cool, and I appreciated the break to stretch and soak up the sun.
The fact that swimming at the Sunken City isn’t permitted underscores how important it is to respect protected areas, but Tersane Bay offers a generous alternative. The bay’s calm waters and scenic backdrop make it one of my favorite stops on the tour.
Exploring Simena Village and Castle
Around 11:30 a.m., we land at Kaleköy, the modern village built around Simena Castle. Here, you can walk up the hillside to get panoramic views or explore the narrow streets lined with local shops. The castle ruins are atmospheric, and a hike up the hill rewards you with sweeping vistas of Kekova’s coast and islands. Alternatively, you can spend your time browsing for souvenirs or sitting at a seaside café.
One reviewer described the village as authentic and charming, emphasizing the mix of history and local life. The small size of the village means it’s not overly touristy, and the friendly locals often greet visitors with warm smiles.
Visiting Theimussa and the Lycian Sarcophagi
After the village, the group moves on to Theimussa, an ancient Lycian site with impressive sarcophagi and ruins. Photo stops here allow you to get a sense of the ancient civilization that once thrived in this region. The ancient tombs carved into the hillside are quite striking and add another layer to this historical voyage.
Returning, Lunch, and Reflection
The tour wraps up with a scenic paddle back towards Uçaiz and a well-deserved lunch at 1:15 p.m. The included meal is a nice finishing touch, giving you a chance to share stories with fellow travelers and enjoy Turkish cuisine. The entire day ends with a comfortable bus ride back to Demre, leaving you with plenty of memories—and photos—to cherish.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This sea kayaking adventure is perfect for active travelers wanting a hands-on experience that combines physical activity, history, and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with a brisk walk or light physical activity, as the kayaking is about four hours but manageable with support. The small group size (limited to 15) keeps the atmosphere intimate and friendly, ideal for travelers who enjoy a personal touch.
If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group craving an authentic, active day outside the usual tourist trail, this tour offers excellent value at $57. It’s also a good choice if you want to see the Lycian coast from a different perspective, away from crowded boat tours.
However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, you might prefer a boat trip or a guided walk instead. Also, keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to the castle, so budget a little extra if you want to explore thoroughly.
Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day
- Wear sun protection: sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen are essential — it gets hot on the water.
- Bring swimwear and a towel for the swim stops.
- Arrive early and be prepared for an active morning — the tour starts around 8:20 a.m.
- Don’t forget your camera or phone with a waterproof case — the scenery and ruins are picture-perfect.
- Consider bringing a light snack, especially if you’re hungry after kayaking.
- Hydrate well, as the activity can be physically demanding, especially in the Turkish sun.
Price and Logistics
At $57 per person, this tour offers great value, considering the included pickup, support vessel, kayaking, and lunch. While the activity is physically engaging, it’s designed to be accessible, making it worth the effort for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the flexible booking policy (cancel up to 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind.
The tour departs from a central meeting point, SAILNSTAY, with pickup included in the price if you’re staying in Demre. The itinerary is well-paced, balancing activity with sightseeing and relaxation, giving you a comprehensive day of exploring Kekova’s highlights.
The Sum Up
This Guided Kekova Sea Kayaking Tour strikes a lovely balance between activity, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s best suited for travelers eager for an authentic adventure that’s more than just sightseeing — it’s about engaging with Turkey’s coastal history in a hands-on way. The support vessel, friendly guides, and scenic stops make it an accessible option for beginners and seasoned kayakers alike.
If you’re after a memorable, active day that combines stunning views, historical intrigue, and a taste of local life, this tour offers excellent value and a genuine experience. Just be prepared for a few hours of paddling, a good dose of sunshine, and plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed with beginners in mind, featuring a safety briefing and paddle instructions. The support vessel makes it easier for those who need a break or feel unsure.
What is included in the price?
The $57 fee covers pick-up and drop-off from Demre, four hours of sea kayaking, and lunch. Entrance fees to the castle aren’t included.
How long does the kayaking last?
You’ll spend about four hours actively paddling, with breaks for swimming and sightseeing.
Can I swim during the tour?
Swimming is permitted at Tersane Bay and other designated stops, but not in the Sunken City itself, which is protected.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), swimwear, a towel, and your camera. Extra snacks and water are also recommended.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with light physical activity, this tour can be a fun family outing, especially with the support vessel reassurance.
This guided Kekova sea kayaking tour offers a vibrant mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a wonderful way to see some of Turkey’s most iconic coastal sights without the crowds, with the added thrill of paddling alongside ancient ruins.