Embarking on a captivating day trip from Ucagiz to the Kekova region is a must-do experience for anyone exploring Turkey’s stunning Mediterranean coast. This 7-hour boat tour offers excellent value, with multiple stops and activities that showcase the area’s natural beauty and fascinating history. From swimming in Aquarium Bay to exploring the submerged Lycian ruins, the itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure. And with the chance to indulge in a traditional Turkish lunch and witness the breathtaking vistas from Simena Castle, this excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression. Discover why this popular tour is a favorite among travelers seeking to enjoy the wonders of the Kekova region.
Key Points
- A 7-hour day trip to Kekova by boat from the town of Ucagiz, with prices starting from €49.00 per person.
- The itinerary includes multiple stops and activities, such as swimming, sightseeing, and water sports.
- Highlights of the trip include exploring the Kekova Island Sunken City, visiting Burc Bay and Pirates Cave, and enjoying a traditional Turkish lunch at Gokkaya Bay.
- The tour offers excellent value with various inclusions, such as refreshments, guided tours, and water activities.
- The trip is likely to sell out quickly due to its popularity, so early booking is recommended.
Overview of the Day Trip
This day trip to Kekova by boat from Ucagiz offers a comprehensive itinerary spanning 7 hours, making it a popular choice that’s likely to sell out quickly, with prices starting from €49.00 per person.
The tour includes several stops, such as Aquarium Bay for a swim break and refreshments, the Kekova Island Sunken City for a guided tour and boat cruise, Burc Bay for another swim, the Pirates Cave for sightseeing, Gokkaya Bay for lunch, water sports, and swimming, Esmeralda Bay for a swim break, and Simena Castle for a 1-hour visit and hike.
With inclusions like a morning snack, lunch, fruits, and the Simena Castle entrance fee, this day trip offers an excellent value.
Itinerary and Inclusions
The day trip to Kekova encompasses an extensive itinerary, beginning with a 1-hour swim break at Aquarium Bay accompanied by Turkish tea and biscuits.
Next, the tour provides a guided exploration of the Kekova Island Sunken City, followed by a boat cruise and sightseeing.
Visitors can then enjoy a swim break at Burc Bay before embarking on a boat cruise to the Pirates Cave for more sightseeing.
The tour concludes with a lunch and swim break at Gokkaya Bay, where water sports are available, and a final swim stop at Esmeralda Bay.
The excursion also includes a 1-hour visit to Simena Castle, where guests can hike up for panoramic views and an optional swim.
Aquarium Bay: Swim and Refreshments
The day trip to Kekova begins with a 1-hour swim break at Aquarium Bay, where visitors can enjoy refreshing Turkish tea and traditional biscuits.
This tranquil cove, with its crystal-clear waters, provides the perfect opportunity to cool off and rejuvenate before continuing the tour. During the swim break, guests can:
- Take a leisurely dip in the inviting waters
- Savor the aromatic Turkish tea and buttery biscuits
- Admire the stunning scenery and relax on the boat’s deck
This initial stop sets the tone for the rest of the day’s adventures, offering a chance to unwind and recharge before exploring the historic Kekova Island and its sunken city ruins.
Kekova Island Sunken City Tour
After the refreshing swim and snack at Aquarium Bay, the boat cruise proceeds to the renowned Kekova Island, where the sunken city ruins await exploration.
During this guided tour, visitors will discover the submerged remains of an ancient Lycian settlement, which was partially destroyed by an earthquake and partially sunk beneath the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
The boat will cruise along the shoreline, offering stunning views of the ghostly structures and providing an opportunity to learn about the history and significance of this unique archaeological site.
Visitors can gaze in wonder at the preserved architectural elements and imagine the vibrant community that once thrived in this picturesque location.
Burc Bay and Pirates Cave
Following the exploration of Kekova Island’s sunken city, the boat cruise continues to Burc Bay, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim break.
Next, the tour ventures to the famous Pirates Cave, where passengers can embark on a scenic boat cruise and take in the captivating sights of this historic location.
The highlights of the Pirates Cave visit include:
- Admiring the dramatic limestone cliffs that surround the cave.
- Spotting ancient ruins and remnants of past civilizations along the shoreline.
- Listening to stories about the cave’s storied history as a hideout for legendary pirates.
This portion of the Kekova day trip offers a chance to relax, explore, and take in the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Gokkaya Bay: Lunch and Water Sports
Next, the boat cruise arrives at the tranquil Gokkaya Bay, where passengers can indulge in a delightful lunch and partake in a variety of water sports activities.
The lunch, included in the tour package, features traditional Turkish cuisine, offering a taste of the local flavors.
After the meal, guests are free to explore the bay’s crystal-clear waters and engage in water sports like swimming, snorkeling, or even renting a kayak to paddle around.
The serene atmosphere and picturesque setting make Gokkaya Bay an ideal spot to unwind and recharge before continuing the day’s adventures.
With ample time to swim, relax, and try out the water activities, this stop promises to be a highlight of the Kekova day trip.
Esmeralda Bay and Swim Break
The tranquil Esmeralda Bay beckons visitors to indulge in a refreshing swim break, providing a peaceful respite amidst the day’s adventures.
The crystal-clear waters of this picturesque bay offer a chance to cool off, rejuvenate, and soak in the stunning natural surroundings. Guests can:
- Take a leisurely dip in the inviting waters.
- Relax on the shoreline, taking in the serene atmosphere.
- Admire the breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs that frame the bay.
After the swim break, the group will continue their exploration of the Kekova region, eager to uncover more of its hidden gems and captivating history.
Visiting Simena Castle
Ascending the winding path, visitors reach the historic Simena Castle, a captivating structure that offers panoramic views over the Kekova region.
The 1-hour visit included in the tour package allows ample time to explore the castle’s ancient ruins and ramparts.
Trekking up to the top rewards adventurous travelers with breathtaking vistas of the turquoise waters and surrounding islands.
Those seeking a refreshing dip can opt to swim at the base of the castle, a perfect way to end the day’s adventures.
With its rich history and stunning natural setting, Simena Castle is a highlight of the Kekova day trip, providing a memorable finale to an exceptional excursion.
Recap
This captivating 7-hour boat tour from Ucagiz to the Kekova region offers excellent value, with multiple stops and activities.
Swim in the crystal-clear Aquarium Bay, explore the sunken Lycian ruins, visit the iconic Pirates Cave, and enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch.
Witness the stunning views from Simena Castle. It’s a truly unforgettable day trip that shouldn’t be missed.