Exploring the breathtaking Mediterranean island of Kekova by sea kayak is a captivating adventure. Gliding through the tranquil waters, visitors uncover the island’s hidden gems – from the partially submerged Lycian ruins of the Sunken City to the well-preserved Simena Castle, which offers panoramic vistas of the stunning landscape. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll explore the rich history and ecology of this remarkable destination. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to discover more of Kekova’s enchanting secrets.
Key Points
- Kekova is a picturesque Mediterranean island that offers a popular destination for kayaking enthusiasts with its secluded harbors, underwater ruins, and historical sights.
- The highlight of the kayak tour is the Sunken City, a partially submerged Lycian ruin, and the well-preserved ruins of Simena Castle with panoramic views.
- The guided kayak tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, tandem kayaks, and professional guide who shares insights into the area’s history and ecology.
- Participants need to bring their own drinks, medications, sun protection, and change of clothes, and should have basic swimming ability.
- The tour has a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 14 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience with attentive supervision and safety.
Overview of Kekova Island
Kekova Island, a picturesque Mediterranean getaway, is a popular destination for kayaking enthusiasts. The island’s secluded harbors, underwater ruins, and historical sights make it a compelling location for exploration by sea.
Kayakers can paddle through tranquil waters, admiring the island’s unique geological features and ancient structures. The highlight of the journey is the Sunken City, a partially submerged Lycian ruin that provides a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Visitors can also explore the well-preserved ruins of Simena Castle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. With its natural beauty and historical significance, Kekova Island captivates all who venture to its shores, making it a must-visit destination for kayakers and sightseers alike.
Highlights of the Kayak Tour
The kayak tour around Kekova Island offers a range of captivating highlights for visitors.
Paddling through the secluded harbors, one can marvel at the island’s unique geological formations and glimpse the partially submerged Lycian ruins of the Sunken City.
On top of that, the tour includes a visit to the well-preserved ruins of Simena Castle, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding Mediterranean landscape.
Along the way, the professional guide shares insights into the area’s rich history and ecology, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.
Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure exploring Kekova’s natural and historical wonders.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The kayak tour includes a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off (at selected hotels), and the use of tandem kayaks (with a limited number of single kayaks available).
However, it excludes alcoholic drinks (which can be purchased) and gratuities. The tour also covers the entrance fee to Simena Castle, which is 140 Turkish Lira.
Participants will need to bring their own drinks, as well as any necessary medications, sun protection, and a change of clothes. While the tour operates in all weather conditions, a basic level of swimming ability is required.
The meeting point is at the main post office in Kaş, with pickup locations in Kalkan and on the Kaş peninsula.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Convenience and accessibility define the meeting and pickup arrangements for the kayak tour, with multiple options to suit participants’ needs.
The tour meets at the PTT-Kaş Şubesi in Andifli, with pickups available from Kalkan at 7:30 AM, the Kaş Peninsula Main Road at 8:00 AM, and the Main Departure Post Office PTT Kaş at 8:15 AM.
The actual kayak tour starts at 9:00 AM behind the Gönül Cafe.
With hotel pickup and drop-off available for selected hotels, the logistics are seamless, allowing participants to focus on the enjoyment of the kayaking experience.
Additional Tour Information
Travelers can expect a well-rounded kayak adventure with comprehensive inclusions and considerations for their comfort and safety. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, ensuring a seamless experience.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but children as young as 5 years old can participate with parental accompaniment, while those 14 and above may join with written permission.
A small amount of walking is involved, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, so basic swimming knowledge is required. A good physical condition is recommended, as anyone able to walk for an hour can easily complete the tour.
Recommended items include swim/surf/water shoes, sun protection, emergency medication, towel, and a change of clothes.
Kayak Experience Recommendations
Regardless of one’s experience level, the Kekova kayak tour offers an immersive opportunity to discover the region’s secluded harbors, underwater ruins, and historical sites.
With a professional guide leading the way, participants can expect a well-rounded and engaging kayaking adventure. The tour caters to a range of skill levels, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all.
Some key recommendations for the kayak experience include:
- Bringing appropriate attire, such as swim/surf shoes and sun protection, to enhance comfort and safety on the water.
- Maintaining a good level of physical fitness, as the tour involves some optional light walking.
- Ensuring basic swimming proficiency, as the activity requires navigating the open sea.
Minimum and Maximum Participants
The Kekova kayak tour operates with a minimum of 4 participants and a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
This group size allows the guide to provide attentive supervision and ensure the safety of all participants. Smaller groups also enable easier navigation through the secluded harbors and around the underwater ruins.
The maximum limit keeps the experience from feeling crowded or impersonal. Travelers can feel confident that they’ll receive the attention they need while exploring the stunning natural and historical sights of Kekova Island.
The well-regulated group size contributes to making this kayaking tour an unforgettable adventure for all who join.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Full refunds are available if the Kekova kayak tour is canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. This flexible cancellation policy ensures travelers can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they won’t lose their money if their plans change. Participants simply need to notify the tour operator within the specified timeframe to receive a full refund.
The cancellation policy offers several key benefits:
- Worry-free planning – Travelers can book the tour without fear of losing their money if unexpected events arise.
- Stress-free changes – Customers have the freedom to adjust their plans if necessary, without financial penalty.
- Confidence in the booking process – The clear and transparent refund policy builds trust in the tour operator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Kayak?
No, customers cannot bring their own kayak on this guided tour. The tour operator provides tandem kayaks, with a limited number of single kayaks available. Using the provided equipment is required to participate in the guided kayaking experience.
Are There Toilet Facilities During the Tour?
There are no dedicated toilet facilities during the kayak tour. However, the tour includes stops at historical sites and harbors where participants can access basic restroom amenities as needed. The tour is suitable for all experience levels with proper planning.
Can I Take Photos of the Underwater Ruins?
Participants can take photos of the underwater ruins during the kayaking tour. However, they should exercise caution and avoid disturbing the historical artifacts. The guide will provide instructions on how to photograph the ruins responsibly.
Is This Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?
The tour is not suitable for people with disabilities. The overview states it is not wheelchair accessible, and some walking is involved. Participants must be able to get in and out of kayaks and have a basic level of physical fitness.
Can I Request a Private Tour?
Yes, private tours can be requested for this kayaking experience. While the standard tour accommodates up to 14 travelers, the operator may be able to arrange a private tour for individuals or smaller groups, subject to availability and additional fees.
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Recap
The Sea Kayak Discovery of Kekova offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Mediterranean island of Kekova.
Visitors can paddle through secluded harbors, marvel at Lycian ruins, and enjoy panoramic views from Simena Castle, all while learning about the area’s history and ecology from a professional guide.
With basic swimming ability and good physical condition, this personalized and safe experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
