Ucagiz: Day Trip to Kekova by Boat

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with sun, history, and crystal-clear waters, a boat tour around Kekova from Ucagiz might just be your perfect escape. This 7-hour adventure offers a blend of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic village charm that’s hard to beat. While it’s a popular choice, especially during high season, it’s worth understanding what you’ll get so you can decide if it’s right for you.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the variety of stops keeps the day interesting—from sunken ruins to caves and scenic bays. Second, the friendly guides and good organization help smooth out the sometimes busy boat scene. Third, the delicious onboard food and snacks deliver extra value for an all-day outing. That said, a potential downside is that during peak times, the water can get a little crowded and the transparency may suffer, especially with multiple boats sharing the same spots. Still, for those who love a mix of adventure and culture, this tour offers a great way to experience Kekova’s highlights without the hassle of planning.

This trip suits travelers who want a well-rounded day on the water, enjoying stunning scenery paired with some history and local flavor. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate good organization and friendly guides, especially given the language options and audio guides. If you’re seeking a fun, active day with a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and authentic village visits, this tour ticks most boxes.

• Stunning stops for swimming and snorkeling in Aquarium Bay, Gokkaya Bay, and Esmeralda Bay.
• Historical interest with a guided tour of the Sunken City and free time at Simena Castle.
• Authentic village experience in Ucagiz and Kaleköy (ancient Simena).
• Good value for the price with included snacks, fruits, and a hearty onboard lunch.
• Flexible options for water sports at Gokkaya Bay and multiple swim breaks.
• Helpful guides who provide explanations in English and Turkish, with audio guides included.

Ucagiz Village and Departure

Your day kicks off in Ucagiz Harbor, a small, authentic Turkish village with a charming atmosphere. The boat departs around 10:20-10:40 am, giving you a relaxed start to your adventure. This area isn’t just the departure point but also part of the scenic experience, with views of the surrounding hills and clear waters.

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Aquarium Bay: The First Swim Stop

The first major highlight is a whopping one-hour swim break at Aquarium Bay, renowned for its picturesque surroundings. Here, you’ll have the chance to snorkel over the shallow waters and perhaps spot some colorful fish. Many reviews appreciated the chance to cool off early, especially as the water’s natural clarity can vary depending on the season and crowd.

You’ll also enjoy complimentary Turkish tea and biscuits—a simple but appreciated touch that boosts the relaxing vibe of this stop. The reviews note that despite the busy season, swimming remains enjoyable due to the bay’s beauty, although some mention the water’s transparency could be better when crowded.

Kekova Island and Sunken City

Next, the boat cruises around Kekova Island, with a guided sightseeing of the Sunken City of Dolchiste. This is a real highlight—an underwater archaeological site where ancient ruins are partially visible from the surface. The guide explains the story of the earthquake that flooded the city in the 2nd century, making it a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Travelers have described this part as “fascinating”, with the underwater remains leaving a lasting impression. The 20-minute cruise offers scenic views, and some mention that the tour’s brief nature makes it perfect for a quick peek without feeling rushed.

Burç Bay: A Second Swim Break

After the historical stop, it’s time for more swimming at Burç Bay, known for its cooler waters due to natural springs. Some reviews mention that the cooling effect is a welcome relief in the heat, and the calm surroundings make it a peaceful spot for relaxing or snorkeling.

Pirates Cave: Natural Wonder

The boat then sails to the famous Pirates Cave, a natural formation large enough to enter and explore. Its curved entrance makes it a popular photo spot, and it’s intriguing to see how nature has shaped this impressive cavern. While not accessible for extensive exploration, it’s a visually striking feature that adds a sense of adventure.

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Gokkaya Bay: Lunch and Water Sports

One of the tour’s most appreciated stops is Gokkaya Bay, where you can enjoy a delicious onboard lunch. The food is often praised, with some reviews describing it as “amazing,” making this a real value-add. Besides eating, you can take a dip or try out some water sports, which many guests find fun and invigorating.

The 45-minute stay also provides time to relax, sunbathe on deck, or explore the bay’s calm waters. Reviewers highlight the pleasant scenery and the opportunity to unwind amidst natural beauty.

Esmeralda Bay: Tranquil Swimming

Next, a shorter swim stop at Esmeralda Bay offers some peace and quiet. This spot is described as “peaceful and beautiful,” perfect for those seeking a quieter moment to enjoy the water. The calm environment often draws positive comments from travelers who value a break from the busier stops.

Simena Castle: Authentic Village & Fortress

The boat then docks at Kaleköy, known as Simena, for about an hour. This is your chance to explore a small, authentic Turkish village with castle ruins and a necropolis. The hike up the hillside rewards you with panoramic views of the region, while the village itself offers local shops and a glimpse into traditional life.

Some reviews mention that if you prefer not to hike, you can stay down by the water and swim again. The option to explore independently adds flexibility to this leg of the trip.

Return to Ucagiz

After a full day of activity, your boat heads back to Ucagiz Harbor. Many travelers reflect positively on their day, noting the friendly crew and the well-organized itinerary. Some mention that the boat was spacious, with comfortable deck areas and mattresses for relaxing in the sun.

Price and Value: At $59 per person, the tour includes snacks, fruits, and a well-prepared lunch, which makes it a good deal for a full-day experience. The included amenities and the variety of stops add to its value, especially considering the scenic beauty and cultural sites covered.

Duration and Timing: Starting around 10:20-10:40 am and lasting approximately 7 hours, the tour offers ample time at each stop without feeling overly rushed. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive yet manageable day on the water.

Group Size and Comfort: According to reviews, the boat is large enough to accommodate everyone comfortably, with space inside and on the deck. Many travelers appreciated the availability of mattresses and shaded areas, making it easier to relax between swims.

Guides and Languages: The guides are helpful and provide explanations in both English and Turkish. The inclusion of an audio guide ensures non-Turkish speakers can still enjoy the tour’s insights.

Accessibility of Attractions: Visiting Simena Castle involves a short hike or some free time to stay down by the water, which is good to know if mobility is a concern. The Sunken City is viewed from the boat, not visited underwater, so it’s suitable for all.

Multiple reviews mention the friendly staff and well-organized nature of the tour, making for a smooth day. The onboard food receives praise, with many describing it as tasty and plentiful.

Some guests appreciated the informative guides—particularly Mustafa, who clearly went the extra mile explaining the sights in English. The small group feel and the ability to ask questions made the experience more engaging.

A few travelers noted that during peak season, the water can be crowded, and visibility might not be perfect. One reviewer shared that they expected to see submerged remains from the ancient city of Simena but found the underwater visibility limited, especially with multiple boats sharing the same spots.

The tour’s combination of natural beauty, history, and comfort creates a memorable day, especially for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and cultural exploration.

This boat trip from Ucagiz to Kekova offers a fantastic way to see some of Turkey’s most captivating waters and historical sites. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full, active day that balances swimming with sightseeing and authentic village visits. The inclusion of delicious food and friendly guides makes it a good value, especially for those new to the area or short on time.

While it’s a busy experience during high season, most guests find the scenery and the variety of stops worthwhile. If you love snorkeling, historical tales, and a relaxed day in stunning surroundings, this tour checks all those boxes. Just be prepared for some crowds and possibly less visibility in the water during peak times.

Overall, it’s a dependable choice for an enriching day out, offering a generous sampling of Kekova’s beauty and culture at a reasonable price.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for all ages. The stops involve swimming and a short hike, so consider mobility needs if traveling with young children or elderly guests.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. The tour provides snacks and fruits, but you might want to carry extra water or personal snacks if desired.

How long is each swim stop?
Swim stops range from about 40 minutes to an hour, giving plenty of time to relax, snorkel, or enjoy the scenery.

Are there any extra costs?
The main additional cost is the entrance fee to Simena Castle, which is just 1 euro. Other activities like water sports at Gokkaya Bay are optional and paid separately if you choose.

Is the food onboard good?
Reviewers have praised the onboard lunch as “amazing,” with some calling it a highlight of the day. Snacks and fruits are also included.

How does the guide assist non-Turkish speakers?
Guides typically speak both English and Turkish, and an audio guide is available in both languages to help you understand the sights.

Can I swim among the ruins?
No, the Sunken City is viewed from the boat; it’s not a site you can swim into. However, other stops like Aquarium Bay and Esmeralda Bay offer great swimming opportunities.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. It’s advisable to check the forecast and confirm availability before booking, especially in shoulder seasons.

This Kekova boat trip from Ucagiz offers a well-balanced day of scenic beauty, history, and relaxation—ideal for those wanting to enjoy Turkey’s stunning coastline with ease and comfort.

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