Driving from Bay to Bay or a Kekova Boat Tour

When planning a holiday, that famous dilemma always comes up: We have our car, we can just open the map and drive from bay to bay, so why should I get on a boat? As someone who has steered through these waters for years, I can tell you this: If your route takes you to the west of Antalya, to those unique shores of Kaş and Demre, every kilometer you travel by land will only show you a limited part of that magnificent geography. Instead of sweating behind the steering wheel in the scorching Mediterranean heat, searching for parking spaces in tight bends, and getting tired on dusty roads; choosing an experience where you feel the wind on your face and breathe in the salty but refreshing scent of the sea will rest your soul. The real secrets of the region are hidden underwater and in spots that can only be reached by sea. Exactly for this reason, to collect the most unforgettable memories of your holiday, planning a wonderful Kekova boat tour will be the best remedy for the exhaustion you would otherwise experience in a car. I watch with great excitement every time how our guests' eyes sparkle when they first see those turquoise waters.

Sweating Behind the Wheel or Feeling the Wind on the Deck?

Traveling by car in the Antalya region certainly has its own kind of freedom. You can stop wherever you want and take pictures of the scenery. However, when it comes to swimming and exploring historical sites, the steep and rugged structure of the Lycian coasts stands in your way as a major obstacle. The roads leading down to most untouched bays are unpaved and difficult. I always hear how tired our guests get while driving in that scorching summer heat.

On the other hand, while lounging on the deck of a boat, you do not have to think about the route. Your captain has already chosen the calmest, most windless bays with the clearest waters for you. While you could be sipping your morning coffee in the tranquility of Gökkaya Bay or gently gliding towards the mysterious coolness of the Pirate Cave, spending hours on hot asphalt can steal your holiday energy. For me, a blue voyage is not just about getting from one place to another; it is about transforming the journey itself into pure pleasure.

A Miracle Only Accessible by Sea: The Sunken City

What makes Kekova Island and its surroundings so special is that a large part of it can only be explored over the waters. The ancient city of Dolchiste, also known as the Sunken City, which was submerged as a result of massive earthquakes in the second century, is a miracle you will never see by road. As we slowly pass by the island on our boat, I am sure you will be mesmerized while watching the underwater stairs, ancient amphora remains, and the old foundations of houses. There is a history of thousands of years looking back at you from beneath that glass-like, transparent texture of the water.

To witness this unique page of history closely, to pass silently right over the ancient ruins, and to glide over the mysterious waters, I wholeheartedly recommend you experience this magnificent Kekova boat tour at least once in your life. Every morning when I sail into those waters, the silent story of the underwater streets continues to touch my heart just like the very first day.

Touching History and Flavor in the Streets of Simena (Kaleköy)

Another unique route of the region is undoubtedly Simena, known today as Kaleköy. Our guests love this place very much because it is one of the rare settlements in Turkey that is situated on the mainland but has absolutely no road connection. It is impossible to go there with your car. When we dock at the wooden pier with our boats, stone houses adorned with bougainvillea and friendly village people welcome you.

Kaleköy is a place where time stands still with its narrow, labyrinth-like streets. The Lycian sarcophagi rising right out of the water do not look this majestic in any other geography. Especially watching that spectacular island view from the castle's bastions closer to sunset hours wipes away the fatigue of an entire year in a single breath.

💡 Captain Ergun's Advice: When we anchor at Kaleköy, never let climbing the castle through those steep stone stairs intimidate you. The endless panoramic view you will see when you reach the top will be worth every single drop of sweat you shed. On the way back down, do not return to the boat without tasting the homemade peach and cactus fruit (prickly pear) ice cream made by the village women waiting around the corners. That natural freshness will make you truly feel the spirit of the island on your palate.

The Decision is Yours: Time to Sail Towards the Blue

Long story short, although the idea of driving from bay to bay sounds pleasant and adventurous at first, in the challenging geography of the Lycian coasts, this situation often turns into a struggle with heat and fatigue. Especially if you have come to this unique region where history and nature embrace underwater, it means it is time to put the steering wheel aside and entrust your route to the gentle whispers of the waves. Planning a Kekova boat tour is one of the greatest holiday gifts you can give yourself. We captains experience the same excitement every time we set sail and take great pleasure in rediscovering this natural wonder through the eyes of our guests.

If you are ready, leave the scorching heat and the exhausting asphalt behind; reserve your place now and set out on an unforgettable journey towards the heart of the Mediterranean with that flawless Kekova boat tour adventure of your dreams. See you in the blue waters!

Frequently Asked Questions

I receive dozens of questions every day from our guests who are planning to visit the region. To clear your mind, I would like to answer the most curious details from my own perspective.

Can I drive all the way to Kekova with my car?

You can only reach the village of Üçağız or the Çayağzı (Demre) port by car. There is absolutely no vehicle road leading to Kekova Island, the Sunken City, and Simena. You are required to take a sea journey to explore these unique beauties.

Is it allowed to swim in the Sunken City area?

Since the Sunken City is a first-degree archaeological site, it is strictly forbidden to swim, dive, or drop anchor on the southern shores where the ancient ruins are located. We pass slowly over the ruins with our boat so you can take plenty of photos. We take our swimming breaks at permitted, safe spots where history and nature intertwine, such as Tersane Bay right across the island.

What items should we bring with us?

The Mediterranean sun can sometimes be quite generous. Therefore, you should definitely bring your high-protection sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses with you. Since you will be swimming a lot, a spare swimsuit and a beach towel are lifesavers. I also highly recommend bringing non-slip walking shoes or comfortable sandals so you can easily walk on the stony paths while climbing up to Kaleköy.

Would the tour be challenging for those who experience seasickness?

The Kekova region is very similar to an inland sea or a lake structure. The surrounding islands act as a natural shield protecting the area from the harsh winds and giant waves of the open sea. Because of this, the sea is almost always as flat as a sheet. Still, if you have a very sensitive stomach, taking a simple motion sickness pill half an hour before the tour will allow you to spend the day completely relaxed.