Kekova is a boat-only kind of day. This private trip from Antalya (and Kemer) gets you to Kekova and the sunken city area with enough water time to actually enjoy the coast, not just pass by it. You’ll also have the chance to hop ashore in Simena if you want history views from above the harbor.

I particularly like the swim-focused rhythm: multiple bay stops with swimming time, plus snorkeling gear included. You’re not stuck rushing through ruins when what you really want is clear water, cool breaks, and easy-to-manage fun.

One consideration: the day runs about 8 to 11 hours, and if you choose the Simena castle stop, the entrance fee is extra.

Key things that make this tour work

• Private group to up to 12 people, so your day stays flexible and calmer than big group boats
• Pickup from Kemer or Antalya via air-conditioned vehicle, getting you to the marina without hassle
• Kekova swimming stops built into the schedule, with snorkeling equipment provided onboard
• Sunken City pass-by from the water, including Lycian-era remains
• Optional Simena castle visit for Crusader-era vibes, with the entrance not included
• Lunch served onboard with tea, coffee, fruit, plus additional snack breaks like peach ice cream when time allows

Boat-only Kekova: why this route is so satisfying

Kekova feels like the kind of place that just does not work the same by land. The coastline is dramatic, the water is the star, and most of the good moments happen when you’re already on the boat, close to coves and ruins.

What I like about this tour is that it gives you time where it counts: you’re not racing from one distant viewpoint to another. You spend a real chunk of the day at Kekova itself, with scheduled stops for swimming and a pass near the sunken city. That matters because the best lighting, the clearest water, and the most comfortable water temps usually come when you’ve got time to move slowly and choose when to hop in.

You’re also getting a guided format, which helps a lot around Kekova. The coastline is full of small details, and having someone explain what you’re looking at turns a shoreline cruise into an actual story you can follow.

Antalya and Kemer pickup: getting started without stress

The morning is designed to take transportation stress off your shoulders. Your day starts around 10:00 am, and the tour includes air-conditioned vehicle pickup options.

If you’re staying in Kemer, pickup is arranged from there (through Akdeniz Transfer). If you’re based in central Antalya, you’re picked up from the area of Kaleici Marina. Either way, you’ll get transferred to the departure point, then transition smoothly to the boat portion.

Why this matters: Kekova boat days often suffer when people try to solve logistics on their own. Here, the schedule is built around getting you to the marina so you can spend your energy where you actually want it—on the water.

Setting off from Kaleici Marina to Kekova

Once you’re at the marina, the day becomes the classic Turkish Riviera pattern: you get onboard, settle in, and start moving along the coast toward Kekova. This is also where you’ll get the practical side squared away—where to store things, how the timing works, and what to do if you’re planning to swim or snorkel.

One of the underrated perks of a private boat format: you can keep your own pace. If your group likes long swim breaks, you’ll usually be able to use the schedule in that direction. If your group prefers photos and short swims, you can do that too.

And from what I’ve seen described about this operator, the boat experience itself is a big part of the appeal—especially cleanliness and comfort. More than once, the boat was described as very clean, comfortable, and well cared for, including bathroom facilities.

Kekova Island swims: bays, clear water, and snorkeling time

The tour includes a main block of time at Kekova Island, about 3 hours, and that time is designed for the water. You’ll stop in several bays so you can swim—this is the part of the day most people remember.

If you’re a snorkeler, this is also where the included gear comes in. Snorkeling equipment is part of the package, so you’re not paying extra or scrambling to rent something last minute. The water is often reported as extremely clear, which is exactly what you want for snorkeling: better visibility makes everything feel more worthwhile.

A small but meaningful detail: the schedule gives you swim time, not just a quick dip. When you’re on a long boat day, that difference is huge. You can warm up, swim, snorkel, dry off a bit, then do it again without feeling like you’re on a timer.

Also, keep your eyes open. In clear water, you might spot sea life. One of the more memorable sightings mentioned was sea turtles (caretta-caretta), and jellyfish were seen nearby as well. You can’t plan on animal sightings, but the right conditions make it possible.

Sunken City from the water: what you’ll actually see

The highlight that brings most people here is the sunken city pass-by. You’ll go near the remains of an ancient city tied to the Lycian period, and the key is that you see it from a boat perspective.

From the water, you can appreciate how the coastline curves and how the submerged structures relate to what’s still above the surface. The ruins are not meant to be something you sprint to and photograph once. The real value is slow looking: watch where the city lines up with the water, then compare what you see above and below.

This part of the day works best if you treat it like a viewing moment rather than a task. Bring your phone for photos, but also pause and watch. If you’re with a group, tell everyone where to stand so you all catch the same view from the same angle.

There’s also a practical upside to the private format: your group can spend a bit of time lingering at the right moment without worrying about keeping a large schedule.

Simena Castle: the optional Crusader-era stop

If you want to add something on land, there’s an option to visit the Castle of Simena. The stop is about 1 hour, and it’s described as a small town and historical castle from the Crusaders era.

This is not a required stop, and that’s a good thing. For many people, Kekova is about water time. For others, the payoff is history views and a quick walk above the harbor.

Two practical notes:

• Entrance to the castle is not included, so plan for that cost if you go in.
• Since time is tight at 1 hour, wear shoes that work well on uneven outdoor surfaces.

I like having this optional component because it balances the day. If your group wants a bit of variety, you can get it. If not, you can focus purely on the water.

Lunch onboard: simple, filling, and timed for the day

Lunch is served onboard with tea and coffee, plus fruit. The overall feel is that it’s built for a boat day: straightforward, filling, and easy to eat without slowing everything down.

What makes the food setup better than average is that it’s not portrayed as just a basic sandwich. People describe the food as very good, with enough variety to satisfy different tastes. One review even mentions choosing the main dish, and meze-style extras being part of the lunch experience.

Also, keep an eye on drinks. Alcoholic beverages are extra, and other drinks on board are not included. If your group likes to toast, decide who’s buying what before you get thirsty and start guessing.

A final food detail worth knowing: the tour includes time for lunch, and there’s mention of a local break like peach ice cream. That’s the kind of small regional touch that makes the day feel less generic.

Boat comfort and crew: cleanliness, helpful service, and great photo moments

For boat tours, the two things that make or break the day are the boat itself and how the crew runs it. Here, the feedback points strongly to cleanliness and comfort. The boat was repeatedly described as spotless and very comfortable, including when traveling with a group size around 11 people.

The crew also seems to focus on practical help: friendly, attentive service, and support that makes it easier to handle the day—especially if your group includes kids or people who need a little extra reassurance about swimming time.

Captain names that come up in the experience descriptions include Cpt. Ergun. One review also mentions Captain Ian, and both show up as memorable because they’re described as fun, helpful, and skilled at driving the boat.

There’s another extra that’s oddly delightful: drone video or photos. People specifically mention beautiful photo and video moments taken by the captain’s drone. It’s the kind of thing you can’t easily get from your own phone angle, especially when the boat is moving.

Price and value: $830.08 per group up to 12

The price is $830.08 per group, up to 12 people, for a day that runs roughly 8 to 11 hours. The private format changes the math. Instead of per-person pricing that can jump quickly, your group cost stays within the same bracket.

Here’s the basic value lens:

• If you fill the boat with the maximum group size, you’re roughly looking at about $70 per person for a full Kekova day with boat time, swimming stops, lunch, tea/coffee/fruit, and snorkeling gear.
• If you book with a smaller group, the per-person cost rises, so this option is strongest when you’re traveling with friends, family, or a mixed group that can actually reach the 8–12 range.

Also, the pickup and air-conditioned transfer add value. Getting to the marina without figuring out parking and timing on your own is worth real money on a long day.

If you’re comparing to shared boats, the biggest difference is not just comfort—it’s control of the schedule and pacing. That’s what makes a private boat day feel like a day, not a checklist.

Who should book this Kekova and Sunken City private boat tour

This tour fits best if you:

• Want a boat-only Kekova day with actual swimming time, not just sightseeing
• Have a group that would benefit from private pacing (families, couples, friend groups)
• Like snorkeling and want gear included
• Appreciate a mix of sea views plus one optional land stop at Simena
• Care about boat cleanliness and smooth crew service

It’s also a good choice if you’re staying in Antalya or around Kemer and want one planned day to cover Kekova without complicated transport juggling.

Should you book it?

If your goal is a one-day Kekova experience that prioritizes water time, you should seriously consider booking. The combo of a private group, scheduled swimming stops, included snorkeling equipment, and an onboard lunch makes it feel practical, not just scenic.

Skip it only if your group is mainly history-only and hates boat days. Also, plan ahead if you want the Simena castle stop, since the entrance fee is extra and you’ll need to use that 1 hour wisely.

If you want clear-water coves, easy snorkeling, and a sunken city pass that you can actually enjoy at a human pace, this is the kind of tour that delivers.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?

The tour starts at 10:00 am.

How long is the tour?

The duration is approximately 8 to 11 hours.

Is pickup included?

Yes. Pickup is offered from Kemer (via Akdeniz Transfer) and from Antalya near Kaleici Marina.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. It’s private, and only your group participates, up to 12 people.

What’s included in the price?

Included are an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch with tea, coffee, and fruit, and the use of snorkeling equipment, plus tea and coffee.

What is not included?

Alcoholic beverages are not included, and castle entrance is not included for the Simena castle stop.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes. The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment.

Do I get a mobile ticket?

Yes. A mobile ticket is included.

What happens if weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance of the start time for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount paid is not refunded.

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