Explore the submerged ruins of a Lycian city on a boat trip from Ucagiz and discover ancient history floating beneath the waves.
The Lycian coast of Turkey holds many ancient secrets, and few are as captivating as the submerged city of Kekova. Located just off the coast from the charming, traditional village of Ucagiz, Kekova presents a unique opportunity to glimpse a lost civilization. These boat tours are your gateway to this fascinating underwater archaeological site, allowing you to drift over ancient foundations, sarcophagi, and staircases that have been swallowed by the turquoise waters over centuries. Imagine looking down from a comfortable boat and seeing the faint outlines of streets and buildings that once bustled with life. Ucagiz, a picturesque fishing village with a sleepy atmosphere, serves as the primary departure point for Kekova Sunken City tours. Its tranquil harbor is lined with small boats ready to whisk you away to explore this historical marvel. Beyond the sunken city itself, these excursions often extend to explore other nearby points of interest, such as the striking Simena Castle perched high above the bay, and the dramatic Tersane Bay, where ancient shipwrecks and Byzantine ruins can be spotted. It's an experience that blends natural beauty with profound historical discovery, making it a must-do for anyone visiting this enchanting stretch of the Turkish Riviera.
Witness the remarkably preserved ruins of a sunken Lycian city directly from your boat.
Connect with ancient history in a tangible way, seeing where people lived, worshipped, and were buried centuries ago.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea and the rugged Lycian coastline throughout your journey.
Depart from Ucagiz, a traditional Turkish fishing village offering a glimpse into local life and hospitality.
Tours often include visits to other significant historical and natural sites like Simena Castle and Tersane Bay.
Kekova is readily accessible via boat from Ucagiz, making it a convenient and rewarding excursion.
These are the most common tours, focusing on a scenic boat ride along the coast. They provide excellent vantage points to see the sunken city and often include stops at Simena Castle and Tersane Bay. Ideal for a general overview and enjoying the scenery.
Similar to classic tours but with a more intimate feel. Small groups allow for more personalized attention and often a slightly more flexible itinerary. Perfect for travelers who prefer a less crowded experience and more interaction.
For the more adventurous, these tours often incorporate opportunities for snorkeling or even diving near the sunken ruins. While direct diving on the main sunken city is restricted, there are areas nearby where you can explore the underwater world and marine life.
Most tours range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the itinerary and any included stops for swimming or exploring.
Tours operate in pleasant Mediterranean weather. Summers can be hot, so sun protection is essential. Conditions are generally calm, though rough seas can occasionally lead to cancellations.
Tours can range from small, private boats for 2-6 people to larger boats carrying 20-30 passengers, especially during peak season.
Typically includes the boat trip, access to viewing the sunken city, and often a stop in Tersane Bay or for swimming. Some may include light refreshments. Entrance fees for Simena Castle are usually extra.
Tours depart directly from the harbor in Ucagiz. Meeting points are usually clearly communicated by the tour operator.
Expect to pay separately for entrance to Simena Castle, any personal purchases like drinks or souvenirs, and potentially optional activities.
Book your Kekova tour in advance, especially during the high season (June-September), to secure your preferred departure time.
Pack a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. The Mediterranean sun is strong, and there's limited shade on most boats.
Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to take advantage of swimming stops in clear turquoise waters.
Wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as you might be boarding boats from docks or beaches.
Carry some cash in Turkish Lira for small purchases, entrance fees to Simena Castle, and tips.
Consider a longer tour if you want more time to explore Tersane Bay or enjoy extended swimming breaks.
Listen carefully to your guide's commentary; they provide invaluable insights into the history and mythology of Kekova.
Don't forget your camera! The scenery, the ruins, and the charming village of Ucagiz are incredibly photogenic.
A: Directly swimming over the main sunken city ruins is generally not permitted to protect the archaeological site. However, tours often include stops in designated bays like Tersane Bay where swimming is allowed and very enjoyable.
A: Yes, the views from Simena Castle (Kaleköy) are spectacular and offer a fantastic panoramic perspective of the sunken city and the surrounding turquoise waters. It's well worth the climb up to the castle.
A: The shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October, offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures for boat trips. The summer months (June-August) are warm and lively but can be quite hot and busy.
A: While swimming is an optional activity on many tours, it's not mandatory. You can still enjoy the views of the sunken city and the coastal scenery from the boat. If you do plan to swim, basic swimming ability is recommended.
A: Kekova was a Lycian city that sank into the sea due to seismic activity and earthquakes over centuries. It's believed to have been an important port city, and you can still see the remnants of houses, churches, and sarcophagi submerged beneath the waves.
A: Absolutely. Many local operators in Ucagiz offer private boat tours. This is a great option if you're a group or prefer a more personalized and flexible experience.
A: Ucagiz is a charming village with several lovely waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Turkish cuisine. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a meal before or after your boat trip.
Experience the tranquil charm of Ucagiz, a coastal village offering a genuine glimpse into traditional Turkish island life.
Discover Ucagiz's untouched beauty, nestled beside ancient Lycian ruins and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Enjoy a peaceful escape in Ucagiz, far from the usual tourist crowds, perfect for relaxation and authentic connection.
Explore the rich history of Ucagiz, with its proximity to Kekova's sunken city and ancient sarcophagi.
Savor fresh seafood and local hospitality in Ucagiz, immersing yourself in the laid-back rhythm of island living.
Find serenity and timeless beauty in Ucagiz, where ancient history meets the gentle Aegean Sea.
Ucagiz enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The coastal location means it experiences plenty of sunshine throughout the year, with sea breezes offering some relief during the warmer months. Expect clear skies and warm temperatures for much of the spring and autumn.
The ideal months to visit Ucagiz are May, June, September, and October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm for sightseeing and swimming, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
July and August represent the peak season in Ucagiz. Expect the hottest temperatures, highest visitor numbers, and potentially higher prices for accommodation and boat tours.
From November to March, Ucagiz experiences its off-season. While the weather is cooler and wetter, it offers a much quieter experience, lower prices, and a chance to see the village as a local residence.
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Getting around Ucagiz is wonderfully simple and relaxed. The village itself is small and best explored on foot, allowing you to soak in the authentic atmosphere. For excursions to nearby attractions like Kekova or Kaleköy, local 'blue cruise' boats and small water taxis are the primary and most scenic options. These are readily available from the Ucagiz harbor and offer flexible trips. Renting a scooter is an option for exploring further afield along the coast, though roads can be narrow and winding. Public transport beyond the immediate Ucagiz area is limited, so pre-arranging transfers from larger towns like Kaş is advisable.
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