A sunken city in open water sounds unreal. This guided boat trip from Kas mixes snorkeling, quiet bays, and views of the old ruins around Kekova and Simena. Captain Mustafa and his wife run the day with a small-group feel, so you spend more time enjoying the water than waiting around.

What I like most is the simple, hands-on water time. You get snorkeling gear included, and Kekova Island is where the swim and sunken-city spotting both happen. Another big win is the food on board. Lunch is more than a snack, and it is served in a way that actually keeps you going for the full day.

The main drawback to plan for: you will be on the water for about 8 hours, and the day depends on good weather. Also, drinks and some optional extras cost extra, so it helps to budget ahead.

Key highlights you will care about

• Small group size (max 8 travelers) for a calmer, more personal boat day
• Snorkeling equipment included, so you can focus on seeing the ruins, not shopping for gear
• Kekova Island 2-hour stop for swimming plus time to view the sunken city up close
• Castle of Simena 1-hour visit with a choice to climb or grab homemade ice cream
• Lunch included, and it is a proper meal, not just a sandwich
• Most travelers can participate, but bring sensible footwear if you plan to climb

A Small-Group Boat Day from Kas on Captain Mustafa’s Schedule

If you want the Kekova and Simena area without the big-tour chaos, this is one of those trips that feels manageable. The boat holds a maximum of 8 travelers, which matters more than you might think. With fewer people onboard, you get smoother transitions between stops, and it is easier to find a good spot to watch, shade up, or just enjoy the breeze.

English is offered, and you get a mobile ticket. That keeps the whole start of the day easy. The format is built around a full Mediterranean boat outing, with multiple chances to be near the water rather than just passing by from a distance.

Also, you are not stuck with just one kind of activity. You get viewpoints from the boat, time on Kekova Island, and a second stop at the Castle of Simena, so the day does not turn into one long wait between swims.

Kekova Island Stop: Swimming Time and Up-Close Sunken City Watching

The biggest chunk of the day is the Kekova Island stop, with about 2 hours on site. This is your window for both swimming and seeing the sunken city from the island area. The ruins around the waterline are the whole point here, so having dedicated time rather than a quick glance helps a lot.

From a practical point of view, you want to treat Kekova Island like your main activity block:

• Use your included snorkeling gear during the time you are there.
• Plan a few minutes for photos, then switch to hands-on time in the water.
• Keep an eye on where you can safely get back on the boat afterward.

There is also a stop where you pass near a small pebble beach. Even if you do not plan to spend time there, it is a nice moment to orient yourself and appreciate how the coastline shapes the day.

If you like to move at your own pace, this setup fits. Two hours is long enough to enjoy it, yet short enough that you still feel like you are on a boat trip, not trapped in one place.

Snorkeling the Submerged Ruins: What Included Gear Changes

Snorkeling here is one of the reasons this tour gets such strong marks. The equipment is included, which is a real value boost. It means you are not spending time and money lining up rentals, and it lowers the barrier if you are a casual snorkeler.

Here is what the included gear tends to mean for your experience:

• You can focus on comfort and fit right away.
• You do not have to juggle last-minute logistics before the water time.
• You are more likely to actually use it, because it is ready for you.

I would still plan your mindset around simple expectations. You are snorkeling near an ancient submerged city, but conditions depend on the day. Some swims will feel calm and clear, while others might be a bit more choppy. Either way, the joy is in the mix of scenery and the sense that you are looking at something that has been under water for a long time.

Also, do not forget sunscreen and sun protection. You are out on the Mediterranean all day, and sitting in shade is not guaranteed between stops.

Seeing the Sunken City and Ancient Ruins from the Boat Deck

Between the island stop and the Simena stop, you will also spend time viewing the ruins from the boat. This matters because submerged archaeology can look different depending on where you stand, the angle of the light, and how close you are.

From the deck, you can:

• Get broader context of the coastline and ruin layout.
• Spot areas you might want to swim toward when it is your turn.
• Take photos without constantly adjusting a mask.

This part of the experience is for people who like to watch and think as much as they like to swim. If you are traveling with someone who is less confident in the water, the deck time helps everyone feel included. Even if you snorkel for part of the day, you still get the main sights in multiple ways.

Castle of Simina: The Climb Option and the Homemade Ice Cream Hour

The Castle of Simena stop is about 1 hour. This is a good break from the water because you can stretch, walk, and make a choice: climb toward the castle viewpoint or slow down with a homemade ice cream on the island.

Two reasons this stop works:

1. It gives you variety. You go from water-based ruins to a classic hilltop feel.
2. It supports different energy levels. Not everyone wants to climb, and the ice cream option keeps the stop fun either way.

One practical consideration: admission to the castle is not included. So if you want to go up, you should budget for it.

Also, plan footwear. The mix of island surfaces and climbing paths usually rewards shoes that you trust. If you are not planning to climb much, you can still enjoy the hour at a comfortable pace.

Lunch on the Water: Fuel That Actually Fits an 8-Hour Day

Lunch is included, and the details here are a big reason people seem genuinely happy after the tour. It is not just a token meal. In the experiences shared, it comes as a multi-course style lunch, with dessert, tea, and fruit following.

That matters because boat days can drain you. Even if you are not hiking, you are in the sun, moving between spots, and spending time in water. When lunch is strong, you avoid that mid-afternoon crash where you start thinking about leaving early.

A key thing to know: lunch is included, but drinks cost extra. Bottled water is not included, and coffee or tea, soda, and alcohol are also not included.

So if you want a smoother day, I recommend you:

• Plan to buy water onboard or bring what you are allowed to bring.
• Decide up front if you want tea or coffee, since it will add cost.
• Treat lunch as your main reset meal, not a light snack.

Price and What You Should Budget Extra

At $241.36 per person for about 8 hours, you are paying for a full boat day with a small group, guided time at the main sights, snorkeling equipment, and lunch. That is a lot to pack into one outing, especially with the maximum group size kept to 8 travelers.

Where the value gets clearer is in what you do not have to pay separately for:

• Snorkeling equipment is included.
• Lunch is included.
• Fuel surcharge is included.
• Kekova Island’s admission ticket for that stop is free.

What you should budget extra for:

• Drinks beyond lunch, including bottled water
• Coffee or tea
• Soda or pop
• Alcoholic beverages
• Castle of Simena admission (if you climb)

If you are traveling as a family, the cost can feel more reasonable when everyone shares the experience and the snorkeling gear saves you extra rentals. It also helps that the day is offered in English, which you will value if you want real context while you are near the ruins.

Weather and Timing: How to Set Yourself Up for a Smooth Day

This tour requires good weather. If weather conditions force a change, you will be offered a different date or get a full refund. That is important in the Kas area because wind and sea conditions can make boat plans either comfortable or not worth it.

Because you are on the water most of the day, I suggest preparing like it is a long beach day:

• Bring sun protection and something to cover your shoulders if you burn easily.
• Wear swim-suitable clothes that dry fast, since you will be moving between boat and shore areas.
• Keep your day bag simple and secure, because the boat gives you limited space.

Timing-wise, you are looking at an 8-hour outing. If you like to sleep in or you have a busy day already, plan to keep the morning and early afternoon flexible. You will want your energy for Kekova Island and the snorkeling time.

Who This Boat Tour Suits Best in Real Life

This trip is a strong fit if you want a mix of ruins and water without a hectic day. The snorkeling component makes it especially appealing if you like being hands-on, and the deck sightseeing works well even if you are not a strong swimmer.

I also think it is a good choice for:

• Couples who want a small-group day with lots of viewpoint time
• Families, including travelers with teenagers, since the schedule offers choices and downtime
• People who appreciate good food during tours, not just a quick meal

What might not fit as well:

• Anyone who cannot handle a boat day of around 8 hours
• Anyone who strongly dislikes walking or climbs, since the Castle of Simena stop includes an option to climb

The good news is that the trip is described as having a participation fit for most travelers. You still get multiple ways to enjoy the day, whether you swim, snorkel briefly, or mostly enjoy from the boat and island stops.

Should You Book This Sunken City Boat Tour from Kas?

Book it if your dream day includes snorkeling near ancient submerged ruins plus a proper lunch and a small-group boat feel. The strongest reasons to choose it are the combination of included snorkeling equipment, a Kekova Island stop with time to swim and view, and the quality of the onboard meal. Add in the small cap of 8 travelers, and it is easier to enjoy the day without feeling crowded.

I would hesitate only if:

• You cannot commit to an all-day boat plan in good weather.
• You prefer independent sightseeing only, since this is a guided, set-schedule experience with fixed stops.
• You want everything included, because drinks and the Castle of Simena admission are extra.

One final practical note: this type of trip is often booked about 28 days in advance on average. If you are traveling in peak season or on a tight schedule, it is smart to secure your date earlier rather than waiting.

FAQ

How long is the Deluxe Sunken City boat guided tour from Kas?

The tour lasts about 8 hours.

What is included in the price?

Lunch is included, snorkeling equipment is provided, and there is also a fuel surcharge included.

Are drinks included?

No. Drinks are extra. Bottled water, coffee or tea, soda or pop, and alcoholic beverages are not included.

Do I need an admission ticket for Kekova Island?

For the Kekova Island stop, the admission ticket is free.

Is the Castle of Simena admission included?

No. Admission for the Castle of Simena is not included.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it is offered in English.

What is the cancellation policy if the weather is bad?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The tour requires good weather, and if it is canceled due to poor weather you will be offered a different date or a full refund.