Setting Sail from Üçağız

The sun was just beginning to cast its golden glow over the tranquil village of Üçağız as I boarded the boat for the Kekova Boat Tour. The gentle lapping of the waves against the hull was a soothing melody, a prelude to the day’s adventure. As a lover of slow, meaningful travel, I was eager to let the Mediterranean breeze guide me through this enchanting journey.

Our vessel, a charming wooden boat, was a floating sanctuary of leisure. The crew welcomed us with warm smiles and a promise of a day filled with discovery and relaxation. As we set sail, the coastline unfurled like a painter’s canvas, each stroke revealing the rugged beauty of Turkey’s Mediterranean shores. The air was filled with the scent of salt and sun, a reminder of the timeless allure of the sea.

The journey to the Sunken City of Kekova was a gentle glide over azure waters, each ripple a whisper of ancient tales. The anticipation of uncovering the mysteries beneath the waves was palpable, yet the journey itself was a treasure, a reminder that the joy of travel often lies in the journey, not just the destination.

Discovering the Sunken City

As we approached the Sunken City, the water transformed into a crystal-clear window to the past. The ruins of Simena, partially submerged, were a hauntingly beautiful testament to a civilization lost to time. Our guide shared stories of the Lycian people, their lives etched into the stones that now lay beneath the sea.

The boat slowed to a crawl, allowing us to peer into the depths where ancient walls and staircases lay preserved. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the impermanence of human endeavors and the enduring power of nature. The sun danced on the water’s surface, casting shimmering reflections that seemed to bring the ruins to life.

While swimming among the ruins is prohibited to preserve this archaeological wonder, the view from the boat was more than enough to ignite the imagination. I found myself lost in thought, imagining the bustling life that once thrived here, now a silent echo beneath the waves.

A Leisurely Return to Simena

Our journey continued to the picturesque village of Simena, where time seemed to stand still. The medieval castle perched on the hill offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, a breathtaking blend of history and natural beauty. As I wandered through the village, I was drawn to the local shops, where artisans displayed their crafts with pride.

I couldn’t resist purchasing a beautiful dress, handcrafted by a local woman. It was a tangible memory of my visit, a piece of Simena to carry with me on my travels. The village’s charm was irresistible, a perfect blend of culture and tranquility.

As we sailed back to Üçağız, the sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. The day’s adventures had been a perfect balance of leisure and discovery, a reminder of the beauty that lies in the slow, deliberate exploration of the world. The Kekova Boat Tour had been more than just a journey; it was a celebration of the timeless allure of travel, a dance with history and nature that left me yearning for more.