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Located west of Antalya, Kas and Kekova are among the most special sea routes in the Mediterranean, bringing together natural beauty and historical heritage. With its turquoise sea, rocky shores, quiet bays, islands, and ancient ruins dating back thousands of years, the region offers much more than a classic seaside holiday. In particular, Kas Kekova private boat charter options provide a flexible and comfortable alternative for those who want to explore the region independently from crowded tour programs.
When Kekova is mentioned, the first place that comes to mind is undoubtedly the Sunken City. The underwater sections of the ancient settlement, stone structures extending toward the shore, and historical traces visible beneath the water transform the boat journey into a unique exploration experience. With a private boat route starting from Kas, Kekova Island, Ucagiz, Kalekoy, Simena, and the surrounding bays can be visited during the same trip.
What Is Kas Kekova Private Boat Charter?
Kas Kekova private boat charter is a sea travel option that allows guests to explore the bays, islands, and historical sites of the Kekova region with a private boat departing from Kas or its surroundings. It can be planned as a daily trip or extended into longer programs depending on the duration of the journey.
Unlike standard boat tours, a private charter allows the route to be shaped according to the expectations of the group. Different itineraries can be created for groups that want to spend more time swimming, stay longer around the Sunken City, visit Kalekoy, or relax in quieter bays.
Especially for families, groups of friends, couples, and guests who want to spend a special day, Kekova boat charter provides the advantage of determining the pace and stops of the journey more freely.
Where Is Kekova and Why Is It So Important?
Kekova is a region located off the coast of Demre in Antalya and lies east of Kas. The region forms an extensive sea route together with Kekova Island, Kalekoy, Ucagiz, and the surrounding natural bays.
The importance of Kekova does not only come from its natural beauty. The region also attracts attention with its historical ruins dating back to the Lycian civilization. Some parts of the ancient settlements remained below sea level as a result of earthquakes and natural processes, creating the unique historical area known today as the Kekova Sunken City.
For this reason, a Kekova boat trip offers a very different route for those who want to experience the sea, nature, and history together on the same day.
What Is the Kekova Sunken City?
The Kekova Sunken City is an ancient settlement area located on the northern coast of Kekova Island, with parts of it remaining underwater. Some sections of the historical structures can be seen along the coastline, while some traces are visible beneath the water.
It is generally accepted that some parts of the settlement went below sea level as a result of earthquakes. Today, the area is protected due to its archaeological and natural characteristics. Therefore, certain rules must be followed to preserve the historical character of the Sunken City.
As boats pass along the coast of the Sunken City, the ruins of structures beneath the water and sections of the ancient settlement close to the shore can be observed thanks to the clarity of the sea. For this reason, a Kas Sunken City boat tour is not only a sea excursion but also a short journey into the past.
How Can the Sunken City Be Explored?
One of the best ways to explore the Sunken City is to tour the area by boat. As the boat moves along the coastline, underwater structural remains and parts of the ancient settlement close to the shore can be observed.
However, due to the archaeological nature of the area, applicable regulations must be followed regarding activities such as swimming, diving, or touching historical remains in the Sunken City. When chartering a private boat, it is therefore important that the captain and crew are familiar with the protection rules in the region.
For this reason, when planning a Kekova private boat tour, attention should be paid not only to the comfort of the boat but also to the captain's knowledge of the region and route experience.
Private Boat Tour from Kas to Kekova
Kas is one of the important departure points for those who want to explore the Kekova region by sea. When planned as a daily trip, a Kas Kekova boat tour can start from Kas in the morning and allow guests to visit different bays and historical sites throughout the day.
Depending on sea conditions and the boat's program, several swimming breaks can be arranged along the route from Kas toward Kekova. Once the boat reaches the Kekova region, it can pass along the coast of the Sunken City before stopping at a historical site such as Kalekoy.
The advantage of private boat charter is that the route can be shaped according to the expectations of the group. Instead of following fixed schedules as in standard tours, swimming and relaxation periods can be adjusted according to suitable conditions on a private boat.
Explore Kalekoy and Simena
One of the most important stops on the Kekova route is Kalekoy. Located on the site of the ancient settlement of Simena, Kalekoy attracts attention with its historic castle and stone architecture spread along the coastline when viewed from the sea.
When reaching Kalekoy by sea, the boat can be left at a suitable point and guests can go ashore. Walking through the narrow streets of the area, seeing the historical ruins, and enjoying the view of Kekova from higher points add a different dimension to the journey.
Especially in Kas Kekova private boat charter programs, allowing sufficient time for Kalekoy ensures that the sea excursion becomes richer not only in terms of swimming but also in terms of history and culture.
Ucagiz Village and the Kekova Route
Ucagiz, one of the important settlements in the Kekova region, stands out with its natural harbor and boat routes. The settlement, which preserves its traditional coastal character, can be considered as a starting point or stopover during Kekova trips.
It is possible to spend time by the sea, watch the boats, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the region around Ucagiz. On private boat routes, Ucagiz, Kalekoy, and the Sunken City can be combined within the same program.
In a longer Kekova yacht charter program, more time can be allocated to different bays and islands in the region.
Which Bays Can Be Seen with Kekova Boat Charter?
The Kekova area is home not only to historical sites but also to numerous bays known for their clear waters and natural surroundings. Depending on the duration of the boat route, Tersane Bay, Aquarium Bay, and smaller surrounding bays can be included in the itinerary.
Tersane Bay is one of the important stops around Kekova Island. It can be preferred for swimming breaks thanks to its natural beauty and clear waters. The name of the bay is associated with the remains of a shipyard historically used in the area.
Aquarium Bay is another natural stop known for its clear water. Especially on calm days, the ability to see beneath the surface more clearly can make the bay attractive for those who want to snorkel.
Which bays will be visited along the route should be determined by the captain according to the duration of the trip and sea conditions.
How Is the Sea in Kekova?
The sea around Kekova reflects the characteristic beauty of the Mediterranean with its clarity and turquoise shades. The water can be calmer in sheltered bays, creating suitable conditions for swimming breaks.
The Kekova sea is also attractive for those who want to snorkel when underwater visibility is good. Rocky formations and natural marine life can be observed in areas close to the shore.
However, since sea conditions can change depending on the season, wind, and weather, the captain's guidance regarding swimming locations should always be taken into consideration.
Daily Kas Kekova Boat Charter Route
A daily Kas Kekova boat charter program can generally begin with a departure from Kas in the morning. The first part of the journey involves sailing toward the Kekova area.
During the day, the program can include passing along the coast of the Sunken City, visiting Kalekoy, and taking swimming breaks in different bays. Lunch can be planned on the boat or at a suitable location along the route.
On the return journey, a different route can be selected depending on weather and sea conditions. This can make it possible to return to Kas along different coastlines from those seen in the morning.
Planning an early departure can be useful for making efficient use of time during a daily program. However, the exact route should be determined by the captain according to the sea conditions on the day of travel.
Advantages of Private Boat Charter
Private boat charter in Kekova offers greater flexibility compared with standard tour programs. Since the boat is reserved exclusively for your group, the route and daily schedule can provide a more personalized experience.
For larger groups, sharing the boat's common areas only with people you know can make the holiday more comfortable. For families, the ability to adjust break times according to the needs of children is another important advantage.
For couples, a private boat can create a more personal atmosphere for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or marriage proposals. A special sunset route can also be arranged to create a romantic evening program at sea.
What Determines Kekova Private Boat Charter Prices?
Kekova private boat charter prices vary depending on the type and size of the boat, capacity, charter duration, travel date, and services provided. Daily charter prices for motor yachts, gulets, trawlers, or other types of boats may differ.
When researching prices, it is important not to consider only the boat rental fee. Guests should also ask whether fuel, captain, crew, food and beverage services, as well as marina or port expenses, are included in the price.
Especially for private Kas Kekova yacht charter routes, boat capacity is an important factor when evaluating the total cost. Although the total price of a larger boat may be higher for a large group, the cost per person may be more balanced.
Best Time for a Kekova Boat Tour
The busiest period for boat trips around Kas and Kekova is the summer season. In June, July, August, and September, sea temperatures generally reach suitable levels for swimming activities.
July and August can offer favorable conditions for a seaside holiday due to the high air temperatures. However, boat traffic in the region can also increase during these months.
June and September can be considered by those looking for a quieter sea holiday. Especially in September, the sea can still be warm enough to enjoy swimming while the summer crowds may have decreased to some extent.
As always, weather conditions and sea conditions should be taken into consideration when planning the route.
What Should You Bring on a Kas Kekova Boat Trip?
Preparing basic sea essentials before a private boat trip can make the journey more comfortable. A swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are among the basic necessities during the summer months.
Snorkeling equipment can also be useful for those who want to observe the Sunken City and surrounding bays more closely. However, all protection rules applicable to historical areas must be strictly followed.
It can also be helpful to use waterproof protective equipment for phones, cameras, or other electronic devices, especially during boat trips and swimming breaks.
Why Is It Important to Protect the Environment in Kekova?
Kekova is not only a tourist sea route but also an important area of natural and cultural heritage. Therefore, everyone visiting the region should act responsibly toward the environment.
Avoiding plastic or other waste in the sea, not touching historical structures, and following protection regulations are important for preserving the region for future generations. Those traveling by boat should keep their waste on board and dispose of it at appropriate points.
When chartering a private boat, working with captains who are environmentally conscious and familiar with the protection status of the region can also contribute to a more responsible travel experience.
