Kaş is the bohemian soul of Turkey's magnificent Lycian Coast, a charming town where ancient history and a vibrant, modern culture coexist beautifully. It serves as the perfect gateway to one of the Mediterranean's most magical destinations: the Kekova region, home to the ethereal Sunken City. To embark on this journey of discovery, there is no vessel more suited to modern comfort and exploration than a catamaran, offering a perfect blend of space, stability, and sailing pleasure.
Advantages of a Catamaran Charter in Kaş
The unique characteristics of a catamaran make it the ideal platform for experiencing the wonders of the Kaş-Kekova cruising ground.
- Unmatched Stability and Comfort: A catamaran's twin-hull design makes it incredibly stable, both at anchor and while sailing. This virtually eliminates the rolling motion common on single-hulled boats, making it a perfect choice for families, first-time sailors, and anyone prone to seasickness. It provides a steady, terrace-like platform from which to view the ancient ruins.
- Expansive Living Space: Catamarans offer a volume of living space that is unrivalled by other sailing yachts of the same length. The spacious saloon, large cockpit for alfresco dining, and the iconic forward trampoline net for sunbathing and relaxing mean your group can spread out and enjoy their own space. It’s a private, floating villa.
- Shallow Draft for Better Access: While the waters here are deep and clear, a catamaran's shallow draft allows you to anchor in more secluded spots and get closer to the small, beautiful beaches that dot the coastline, away from the crowds.
- Panoramic Views: The open-plan layout and large windows found on modern catamarans provide stunning 360-degree views of the breathtaking Lycian scenery, ensuring you never miss a glimpse of a Lycian tomb or a medieval castle on a hilltop.
Who Is It For?
- Families with Children: The stability, wide decks, and secure cockpit create a safe environment for children. The front net is an endless source of fun, making it a stress-free and enjoyable holiday for the whole family.
- Groups of Friends: A catamaran offers the best of both worlds: large, sociable communal areas for dining and relaxing together, and the privacy of separate cabins located in different hulls.
- First-Time Charterers: For those new to boat holidays, a catamaran provides a gentle and comfortable introduction. The lack of heeling (tilting) and the spacious, home-like feel make the experience easy and enjoyable.
- Comfort-Seeking Adventurers: Travellers who want to immerse themselves in the region's rich history and natural beauty without compromising on modern comforts, space, and luxury.
Season & Weather
The charter season in Kaş runs from May through October. The area is blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate and is naturally protected, resulting in generally calm and predictable seas, especially in the sheltered Kekova Sound. June and September are often considered the perfect months, offering warm, sunny weather, ideal sea temperatures for swimming, and fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August.
Sample Itineraries
2–3 Day Route: Kekova Immersion
- Day 1: Depart from Kaş Marina and set a course east. Stop for a swim in a secluded cove before reaching the ancient port of Aperlai. Anchor overnight in the tranquil Sıçak Bay.
- Day 2: Enter the heart of the Kekova region. Cruise slowly over the Sunken City, anchor for lunch and a swim in Tersane Bay, and then visit the beautiful car-free village of Kaleköy (Simena) with its imposing crusader castle. Spend the night in the vast, protected Gökkaya Bay.
- Day 3: Enjoy a final morning swim in the crystal-clear waters before a relaxing sail back to Kaş, perhaps stopping at Limanağzı Bay for one last dip.
1-Week Route: The Full Lycian Coast Experience
- Day 1: Settle into your catamaran in Kaş and make a short sail to Limanağzı Bay for your first peaceful night at anchor.
- Day 2: Sail west towards Kalkan, stopping to admire the world-famous Kaputaş Beach from the unique perspective of your yacht. Anchor in the beautiful Fırnaz Bay.
- Day 3: Head east past Kaş to the area around Aperlai, exploring its semi-submerged ruins and enjoying the quiet anchorage.
- Day 4: A full day dedicated to exploring the wonders of Kekova: the Sunken City, the castle at Kaleköy, and the sheltered anchorages of Gökkaya Bay.
- Day 5: Continue east to Andriake, the ancient port of Myra. From here, you can take an optional land tour to see the incredible Lycian rock tombs of Myra and the historic Church of St. Nicholas in Demre.
- Day 6: Begin your leisurely journey back west, discovering more remote and beautiful coves like Karaloz for a quiet night under the stars.
- Day 7: Enjoy a final full day of sailing, swimming, and relaxing near the small islands just outside Kaş harbour before returning to the marina.
Port, Transfer & Check-in
The most convenient airport for Kaş is Dalaman Airport (DLM), located about a 2-hour scenic drive away. Antalya Airport (AYT) is also an option, with a slightly longer transfer of around 3 hours. Your starting point will be the modern and well-equipped Kaş Marina. Check-in for charters is typically on Saturday afternoons.
Boat & Equipment
Modern charter catamarans are designed for comfort and ease of handling. They typically feature 4 double cabins, each with its own private bathroom (en-suite). The bright and airy saloon connects seamlessly with the spacious cockpit, creating a fantastic indoor-outdoor living space. Standard equipment includes a fully-fitted galley, modern navigation instruments, and often amenities like air-conditioning, a generator, and a water maker.
Cost Breakdown
When planning your catamaran charter, your budget will consist of several parts:
- The Charter Fee (can be for a bareboat or a skippered yacht)
- Security Deposit (a refundable deposit against any damages, particularly for bareboat charters)
- Transit Log (a compulsory fee for cruising in Turkish waters)
- Running Costs (fuel, water, and provisions like food and drinks)
- Mooring Fees (for nights spent in marinas other than your home base)
- Optional Extras (skipper/hostess fees, water toys, customs fees for Greece)
Safety, Insurance & Rules
All commercially registered charter yachts are fully insured and equipped with all necessary safety gear. For a bareboat charter, you must hold an internationally recognized skipper's license. The captain's authority is final in all matters concerning the safety of the vessel and its crew. Remember that the Kekova region is a specially protected archaeological site; your skipper will know the specific areas where anchoring and swimming are permitted.
Local Highlights
- Kekova Sunken City: The main event-an ancient Lycian city submerged by an earthquake, with its fascinating ruins visible just below the water's surface.
- Kaleköy (Simena): A stunningly picturesque village accessible only by sea, crowned by a medieval castle with unforgettable panoramic views.
- Lycian Rock Tombs: The iconic and majestic tombs carved directly into the cliffsides, visible in Kaş and the ancient city of Myra.
- Kaputaş Beach: A world-famous beach nestled in a breathtaking gorge, best viewed and accessed from the sea.
- Meis (Kastellorizo): A charming and colourful Greek island, just a short sail from Kaş, perfect for a memorable day trip.
Tips
- Skippered or Bareboat? If you are an experienced and licensed sailor, a bareboat charter offers ultimate freedom. If not, hiring a local skipper is invaluable-they will handle the boat and use their expert knowledge to guide you to the best-hidden spots.
- Pack Light, Pack Smart: Luggage space is always at a premium on a boat. Use soft-sided duffel bags instead of hard suitcases as they are much easier to store.
- Bring Your Snorkel: The water along the Lycian coast is incredibly clear and inviting. Exploring the underwater world is a must-do activity.
- Book Early: Kaş is a boutique destination, and catamarans are extremely popular and in high demand. To secure the boat you want for your preferred dates, it is essential to book many months in advance.
- Don't Forget Your Shoes: While you'll be barefoot on the boat, pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes for exploring the charming streets of Kaş and hiking up to Simena Castle.
