A Voyage Through Time: Why Kaş and Kekova Offer a Yacht Trip Like No Other

Along the magnificent stretch of Turkey's Lycian coast lies a region where history is not confined to museums, but is etched into the very landscape. This is the realm of Kaş and Kekova, a protected and profoundly beautiful area where the mountains meet the Mediterranean in a dramatic display of cliffs, islands, and impossibly turquoise bays. A Kaş boat rental is more than a simple holiday; it is a journey into a living museum, an opportunity to sail through the pages of history and anchor in the quiet harbours of ancient civilizations.

Unlike other destinations that are defined purely by their beaches, a Kekova yacht charter is an immersion in a story that spans millennia. Here, you can glide over the submerged ruins of an ancient city, climb to a Crusader castle that sits atop a Lycian necropolis, and swim in bays where Byzantine ships once sheltered. This unique and powerful blend of breathtaking natural beauty and tangible, accessible history makes the yacht cruise from Kaş to Kekova one of the most enriching and unforgettable experiences in the entire Mediterranean. It's a place that captures the heart, stirs the soul, and leaves an indelible mark on all who visit by sea.

Your Gateway to History: How to Rent a Boat in Kaş or Kekova

Planning your voyage into this historic region is a straightforward and exciting process. While the charming town of Kaş has a beautiful harbour, it is a smaller charter base. Many of the most popular and luxurious crewed charters that explore this area begin their journey from the larger, more established yachting hubs of Fethiye or Göcek to the west. This allows for a spectacular coastal cruise en route to the main attractions of the Kekova region.

The process begins with a conversation with a trusted charter specialist. You will discuss your group size, your desired dates, your budget, and the kind of experience you are looking for-be it a relaxed family holiday or an adventurous exploration. Based on this, they will present you with a curated selection of suitable yachts. Once you've chosen your perfect vessel, your broker will help you craft a bespoke itinerary that includes all the highlights of the Kaş and Kekova area, ensuring a seamless and perfectly paced journey. A yacht charter in Kaş is the key to unlocking this incredible region.

The Crown Jewels of the Lycian Coast: 10 Must-See Places by Boat

Your private yacht is your front-row seat to the wonders of this coastline. Here are ten of the most remarkable destinations that should be on every Kaş-Kekova itinerary.

1. Sunken City of Kekova

This is the star attraction and a truly magical experience. Along the northern shore of Kekova Island, the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Dolchiste lie partially submerged in the crystal-clear water. As your yacht glides silently alongside, you can look down and see the ghostly outlines of building foundations, staircases descending into the sea, and ancient harbour walls just beneath the surface. It is a powerful reminder of the ever-changing relationship between man and nature. As it is a protected archaeological site, swimming directly over the ruins is forbidden, but the view from the deck is an unforgettable spectacle.

2. Kaleköy (Simena Castle)

Rising from the sea on a small peninsula, the car-free village of Kaleköy is one of the most picturesque spots in all of Turkey. A charming jumble of stone houses draped in bougainvillea, it is crowned by a magnificent Crusader-era castle. The climb to the top is rewarded with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the Mediterranean, looking out over the entire Kekova sound. Inside the castle walls, you'll find a tiny ancient theatre carved from the rock. After your descent, be sure to try the famous homemade ice cream from one of the small village cafes.

3. Tersane Bay

Located on Kekova Island, Tersane Bay (Shipyard Bay) has a narrow entrance that opens into a beautiful, protected cove. Its historical significance is immediately apparent from the ruins of a Byzantine chapel on the shoreline. This was once a safe harbour and a place for shipbuilding and repairs, and you can swim and snorkel amongst the submerged and shoreline ruins, making for a truly unique and atmospheric experience.

4. Aquarium Bay (Akvaryum Koyu)

Living up to its name, this stunning bay is renowned for its exceptional water clarity. It is a perfect circle of brilliant turquoise, sheltered by rocky hillsides. It's a pure and simple paradise for swimmers and snorkelers. The visibility is often so good that it feels like you are swimming in a natural aquarium, with schools of fish darting beneath you. It's an essential stop for a long, leisurely swim break.

5. İnönü Bay

A true hidden gem, İnönü Bay is a narrow, fjord-like inlet that cuts deep into the coastline. The approach is spectacular, as you cruise through a canyon of rock walls. At the very end of the inlet lies a small, pristine pebble beach and some of the clearest, coolest water in the region. It is a wonderfully secluded and dramatic spot that offers a real sense of discovery.

6. Ufakdere Bay

For those seeking a perfect, tranquil overnight anchorage, Ufakdere is an excellent choice. This peaceful and well-protected bay offers calm waters, a beautiful natural setting, and a wonderful sense of seclusion. It's the ideal place to drop anchor, enjoy a quiet dinner on deck, and spend an evening stargazing, far from any light pollution.

7. Limanağzı

Located just a short cruise from Kaş harbour, Limanağzı is a beautiful bay famous for its beach clubs and the ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs overlooking the water. It's a great spot to anchor for lunch and a swim, and you can take your tender ashore to relax on a sunbed at one of the laid-back and stylish beach clubs.

8. Aperlai Ancient City

For the explorers in your group, a visit to the ancient city of Aperlai is a must. Your yacht can anchor in the beautiful and quiet bay, and from there you can swim or walk ashore to explore these fascinating and less-visited ruins. The city walls, necropolis, and remains of churches and baths are scattered across the landscape, offering a real sense of adventure and a direct connection to the Lycian past.

9. Yağlıca Bay

Yağlıca is another stunningly beautiful and dramatic bay, known for the unique, almost iridescent quality of its water. Surrounded by high cliffs, the sea here has a deep, cool, and intensely turquoise hue that is truly mesmerizing. It's an incredible place for a refreshing swim and is often frequented by the majestic Caretta Caretta sea turtles.

10. Büyük Çakıl Beach

Just east of Kaş town, Büyük Çakıl (Big Pebble) Beach is famous for the freshwater springs that bubble up from under the pebbles and mix with the sea. This creates pockets of incredibly cool, refreshing water, which is a delightful relief during the heat of the summer. The beach is lined with a few simple, charming restaurants that are perfect for a casual lunch ashore.

Your Vessel for a Historic Voyage: What Type of Boats Can You Charter Here?

The Kaş-Kekova region is perfectly suited to the leisurely pace of a traditional Turkish gulet. A gulet cruise from Kaş or a nearby base offers the ideal platform of comfort and space from which to appreciate the scenery. However, the excellent sailing conditions also make it a fantastic destination for a sailing yacht or a stable catamaran. For those wishing to cover more ground, a motor yacht is also an excellent choice. To find the perfect vessel, our guide to choosing the right boat can be a great help.

Choosing Your Moment in History: Best Season to Visit Kaş and Kekova

To fully appreciate the historical sites without the intense heat and crowds of summer, the shoulder seasons of May, June, September, and October are highly recommended. The weather is beautiful, the sea is warm, and the atmosphere is much more tranquil, allowing for a more personal and profound experience of this incredible region.

The Savvy Explorer's Notebook: Planning Tips for a Smooth Cruise

To make the most of your trip, remember to pack good, sturdy footwear for climbing up to Simena Castle and exploring the ruins of Aperlai. A good quality camera and a pair of binoculars are also essential for spotting the details of the Sunken City and the tombs carved into the cliffs. Finally, trust your captain's immense local knowledge; they can often guide you to the quietest times to visit the most popular spots.

A voyage through the waters of Kaş and Kekova is an experience that stays with you. It is a journey that is as rich in history and culture as it is in natural beauty. Planning a trip to such a unique destination is best done with a partner who understands its nuances. At Göcek Yachting, we specialize in creating bespoke itineraries that showcase the very best of this historic coastline. We invite you to explore all of Turkey's incredible Blue Cruise destinations, and when you are ready to plan your own voyage through time, please contact us.