Beyond the Postcards: Why Kekova Is a True Hidden Gem
When you envision a Kekova boat trip, your mind likely conjures images of the world-famous Sunken City of Dolchiste and the impossibly picturesque, car-free village of Kaleköy. These are the crown jewels of the region, and rightfully so. Yet, for the discerning traveler, they are just the beginning of the story. The true, deep magic of Kekova is found in the places the day-trip boats pass by-the silent, pine-scented coves, the secret beaches accessible only by sea, and the ancient ruins that lie waiting in quiet solitude. This is the Kekova that sailors and seasoned explorers whisper about, a world of profound tranquility and untouched beauty.
A private yacht charter is your exclusive key to this hidden world. It's the freedom to glide past the main attractions and drop anchor in a secluded bay where your group are the only souls in sight. This guide is your treasure map to these lesser-known destinations. We will take you beyond the postcards and into the heart of the real Kekova, revealing the Kekova hidden bays and Kekova beaches that transform a great holiday into an unforgettable adventure. This is not just a tour; it's a journey of discovery into one of Turkey's most precious protected paradises.
Anchors in Antiquity: Secluded Bays Worth Discovering
The true luxury of a private charter is the ability to linger. It's the freedom to spend an entire afternoon in a bay that captures your heart. The following coves are the soul of the Kekova sailing experience, each offering a unique character and a powerful sense of peace.
Tersane Bay
Located on the northwestern side of Kekova Island, Tersane Bay is a place where history and nature are beautifully intertwined. Its name translates to 'Shipyard Bay', a nod to its past as a safe harbour and boat-building site during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. As you enter the well-protected cove, you are greeted by the picturesque ruins of a Byzantine chapel on the shore. But the real magic lies beneath the water. The bay is scattered with submerged ruins of the ancient settlement, and the unique thrill of swimming and snorkeling directly above and among these centuries-old walls is an experience that connects you to the past in a truly tangible way. It's a perfect, calm spot for a long lunch at anchor, followed by an afternoon of historical exploration in your swimsuit.
Karaloz Bay
For those seeking absolute tranquility, Karaloz Bay is a sanctuary. Tucked away on the mainland, this small and deeply indented cove is renowned for its exceptional protection from the wind, making it a favourite and secure overnight anchorage for sailors in the know. There are no restaurants, no facilities, just the sound of the wind in the olive groves and the gentle lapping of the waves against your hull. The water here is deep, dark, and exceptionally clean. It's a place to read, to talk, to swim in profound peace, and to witness a night sky so brilliant it feels like you can almost touch the stars. It is one of the most serene and restorative of all and coves.