Gulet Charter Kekova

The region’s defining feature is the famous sunken city: ancient houses and public buildings that slipped beneath the crystalline waters following earthquakes centuries ago. Today, these remarkably preserved ruins shimmer just below the surface, visible from your gulet’s deck as you glide over history itself.

Why Choose Kekova for a Gulet Charter Holiday?

Kekova earns its legendary status through an almost impossible convergence of elements. Ancient Lycian tombs rise from hillsides, Byzantine church ruins stand at the water’s edge, a medieval castle crowns the village of Kaleköy, and beneath the surface, an entire neighborhood of the ancient city of Apollonia lies preserved in crystal-clear water.

The protected status of Kekova’s waters ensures exceptional marine conditions. Swimming is permitted in designated areas, and the clarity rivals anywhere in the Mediterranean. The maze of islands, inlets, and bays creates natural harbors sheltered from all wind directions, allowing comfortable anchorage regardless of conditions.

Beyond the archaeology, Kekova offers profound tranquility. The villages of Üçağız and Kaleköy remain car-free and uncommercial, accessible only by boat or footpath. Evening meals in simple waterfront restaurants, starry nights at anchor, playful dolphins at dawn—Kekova delivers the peaceful Mediterranean escape that many travelers spend years seeking.

Popular Gulet Charter Routes to Kekova

Kekova typically features as the highlight destination within longer itineraries rather than a standalone charter base. Several routes bring guests to this remarkable area:

Kaş to Kekova Circuit offers the most focused exploration of the region. Departing from the charming harbor town of Kaş, this route allows extended time within the Kekova marine reserve, visiting Üçağız village with its Lycian rock tombs, the sunken city along Kekova Island’s northern shore, the medieval castle and waterfront sarcophagus at Kaleköy (ancient Simena), and Tersane Bay with its Byzantine basilica ruins.

Antalya to Kekova follows the dramatic Lycian coastline westward, building anticipation through stops at Phaselis, Olympos, Adrasan, and Kaş before arriving at Kekova as the journey’s culmination. This comprehensive route showcases the full diversity of the eastern Turquoise Coast.

Fethiye to Kekova approaches from the west, visiting Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, Patara, Kalkan, and Kaş before reaching Kekova. This extended itinerary suits travelers wanting to experience the breadth of the Lycian shore.

Kekova and Kaş Intensive dedicates maximum time to the region for guests primarily interested in Kekova’s unique offerings. Multiple days allow thorough exploration of the sunken city, hiking to Simena Castle for panoramic views, swimming in the famous sea cave, and simply absorbing the area’s extraordinary atmosphere.

Best Time to Charter a Gulet to Kekova

The Kekova region welcomes gulet charters from April through October, with each period offering distinct advantages:

Peak Season (July-August) provides warm sea temperatures ideal for swimming over the sunken city ruins. The protected waters remain calm even when open sea conditions are challenging. Expect more boats at popular anchorages, though Kekova’s maze of bays always offers quieter alternatives.

Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October) delivers optimal conditions for many guests. Late September and October offer exceptional water clarity for viewing submerged ruins, comfortable temperatures for hiking to Simena Castle, and a more contemplative atmosphere matching Kekova’s ancient character.

Early and Late Season (April, late October) attracts travelers seeking solitude in this magical landscape. Fewer boats mean more intimate experiences at the sunken city and village restaurants. Water temperatures are cooler, but the trade-off in tranquility rewards those who value peace above all.