Featured
Standard Cruise
Turkey · Demre
Kekova
Kekova – A Timeless Coast of History and Nature Kekova is one of Turkey’s most distinctive sailing destinations, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and unspoiled coastline. This protected region offers a serene and culturally rich cruising experience along the Mediterranean. Access Kekova is typically accessed via Demre or Kaş, both reachable by road from Dalaman or Antalya airports. The area serves as a key stop on popular yacht and cabin charter routes rather than a large marina hub. Sailing Area Cruising around Kekova reveals sunken ancient cities, quiet bays, and small coastal villages such as Kaleköy (Simena). The region is ideal for relaxed sailing, swimming stops, and scenic anchorages in calm, sheltered waters. Culture & Heritage The partially submerged ruins of the ancient Lycian city, combined with castle views and traditional villages, create a rare blend of history and natural beauty that defines the Kekova experience. Why Start or Visit Kekova by Yacht With its tranquil atmosphere, protected waters, and unique archaeological sites, Kekova is a highlight of Mediterranean sailing routes—perfect for travelers seeking a slower pace, authentic landscapes, and meaningful coastal exploration.
Turkey
Country
KEK
Port Code
6
Guide Sections
36.18°, 29.88°
GPS
Logistics & Technical
The inner channel of Kekova offers unparalleled shelter, acting as a natural breakwater against heavy Mediterranean swells. The bathymetry within the primary anchorages, such as Gökkaya and Üçağız, varies between 5 and 15 meters with a reliable mud and sand substrate that ensures exceptional holding capacity. Navigators must exercise extreme caution when transiting the narrow passages between the mainland and Kekova Island due to shallow rocky patches and partially submerged ancient structures. Anchoring and mooring are strictly prohibited directly along the northern shore of Kekova Island to protect the sunken ruins.
Highlights
Sea & Swimming Joy
🪞 Still as Glass💎 Aquarium Clarity🏝️ Turquoise Shallows
Sleep & Rest Comfort
🛡️ Fully Sheltered Haven😴 No Sway / Full Calm
Gastronomy & Social Life
The social and gastronomic fabric of Kekova is defined by its isolated, car-free coastal settlements accessible almost exclusively by water. The local culinary heritage relies entirely on small-scale artisanal fisheries, wild herbs, and organic produce from nearby stone terraces. Waterfront family-run restaurants built on wooden piers offer fresh, unpretentious seafood and traditional mezze, providing a highly authentic, bohem village lifestyle that seamlessly blends with visiting international yachtsmen.
Highlights
Dining & Gastronomy
🌊 Sea View🦞 Seafood Paradise🫒 Authentic Aegean Cuisine
Nightlife & Vibes
🍷 Relaxed & Sophisticated🎨 Bohemian Atmosphere🌅 Beach Bar
Shopping
🧺 Local Producer🏘️ Village Center
Activities & Exploration
The underwater and coastal topography of Kekova presents an unparalleled open-air archaeological route. While scuba diving is strictly prohibited in the immediate vicinity of the sunken city to preserve the heritage, the crystal-clear waters are exceptional for low-impact water sports like sea kayaking and paddleboarding over the ancient foundations. On land, rugged trails lead through dense Mediterranean scrub to the medieval Simena castle, offering a demanding vertical climb with expansive rewards.
Highlights
Water Sports
🛶 Calm Canoe Exploration🏄♂️ Paddleboard Paradise
Diving & Snorkeling
🐟 Among Fish Schools💎 Aquarium Clarity🐠 Colorful Marine Life
Hiking & Trekking
🏚️ Leads to Historic Ruins🚶 Short & Enjoyable Walk
Culture & Nature
Kekova is a site of profound mythological and historical depth, where Lycian sarcophagi emerge directly from the sea and Roman-Byzantine walls run down into the turquoise waters. The entire area is classified as a Special Environmental Protection Area, serving as a pristine sanctuary for rare marine life and coastal avifauna. The absence of large-scale modern development preserves an absolute quietude, making the outer coves ideal for uninterrupted celestial viewing.
Highlights
Ancient Sites
🌅 Ancient Theater at Sunset🌄 Discovery in Morning Silence👑 In the Footsteps of Empires💎 Isolated & Hidden Treasure📜 With Mythological Story🏛️ Ruins Visible from Sea
Natural Wonders
🌿 Pristine & Untouched🏔️ Panoramic Viewpoint Hill🏝️ Turquoise Crystal Lagoon⭐ Dark Sky for Stargazing🐢 Rare Marine Life Observation
Local Life
🎣 Charming Fishing Village
Practical Info
Due to its protected status, large-scale technical marine infrastructure is non-existent within the bay, requiring vessels to seek heavy repairs in nearby Kaş or Finike. However, basic logistical support is highly adapted to the yachting community; local skiffs provide mobile delivery of fresh bread, organic fruits, and locally sourced seafood directly to anchored vessels. Water taxis operate continuously to connect remote anchorages with the mainland.
Highlights
Provisions & Market
🧺 Local Producer Market🚚 Boat Delivery Service🥖 Daily Fresh Bread🥬 Organic Fruits & Vegetables🐟 Daily Fish Supply
Transportation
🚤 Sea Taxi Connection
Kids & Family
🍦 Ice Cream & Sweet Shops
Personal Insight
Captain's Note
“A landlocked inner sea requiring vigilant navigation near submerged ruins, offering flawless mud holding and absolute protection from all offshore sea states.
Cabin Tours
Cabin charter tours stopping at this destination
Nearby bays & ports
Other anchorages along the same coast
- KaracasogutTurkeyLocated at the intersection of Marmaris and the Gulf of Gokova, Karacasogut is a sheltered natural harbour surrounded by peaceful pine forests. A popular stop for yachts, this area is known for its safe anchorage points and its convenient land access to Marmaris. The region stands out not only for its sea but also for the ancient ruins and natural hiking trails in its immediate vicinity. With its calm waters and friendly atmosphere, Karacasogut offers blue cruise travelers both logistical convenience and the opportunity to relax in the heart of nature.
- Karaincir BayTurkeyKaraincir Bay, situated at the southernmost tip of the Bodrum Peninsula near Akyarlar, is a natural paradise renowned for its fine golden sand, crystal-clear calm waters, and exceptional shelter from northerly winds. Nestled securely between two hills, its shallow sandy bottom and pristine environment make it one of the most exquisite beach and anchorage stops in the region.
- Kargi BayTurkeyKargi Bay is one of the most beloved and sheltered stops on the Datca Peninsula, located very close to the center of Datca. As an indispensable part of yacht charter and blue cruise itineraries, the bay welcomes sailors with its clear turquoise sea and the unique landscape created by the surrounding high mountains. Its crystal waters and high underwater visibility make it an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts. Known for its untouched nature and high sea quality, the local establishments in the area provide guests with local delicacies prepared with fresh products and a peaceful dining experience.
- Kargili BayTurkeyKargili Bay is a hidden gem on the shores of Bodrum, a pristine paradise surrounded by pine and olive trees offering the most serene shades of turquoise. Known for its sheltered structure that provides a peaceful anchorage for boats, the bay offers an extraordinary underwater world for snorkeling enthusiasts. Far from the noise and crowded routes of the blue cruise, Kargili Bay is a favorite stop for travelers seeking true tranquility and the pure sounds of nature.
- KisebukuTurkeyOne of the largest and most impressive bays of Bodrum, Kisebuku takes its name from the ancient church ruins located on its shores. This protected area resembles an open-air museum with its Byzantine-era monastery, bathhouse, and cistern remains. Surrounded by olive and oleander trees, the wide structure of the bay provides a comfortable and sheltered anchorage for yachts. For sea enthusiasts who wish to both trace the steps of history and cool off in crystal-clear waters, Kisebuku is one of the most cultural stops of the blue cruise.
- KumlubukTurkeyKumlubuk Bay is one of the stops on the Marmaris Peninsula with the widest and clearest waters. Offering a peaceful anchorage for yacht charter and blue cruise enthusiasts, the bay is known for its long sandy beach and turquoise sea. While the area appeals to history buffs with its proximity to the ancient city of Amos, it is indispensable for swimming breaks thanks to the high sea quality along the coastline. In this bay, where the natural structure is preserved, the restaurants on the shore offer a dining experience equipped with fresh products.
Routes calling at this bay
Yacht itineraries that anchor here
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