Kas: Private Kekova Boat Tour including transfers

Kas: Private Kekova Boat Tour including transfers is a fantastic way to explore some of Turkey’s most captivating coastal sights without the crowds. This full-day adventure offers a private boat experience—up to six guests—that promises personalized service and a chance to see the famed Sunken City of Kekova, along with stunning bays, ancient ruins, and possibly even some turtles swimming nearby.

What we love most about this tour is how flexible and intimate it is. With a private boat, you’re not just another face in a large group — you get to customize your stops and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of transfers from Kas makes the trip seamless, removing the hassle of organizing transport yourself.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include lunch or drinks, so you’ll want to plan accordingly if you’re hungry or thirsty mid-day. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, personalized experience and want to see Kekova’s highlights with a knowledgeable skipper guiding the way. If you’re after authentic scenery, historical sites, and a bit of adventure on the water, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Private group for a personalized, relaxed experience
• Includes transfers from Kas to Demre Cayagzi Harbour for convenience
• Visits Sunken City and Simena Castle for history buffs
• Opportunities to swim at secret bays and see Caretta Carettas (turtles)
• No lunch included, so plan to bring snacks or buy locally
• Flexible itinerary based on weather, time, and group preferences

Exploring the Kekova Private Boat Tour: What to Expect

This tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Kas and a transfer to Demre Cayagzi Harbour, where your private boat awaits. The boat, based at Demre Cayagzi Harbour, is your floating base for the day. The small group size (up to six) ensures a comfortable and intimate atmosphere, giving your captain the flexibility to tailor stops and commentary to your interests.

The Journey Begins: From Kas to Demre

The transfer from Kas to Demre is straightforward, about a 1-hour drive, and is often included in the package. The meeting point is at Ayla Boat Tours Cayagz Harbour in Demre, which is a convenient location with easy access from Kas. Once onboard, your skipper — likely a knowledgeable local with a love for the coastline — will set sail for the first stop.

Kekova Island and The Sunken City

The highlight of this trip is exploring Kekova Island, home to the famous Sunken City. This area was once part of a thriving ancient settlement destroyed by earthquakes in the second century, leaving behind submerged ruins that sometimes peek through the water. The boat will anchor nearby for you to marvel at the partially visible shipwrecks, which attract divers and snorkelers alike.

Despite its archaeological importance, the Sunken City remains accessible mainly from the water, giving you a chance to see history from a unique perspective. Many travelers find this both humbling and fascinating — it’s quite a moment to float above ancient walls and columns, imagining life from centuries ago.

Simena Castle and the Royal Tombs

As your boat approaches Kaleköy, the remnants of Simena Castle come into view. This fortress, perched on a hillside, offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially as the boat nears the harbor. The steep path to the castle is worth exploring if you have time, and you might be tempted by the local ice cream, highly recommended by past travelers.

Climbing into the castle, you’ll find royal tombs and a small museum — entry may require a museum card, so bring yours if you have one. The castle’s strategic position offers sweeping views of the coastline, making it a favorite spot for visitors seeking a mix of history and scenery.

Swimming and Relaxing in Beautiful Bays

Throughout the day, your skipper will choose the best spots for swimming and relaxing. Esmeralda Bay is often a quiet, scenic spot to dip in the water. Many reviews mention its tranquility and the beauty of its surroundings.

Gokkaya Bay is a popular stop, especially because of its clear waters and the opportunity for water sports. Small rocky islets and ancient ruins nearby make it a scenic, fun place to swim, snorkel, or just float and soak up the sun. Water clarity is often praised, making it ideal for exploring beneath the surface.

If you’re into floating in pristine waters, Burc Bay is another highlight. It’s famous for its clay believed to have healing properties — a fun and potentially skin-softening experience. The cold springs that feed into the bay are perfect for cooling off during the hot summer months.

Pirate Cave and the Final Swim

Your boat will then head to Pirate Cave, located on the island of Asirli. This sea cave is a favorite among travelers, with tributaries that are shallow enough to swim into and pebbly shores perfect for relaxing after a quick dip. The legend of pirates hiding here adds an adventurous flair that makes the stop memorable.

The last swimming break occurs at Karemlik Bay, positioned at the two ends of Demre Cayagzi Beach. It’s a great spot to unwind and reflect on the day’s sights before heading back to Demre Harbour.

Returning to Kas

The tour concludes back at the starting point in Demre Cayagzi Harbour. From there, your transfer will bring you safely back to Kas, leaving you with plenty of memories and great photos of the day.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the best parts of this trip is the opportunity to see Caretta Carettas, the endangered sea turtles, which are occasionally spotted swimming near the bays. Past travelers have been delighted to witness these graceful creatures, often feeding or swimming alongside the boat.

The calm, private setting means you can really take your time at each spot — whether you want to snorkel, relax, or explore the castle. This is not a rushed tour; it’s about soaking up the scenery and feeling like you’re exploring with friends rather than on a large, impersonal group trip.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $567 for a group of up to six, this tour offers a good deal considering the personalized experience, private transfers, and full day on the water. Compared with larger group tours, you get the flexibility to customize stops and spend more time at each location.

While lunch isn’t included, many travelers find it easy to bring snacks or buy local food during the day, especially in Kaleköy, which has charming cafes and small eateries. The inclusion of hot drinks, fruits, diesel, and the skipper ensures comfort and smooth sailing.

Reviewers note that an “excellent crew” helps make the experience special, with some mentioning the possibility of seeing turtles and enjoying the boat’s hospitality, like fresh grilled fish and salads. These touches add value, especially considering the personal attention and relaxed pace.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat trip appeals most to travelers seeking an intimate, flexible experience with a focus on scenery and history. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want to avoid the crowds and have the freedom to explore at their own pace. History buffs and nature lovers will enjoy the chance to see ancient ruins, underwater shipwrecks, and marine life.

It’s suited for those comfortable with a full-day outdoor adventure, including swimming, sunbathing, and light walking. If you prefer a structured, all-inclusive experience with meals and guided tours, this might not be the best fit. But for travelers craving authentic coastal exploration with personalized service, this tour delivers.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The price covers return transfers from Kas, the private boat, skipper, hot drinks, fruits, and fuel (diesel).

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, meals are not included, so you should bring snacks or plan to buy food at stops like Kaleköy.

Can I see sea turtles on this tour?
While not guaranteed, travelers have reported seeing Caretta Carettas swimming near the bays, adding a special touch to the day.

How many people will be on the boat?
This is a private tour for up to 6 people, ensuring a relaxed, personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, water, and any personal items you might need for the day. It’s also helpful to bring some cash for optional snacks or entry fees, like for Simena Castle.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the calm waters and private setting make it suitable for families with children, provided they are comfortable with boat trips and swimming.

To sum it up, the Kas private Kekova boat tour offers a splendid mix of history, nature, and relaxation. With a flexible itinerary, personalized service, and access to some of Turkey’s most iconic coastal sights, it’s perfect for those looking to experience the area at their own pace. Whether you’re into archaeology, wildlife, or just soaking up stunning scenery, this tour provides excellent value and a genuine sense of adventure on the water.