Kekova
KEKOVA
Kekova is the name of a region on Mediterranean coasts that consists of pristine bays, small fishing villages, and a group of beautiful islands. It is located in Turkey’s southwest which is also known as the Turkish Riviera. Kekova is surrounded by ancient ruins and castles from the Lycian civilization.
The ruins of the Lycian cities of Simena which also has a huge Roman castle at the top of the hill and the Sunken City which is a Unesco world heritage site now are the attractions in the region, however, there are more rock-cut tombs and sarcophagi hidden in all around the hills.
All our Turkey sailing tours and many other blue cruises and private yachts often visit Kekova for its crystal clear waters, shining sun, unspoiled nature, and amazing swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving spots.
The Kekova region is an impressive 260 km² of uninterrupted natural beauty. The natural diversity and historical depth of the area make Kekova a famous stop for all blue cruises and private charters. This famous region located between other famous Turkish towns of Demre and Kas which are also amazing stops in our sailing Turkey itineraries.
Sunken City of Kekova
Kekova has a unique historical attraction that is lying under the water today; the famous Sunken City. Once It was a huge port city to both Lycian and Roman civilizations, the ancient city was mostly abandoned by inhabitants when an earthquake happened in the 2nd century AD which resulted in most of the city was sink into the water. The city is mostly submerged, however you can still see underwater ruins on the shores thanks to the clearest water of the Turkish Mediterranean. In some places on the island, some defensive walls and ruins from basilicas with some rock tombs are still visible
This amazing place could be a wonderful spot for swimming and snorkeling but in order to preserve the archaeological site as well as the nature and culture of the region, the Kekova is a protected area where swimming and snorkeling are prohibited. Due to the incredible transparency of the sea in this bay, it is still possible to see the ancient city while cruising along with your blue cruise boat. Go Turkey Sail offers 3 different itineraries which stop right at the sunken city Simena Castle, Ucagiz fishing village, and some pristine bays around.
Simena Castle
Simena Castle, also known in Turkish as 'Kalekoy' meaning 'castle village', is located on the stunning Turkish Riviera in Kekova Region. Once it used to be a Lycian settlement, the castle remains largely intact upon a hill overlooking Kekova island. Kalekoy is the only Turkish village in the country which has no land Access in spite of being on the mainland. only Access to the village today is by boats. which keeps the island as it has been there for centuries. Today on our sailing Turkey trips it is one of the highlights especially on Olympos-Fethiye tours where we stop and explore the ancient castle and eat a lot of homemade organic ice cream. To the west of the town, a series of rock-cut tombs are scattered across the slopes of the castle,
The castle itself houses a small amphitheater, which is cut into the rock with a capacity of 300 people, From the top of the castle, the view is simply breathtaking which offers a 180-degree view of the area. Our Blue Cruises will allow passengers to visit the impressive Simena Castle and nearby attractions and eat some yummy ice cream for sure on Kalekoy!
Aquarium Bay
This lagoon-like bay is an idyllic spot for swimming, snorkeling, diving, canoeing, and sailing. The water here is so clear that you can see the sea bed without even entering the water! Aquarium Bay is always included on Blue Cruise itineraries as a lunch and swimming stop.
Aquarium Bay is one of the best places in the region for diving or snorkeling due to its crystal clear water that provides excellent visibility. On the sandy sea bed, you can find colorful sponges and swim between corals. there are also some cheeky little fishes come to pose for you This particular stop is abundant with sea life, so keep your eyes open and you may spot clownfish, octopuses, starfish, damselfish, red mullets, turtles.
Aquarium bay can only be accessible by boats. There are regular day trips from Kas as well as our multi-day Gulet Cruises stop at Aquarium bay on Turkey sailing tours.
Gokkaya Bay
Another beautiful bay located in the Kekova region is so popular in all Turkey sailing itineraries for many reasons. All the captains are in love with this bay which totally protected by small islands and cliffs from the open seas. That’s we also name the particular spot as Captains’ paradise. Gokkaya Bay is a stunning location of uninterrupted natural beauty. The bay is surrounded by green hills, while the flat sea is a dazzling aquamarine blue. Gokkaya bay also houses also many Lycian ruins;
The best way to explore this amazing bay and enjoy its unique water sports activities is definitely by boat. Day trips from Kas on a regular basis but if you want to explore more of the region you may want to take a look at our Blue Cruise Itineraries. There is no establishment in the bay but a bar that offers amazing pirate parties. The bar is literally located at the end of the world. Which provides free shuttle services from/to blue cruise gulets on our Turkey sailing tours. With its outstanding beauty, calm seas, and refreshing swimming spots, Gokkaya bay will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your Turkey blue cruise holiday.
Ucagiz Village
A unique getaway spot on our sailing Turkey trips. Ucagiz, meaning three mouths, was named after the three openings from the Mediterranean sea to the village. This old fishing village is located in the Kekova region and it is also a protected area that limits development and new buildings. Thanks to protection Ucagiz has been able to preserve its charming rural beauty.
The village is located in a landlocked bay, surrounded by green hills and huge farming lands. Ucagiz offers a handful of tasty fish restaurants that serve only the fresh catch seafood. On the small promenade in Ucagiz, you can grab some Turkish ice cream and famous comfortable Turkish pants from the local vendors.
Aparlai Bay
Aparlai Bay, very much loved by locals for its crystal clear waters and stunning views across the Mediterranean Sea, is one of the bays in the Kekova region. Aparlai bay is a popular overnight spot for Blue Cruises and Gulet Boats, with its calm water and safe anchorage points. With its stunning position, Aparlai bay also offers awesome sunset over the Turquoise Coast.
The only way to visit Aparlai Bay is with a Blue Cruise gulet, Go Turkey Sail offers many sailing Turkey itineraries are available from 4 days to 8 days which stops at this particular bay. or you can book a private gulet from our fleet and enjoy personalized services and an itinerary. Our Blue Cruises depart from Fethiye or Demre for this amazing itinerary. For more information, please visit; www.goturkeysail.com
Blue Cave
Blue cave, is one of the most popular stops in the Kekova region, it has gained its name from the dazzling blue color of the water. You can swim into the cave from the low entrance on the cliffs where the sunlight bounces and the sea filling the cave with blue light. At the mouth of Blue Cave is a low ledge from where you can do some cliff jumping.
Blue Cave is also known as Pirates Cave, due to its location it was an ideal place for Pirates to rest and wait for trade ships that pass through. As you can estimate the Cave can be reached only by blue cruises gulets.