Kekova Boat Tour Packing Guide: Summer 2026 Essentials And History

Imagine waking up on a fascinating morning when the sparkling Mediterranean sun warms your skin, and a gentle breeze hits your face. Accompanied by the calm rhythm of turquoise waves hitting the side of the boat, you are about to step into one of the most relaxing and exploratory days of your life. However, in the middle of this perfect experience, realizing that you forgot your sunscreen just as you are about to jump into the turquoise waters, or that your battery is dead while trying to photograph the ancient Lycian ruins, can ruin all your joy. That is exactly why, before embarking on that magnificent Kekova boat tour adventure you have been dreaming of, it is of great importance to prepare your bag with the meticulousness of a professional sailor. A properly planned bag will maximize your comfort in the middle of the blue waters.

A Mediterranean Adventure Starting From Kas Harbor And The Mystery Of The Bays

With the first lights of the day, our journey starting at Kas Harbor at 09:30 AM becomes exciting with our captain's friendly welcome and brief orientation. As we weigh anchor and sail towards the fascinating waters of Kekova, you will feel that you have left all the exhaustion of city life at the harbor. Our first stop, Inonu Bay, which can only be reached by sea, offers you an unforgettable 40-minute swimming break. While swimming in this untouched bay, a high-quality pair of swimming goggles you take out of your bag will be your biggest helper to discover the tiny creatures underwater and the natural structure of the rocks.

As our journey continues without slowing down, we find ourselves in the crystal-clear Aquarium Bay. The generous 60-minute break given here allows you to both swim in waters that resemble a pool and enjoy the freshly prepared delicious lunch on the boat. A microfiber towel with high absorbency, which you will need the moment you get out of the sea, will take up minimal space in your bag and provide you with great practicality. After Aquarium Bay, our route turns to the depths of history, the iconic Kekova Sunken City region. While admiring the ruins of the Lycian and Byzantine civilizations submerged by earthquakes from the boat, the historical stories told by our captain will take you on a journey through time. Since swimming is strictly forbidden in this area, bringing polarized sunglasses will make it much easier to see the ruins under the water clearly and without reflection.

💡 Captain Ergun's Advice: Pay attention to having polarized filters on your sunglasses so you can clearly see the sarcophagi and room ruins underwater with the naked eye while passing over the Sunken City. Also, waterproof cases with neck straps are lifesavers to prevent your phone from slipping out of your hands while photographing the history filtering through the glass bottom of our boat.

Must-Have Items For Your Marine Bag And Choosing The Right Gear

If you want to have a comfortable blue voyage in the 2026 summer season, the bag you prepare will act as your mobile base throughout your Kekova boat tour. The first thing you should add to your bag should be a broad-spectrum organic sunscreen that does not harm the marine ecosystem. The Mediterranean sun, combined with the effect of the wind in the open sea, can cause serious burns without you noticing. A spare swimsuit, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat in your bag will also double your comfort.

One of the most special stops of our tour, Kalekoy (Simena), offers you a wonderful 60-minute free time. This time is quite ideal to climb to the top of Simena Castle and watch the famous postcard-perfect view of Kekova, browse the souvenir shops, or swim around the sunken sarcophagus. However, while climbing the steep and trail paths to the castle, flip-flops can hurt your feet. Therefore, you must definitely keep a non-slip water shoe or a light sneaker in your bag. After walking the narrow and history-scented streets of Kalekoy, we return to our boat and head to Tersane Bay for a relaxing 40-minute swimming break. This place is the only bay in Kekova where land access is allowed, and it gives the chance to swim intertwined with historical ruins.

💡 Captain Ergun's Advice: When you go up to Kalekoy, you will want to taste those famous homemade ice creams with goat's milk and buy handmade jewelry from local women. Since card transactions can occasionally be interrupted in small businesses on the island, do not forget to keep some cash in a small pocket of your bag.

The Final Stops Of The Blue Voyage And Afternoon Tranquility

As we approach the end of the day, we leave our hearts to the calm and peaceful turquoise waters of Camlik Bay. This final 40-minute swimming break will take away all the sweet tiredness of the day. After getting out of the water in Camlik Bay, the afternoon breeze can be chilling; so throwing a thin muslin cover or a light cardigan into your bag will be a great idea. When the clock shows 18:00, we sail back to Kas Harbor with unforgettable memories in our souls and the unique landscapes of Kekova in our minds. When planning your Kekova boat tour itinerary, ensuring your bag is well-packed makes all the difference.

An Unforgettable Journey Into The Blue Magic Of The Mediterranean

With its unique bays, thousands of years of historical texture, and nature that leaves people in awe, Kekova promises an experience you will never forget in your life. Thanks to a properly prepared marine bag, you can simply enjoy the moment and the blues without worrying about any details. If you want to see the fascinating sunken city with your naked eyes, greet the Mediterranean from the top of Kalekoy, and cool off in the turquoise waters, book your place without wasting time. To collect the most special memories of the 2026 summer and spend a dream-like day, you can immediately review our Kekova boat tour page and easily plan your reservation. Captain Ergun and his team are waiting for you at the harbor to bring you together with the blues!

Frequently Asked Questions About The Journey

Is Swimming Allowed In The Sunken City Area During The Tour?

No, since the Kekova Sunken City region is a protected archaeological site, swimming and diving are strictly prohibited in this area. However, as our boat slowly passes right next to the ruins, you can clearly see the historical structures underwater and take great photos accompanied by our captain's detailed explanations.

What Are The Departure And Return Times For Kas Boat Tours?

Our tours start exactly at 09:30 AM departing from Kas Harbor and end by returning to Kas Harbor around 18:00 in the evening. Throughout the day, swimming and discovery breaks are given in 5 different unique bays in total.

What Type Of Shoes Should I Wear On The Boat?

It is appropriate to stand barefoot or with non-slip soft-soled slippers on the boat. However, you should definitely bring a non-slip water shoe or sneaker with you so that you can be comfortable while climbing the ancient castle during the Kalekoy (Simena) visit included in the tour program.