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The Guide A Kekova Boat Tour: Private Charter Or Group Trip?

Get ready to embark on a fascinating journey in the turquoise waters of Kekova and the historical ruins of the Sunken City. We examined the differences between private boat charter options where you can spend a peaceful day alone with your family, and enthusiastic group tours where you will set sail for new friendships. Captain's advice and route details that will help you make the right decision for your dream Kekova boat tour await you in this guide.
6 min read

Every time I sail into the deep, mysterious dark blue waters of the Mediterranean, a different excitement awakens within me. Believe me, I wouldn't trade that enchanting atmosphere I feel when slowly approaching the century-old historical texture of Simena by boat for anything. Our guests love this place; watching the expression of amazement in their eyes when they see the ancient stairs winking at us from under the waters and the thousands-of-years-old amphorae is a priceless feeling for me every time. However, a crucial question always arises in the minds of anyone wanting to explore this unique geography when planning a tour. Should you choose an experience where you are alone with your loved ones, or a route where you share the enthusiasm by meeting new people? If you are planning an unforgettable Kekova boat tour that will soothe your soul and be deeply engraved in your memories in these deep blue waters, you are definitely in the right place. Let's dive into the subtleties of this magical journey towards the hidden history underwater together.

Things To Consider When Making The Right Decision Between Two Different Experiences

If you are looking for the most relaxing holiday of your life and want to spend a period entirely yours in the hidden paradises of the Mediterranean, uninterrupted by anyone, the decision-making phase is highly critical. As someone who has been steering these waters for years, I can tell you that the beautiful feeling both tours give our guests is completely different. There is nothing like listening to the sound of the sea, isolated from the crowds, together with your family or very close friends. Especially when the boat's engine stops in the still waters of Gökkaya Bay, you only hear the whisper of the wind and the song of the cicadas. For precisely these moments, our guests generally prefer to create a private space for themselves and feel the rhythm of the sea within.

The Sense Of Freedom And Comfort Zone Offered By Private Options

If you ask me, having the freedom to drop anchor as long as you want in any bay you desire on a deck that belongs entirely to you is the most natural form of holiday luxury. I love the pure, untouched tranquility of setting off in the early hours of the morning before the sea has fully awakened. You can have your breakfast at whatever time you like and fully enjoy diving into the waters right off the shores of the Sunken City (in specific legally permitted areas, of course). We can shape the route entirely according to the wind, the angle of the sun, your children's sleep schedules, and your mood at that moment.

💡 Captain Ergun's Advice: In the early hours of the morning, when the wind has not yet rippled the sea surface and the waters are as smooth as a sheet, the ruins of the Sunken City look much clearer and sharper. Watching the underwater historical house foundations and streets during these hours is a complete visual feast; be sure to have your camera and diving goggles ready with you.

A Blue Voyage Story Where History And Nature Intertwine

Of course, solitude and serenity may not suit everyone's holiday concept or energy. Sometimes, one wants to share the holiday enthusiasm with new faces, different stories, and songs. Setting out on these routes as a group always has an incredible, lively energy. Hearing the exclamations of surprise rising in unison as we enter the massive and mysterious darkness of the Pirate Cave on our large boats, where foreign languages and sincere laughter from different cultures mingle, always makes me smile. If you are looking for liveliness, music, an affordable budget, and plenty of socializing, a Kekova boat tour tailored to your expectations opens a wonderful door of opportunity. Chatting about the century-old history of the bays with your new friend on the adjacent sunbed accompanied by an ice-cold refreshing drink while feeling the bright Mediterranean sun on your skin can turn into one of the sweetest memories of your holiday.

The Joy Of Socializing And Budget-Friendly Travel

One of my favorite aspects of group tours, and one most highly praised by our guests, is the great practicality they offer. You never need to make detailed plans, think about the route, or plan the lunch menu. You just grab your towel, book, and sunscreen and step onto the warm wooden deck of the boat. All details, such as the flow of the route, lunch time, and the duration of swimming breaks, are professionally and meticulously managed by us. When we untie the harbor ropes from Üçağız village and set off, I have witnessed countless times how the friendships and laughter formed on the front deck while the boat's bow cuts through the wind last for years. Our guests are generally amazed by the unifying energy of these tours and come back the following year to experience the same enthusiasm again. Actually, every single Kekova boat tour is a story of humans reconnecting with the sea, and history with nature.

💡 Captain Ergun's Advice: On our group tours, I highly recommend spending time on the wide front deck of our boat throughout the journey. You will not only feel that sweet breeze from the sea on your skin all day long but also have the chance to photograph the fascinating islands of Kekova from the widest and most panoramic angle.


Are You Ready To Set Sail For The Mediterranean Dream?

On the way back to the harbor at the end of the day, a light sea salt will remain in your hair, and a deep peace in your soul. As a captain, my greatest happiness is to bid farewell to our guests at sunset with that peaceful smile on their faces.

Whether you choose a quiet day alone with your family or set sail for new friendships, these fairy-tale and history-scented waters will fascinate you in any case. Exploring the narrow streets of Kaleköy and swimming freely in the turquoise waters is your most natural right.

It is exactly the right time to leave all that exhausting stress of life behind and write your own blue story. To experience this unique historical geography through our experienced eyes and with our sincere hospitality, you can book an unforgettable Kekova boat tour. May your wind be fair and your bow always clear; see you in this beautiful blue coolness very soon!


Do We Determine The Lunch Menu On Private Tours?

Yes, this is one of the most beautiful advantages you will experience when you arrange a boat exclusively for yourself. During the meetings we hold before the tour day, it is enough to inform us whether you prefer seafood, fresh Mediterranean mezes, or grilled meat options, and whether there are any vegetarians among you. Local delicacies marinated with regional organic olive oils, prepared entirely to your taste, believe me, taste much more delicious and unforgettable than a meal at the most luxurious restaurant on land when eaten outdoors in the middle of the sea.

What Important Bays And Historical Beauties Are On The Tour Route?

Generally, on our standard route, there are natural wonders such as Teimiussa (Üçağız), where you can see massive historical tombs from the Lycian period descending to the beach, the Sunken City with its fascinating house ruins under glass-like waters, Simena (Kaleköy), which can only be reached by sea and almost takes one back to ancient times with its narrow path streets, and the Pirate Cave, the subject of pirate legends, where only small boats can approach. Of course, depending on the Kekova boat tour option you embark on, weather conditions, and wind direction, minor pleasant flexibilities can always be made in our routes.

Which Option Would Be More Comfortable And Safe For Families With Children?

Based on my years of experience, I must sincerely say that especially for families with very small children, boats exclusively allocated to them are always much more relaxing and stress-free. Children's sleep schedules, sudden hunger times, or the durations they want to spend in the sea without getting out can vary greatly during the day. Taking a break in a suitable bay whenever you want and continuing the route whenever you wish on a deck that belongs solely to your family ensures that parents can truly enjoy the holiday without constantly checking the clock.


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Ergun Dündar

AHOY!

I'm Captain Ergun, your local guide to the beautiful waters of Kaş and Kekova!

I'm here to help you make your trip to Turkey truly unforgettable. I've handpicked some of the best experiences for you, so you can dive deep into the culture, history, and natural beauty of our coast.

Check out my insider list of top activities and hidden gems for an adventure you won’t forget!