Kaş Region — The 7 Best Bays for a Blue Cruise

If you’re planning a blue cruise from Kaş, which bays you include will shape the soul of your trip. This guide — prepared with Platinyachting expertise — walks you through the seven most compelling bays in the Kaş area with detailed anchoring and snorkeling notes, historical and photography tips, safety advice, and two practical sample itineraries (4-night and 7-night). Whether you are staying aboard for a week or joining a day trip, you’ll find navigation and guest-focused insights to help you get the most from the Kaş–Kekova coastline.

Helpful links: explore our Blue Cruise options, learn about gulet charters, compare motor yacht and trawler choices, or contact us via our contact page for a bespoke itinerary.

Why Choose Kaş for a Blue Cruise?

Kaş is a unique blend of clear Mediterranean water, dramatic sea caves, and an ancient coastline dotted with archaeological treasures. From Kaş it’s straightforward to reach Kekova, Kaleköy (Simena) and the submerged ruins that define the region’s seafaring appeal. Add to that the secluded bays only accessible by water and you have all the elements of an authentic blue cruise: swimming, snorkeling, quiet coves, and evenings under the stars.

Quick note: most Kaş departures that visit Kekova offer a rare combo of natural beauty and visible antiquities — the ruined structures visible from the surface are striking and best appreciated from a slow, respectful approach by boat.

The Seven Bays — At a Glance

Below are the seven bays we recommend including on a Kaş-based blue cruise itinerary. Each bay delivers a different mix of scenery, swimming and shore options, so you can tailor your trip to snorkeling, photography, family time or history.

Kaleköy (Simena) & the Sunken City (Kekova) — history & swimming
Yağlıca Bay — narrow, fjord-like seclusion
İnönü & “Akvaryum” Bay — snorkeling and deep, clear water
Limanağzı Bay — natural shelter and calm waters
Hidayet Bay — very close to Kaş town and highly photogenic
Kaputaş Beach viewpoint (Kalkan area) — spectacular vistas and a classic photo stop
Akçagerme / Büyük Çakıl — broad beach and family-friendly swim

These spots are commonly included on both day trip and week-long cruises out of Kaş. The following sections dive into anchoring tips, activities, local best practices and safety details.

Detailed Bay-by-Bay Guide — Anchoring, Activities & Tips

1. Kaleköy (Simena) & The Sunken City (Kekova) — Timeless Charm

Kaleköy, locally known as Simena, and the nearby submerged ruins are among the most iconic stops for any blue cruise in this region. The partially submerged walls, house foundations and harbor structures create an unforgettable sight from your boat — especially in the late afternoon light. Many guests consider the Kaleköy view one of Turkey’s most photogenic maritime scenes.

Anchoring & Overnight Notes

Kaleköy’s little harbor suits small gulets and yachts. Overnighting often means anchoring close to shore and using a tender to reach the village’s tiny pier.
The Sunken City area is protected — do not enter shallow ruins by boat or disturb archaeological features. Keep distance and enjoy the view and snorkel from safe zones only.

Activities & Local Experiences

Swim above clear water and photograph ancient walls visible beneath the surface.
Climb to the castle for panoramas and golden-hour photos; the walk is short but steep in parts.
Share tea or a simple meal in the village’s small cafes — a lovely way to meet locals.

Tip: snorkeling around rocky outcrops near Kaleköy gives fantastic underwater views — bring your own mask or ask the crew for a high-quality set. Always follow the captain’s guidance to avoid protected areas.

2. Yağlıca Bay — A Hidden, Fjord-like Channel

Yağlıca is narrow and dramatic: a long, steep-sided inlet with very limited land access. Its quiet waters and almost fjord-like profile make it a favorite for travelers who value privacy and striking landscape photos.

Anchoring

Because the bay is narrow, assess your vessel’s length and other anchored boats before committing — spacing and polite communication matter here.
During peak season space can be scarce; include Yağlıca on your route early in the day if you want a less-crowded visit.

Activities & Underwater Life

Snorkeling spots include small sea caves and rock formations—visibility is usually excellent.
Drone photography can capture dramatic shots of the narrow inlet, but always check local rules and respect privacy.

Weather note: thermal and seasonal winds (like the meltem) can shift quickly; when spending the night here, confirm the captain’s local weather read and anchor in sheltered positions.

3. İnönü & “Akvaryum” Bay — Snorkeler’s Paradise

İnönü Bay and its nearby cove called “Akvaryum” (the Aquarium) are popular for their transparency and calm seas. Shallow reefs and small rocky shelves make them perfect for casual snorkeling and underwater photography.

Anchoring & Swimming Notes

Many boats anchor close enough for guests to swim directly off the stern and explore with masks and fins.
Water shoes can be useful: some entry points have sharp stones or pebbly bottoms.

Best Times to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon provide quieter conditions and softer light for photos — mid-day attracts more day-boats during high season.

4. Limanağzı Bay — Natural Harbor, Pine-fringed Shore

Limanağzı feels like a natural harbor, protected and lined with shaded pine groves. It’s an excellent spot for afternoon rest and safe overnight anchoring, favored by captains for its sheltered geometry.

Practical Notes

Limanağzı is a practical overnight option when weather or winds push you to choose shelter.
Depending on wind direction, captains may distribute boats along different parts of the shoreline to optimize shelter.

The bay’s calm waters and trees make it a popular choice for families with children and guests who prefer quiet evenings on deck.

5. Hidayet Bay — Close to Kaş, Perfect for Photos

Hidayet Bay lies just a short ride from Kaş center and is one of the region’s picture-perfect spots. A small shoreline, turquoise water and a shaded area under plane trees make it an easy half-day or overnight stop.

Anchoring & Access

Boats typically anchor close to the little pier so guests can step ashore via tender.
Some beach operators may offer loungers or umbrellas for a small fee — check ahead with the crew.

Because Hidayet is so near Kaş, it’s an ideal choice for groups who want a relaxed swim and still enjoy an evening in town afterward.

6. Kaputaş Viewpoint & Beach — A Visual Must-Stop

Technically on the Kalkan line, Kaputaş Beach is often included on Kaş departures for its unforgettable cliffs and color contrasts. While landing at the beach from a yacht is not always feasible, the approach from sea and short swim stops make for an incredible postcard view.

Approach & Cautions

Direct beach access from a larger yacht is sometimes limited — the captain will evaluate anchor feasibility and safety.
If you plan to disembark and walk the stairway to the beach, keep in mind the steep descent and ascent.

7. Akçagerme / Büyük Çakıl — Broad Beach, Family Atmosphere

Akçagerme, also called Büyük Çakıl, has a long pebble beach and calm waters ideal for families. With nearby beach facilities, it can be a comfortable stop where guests combine swimming with a short beach break ashore.

Practical Tip

Popular in peak season — if your group is large and intends to disembark, coordinate with beach operators or your captain in advance so the visit is smooth.

Sample Blue Cruise Itineraries (Kaş Departures)

4 Days / 3 Nights — Quick Kekova Escape (Most popular short trip)

Day 1: Depart Kaş — late afternoon swim in Hidayet Bay and overnight near Kaş.
Day 2: Morning swims among the nearby islets; afternoon at İnönü / Akvaryum Bay; overnight in the İnönü area.
Day 3: Visit Yağlıca Bay and Akvaryum for snorkeling; afternoon transit to Kaleköy (Simena) to view the Sunken City — overnight Kaleköy/Üçağız.
Day 4: Morning in Kaleköy, return cruise to Kaş and morning disembarkation.

This compressed route mixes history and snorkeling and is ideal if you have limited time but want the Kekova highlight included.

7 Days / 6 Nights — The Full Kaş–Kekova Experience (Relaxed pace)

Day 1: Depart Kaş — evening swim and overnight in Hidayet Bay.
Day 2: Limanağzı, Akçagerme and a Kaputaş viewpoint stop; leisurely swims and beach time.
Day 3: İnönü and surrounding islets — snorkeling and island hopping; overnight Yağlıca.
Day 4: Move toward Kekova — Kaleköy exploration in the afternoon and a sunset above the ruins.
Day 5: Üçağız (the old harbor) and optional short hikes to local ruins; beach time later.
Day 6: Free water sports and swims; a relaxed evening preparing for the return.
Day 7: Return to Kaş and disembark after breakfast.

This week-long itinerary balances active mornings and relaxed afternoons, giving you time ashore in Kaleköy and extra swims near quieter coves.

Platinyachting can adapt either itinerary to your group’s pace and interests — whether that means adding extra history-focused shore excursions, private beach days, diving, or wellness activities such as yoga on deck. See our gulet and yacht options for suitable vessels and price examples on the charter prices page.

Choosing the Right Boat — Practical Advice from Platinyachting

The varied coastline around Kaş means vessel choice matters. Below is a short guide to the types of boats commonly chartered here and when to pick each.

Classic Gulet: Wooden gulets offer broad social decks, comfortable cabins and are ideal for 6–12 guests on weekly charters. They are the quintessential blue cruise experience. Browse gulet categories at Gulet Charters and compare standard, luxury and ultra-luxury models.
Motor Yacht: Faster transit between coves; useful if your group prefers shorter travel times and a more hotel-like experience. Explore motor yacht charter options if speed is important.
Trawler: For guests prioritizing seakeeping and long-range comfort, a trawler is a stable option with generous interiors — check our trawler listings.

Price, season and group size influence which vessel is the best match. For more details and representative price ranges visit our yacht charter prices page.

Practical Info: Best Season, Weather, Safety & What to Bring

Best Time to Travel

The ideal window for a Kaş blue cruise is late May through early October. July–August are hottest and busiest; for fewer crowds and milder temperatures consider June or September.

Wind & Weather

Coastal winds can shift quickly. Captains plan routes around daily forecasts; their decisions are made with safety as the top priority. Ask your skipper for local wind briefings each evening so you understand any route changes.

Safety

Follow crew instructions on life jacket use, tender operations and night-time procedures.
Avoid running on wet decks and use handholds when moving about the boat.
Respect protected areas such as the Sunken City — do not attempt to anchor on archaeological remains.

What to Pack

Personal snorkel gear if you prefer your own mask and fins (most boats provide sets, but personal equipment fits better).
Reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brim hat.
Light windbreaker and a change of casual evening clothes for tavern dinners ashore.
Waterproof phone pouch, reusable water bottle and a small daypack for shore walks.

Customize Your Trip — Services & Booking Resources

Platinyachting arranges everything from full-board gulet weeks to private day charters. Below are direct resources to help you explore vessels, routes and optional extras:

Blue Cruise overview — itineraries and ideas.
Gulet charters — vessel categories and sample layouts.
Gulet charter routes — route suggestions for the Aegean and Mediterranean.
Charter prices — sample price ranges by season and vessel.
Motor yacht charter and trawler charter pages — alternatives to gulets.
Area pages: Bodrum, Fethiye, Marmaris, Göcek for related route options and extensions.

If you need a specific vessel suggestion or a custom route (for example: private yoga gulet, themed charter or extended Greece extension), check our specialty pages such as Yoga Gulet Charters and Private Gulet Charters.

More Resources & International Pages

For international charter travelers, our Turkey and multi-region yacht charter pages include broader context and pricing:

Turkey Yacht Charter — routes & country-level guidance.
Fethiye Yacht Charter, Bodrum Yacht Charter and Göcek Yacht Charter — if you want to combine Kaş with other classic destinations.
Fethiye Blue Cruise routes and region pages for planning longer cruises.
If your plans include a Greece extension, see: Greece Yacht Charter.

Ready to Start Planning?

Whether you’re booking a private gulet for a family week, a motor yacht for a fast and luxurious trip, or a small-group blue cruise that highlights history and snorkel spots, Platinyachting specializes in tailored experiences out of Kaş. Start by exploring vessel types and sample prices:

Contact Platinyachting — get a custom quote

For quick reference: general gulet categories and routes are at Gulet Charters, price examples at Gulet Charter Prices, and alternative yacht types at Motor Yachts and Trawlers.