Kekova and the Sunken City: A Guide to a Day on a Private Yacht

Kekova is one of the Mediterranean's most striking open-air museums: the Sunken City visible beneath the clear water, the castle of Simena (Kaleköy) on the hill above and Lycian sarcophagi facing out to sea. On a private yacht you can explore this route at your own pace, far from the crowds. Here's a guide to a day at Kekova.

Quick facts

What are Kekova and the Sunken City?

The Sunken City is an ancient Lycian settlement that runs along the northern shore of Kekova Island and was submerged by earthquakes in the 2nd century. Today, staircases, foundations and walls can be seen just beneath the surface through the clear water. On the opposite shore, Simena (Kaleköy) is a charming, car-free village, famous for its medieval castle on the hilltop and its celebrated sarcophagi half-sunk into the sea.

The route: what will you see?

• A slow cruise over the Sunken City — the ruins are visible through the clear water.
• Simena / Kaleköy castle — views over Kekova from the top, Lycian sarcophagi in the sea.
• Üçağız (Teimiussa) — ancient tombs and a coastal village.
• Aquarium and Gökkaya coves — clear, sheltered water for swimming and snorkelling.

An important rule: swimming over the Sunken City is forbidden

The Sunken City is a protected archaeological site; swimming and diving directly over it are forbidden. Boats cruise slowly through this area while you take in the ruins from above, through the clear water. For swimming, designated coves nearby such as Aquarium and Gökkaya are used.

Private yacht versus shared tour

You can reach Kekova on crowded, glass-bottomed excursion boats too; but on a private yacht:

• Your own route and pace — stop in any cove you like, for as long as you like.
• No crowds — just your group and the crew.
• Anchoring in quieter coves, with a menu just for you.

How to get there

Kekova lies to the east of central Antalya, near Demre. The tour usually begins from the marina at Üçağız or Kaş. If you're coming from Antalya or Kemer, we'll arrange your private car transfer to the marina with the same team; a longer private yacht cruise can also be planned if you wish.

What's included?

Private charters include the captain and crew, the fuel for the route, cold drinks and snorkelling equipment. Lunch and bespoke menus are prepared on request.

Best time and tips

• May–October is ideal; setting off before midday is an advantage for the light and the clarity.
• There's a short walk up to Simena castle; bring comfortable shoes and sun protection.
• Snorkel the permitted coves, not the Sunken City.

The MAYSCAR difference

• Private, crewed yachts — just your group
• A private car / VIP transfer from your hotel or villa to the marina
• A 24/7 multilingual concierge and a quote tailored to you

FAQ

Can we swim over the Sunken City? No; it's a protected area. You view it from the boat, and swimming takes place in the permitted coves nearby.

Is the tour private? Yes — all our charters are private; the route and pace are yours.

How long does it take from Antalya? Kekova is to the east; the road transfer to Üçağız/Kaş is about 2.5–3 hours. We arrange the transfer.

Can you go up to Simena castle? Yes, a short walk in Kaleköy takes you up to the castle.

Is it suitable for children? Yes; the coves are calm and life jackets are provided on request.

Is food included? On request; a bespoke menu is prepared.

Can we combine it with Suluada? The two routes lie in different directions; let's plan the programme that suits you best together.

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Let's plan your private yacht for Kekova: browse the yachts or get a yacht quote directly. We can also arrange your marina transport in one go with our transfer team.