Göcek to Kekova Blue Cruise: 7-Night Private Gulet Itinerary on the Lycian Coast
Blue Voyage
7 Nights / 8 Days · Round trip from Göcek · Private gulet charter
Cruise route · numbered pins mark each night's anchorage
This seven-night private gulet cruise starts and ends in Göcek and follows the Lycian coast east to Kekova, one of the most beautiful and historic corners of the Turkish Mediterranean.
Along the way you visit Gemiler Island, Ölüdeniz and Butterfly Valley, the small harbour towns of Kalkan and Kaş, and the sunken city and castle village of Kekova.
Every Aren Yachting charter is private, so the route below is a guide rather than a fixed schedule. Your captain adapts it to the wind, the sea and your own pace.
This route can also start and finish in Fethiye, a short sail from Göcek.
At a Glance
Why Sail to Kekova
The coast between Fethiye and Kekova is steep, wild and full of history. Ancient Lycian tombs, castles and a sunken city sit beside turquoise bays, and the towns of Kalkan and Kaş add charming evenings ashore.
- Kekova and Simena: A sunken ancient city along Kekova Island and a castle above the village of Kaleköy (Simena).
- Lycian towns: Kalkan and Kaş, with narrow streets, restaurants and harbour views.
- Famous bays: Ölüdeniz and Butterfly Valley on the way out and back.
The Route Day by Day
Day 1 – Göcek & Gemiler Island
Your charter begins in Göcek. The gulet sails across the gulf towards the Lycian coast.
The first night is at anchor by Gemiler Island, also known as St Nicholas Island, with Byzantine-era ruins on its slopes.
Day 2 – Ölüdeniz & Butterfly Valley
Swim in the turquoise water off Ölüdeniz, with its famous lagoon and beach.
The gulet then anchors off Butterfly Valley, a narrow valley behind a beach that can only be reached by sea.
Day 3 – Kalkan
Today the gulet sails south-east along the steep Lycian coast.
You arrive in Kalkan, a small harbour town with white houses, narrow streets and rooftop restaurants. The night is spent in the harbour or a nearby bay.
Day 4 – Kaş & Kekova
After a stop in Kaş, the gulet continues to Kekova.
Cruise slowly along Kekova Island to see the ruins of the sunken city in the shallow water, then anchor near Üçağız for the night.
Day 5 – Simena & Kaş
In the morning visit Kaleköy (Simena), a village reachable only by sea, and walk up to its castle for views over the bay and Lycian tombs.
The gulet then sails back to Kaş for an evening in this lively harbour town.
Day 6 – Kalkan & Ölüdeniz
The gulet sails back west along the coast, with a swimming stop near Kalkan.
The night is spent near Ölüdeniz, with its famous turquoise water.
Day 7 – Yassıca Islands
The gulet returns to the Göcek gulf.
Your farewell dinner and last night on board are among the Yassıca Islands, with shallow, turquoise water.
Day 8 – Göcek
After breakfast the gulet returns to Göcek, where you disembark.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Göcek to Kekova blue cruise?
It is a 7-night, 8-day round trip from Göcek. Some days include longer sailing legs along the Lycian coast.
Can we see the sunken city at Kekova?
Yes. The gulet cruises slowly along the north coast of Kekova Island, where the ruins of the ancient city can be seen in the shallow water. Swimming directly over the ruins is not allowed.
Can the itinerary be changed?
Yes. Every Aren Yachting charter is private, so the route is a guide rather than a fixed programme. Your captain adapts it to the weather and sea conditions.
When is the best time for this blue cruise?
The gulet season runs from May to October. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, while late spring and early autumn offer warm sea temperatures and quieter anchorages.
What is included in the charter price?
Inclusions vary by yacht and are confirmed in your written offer and charter contract before you book, so you know exactly what you are paying for.
Can this cruise start in Fethiye?
Yes. Göcek and Fethiye are close to each other, so this route can also start and finish in Fethiye.
Plan Your Göcek to Kekova Cruise
Share your dates, group size and preferences, and our team will match you with the right gulet and tailor this route around you.