An Authentic Day on the Kas Islands: Private Boat Trip with BBQ Lunch
Imagine spending a full day on a beautiful 55-foot traditional wooden gulet, sailing across the shimmering waters off Kas, Turkey. With a private boat charter, you and your group—up to eight people—get to explore the stunning Kas Islands, swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel around a sunken ship, and enjoy a delicious, organic Turkish BBQ lunch right on deck. The experience is flexible, intimate, and designed around your interests, making it ideal for those who want an authentic, personalized adventure.
We love this tour for two main reasons: First, the private setting means you avoid crowded tourist spots and get the crew’s full attention, ensuring a relaxed and tailored experience. Second, the combination of scenic stops and water activities—like snorkeling near a shipwreck and swimming into an underwater canyon—keeps the day exciting yet manageable. A potential consideration is the price; at nearly $930 for a group of up to 8, it’s a bit of an investment, but the exclusivity and customization often justify the cost. This tour suits couples, families, or friends eager for a flexible, memorable day on the water, especially those who appreciate good food, scenic views, and a touch of adventure.
Key Points
- Private and Customizable: Designed around your schedule and preferences.
- Multiple Water Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, and underwater exploration.
- Delicious Organic Lunch: Turkish-style BBQ with vegetarian options available.
- Scenic Stops: Pigeon Island, Meis Islands, and beautiful bays.
- All Equipment Provided: Snorkeling gear, underwater camera, and Seascooter.
- Ideal for Small Groups: Up to 8 guests, making for an intimate experience.
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An In-Depth Look at the Kas Islands Private Boat Tour
Starting the Day: A Personalized Departure from Kas Harbor
Your day begins early, at 9:30 am in Kas Harbor, where you’ll meet your captain and crew, often working with hosts like Ergun, who are praised for their attentive service. The boat, a classic wooden gulet, feels both charming and practical—ideal for the relaxed pace of this trip. Boarding feels like stepping into a comfortable, floating haven, with plenty of deck space for lounging or sunbathing.
The quick safety briefing and introduction to snorkeling gear set a welcoming tone. We loved how the crew’s expertise instantly put us at ease, especially as they showed us the Seascooter, a fun underwater propulsion device that adds extra excitement for those who want to explore beneath the waves.
First Stop: Pigeon Island (Guvercin Island)
Sailing out, you’ll first head towards Guvercin Island. The boat usually drops anchor here for around two hours—plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and water activities. The island is known for its birdlife and the underwater stone sculpture of a shark, which makes for a fun snorkel highlight.
During our visit, we marveled at the clarity of the water, perfect for sightseeing beneath the surface. The crew is attentive, offering snorkel equipment and underwater cameras to help capture the moment. The atmosphere on deck is peaceful, perfect for soaking up the sun, chatting, or simply relaxing while watching the flying birds and the sparkling sea.
Exploring the Meis Islands (Kastellorizo)
Next, the boat heads towards the Meis (Kastellorizo) cluster, a group of 12 picturesque islands. Here, the scenery is nothing short of postcard-perfect—craggy cliffs dropping into azure waters, charming coves, and quiet bays.
This stretch offers a great chance to snorkel around the sunken ship, which adds a layer of intrigue to the water exploration. The crew prepares a fresh, organic Turkish lunch on deck, highlighting local ingredients, with options for vegetarians if needed. We loved the kebabs and meze—simple yet flavorful, emphasizing seasonal produce. The meal is laid out buffet-style, making it easy to mingle and enjoy freshly grilled food with scenic views in the background.
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Afternoon Delights: Bay and Beach Time
Post-lunch, the boat moves to Limanagzi Bay, where you can drift onto shore for some beach time. The bay’s calm waters and scenic surroundings make for a pleasant break, perfect for wading or relaxing in the sun. Then, it’s on to Buyuk Cakil Beach, famous for its underground stream. We found this spot particularly interesting because of the cool fresh water that flows beneath the pebbles—great for rinsing off or just enjoying the unusual sensation.
Here, you can snack on Turkish tea and fresh fruit provided by the crew—simple pleasures that enhance the laid-back nature of the day.
Wrapping Up: Return to Kas Harbor
As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Kas Harbor, usually arriving around 6 pm, depending on your departure time. The sail back offers a chance to relax, reflect, and enjoy the last views of the coast. Many travelers mention how the crew’s attentiveness and flexibility made this a truly memorable day, with one reviewer noting, “Everything was perfect, the food, service and water activities and our hosts were very attentive.”
Why This Tour Stands Out
This private boat trip offers exceptional value for those seeking authenticity and flexibility. Unlike group tours, this one allows you to choose how long to spend at each stop and what activities to prioritize. The snorkeling gear, underwater cameras, and Seascooter make exploring beneath the surface accessible and fun. The organic lunch sets it apart from typical boat meals, providing a taste of local flavors in a scenic setting.
The scenic stops—from the bird-filled Guvercin Island to the secluded bays—are highlights that appeal to nature lovers and photo enthusiasts alike. The fact that the tour is fully customizable ensures that your day is tailored to your interests, whether that’s relaxing, swimming, or exploring underwater.
A Word of Caution
While the experience is generally smooth and well-organized, the price point might be a consideration for budget travelers. It’s a premium experience, but the privacy, personalized service, and quality of water activities often justify the cost for those who value exclusivity. Also, as the tour is weather-dependent, a windy or choppy day might limit some water activities.
Who Is It Best For?
This tour is ideal for small groups—families, couples, or friends—who want a private, flexible day on the sea. It’s perfect if you value personalized attention, delicious organic food, and scenic, uncrowded stops. Travelers with a curiosity for underwater exploration or those seeking a relaxing yet adventurous escape will find this experience well worth the price.
FAQ
How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 8 people are included in the price, but the boat can accommodate up to 15 passengers if you arrange a larger group.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning around 6 pm, depending on your chosen departure.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a fresh, organic Turkish-style BBQ lunch and snacks are provided onboard, with vegetarian options available if requested.
Are snorkeling and water activities included?
Yes, snorkeling gear, an underwater camera, and a Seascooter are supplied, making it easy to explore under the water.
Can the tour be customized?
Absolutely. The trip is designed to be flexible, allowing you to tailor stops and activities to your preferences.
What should I bring?
Bring beachwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Drinking water is provided, but you might want to carry extra if you’re thirsty.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Check with the operator if you have young children or specific needs.
Are alcohol and additional drinks available?
Alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased separately on board.
Is transportation to Kas Harbor included?
No, private transportation is not included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on your own.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour provider offers free cancellation if weather conditions prevent safe sailing, and you can reschedule or get a full refund.
Final Thoughts
This private boat trip to the Kas Islands combines scenic sailing, water-based adventure, and authentic Turkish cuisine into a single, personalized experience. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a luxurious, flexible day surrounded by natural beauty. The crew’s attentive service and the quality of the stops make it a memorable outing that can be tailored to your interests.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a day on the water, this tour offers a unique perspective on the Kas coast—quiet, charming, and full of surprises. If you appreciate intimate outings, scenic stops, and good food, this trip could become one of your favorite memories from Turkey.