Plan a CruiseKas Cruise Port Guide
Upon arrival in Kas, larger cruise ships will anchor offshore, and passengers will be brought to the town center via tender boats. Kas is a picturesque holiday resort nestled in a small bay on the Lycian coast. Its beautiful setting and excellent sailing facilities make it a popular destination. The Greek island of Kastellorizo (also known as Meis) is located just a short distance offshore.
Getting Around from the Port
Tender boats will drop you directly in the center of Kas, making much of the town easily walkable. For exploring beyond the immediate center, taxis are readily available and fares within town are regulated and generally cheap. However, for longer journeys outside of town, it is advisable to negotiate the fare with the driver in advance, as they may charge more than the meter indicates.
A unique Turkish transport option is the Dolmus. These are shared minibuses, jeeps, or vans that operate on specific routes where standard buses might not go. The word "Dolmus" means "To Fill," and they depart once they are full, making them efficient as they fill quickly. A benefit of using a Dolmus is that the driver will drop you off anywhere along their route.
Attractions and Activities
With 8-10 hours in port, you have several options for exploring Kas and its surroundings:
- Coastal Boat Trips: Explore the "tiny coves and bays" along the coastline. Various boat trips are available from the port, offering a chance to see the area's natural beauty and find good swimming spots.
- Visit Kastellorizo (Meis): Take a boat trip to the nearby Greek island of Kastellorizo, which lies just offshore. This offers a unique opportunity to visit a different country during your port call.
- Explore Kas Town: Wander through the charming streets of Kas, taking in the local atmosphere. The town itself offers a relaxing experience with its shops, cafes, and views.
For organized tours, you may wish to compare excursions offered by your cruise line with options available from independent providers like GetYourGuide and Viator.
Dining & Shopping
Kas offers an excellent opportunity to experience Turkish cuisine, which is renowned worldwide. Beyond the famous kebab dishes, be sure to try Meze, a selection of hundreds of small appetizer dishes. These range from simple combinations like cheese with melon to elaborately stuffed vegetables and are traditionally served with Raki, a clear, anise-flavored spirit considered Turkey's national alcoholic drink. You'll find numerous restaurants and cafes throughout the town.
For shopping, popular traditional handicrafts include carpets, kilims, copper goods, painted ceramics, and jewelry. You can also find a good selection of leather goods, sandals, and beachwear. When shopping in souvenir shops and stalls, it is customary and often expected to haggle over prices. Most resorts, including Kas, host a weekly market selling local produce, crafts, and textiles, which can be a rewarding experience. In tourist and coastal areas like Kas, shop opening hours are very flexible during the summer, with many staying open late into the evening, seven days a week.
Currency and Language
The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira. Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and you can easily withdraw local currency from ATMs, which are conveniently located in towns and resorts.