Karalos Bay

Karalos Bay, on the southeast side of Kekova island and marked on older charts as Port Saint Stefano, cuts inland like a narrow fjord, fully enclosed by cliffs and pine-covered slopes. It is sometimes spelled Karaloz on local signage and charts, but refers to the same landlocked cove. That shape gives boats real shelter from the open sea, which is why cruising guides list it among the more secure overnight anchorages on this stretch of coast.

The bay shelves gradually from the shore to depths of around 7 to 14 metres, with a bottom of mud and weed that generally holds an anchor well; strong gusts can still funnel down from the surrounding hills, so many skippers add a line ashore for extra security overnight. The water itself is clear enough to see the seabed from the deck, and the slopes around it stay green with Mediterranean maquis scrub year-round.

Quiet, sheltered and close to Kekova's other anchorages, it has become a classic stop on a Kekova blue cruise itinerary, particularly for boats looking for a calm night after a day spent around the sunken ruins nearby.