Kekova Boat Tour (myra St.nicholas Church)

Exploring the Kekova Boat Tour: A Practical and Authentic Day in Antalya

If you’re eyeing a day out on the water combined with some cultural sightseeing in Antalya, the Kekova Boat Tour offers a tempting package. This roughly 8 to 10-hour experience takes you from the bustling port of Üçaz into the azure waters surrounding Kekova island, with stops at historical sites like Myra and St. Nicholas Church, plus a splash of swimming at Burç Bay.

What sets this tour apart is its ability to blend natural beauty with a touch of history, making it ideal for travelers who want a balanced day without feeling overwhelmed. We especially appreciate how the itinerary offers plenty of relaxing time to swim and soak up the scenery, along with opportunities to explore some of Turkey’s ancient treasures.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The tour’s rating is a modest 3.5/5 based on three reviews, with some travelers expressing concerns about misrepresentation and group size. It’s also worth noting that while the price is competitive, certain extras like bottled water and church entrance tickets aren’t included, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and cultural stops—perfect for curious travelers who don’t mind a busy day and some shared group experiences. Now, let’s dig into the details so you can decide if it’s right for your Antalya itinerary.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruise around Kekova, with opportunities to swim and relax
• Visit notable sites like Myra Ancient City, St. Nicholas Church, and Lycian rock tombs
• Includes lunch in Demre, offering regional flavors
• Comfortable transport with air-conditioning and pickup service
• Group size limited to 15 travelers for a more intimate experience
• Some extras like bottled water and church entrance tickets are not included

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Üçaz Port and the Cruise

Your day begins with a pickup (if you’ve opted for the offered service), whisking you to Üçaz port where the boat awaits. The cruise itself is a highlight, with the chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Turkish coast. The vessel is made of traditional wood and can hold up to 30-40 people, which can feel quite lively if you’re hoping for a more private experience—something past travelers have noted.

The boat trip lasts approximately two hours, during which you’ll pass by Simena village and castle. For many, the views of the rugged coastlines interspersed with small villages are the real treat. Travelers loved the way the boat allows a close-up perspective of Kekova’s submerged ruins—once a bustling Lycian port now partially submerged, earning it the nickname “wreck city.”

Stop at Kekova Island and Wreck Exploration

The main draw is the two-hour stop at Kekova Island, home to some of Turkey’s most famous ruins. You get the chance to see the sunken Lycian city, with its ancient stone walls and foundations peeking out from beneath the water. The boat usually anchors near the wreck site, providing ample time for photo ops and simply soaking in the unique landscape.

This stop is particularly appealing for history buffs and those who enjoy scenic views. While the boat trip is generally relaxed, some travelers noted that the size of the boat and the number of people could make the experience feel crowded. Despite this, most appreciated the chance to see the submerged ruins up close.

Swimming at Burç Bay

On the way back, the tour includes roughly half an hour of swimming at Burç Bay. This is a popular spot, known for its calm waters and beautiful surroundings. Travelers report that the water here is ideal for a quick dip, and some mention that it’s a refreshing break after a day of sightseeing.

However, one reviewer, Alex_Y, expressed disappointment that the tour was not as well-matched to the description they had seen beforehand. They expected about four hours of swimming time, but the reality was different, with the focus more on sightseeing and a shorter swim break. Nonetheless, most guests find it a worthwhile pause.

Cultural and Historical Sites: Myra and St. Nicholas Church

After the boat, the tour continues with a visit to Myra Antik Kenti, an open-air archaeological site with Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs. You’ll spend about an hour here exploring the ancient city ruins.

Next, it’s a trip to St. Nicholas Church in Demre. This site is a highlight for many, as it’s associated with the real-life Santa Claus. The church is included in the tour fee, but some travelers note that the entrance ticket is not. The church itself is modest, but its significance makes it a worthwhile stop for history and culture enthusiasts.

Lunch in Demre

The tour includes a tasty lunch in the town center of Demre, giving you a chance to sample local Turkish cuisine. Past visitors have appreciated the included meal, which provides a good break before more sightseeing. It’s a busier, more practical aspect of the tour, but one that adds value by saving you time and effort in finding a place to eat.

Final Tips and Considerations

• Timing: The entire day runs from morning to late afternoon, so be prepared for a full schedule.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, which can make for a more personalized experience, but also means spots fill up well in advance.
• Pricing & Extras: At around $95.78 per person, the tour offers a fair value considering the transportation, boat trip, and site entries. Yet, note that bottled drinks and some entrance fees are extra, so budget accordingly.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, it might be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of water-based activities, archaeological exploration, and culture. If you enjoy scenic boat rides and are curious about Turkey’s ancient sites but don’t want the hassle of organizing separate trips, this tour offers a practical solution.

While it’s suitable for most, travelers seeking complete tranquility or those with very specific expectations about swimming time should be aware of the mixed reviews and potential for crowded conditions. It’s a good choice for those with a flexible schedule and an interest in combining natural beauty with history.

Final Thoughts

The Kekova Boat Tour from Antalya offers a solid way to enjoy the coast’s stunning scenery and uncover some of Turkey’s ancient sites in one day. While some reviews point out issues like group size and the accuracy of descriptions, many still find it a worthwhile experience—especially if you appreciate a bit of adventure mixed with cultural sightseeing.

You’ll love the views of submerged ruins, the chance to swim in calm waters, and the opportunity to walk through Lycian tombs and Christian heritage sites. For the price, the combination of boat cruise, site visits, and lunch makes for a convenient, enjoyable day out.

However, keep your expectations in check regarding the swim time and the group size. If you’re after a more private or leisurely experience, consider the potential for crowds and the possibility that some aspects might feel rushed.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to combine scenic waters, history, and culture into a single day—offering genuine moments of discovery and relaxation in beautiful Antalya.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour? Yes, pickup is available, making the start of your day more convenient. Just check if your accommodation is within the pickup zone.

How long does the boat cruise last? The boat part of the tour lasts about two hours, taking you along to Simena village, castle, and Kekova island.

Can I swim during the tour? Yes, there’s about half an hour allocated for swimming at Burç Bay, which most travelers find refreshing.

Are the entrance fees to sites included? The tour includes the admission fee for Myra and the Church of Nicholas, but you will need to pay separately for the church if not included.

What’s the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, aiming for a more personal experience, though actual numbers may vary.

Is lunch included? Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is part of the package, giving you a taste of regional cuisine without the hassle of finding a restaurant.

What should I bring? Bring essentials like water, sun protection, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim. Note that bottled water and drinks are not included in the tour price.

This detailed take on the Kekova Boat Tour aims to help you decide if it fits your travel style. With careful planning and realistic expectations, it can be a memorable part of your Antalya adventure.