Kekova Boat Tour (myra St.nicholas Church)

Explore the Scenic Kekova Boat Tour for a Full Day of Water and History in Antalya

The Kekova Boat Tour offers a comprehensive experience combining crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and cultural sites around Antalya, Turkey. Priced at $95.78 per person, this 8 to 10-hour adventure includes a two-hour boat cruise, stops at Myra Antik Kenti and St. Nicholas Church, and a half-hour swim in Burç Bay. The tour begins at Üçaz port and is suitable for most travelers due to its moderate pace and group size capped at 15 participants.

While the tour provides a rich blend of scenic water views, historical exploration, and relaxing swimming opportunities, it’s important to note that some details, such as the boat capacity and shopping options, may vary slightly. This tour appeals most to those interested in history, culture, and a relaxed day on the water with convenient logistics like hotel pickup and included meals.

Key Points

• Price: $95.78 per person for a full day of sightseeing and water activities
• Duration: 8 to 10 hours, with a mix of water cruise, historical visits, and leisure
• Start Point: Üçaz port with easy pickup and mobile ticket access
• Activities: Boat cruise around Kekova, swimming at Burç Bay, visiting Myra Antik Kenti and St. Nicholas Church
• Inclusions: Lunch, all fees and taxes, air-conditioned transport
• Limitations: Bottled water and church entrance tickets are not included; boat capacity is about 30-40 people

The Start at Üçaz Port and the Scenic Boat Cruise

The tour kicks off at Üçaz port, where guests board a traditional wooden boat capable of accommodating around 30-40 travelers. The boat cruise lasts approximately two hours and takes you along the coast to Kekova Island, famous for its wreck city and lime-green waters. The boat ride provides beautiful views of the surrounding islands and coastline, making it a memorable part of the day.

During the cruise, there’s an opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery, with some swimming at Burç Bay on the return leg. This swim session lasts about half an hour, offering a break from the water and a chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters. The boat’s capacity and the views make it suitable for those who appreciate a peaceful yet scenic water journey.

Visiting Myra Antik Kenti: A Step Back in Time

One of the key stops is Myra Antik Kenti, an ancient city that takes around an hour to explore. The site features Lycia-era ruins, including rock-cut tombs and remnants of old structures. The entrance fee is included in the tour, so guests can walk freely among the well-preserved ruins and get a sense of its historical significance.

This stop is ideal for those interested in archaeology and ancient civilizations. The stone tombs, carved directly into the cliffs, are particularly striking and offer excellent photo opportunities. The visit to Myra sets a reflective tone for the day, balancing the boat’s leisure with meaningful historical exploration.

Discovering St. Nicholas Church in Demre

Next, the tour visits the Church of Nicholas in Demre, where the history of St. Nicholas, the figure behind Santa Claus, is highlighted. The tour allows about an hour to explore the church, with the entrance fee included. Visitors can admire the historic architecture and learn about St. Nicholas’s life and his connection to this region.

This stop is a highlight for those interested in religious history and cultural heritage. The church, though modest, holds significant historical and spiritual value, and the guided narration enhances the experience.

The Two-Hour Kekova Island Boat Trip and Wreck City

The central feature of the tour is the two-hour boat cruise around Kekova Island, famous for its sunken city and lycian ruins. The boat navigates past the wrecks, providing a unique perspective of the submerged structures that date back centuries. This part of the tour is ideal for photographers and history buffs alike.

Guests get to view the partially submerged remains of ancient buildings, with some ruins still visible above water. The boat ride is relaxed, with plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the serene scenery. The wreck city makes this stop a truly memorable highlight of the day.

Swimming and Relaxing at Burç Bay

On the way back to the port, travelers stop at Burç Bay for a half-hour swim. The bay’s waters are calm and clear, making it perfect for a quick dip or simply relaxing on the boat deck. Since bottled water is not included, bringing your own is advisable, and the swimming experience provides a refreshing break after sightseeing.

This leisure pause adds a relaxing element to the tour and is appreciated by those who enjoy water activities or simply want to unwind in a scenic setting.

Lunch in Demre and Local Flavors

The tour includes a tasty lunch in the center of Demre, where travelers can sample local dishes. The meal is part of the package, offering a convenient way to enjoy Turkish cuisine without extra planning. The lunch break also provides a chance to digest the morning’s activities and prepare for the final visits.

The lunch is usually served in a local restaurant, giving a taste of the regional flavors and a brief respite from the day’s busy schedule.

Logistics and Group Experience

This tour is operated by White Wolf Travel and offers hotel pickup with a mobile ticket. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with attentive guidance. Confirmation occurs at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

The air-conditioned vehicle provides a comfortable ride between sites, and most travelers find the pace manageable. However, walking at the stops may be involved, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the tour offers a comprehensive day filled with water activities, history, and cultural sites, some details may vary. The boat capacity is around 30-40 people, which could be crowded during peak times. The church entrance ticket is not included, and bottled water is also excluded from the package.

Some guests have expressed confusion regarding swimming time and group size due to miscommunication from booking platforms. It’s advisable to verify details directly with the tour provider if concerns arise. Weather conditions can also affect the experience, with cancellations possible for poor weather, though a full refund or alternative date is offered.

Suitable For Those Interested in History and Water Activities

This tour suits those who want to enjoy a balanced day of water-based fun and cultural exploration. The scenic boat cruise and stops at Myra and St. Nicholas make it appealing for history enthusiasts and families alike. The inclusion of lunch and transport adds convenience, especially for visitors staying in Antalya.

While the water activities are limited to a half-hour swim, the exposure to ancient sites and wreck views make this an engaging option. It is less ideal for travelers seeking longer swimming sessions or adventure sports, but perfect for those who enjoy relaxed sightseeing in a beautiful coastal setting.

Kekova Boat Tour: An Honest Overview for Curious Travelers

The Kekova Boat Tour offers a well-rounded experience combining scenic water travel, historical visits, and a relaxing swim. Its moderate price and convenient logistics make it accessible for most visitors looking for a full-day excursion close to Antalya.

The main strengths are the beautiful boat cruise, visits to Myra and St. Nicholas Church, and the chance to see the sunken city of Kekova from the water. Its limitations include crowd potential and the fact that some expenses like bottled water and church tickets are not included.

This tour is best suited for history lovers, water enthusiasts, and families seeking a comfortable, educational day out. The group size and logistical ease enhance the experience, making it an appealing addition to a Turkish holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the Kekova Boat Tour?
Yes, air-conditioned transportation with pickup is included, making it easy to start the day comfortably.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, including boat time, site visits, and meals.

Are all site entrance fees included?
Most fees, such as Myra and St. Nicholas Church, are included, but bottled water and church entrance tickets are excluded.

What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum number of participants is 15 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is poor?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, and poor weather may result in a rescheduling or full refund.