Kekova Boat Tour (myra St.nicholas Church)

Kekova Boat Tour (Myra St. Nicholas Church): An Authentic Day on the Turkish Coast

Embarking on a Kekova boat tour offers a chance to enjoy Turkey’s stunning coastline while exploring historic sites and enjoying relaxing moments on the water. This particular tour, offered by White Wolf Travel, combines a scenic boat trip with visits to ancient ruins, a charming village, and a famous church. It’s a package that promises both leisure and cultural discovery, perfect for travelers craving a mix of adventure and history.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances enjoyable water activities with meaningful visits to archaeological and religious sites. The swimming stop at Burç Bay is a highlight, giving you a chance to cool off amid spectacular scenery. The inclusion of lunch in Demre and visits to Myra’s Lycian rock tombs and St. Nicholas Church make it feel rich and well-rounded. That said, the price point of $95.78 per person might seem high to some, especially considering the mixed reviews about the accuracy of tour descriptions and group sizes.

This tour is best suited for those who want a half-day or full-day experience that combines boat time with cultural exploration. If you’re after a laid-back day with opportunities for swimming and sightseeing, it could be a good fit. However, if you’re looking for a more intimate or exclusive experience, the capacity of up to 30-40 people might be a consideration.

Good To Know

• Balanced experience blending water activities with cultural visits
• Includes lunch and all fees, offering good value for the price
• Group size can be up to 40, which may affect intimacy
• Historical sites like Myra and St. Nicholas Church add depth to the trip
• Swim stop at Burç Bay offers relaxation and fun
• Tour duration of 8-10 hours makes this a full-day outing

An In-Depth Look at the Kekova Boat Tour

Scenic Boat Ride from Üçaz Port

The journey begins at Üçaz port, where you’ll board a traditional wooden boat — a classic choice that adds to the charm, although it can mean a more communal, less luxurious experience. The boat trip itself is around two hours, sailing past the picturesque coastline, with views of Simena village and the Kekova island wreck city. Travelers often mention that the scenery here is captivating, especially if the weather is clear.

Exploring Simena Village and Castle

On the way to Kekova island, you’ll pass Simena village, perched atop cliffs with its ancient castle. While the tour doesn’t specify a stop here, the views from the boat are a highlight. The ruins of the castle and the village’s narrow streets are glimpsed from the water, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

The Wreck City of Kekova Island

The ship anchors around Kekova Island for about two hours, where visitors can explore the famous sunken Lycian city—a fascinating site where the remains of ancient buildings are visible beneath the water. This area is often called wreck city, and it’s a favorite for those interested in history and underwater scenery.

One detailed review states, “The boat is a wooden vessel with a capacity of 30-40 people, which means you’ll be sharing the space with fellow travelers, but it doesn’t feel overly crowded.” This part of the trip is ideal for photography, snorkeling, or simply floating above history.

Swimming and Relaxation at Burç Bay

On the way back, the tour pauses at Burç Bay for approximately half an hour. Here, you have the opportunity to swim and unwind. Reviewers mention that this stop is a refreshing break, with clear waters perfect for a quick dip. One traveler noted, “We loved the way we could relax and cool off in the water after exploring the ruins.”

Lunch in Demre and Visiting Myra & St. Nicholas Church

Post-boat, the tour continues to Demre, where a tasty lunch is included. The meal often features local Turkish dishes, providing good value and a chance to recharge. Following lunch, the group visits Myra Antique City, famed for its Lycian rock tombs, and St. Nicholas Church, a revered pilgrimage site with an intriguing history.

A review from Nikolett_G mentions that “the guide was very knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts about Turkish history and regulations,” which enhances the overall experience. However, another reviewer, Alex_Y, pointed out a misrepresentation about swimming time and group size, suggesting the tour isn’t always as advertised.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

• Duration: 8 to 10 hours gives enough time to enjoy all stops without feeling rushed.
• Price: At $95.78, considering the inclusion of lunch, all fees, and visits, it’s a reasonable deal for a full day of activity.
• Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle pickup simplifies logistics, although the actual boat capacity can be up to 40 people, so prepare for a somewhat shared experience.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 27 days in advance, suggesting this tour is popular, especially during peak season.

What’s Missing and What to Watch Out For

While the tour includes many highlights, some travelers reported inconsistency with descriptions—particularly around swimming time and group sizes. The boat is described as a traditional wooden vessel rather than a private yacht, which might impact comfort levels. Also, the nicolas church entrance fee isn’t included, so budget accordingly if interested in exploring further.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to see Lycian ruins and St. Nicholas Church, as well as water lovers wanting to swim in scenic bays. It suits travelers who enjoy group excursions and are comfortable sharing space with others, given the tour’s capacity. It’s perfect as a full-day outing if you want a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insight, especially if you value the convenience of included lunch and transportation.

Final Thoughts

This Kekova boat tour offers a well-rounded mix of scenic sailing, ancient ruins, and cultural sites. While the boat capacity and occasional discrepancies in advertising might be a concern for some, the experience provides a satisfying balance of relaxation and discovery. It’s a good choice for those wanting a full day of sightseeing without breaking the bank.

For seasoned travelers or families looking for a comfortable, engaging outing with plenty of photo-worthy moments, this tour ticks many boxes. Just keep in mind that the group size can be on the larger side, and the boat isn’t a private vessel.

Ultimately, if you’re craving a taste of Turkey’s historic coastlines combined with the fun of swimming in beautiful bays, this tour can be a very worthwhile adventure — especially if you approach it with reasonable expectations.

FAQ

How long is the overall tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, including boat time, sightseeing, lunch, and swimming.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a tasty Turkish lunch is part of the package, served in Demre after the boat trip.

What can I expect during the boat trip?
You’ll cruise along the coast on a traditional wooden boat, with stops at Kekova island, Simena village, and Burç Bay for swimming.

Are all fees included?
Most fees, including entrance tickets for Myra and the Lycian rock tombs, are included. However, the Nicolas church entrance ticket is extra.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s a half-hour swim stop at Burç Bay, where you can relax in the water.

What is the group size?
The boat can accommodate up to 30-40 travelers, which may influence the intimacy of the experience.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
It’s suitable for most travelers who enjoy group excursions, scenic boat rides, and cultural visits. Those seeking exclusivity may find it less ideal.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, a towel, and possibly snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater.

Overall, this Kekova boat tour is a solid choice for travelers wanting a scenic, informative, and relaxing day that combines Turkey’s coastal beauty with its ancient history. It’s best for those who don’t mind sharing the boat and are keen to explore both land and sea.