From Alanya: Kekova, Demre, and Myra Day Trip with Boat Tour

Location: Antalya Province, Turkey
Price: $56 per person
Rating: 3.3/5 (based on 4 reviews)
Supplier: Yükay Turizm

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Quick Overview: What’s in Store for You

Imagine spending a day exploring ancient Lycian ruins, swimming in turquoise waters, and walking through the streets of Demre, home to Saint Nicholas. For $56, this full-day trip from Alanya promises visits to Myra’s rock-cut tombs and the Church of St. Nicholas, plus a boat ride that takes you to the sunken city of Kekova.

What we particularly like about this tour is the way it combines rich historical sites with beautiful natural scenery. The boat trip offers a chance to see underwater ruins and enjoy a swim—a real highlight for those who love a splash and a picture. Another plus is the local guide’s knowledge, which helps bring the stories and history alive.

A potential drawback is the early start and short time at some sites, which means you might feel rushed, especially if you enjoy taking your time to soak in the atmosphere. Also, some reviews mention communication issues and inconsistencies in timing, so be prepared for a busy, fast-paced day.

This trip works best for travelers who want a value-packed day of history, scenery, and swimming. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and enjoy learning about ancient civilizations, this tour is a good match.

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Key Points

Historical richness: Visit the ancient city of Myra and Lycian necropolis.
Unique sights: See the underwater ruins of Kekova’s sunken city from the boat.
Cultural connection: Visit the Church of St. Nicholas, the historical figure behind Santa Claus.
Natural beauty: Swim in clear waters near Kekova Island.
Value for money: At $56, the tour includes transportation, a guide, lunch, and a boat trip.
Some logistical hiccups: Early pick-up times and brief stays at certain sites.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

Departure and Pickup

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup included. Be prepared for a very early start—some reviews mention a 3:45 a.m. pickup, which is quite the wake-up call but not unusual for a full-day excursion. The advantage is that you’ll beat the crowds and get more time at each site. The downside? If you’re not a morning person, it might take some extra caffeine to get going.

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Morning Visit to Myra

First stop is Myra, the ancient Lycian city famous for its rock-carved tombs and the Greek amphitheater. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the Lycia civilization, but some found the English delivery a bit difficult to follow at times. Still, the tombs carved straight into the cliffs are striking, offering a tangible connection to thousands of years ago. You’ll also see the Church of St. Nicholas, where the bishop who inspired Santa Claus once preached. This stop is a wonderful mix of archaeology and religious history.

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Lunch and Shopping Stop

After exploring Myra, the tour includes a buffet lunch—not gourmet, but tasty and filling—perfect after a morning of walking. There is also a brief stop at a shop or two, which some travelers find a little rushed. One reviewer noted that the time at these shops felt hurried, and they would have preferred more time to look around.

Afternoon Boat Trip to Kekova

Post-lunch, the journey continues with a boat ride to Kekova Island from Ucagiz Village. This is the heart of the tour—the chance to see the famous underwater ruins of the sunken city. We loved the crystal-clear waters and the ability to swim or relax on deck. If you bring your swimwear and towel, you can enjoy a quick dip in the inviting waters—an experience many find memorable.

The boat also takes you over the Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa, providing an interesting contrast between the ancient tombs and the modern-day landscape. The boat is generally comfortable, but be aware that group sizes can be large, and the schedule can be tight.

Exploring Kekova Island and Optional Swimming

Once on Kekova Island, exploring the ruined city beneath the water is fascinating. The underwater remains are visible from the boat, and the scenery is picturesque. The water is famously clear, so bringing a camera waterproof case is a good idea.

Return and Drop-Off

The day wraps up with the return journey, usually around late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and timing at each stop. Some travelers felt the overall time at each site was limited, particularly at the more bustling touristic spots.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines history, nature, and local culture in one package. The guided insights bring the ancient sites to life, but keep in mind that some guides may have language barriers, as mentioned by reviewers. Your experience may vary based on the guide’s style.

The boat trip is a true highlight. Swimming in the turquoise waters surrounded by sunken ruins is a rare chance to connect with the landscape in a very personal way. Remember: bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and camera to capture the moment.

Transportation is included, and the drivers are noted to be punctual and skilled. The price of $56 is competitive when you consider the lunch, boat ride, and entrance fees, though some reviews suggest that shopping or optional activities might carry extra costs or confusing billing.

One consideration: The early start can be tough, especially if you’re not a morning person. Also, time constraints mean you may have to rush through some sites, which might be frustrating if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history buffs interested in Lycian and Greek sites, water lovers eager to swim in crystal waters, and budget travelers looking for a full-day adventure without breaking the bank. If you’re comfortable with busy schedules and early mornings, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you prefer more time at fewer sites or dislike rushed visits, you might want to consider private or smaller group options. Also, if language barriers are a concern, clarify guides’ language skills beforehand.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just over fifty dollars, this tour offers an interesting blend of ancient history, scenic boat rides, and the chance to swim in beautiful waters—a pretty good deal. The value for money is reflected in the variety of sights packed into one day, and the guided explanations help make the ruins more meaningful.

The early start and short visits at some locations could be a drawback for those who want a more relaxed pace. But for travelers eager to see the highlights of Demre, Myra, and Kekova without much fuss, it’s a solid choice.

Ultimately, this trip suits those who appreciate a mix of history and scenery, are comfortable on a busy schedule, and want to maximize their day exploring Turkey’s coast. If these are your priorities, you’ll likely find it a rewarding experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start your day without worries about transportation.

How early does the trip start?
Some reviews mention pickup as early as 3:45 a.m., so be prepared for a very early morning. This allows more time at each site but can be challenging for light sleepers.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and a camera to capture the sights and enjoy swimming.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included in the price, offering a simple but tasty meal after a busy morning.

Are there optional costs I should be aware of?
Some entrance fees, like the Myra entrance ticket ($14) and the Church of St. Nicholas ($6), are not included and need to be paid separately if you wish to visit those sites.

Can I swim during the boat trip?
Absolutely. The waters around Kekova are perfect for swimming. Just make sure to bring your swimsuit and towel, and check with the crew if swimming is allowed at that moment.

This tour from Alanya offers a rich combination of ancient ruins, scenic boat rides, and natural beauty. While it’s not a leisurely stroll through museums, it’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, value-packed day exploring some of Turkey’s most intriguing sites.