Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Boat Tour

Taking a close look at the Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Boat Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Turkey’s historical and natural beauty. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from nine reviews, this full-day excursion combines land-based sightseeing with a boat cruise that shows off some of the region’s most unique sites. For around $127 per person, you’re getting a well-rounded experience that includes hotel pickups, lunch, and the chance to explore ancient ruins and submerged history in one of Turkey’s most scenic coastal areas.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it balances informative guided visits with relaxed water time, making it ideal for a wide range of travelers – from history enthusiasts to those simply wanting a beautiful day on the sea. The guide, often described as knowledgeable and engaging, adds a personal touch that really enhances the experience. Plus, seeing the submerged ruins of Kekova and hearing about the history from a specialist art historian makes the day feel both educational and memorable.

A potential consideration is the early start time, as some reviews mention waking up around 5am to begin the journey—definitely a long day, especially if you prefer more leisurely mornings. Also, while the boat ride is praised for its scenic views, some travelers noted they didn’t see underwater wrecks as hoped, which might be disappointing if underwater exploration is your main goal. Nevertheless, the sightseeing and historical sites generally make this tour worthwhile.

Overall, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines history, stunning scenery, and a relaxing boat ride, this tour offers solid value. It’s especially suitable for travelers keen to learn from expert guides, enjoy scenic coastlines, and explore ancient sites without the hassle of planning each detail. Now, let’s break down what this experience entails in more detail.

Key points / Takeaways

• Balanced itinerary combining land excursions and a boat cruise for diverse experiences
• Expert guide enhances understanding of ancient sites with detailed historical insights
• Submerged Kekova ruins are the highlight, offering unique underwater views and photo opportunities
• Long day with early start — suitable for travelers comfortable with a full schedule
• Includes lunch and transfers, providing good value and convenience
• Limited underwater wreck visibility might be a letdown for some, but the scenery remains impressive

Exploring the Coastal Beauty of Demre, Myra & Kekova

When I first looked into this tour, I appreciated how it offers a comprehensive look at some of Turkey’s most intriguing sights, all packed into roughly 10 to 11 hours. Starting from Antalya, you’re picked up from your hotel — a real convenience that saves you from logistical headaches. The drive along the coast alone is worth the early wake-up, as the views of the shimmering sea and rugged coastline set a scenic tone for the day.

The Kekova Island and Sunken City

Your first major stop is Kekova Island, a place shrouded in mystery because it remains largely unexcavated. The island, once a thriving settlement, now reveals its past through submerged houses, shops, and stairs that extend into the sea. Boat rides around the island are often praised for their picturesque scenery, with some guides pointing out the remains of ancient foundations and house floors visible beneath the water. While some travelers like Faraz_S noted the boat ride was “nice,” he also mentioned not seeing any underwater wrecks, which suggests expectations for underwater exploration should be tempered. Still, the sight of submerged ruins offers a unique perspective on history beneath the waves.

Visiting St. Nicholas Church

Next, you’ll stop at the Church of St. Nicholas, famed as the spiritual home of Santa Claus. While the entrance ticket isn’t included in the tour price, learning about the church’s importance adds depth to the visit. It’s a quick stop, but one that enriches your understanding of local Christian heritage, which remains a notable part of the region’s history.

The Ancient Site of Myra

A highlight for many is Myra, an ancient city packed with Roman ruins. The well-preserved theater, towering tombs, and remnants of Byzantine structures tell stories of a prosperous past. The tour includes admissions to the site, so you can explore at your own pace. Guides often provide fascinating anecdotes—such as details about the royal tombs—which help bring the ancient city to life. One reviewer remarked that the guide, a specialist art historian, made the visit particularly engaging, offering insights you wouldn’t get from a guidebook.

The Water and Land Experience

Throughout the day, the combination of sightseeing and water-based relaxation creates a well-rounded experience. The boat cruise around Kekova lasts about two hours, offering ample chances to swim or simply relax on deck. Some travelers, according to reviews, found this part the most enjoyable, with one mentioning the views and the chance to cool off as a highlight.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour is priced at $127.21 per person, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and professional guides. With most travelers booking about 19 days in advance, it’s clear that this experience is popular. The group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.

While the overall value is good—taxes, transportation, and guided tours are bundled—remember that drinks are not included, and the entrance to St. Nicholas Church costs an additional 17 euros. Planning for these extras will help you budget better.

Who will love this tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets. It’s ideal if you’re interested in ancient history, archaeological sites, and scenic coastlines. The guided aspect is particularly valuable for those eager to learn from knowledgeable experts, making the experience more meaningful. However, if you’re a diver or underwater enthusiast hoping to see wrecks, you might find this tour less fulfilling, as some reviews mention that wrecks weren’t visible.

If you enjoy a mix of land and sea adventures and don’t mind an early start, this trip offers a memorable way to explore Turkey’s fascinating history and stunning natural landscapes in one day.

Price and logistics

Considering the €17 entrance fee for St. Nicholas Church is not included, the overall cost balances well with the comprehensive nature of the tour. The 10 to 11-hour duration makes it a full commitment, but packed with sights and experiences, that’s usually appreciated by most travelers. The small group size (up to 15 people) enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

Final thoughts

This tour provides a well-organized, engaging day that combines historical learning with scenic boat rides. The expert guides and included lunch add value, making it accessible for a variety of travelers. While the early start might not suit everyone, the opportunity to see submerged ruins, Roman theaters, and ancient tombs all in one day makes it a worthwhile investment for those keen on history and stunning coastlines.

For travelers seeking a balanced, insightful, and scenic day trip from Antalya, this tour offers a solid mix of discovery and relaxation. Just be prepared for a long day, and customize your expectations around the underwater wrecks — they’re a bonus, not a guarantee.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics simple and convenient for travelers.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, covering all stops and travel time.

What’s the main highlight of this experience?
The boat cruise around Kekova’s sunken city is the standout feature, offering unique views of submerged ruins and beautiful scenery.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a lunch is included in the tour price, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine during the day.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Most reviews praise the guide as being very knowledgeable, especially when explaining the history of Myra and Kekova.

How much does the entrance to St. Nicholas Church cost?
The entrance costs 17 euros and is not included in the tour price.

Can I swim during the boat trip?
Yes, ample time is allowed for swimming if you wish, making it a relaxing part of the day.

This detailed review should help you decide if this tour fits your interests and travel style. With its blend of history, scenery, and expert guidance, it’s a day packed with memorable moments—perfect for a full-day escape from Antalya.