Antalya: Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip w/ Lunch

Exploring Turkey’s southwestern coast offers some of the most captivating sights on the Turkish Riviera. The “Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip with Lunch” is a full-day tour that combines ancient ruins, crystal-clear waters, and a boat ride to one of the region’s most fascinating underwater sites. While it’s not a perfect experience for everyone, it’s a solid choice if you’re eager to see multiple highlights in a single day without breaking the bank.

What I appreciate most about this tour are the knowledgeable guides like Alp, who get into the details of each site and bring history alive, and the stunning scenery along the turquoise coast that makes the long drive worthwhile. I also like that the itinerary includes an authentic look at Lycian tombs and ancient theaters—places that tell stories far older than many other tourist attractions in the region.

On the flip side, one potential drawback is the lengthy drive—about three hours each way—which might be tiring, especially for families with small children or travelers with limited stamina. Also, the included lunch has been described as “basic” and the restaurant’s cleanliness questionable, so bringing snacks or planning a backup meal might be wise.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of history and natural beauty, with friendly guides and a good balance of activities. Just be prepared for an early start and a long day on the road; if you’re looking for a straightforward, value-packed experience that hits several key sites, it’s worth considering.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Long but scenic drive: Expect around 3 hours each way from Antalya, but the views along the coast make it easier.
• Expert guides: Guides like Alp are praised for their knowledge and honesty, adding depth to each stop.
• Diverse highlights: From Lycian tombs and theaters at Myra to snorkeling near Kekova’s sunken city, the itinerary is packed.
• Water activities: Snorkeling and swimming in clear waters add a fun, relaxing element.
• Historical significance: Visiting sites linked to St. Nicholas and Lycian ruins makes this tour educational.
• Value for money: Including lunch, entrance fees, and guided boat trip offers good overall value, especially for a full day of sightseeing.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour begins with a hotel pickup — if you’re staying in Antalya, Belek, or Kemer, you’re covered. Expect an early start, which some reviews mention as a challenge but also as worth the effort for the sights you’ll see. The first major stop is Myra, an ancient Lycian town famed for its rock-cut tombs and impressive amphitheater. Here, you’ll explore the ruins and get a sense of what life was like centuries ago. The guide’s commentary is a highlight — they often share stories and context that bring these ancient structures to life. One reviewer specifically praised Alp for his knowledge and honesty, making the visit much more engaging.

Next, you’ll enjoy a complimentary lunch. According to feedback, the meal is basic but sufficient, though some found the restaurant cleanliness to be less-than-ideal. It’s a good idea to bring some snacks or extra water, especially if you’re particular about food hygiene or want more variety.

In the afternoon, the boat ride to Kekova is the main event. You’ll sail over the calm, turquoise waters toward the sunken city of Simena, where underwater ruins tell stories of a village submerged after an earthquake. Snorkeling here is a real treat — the water clarity makes it easy to see the archaeological remains, which is a rare experience for most travelers.

Beyond Kekova, you’ll visit Teimiussa, an ancient Lycian necropolis, adding an extra layer of historical intrigue. The boat trip is relaxing but packed with enough stops and sights to keep you engaged. Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the friendly guides and the beautiful scenery along the coast.

Finally, the tour ends in Demre, where you can visit the Church of St. Nicholas—famous as the birthplace of Santa Claus—before heading back to your hotel. The visit here is short but meaningful, especially if you’re interested in religious history or local legends.

Transportation and Group Size

The trip is operated by TOURMANIA, with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. The group size isn’t specified but typically keeps tour groups manageable, allowing for personalized attention. Pickups are available from all hotels in Belek, Antalya, and Kemer, making it convenient.

Duration and Timing

The full-day nature means you’ll be out for about 9 to 10 hours. While this can be demanding, it’s also packed with sights, making the most of your day. Starting times vary, so check availability when booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and those eager to see multiple highlights without multiple bookings. If you enjoy boat rides, snorkel gear, and walking around ancient sites, you’ll find it rewarding. However, if you’re traveling with very young children or you dislike long drives, this might be a less comfortable fit.

Considerations Before Booking

• Early start and long drive: Prepare for a 6 am pickup in many cases, so plan your sleep accordingly.
• Basic lunch: If you prefer gourmet food, consider bringing your own snacks.
• Physical activity: Expect walking and some climbing at Myra.
• Long day: Be ready for a full day out, but with many beautiful views and fascinating sites.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re keen on a comprehensive day of history, nature, and seaside fun, this trip offers a good balance at a reasonable price. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in Lycian ruins and underwater archaeology. It’s also a good choice for travelers comfortable with a long day and a bit of a drive, seeking value and authentic sights. Those looking for a relaxed, leisurely day might prefer a shorter or more specialized tour.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from hotels in Antalya, Belek, and Kemer is included, making logistics easier.

How long is the drive from Antalya?
Expect a drive of about 3 hours each way, so be prepared for a lengthy journey, but many find the scenic coastal views worth it.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers guide services, entrance fees to Myra and Demre, boat trip to Kekova, and a complimentary lunch.

Can I snorkel at Kekova?
Absolutely. Snorkeling is a highlight, with clear waters that reveal underwater ruins and marine life.

Is the lunch buffet suitable for all diets?
The lunch is described as basic, and one review mentions it as somewhat poor, so if you have specific dietary needs, consider bringing extras.

Is the guide’s commentary available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English and Russian, providing valuable insights during each stop.

In summary, the “Antalya: Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip with Lunch” is a well-rounded experience that combines ancient history, stunning scenery, and a boat adventure. It’s best suited for travelers eager to cover multiple sites in one day, appreciate knowledgeable guides, and enjoy a bit of snorkeling. While the long drive and basic lunch might be considerations, most reviews highlight the value and memorable sights that make it worth the effort. If you’re after a meaningful, affordable way to explore Turkey’s coast and history, this tour deserves serious consideration.