Kalkan: Day Trip to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island — A Detailed Look
If you’re considering a full-day adventure that combines history, stunning scenery, and a bit of water-based fun, this tour from Kalkan might be just what you’re after. Offered by SAILNSTAY, it promises a mix of ancient ruins, crystal-clear swimming spots, and a boat cruise through some of Turkey’s most picturesque waters.
What we really like about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with relaxation. The stops at Kekova’s Sunken City and the charming village of Kaleköy offer unique views you won’t find elsewhere, and the boat cruise lets you enjoy Turkey’s renowned turquoise waters at your own pace. Plus, the tour includes a knowledgeable guide, which always makes a big difference when exploring historical sites.
One consideration is the length of the day—12 hours can be quite full, and some travelers might find it a bit tiring, especially if they prefer more leisure or have small children with limited stamina. Also, the tour isn’t explicitly marked as family-friendly, so if traveling with very young kids, it’s worth considering how they’ll handle the busy schedule and boat time.
This trip suits those who love a mix of history, nature, and a bit of adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy organized tours that handle all the logistics, so you can relax and soak in the scenery without worry.
Key Points
- Balanced itinerary with historical sites and scenic boat stops
- Includes a knowledgeable guide to enrich your experience
- Multiple swimming and snorkeling opportunities in clear waters
- Comfortable transportation that simplifies logistics
- Long day, around 12 hours, so plan for energy and comfort
- Good value at $79, considering the variety of activities and inclusions
Exploring the Details of This Full-Day Tour
If you’re planning to spend a day exploring some of Turkey’s most enchanting spots, this trip offers a lot for your money. For $79 per person, the tour delivers a comprehensive package that covers ancient ruins, stunning bays, and a boat cruise through turquoise waters. We’ll walk through what you can expect at each stage to help you decide if it’s a good fit.
Planning more time in Kalkan? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Transportation
Your adventure begins with a pickup from a designated meeting point — Petrol Ofisi — in the morning. The tour’s logistical planning is smooth, with pick-up times communicated a day in advance via WhatsApp or email, making it easier to organize your day. The transportation is included, which is a big plus because it takes the hassle out of navigating roads or hiring taxis.
First Stop: Van Transit to the Coast
The journey kicks off with about an hour in a van, giving you some time to get comfortable and perhaps review the day’s plans. This part is mainly to get you from the meeting point to the boat, but it’s a good opportunity to chat with fellow travelers or relax before hitting the water.
The Boat Cruise: Kekova and Surroundings
Once aboard, the real fun begins. The boat cruise takes you across a series of beautiful bays and historical sites. The highlight here is the Sunken City of Kekova, a city partially submerged after an earthquake. We love the way the boat cruise offers a scenic, floating perspective of the ruins — it’s a chance to see something truly unique without diving or snorkeling.
According to reviews, the boat crew is friendly and attentive, providing information, tea, fruit, and biscuits along the way. One traveler described it as a “brilliant day,” with stops for swimming and turtle sightings.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting Simena Castle and Kaleköy (Ancient Simena)
The boat stops at Kaleköy port, known as ancient Simena, where you get about an hour to explore. Here, you’ll find castle ruins, a necropolis, and panoramic views. If you’re feeling energetic, hiking up the hillside rewards you with “spectacular vistas” of the region — a view that helps put the entire area into perspective.
You can choose to spend your time browsing local shops, swimming, or admiring the castle from below. The reviews highlight that the views are breathtaking, making this stop a real highlight.
Pirates Cave and Water Activities
Next on the agenda is the Pirates Cave, a natural formation with an impressive curved entrance. This spot is perfect for swimming or snorkeling, and the water here is notably refreshing, thanks to natural cold springs beneath the surface. If you’re into underwater adventures, this is a fun stop, and the cave itself offers great photo opportunities.
Gökkaya Bay is the next stop, where you can continue to enjoy swimming in clear waters. Some travelers took the chance to engage in water sports or simply relax in such a peaceful environment.
Marine Life and Natural Beauty
Another fascinating aspect is Karemlik Bay, where you might spot three of Turkey’s seven sea turtle species in their natural habitat. It’s a reminder of how unspoiled and rich the waters are, adding an educational element to the trip.
The cruise also makes stops at Esmeralda Bay, with opportunities to relax and observe marine life, further highlighting the natural beauty of the area.
Returning to Demre: Historical Explorations
After the boat ride, the group docks at Demre Port. Here, you can opt to visit the Santa Claus Museum, a charming and festive stop that captivated many travelers, especially around holiday seasons.
Next, your guide will lead you through the ruins of Myra, dating back to the 5th century B.C. The site features a Roman-style theatre, which is the largest in Lycia, as well as rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs above. The history here gives a tangible sense of ancient life and adds a cultural depth to the trip.
Final Stop: Back to Kalkan
As the day winds down, your bus will take you back to the starting point in Kalkan. The overall journey takes approximately 12 hours, so be prepared for a full day. Many reviews mention how relaxed and well-organized the return trip is, with travelers enjoying the sunset views on the way back.
What Makes This Tour a Good Deal?
While $79 might seem like a hefty price for a day trip, it includes transportation, a hearty lunch, guided sightseeing, and multiple water and land activities. The reviews consistently praise the value, emphasizing the smooth planning, friendly crew, and diverse experiences.
The tour’s inclusive nature means you don’t have to worry about additional costs or logistics, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a hassle-free day. Plus, the combination of ancient ruins and natural beauty keeps the day interesting from start to finish.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and water-based activities. It suits travelers comfortable with a long day (around 12 hours) and those who appreciate well-organized excursions. It might not be ideal for very young children or anyone with mobility issues due to the amount of walking, boat time, and sitting involved.
If you love seeing archaeological sites, snorkeling or swimming in gorgeous waters, and having all the logistics taken care of, this trip is a solid choice. It’s particularly good for groups, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore a handful of Turkey’s top sights without the stress of planning each detail.
Kalkan: Day Trip to Demre, Myra and Kekova Island
“absolutely brilliant day picked up in Kalkan at the petrol station and drove to the gorgeous boat with luxury sun beds. crew were wonderful and ser…”
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for small children? The tour isn’t explicitly marked as family-friendly, and some reviews suggest it may not be ideal for very small children due to the long day and boat activities.
What should I bring? You’ll want to pack a towel and sunscreen — both will come in handy during the swimming stops.
How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 12 hours, with various stops along the way, so be prepared for a full day of activities and travel.
Is lunch included? Yes, a lunch is included in the tour price, and the reviews mention that it’s delicious.
What languages are available? The tour host and guide speak both English and Turkish.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are there opportunities for snorkeling or swimming? Absolutely, some of the stops like Pirates Cave, Gokkaya Bay, and Karemlik Bay are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
How does the pickup work? You’ll receive details about your pickup location and time one day before the tour; pick-up times may vary depending on the season.
Is the tour customizable? The itinerary is fixed, but stops like the castle or swimming spots can be enjoyed at your own pace during the allocated time.
This full-day boat tour from Kalkan offers a wonderful blend of history, natural beauty, and water fun. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Turkey’s iconic sights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. Whether you’re into exploring ancient ruins, swimming in clear waters, or simply relaxing on a boat with good company, this trip covers all bases. Just remember it’s a long day, so come prepared to enjoy every moment.
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