Kekova Sunken City, Glass-Bottom Boat, Demre & Lycian Ruins

A Complete Look at the Kekova Sunken City, Glass-Bottom Boat, Demre & Lycian Ruins Tour

If you’re craving a day filled with history, stunning scenery, and a splash of adventure, this tour from Antalya offers quite a bit. It’s designed for anyone interested in uncovering some of Turkey’s most intriguing archaeological sites, combined with a relaxing boat cruise. We’ve looked at what travelers love—and what they might want to consider—so you can decide if this is the right trip for your style.

What draws many to this experience are the impressive ruins of Kekova’s sunken city and the chance to see St. Nicholas Church, which is often mentioned as a highlight. Plus, the comfort of roundtrip transportation from Antalya makes it super convenient. Two things we really like: the knowledgeable guides who bring the sites alive, and the delicious local lunch that often gets glowing reviews.

One potential downside? The long day—it starts early and can stretch past 8 pm, especially if you’re staying in Antalya’s old city. Also, if you’re hoping to spend a lot of time exploring Kekova itself, you might find the boat cruise offers only brief moments at each stop. Still, this trip suits travelers who are eager to see a mix of ancient sites and enjoy a scenic boat ride without fussing over logistics.

This tour is best suited for history lovers, those fascinated by ancient ruins, or travelers seeking a well-organized day that combines culture, scenery, and a bit of fun in the water. If you enjoy learning through guided tours and appreciate a good mix of sightseeing and leisure, this one’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Convenience and Comfort: All transportation and hotel pickups are included, making your day stress-free.
• Historical Sites: Visit Lycian tombs, Greco-Roman amphitheaters, and the 4th-century St. Nicholas Church.
• Unique Experience: Sail on a glass-bottom yacht to see the sunken city of Kekova, with underwater views through the boat’s windows.
• Swim and Relax: Plenty of opportunities to swim in turquoise waters after exploring the ruins.
• Value for Money: At $65 per person, it offers a full day of diverse activities and historical insights.
• Mixed Group Sizes: Tours can be large, which some travelers appreciate for fellowship, but others might find it less intimate.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out: Smooth Transfers and a Scenic Drive

Most travelers are picked up from their Antalya accommodation, with the tour operator providing a timely and organized pickup. From there, you’ll enjoy a drive through the ancient region of Lycia—a landscape dotted with tombs and ruins that hint at millennia of history. The journey can be about an hour or more, depending on where you stay, but it’s a chance to relax and get into holiday mode.

Exploring Lycian and Greco-Roman Sites

The first stops often include impressive Lycian rock tombs, carved into cliffs that seem to hover over the landscape. Many reviewers note how striking these are—an authentic glimpse into an ancient civilization. A visit to the Greco-Roman amphitheater follows, offering a more tangible connection to the region’s layered past.

Next, the group heads to Demre to visit St. Nicholas Church, which is a real crowd-pleaser. You’ll get to see the 4th-century burial site of Saint Nicholas—yes, the real Santa Claus—and walk through an atmosphere thick with history. Reviewers mention the church as “stunning” and “a museum-like experience,” but also note the gift shop and admission fee (around 30 euros) to consider.

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Lunch and Preparation for the Yacht Adventure

Before heading to Kekova, most tours include a lunch break—often with hearty local dishes. Many travelers rave about the quality of the food, with some saying it’s “some of the best all holiday.” It’s a good chance to refuel and chat with fellow travelers before the boat cruise.

Setting Sail: The Glass-Bottom Yacht

The highlight for many is boarding the glass-bottom yacht. Once aboard, you’ll cruise across the pristine waters toward Kekova Island, with the chance to admire the sunken city ruins beneath you. The boat’s windows give a rare underwater view of ancient walls and foundations, which is both fun and educational.

The boat also makes a stop for swimming, with clear and inviting waters. Bring your swimsuit and towel—many reviews highlight how refreshing it is to jump into the sea. Some travelers, like Samantha, mention to bring swimming gear since it’s an added perk.

The Sunken City of Kekova and Simena Castle

From the boat, you’ll see the mysterious ruins of Kekova’s sunken city, destroyed by an earthquake. The submerged remains—walls, streets, and old structures—are quite a sight. You can also catch a glimpse of Simena Castle, perched on a hillside, from the boat or during brief stops.

Many visitors comment on how “incredible” the views are, and how the experience of seeing the underwater ruins through the glass windows is very different from traditional sightseeing. However, some mention that more time at Kekova would be ideal, as the boat ride provides only a snapshot of the site.

Returning and Reflecting

After a full day of exploring, swimming, and cruising, the tour bus takes you back to Antalya. You might be exhausted, yet satisfied, having seen some of Turkey’s most intriguing sites in a single day. Expect to arrive back in your hotel late afternoon or evening, depending on your starting point and group size.

What Travelers Are Saying

According to reviews, this tour scores a solid 4.2 out of 5 from 52 participants. People generally appreciate the knowledgeable guides who deliver engaging commentary, making the history accessible and interesting. Olga mentions the “super nice guide” and “interesting information,” which helps bring the sites to life.

Food is another highlight, with many describing the lunch as “amazing” and “some of the best food all holiday.” That’s a bonus when you’re on a day-long trip.

On the flip side, some find the long hours a challenge, especially those with young children or limited stamina. Gerald notes that the full-day schedule can be quite tiring, with transfers starting early (around 6:30 am) and returning late (after 8 pm).

Group size varies, with some reviews pointing out that large groups can make the day feel a bit rushed. Smaller groups might allow for more flexibility, but overall, most travelers felt the organization was solid for such a big tour.

The Practical Side: Pricing, Duration, and Inclusions

For $65, this tour offers a comprehensive experience: sightseeing, boat cruise, lunch, and hotel transportation. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds comfort, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

The duration of around 10 hours means you’ll get a full day’s worth of activities. It’s ideal for those who want to make the most of their time in Antalya without worrying about transport logistics.

The glass-bottom boat adds a special touch, giving underwater glimpses of the sunken city without needing to snorkel or dive. The lunch included is a nice convenience, saving you the hassle of finding a meal somewhere else.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The entrance fee for St. Nicholas Church is not included (30 euros), so budget accordingly if you want to visit.
• Be prepared for the long drive, especially if your hotel is farther from Antalya’s old city.
• Bring swimming gear and towels for the swim stop.
• The large group size might mean less personalized attention, but guides tend to be knowledgeable and friendly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts keen to see Lycian and Greco-Roman relics, as well as those who enjoy boat excursions. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate well-organized tours that include transport, meals, and guided commentary.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace with plenty of breaks, this might not be ideal—it’s a full, active day. Families with older children or teens who are comfortable with a long day of sightseeing will find this a rewarding trip. However, those traveling with very young children or seeking a short, leisurely outing might prefer a different option.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most bookings include pickup from your accommodation in Antalya, making the start and end of the day smooth.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening, depending on your hotel location.

What’s the main highlight of the trip?
Many travelers mention the yacht cruise over Kekova’s sunken city as the standout experience, especially with the underwater views through the boat’s glass windows.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is included in the price, and reviews say it’s quite good, with local flavors and hearty portions.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely, there are opportunities to swim in the clear waters near Kekova Island. Just bring your swimwear and towel.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee to St. Nicholas Church is around 30 euros, and that is not included in the tour price.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a balanced mixture of history, scenery, and a fun boat ride, this tour delivers just that. The combination of ancient ruins, a scenic yacht cruise, and the opportunity to swim in turquoise waters makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting variety in their day.

The guides’ knowledge, the good quality of food, and the overall organization make it a hassle-free experience—perfect for those who like their sightseeing with some comfort. The main caveat is the length and pace; it’s a full, busy day, so mentally prepare for an active itinerary.

For anyone curious about Turkey’s ancient civilizations or simply looking to enjoy a memorable boat adventure, this tour from Antalya offers a solid, well-reviewed way to explore some of the country’s most captivating sights.

In the end, this trip is best for curious explorers, history lovers, and water enthusiasts who don’t mind a long day. If you want an easy all-in-one package with plenty of highlights, it’s worth putting on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here: