Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Boat Tour

Exploring the Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Boat Tour: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering a day trip that mixes history, stunning scenery, and a bit of water-based relaxation, this Demre, Myra & Kekova Sunken City Boat Tour from Antalya might just be worth your attention. While I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve gathered enough details and feedback to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This is a full-day adventure designed for those who appreciate a blend of land exploration and boat cruising, with plenty of time to soak in views and learn about ancient sites.

One thing I really like about this experience is the combination of land visits and a boat tour. Visiting Myra’s ancient ruins, walking through history, and then sailing out to the sunken city offers a varied day that keeps things interesting. Plus, the knowledgeable guides—especially the art historian—bring a depth of understanding that really enhances the trip. The second highlight is the scenic coastal drive to the sites, which provides gorgeous views even before you step ashore.

A potential drawback? The early start, with some reviews mentioning a 5 am wakeup, isn’t for everyone. The long day can feel tiring, especially if you’re not a morning person or if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace. Also, for those interested in the St. Nicholas Church, be prepared for an extra fee (€17), which isn’t included in the main tour price, and this could be a slight inconvenience.

This tour suits travelers who love history, enjoy boat rides, and want a full-day experience that offers both educational content and scenic beauty. If you’re okay with an early start and want a well-rounded day exploring some of Turkey’s most notable ancient sites, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Balance of Land and Water: The tour combines visits to ancient ruins with a boat cruise, appealing to those who want variety.
• Expert Guides: You’ll learn from a specialist art historian, which adds depth and context to the sites.
• Scenic Coastal Drive: The journey to Myra and Kekova offers beautiful sea views, setting the tone for the day.
• Includes Lunch and Transfers: Everything is planned for convenience, with hotel pickup/drop-off included.
• Cost-Effective for the Experience: At around $127, you get access to multiple sites, a boat tour, and a guide—adding up to good value.
• Long Day, Early Start: Be prepared for a 10–11 hour day with some travelers noting it can be tiring.

The Itinerary in Detail

Kekova Island

Your day kicks off with a visit to Kekova Island, famous for its submerged ruins and historic remains. The boat docks in Tersane Village, where you’ll see the apse of a Byzantine church and discover remnants of old houses and shops beneath the water. You’ll get a sense of the area’s ancient life, with foundations and house floors visible underwater—though much of the island hasn’t been excavated, making it a fascinating archaeological puzzle.

The boat ride here is a highlight, offering panoramic views of ruins beneath and around you. Travelers mention that the submerged shops and stairs to the sea make for some memorable photos and interesting stories. With around 2 hours at this stop, you’ll have enough time to explore and snap photos but won’t get too fatigued.

Church of St. Nicholas

Next, the tour takes you to the Church of St. Nicholas—a site with significant historical importance. The guide shares all the details about this church, which is believed to be linked to the real St. Nicholas, the basis for Santa Claus. This stop typically lasts about an hour, and while admission isn’t included in the main price (costs around 17 euros), the site itself is worth a quick visit if you’re into religious architecture or history.

Myra Ancient City

The highlight for many is Myra, an ancient Lycian city filled with Roman ruins. You’ll explore the theater, see royal tombs carved into cliffs, and get a feel for the city’s historical importance. The guide’s commentary helps paint a vivid picture of life here, making the ruins come alive with stories of the past. This part of the tour is brief but packed with insight, offering a well-rounded glimpse into one of Turkey’s remarkable archaeological sites.

The Boat Tour

The boat cruise around Kekova’s sunken city lasts about 2 hours. Travelers love the chance to swim if they choose, and the boat’s scenic route reveals the submerged remnants of old houses and streets. The water here is calm and inviting, especially on warm days. However, some guests mention that they didn’t see any underwater wrecks during their ride, which is worth noting if your main interest is underwater archaeology.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers the essentials: hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional art historian guide, lunch, and the boat ride. The Myra entrance ticket is included, making it convenient. However, you’ll need to purchase St. Nicholas Church admission separately if you’re interested, which adds a little to the cost.

Drinks are not included, so it’s worth bringing water or purchasing beverages during the day. The tour’s maximum group size is small—up to 15 travelers—which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

The Value and Overall Impression

At around $127 per person, this tour offers a lot for those interested in history, scenic views, and a relaxing boat ride. The fact that it includes lunch, transfers, and guided insights makes it a practical choice. The reviews indicate that guides are knowledgeable, adding value to the experience, and the scenery is consistently praised.

One reviewer, Faraz, called the tour “long and exhausting,” noting the early start and the length of the day. If you’re someone who prefers shorter, more leisurely excursions, this might be a bit much. But if you’re eager to see a mix of ancient sites and enjoy a day on the water, many find it more than worthwhile.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, scenic lovers, and adventurers comfortable with early mornings and long days. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Kekova’s submerged ruins and Myra’s ancient theater, and who don’t mind a packed day. The small group size makes it feel more intimate, and the guided commentary is perfect for those wanting context for what they’re seeing.

If you’re traveling with family or prefer a more relaxed pace, think about whether the early start and full schedule will suit your style. But for most active explorers, this offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the most fascinating historical sites near Antalya.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day more convenient and easy to navigate.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Most travelers book about 19 days ahead, so it’s a good idea to reserve early to secure your spot.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a included lunch helps keep you fueled for the long day of sightseeing and cruising.

Can I swim during the boat tour?
Yes, there’s time for swimming, and the water looks inviting, especially on warm days.

Do I need to pay extra for any sites?
The St. Nicholas Church requires an extra entrance fee of about 17 euros, which isn’t included in the main price.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically tailored for kids, the tour’s pace and content can suit families with older children interested in history and outdoor activities. Keep in mind the early start and long hours.

If you’re a traveler curious about ancient ruins, enjoy scenic boat rides, and are ready for a full day of exploration, this trip offers a solid, rewarding experience. Just be prepared for the early start and the full schedule—those are the trade-offs for getting a glimpse of Turkey’s sunken city and historic sites in one go.