Demre Myra Tour with Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip From Kemer

Exploring Demre, Myra, and Kekova: An Honest Look at the Kemer Day Tour

If you’re looking to combine history, nature, and a bit of adventure on your trip to Turkey, the “Demre Myra Tour with Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip from Kemer” might catch your eye. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but based on the reviews and detailed itineraries, it seems like a well-rounded day that offers a good mix of sights and experiences. It’s quite popular, booked on average about six days in advance, which shows that many travelers find it worth considering.

What really draws people in are two things: the chance to see the ancient Lycian tombs and the stunning boat trip across Kekova Bay. Both promise memorable visuals and interesting stories. On the flip side, some reviews point out issues with organization, particularly with communication and guide professionalism, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re someone who values seamless planning and expert guidance. This trip appears to suit travelers who enjoy a blend of history and natural beauty, and who are okay with a full-day outing that’s quite structured.

If you’re someone eager to explore historic sites like Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas (think Santa Claus’ inspiration), or if you love being on the water and discovering sunken ruins, this tour could be a fit. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less scheduled experience, you might want to consider alternatives. For those interested in intriguing landscapes with a side of ancient stories, it’s worth a look.

• Balanced day trip offering both archaeological highlights and natural scenery
• Boat trip provides a unique view of the sunken city of Kekova
• Guides are knowledgeable and provide interesting insights, according to some reviews
• Organizational issues have been reported, so flexibility might be needed
• Cost ($50 per person) is relatively affordable considering the activities included
• The tour suits history buffs and water lovers who don’t mind a busy schedule

What to Expect from This Tour

This experience is designed as a full-day adventure, starting early in the morning around 7:30-8:30 am, with pickup included. The itinerary offers a mix of sightseeing, cultural history, and scenic cruising, making it a good value for the price. Let’s walk through each part to see what it’s really like.

The Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip

The day kicks off with a scenic drive from Kemer to Demre, where the highlight is the boat trip to Kekova Island. You’ll hop aboard a boat around 10:00 am, and this part lasts approximately two hours. The boat cruise is probably what most travelers are excited about — and for good reason. Kekova’s sunken ruins are famous, and seeing them from the water offers a perspective that land-based visits simply can’t match.

The boat trip takes you over what was once a thriving city before earthquakes caused parts of it to subside beneath the sea. As you glide across the water, you’ll get to see underwater remains that can be viewed with the help of clear waters and possibly some snorkel gear if you bring your own. Many reviews mention the stunning views during this cruise, with some describing it as one of the most memorable parts of the day. It’s an opportunity to snap photos of the ruins beneath the surface and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the bay.

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas

Next, you’ll visit the Church of St. Nicholas, dedicated to the real-life figure that inspired Santa Claus. While the entrance fee ($18) isn’t included in the tour price, the site itself is a short drive from Kekova. Here, you’ll see the ruins of the church and probably get some stories about the saint’s life and legacy. It’s a beautiful spot that combines history with a touch of holiday nostalgia.

Some travelers note that the visit to the church is roughly an hour, giving you enough time to appreciate the architecture and soak in the atmosphere. The guide’s insights are often highlighted as a plus, helping turn a simple site visit into a more engaging experience.

Exploring Myra Ancient City

After lunch, the tour takes you to Myra Ancient Lycian City, about a 2-hour visit. Here, you’ll encounter impressive Lycian rock-cut tombs, some dating back to the 4th century BC. The city was a significant Lycian center and offers a tangible connection to ancient life.

Many reviews mention the beautiful tombs carved into cliffs and the ancient amphitheater, which is still quite intact and offers spectacular views. The atmosphere is decidedly historic — walking among the ruins feels like stepping back in time. It’s the kind of site that appeals to history fans and anyone fascinated by archaeology.

One reviewer shared, “The Felsengräber waren beeindruckend,” (the rock tombs were impressive), and others appreciated the way guides explained their significance. This stop is a highlight for those who love exploring ancient ruins and learning about the past.

Lunch Break and Final Thoughts on the Day

After visiting Myra, the tour includes a short break for lunch at a local restaurant, giving you some time to relax and recharge. The meal is included in the price, which is good value considering the full day of activities.

Following lunch, you have some free time in Myra to explore further or take photos before heading back to Kemer. The entire day wraps up around 7 pm, making it a long but fulfilling experience.

The Overall Experience

While the itinerary sounds seamless on paper, some reviews highlight organizational hiccups — such as last-minute changes or communication issues. For example, one traveler was disappointed to be informed the evening before that their booked tour with a German-speaking guide was canceled. It’s a reminder to keep an eye on your booking details and consider potential issues.

That said, many participants praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views during the boat trip. The tour is particularly appealing for those wanting a comprehensive day of history, scenery, and a little adventure on the water.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy history and archaeology, as well as those who love scenic boat rides. It’s a good choice if you’re okay with a busy day, some group touring, and are comfortable with potential organizational mishaps. It’s also ideal for people who want to see both land-based ruins and underwater remains in a single trip.

If you’re seeking a laid-back, private experience, or prefer tours with a higher focus on personalized service, this might not be the best fit. However, if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground and enjoy guided commentary, this tour offers solid value.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fine blend of ancient ruins, scenic boat adventures, and cultural highlights, all wrapped into one day. The price point is attractive considering the activities and transportation included, but potential travelers should be aware of some organizational flaws reported by past guests.

For those enthusiastic about history, eager to see the famed Lycian tombs, and curious about submerged cities, this trip is likely to deliver memorable visuals and interesting stories. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a structured schedule and appreciate guides with insight.

If you’re after a full-day adventure with diverse sights, and you’re okay with some unpredictability, this tour could be a rewarding addition to your Kemer itinerary.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, and the tour begins early in the morning around 7:30-8:30 am.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and group pace.

What is included in the price?
The price includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a boat trip to Kekova Sunken City, and lunch.

Are entrance tickets included?
The boat trip fee is included, but entrance tickets for the Church of St. Nicholas ($18) and Myra Ancient City (around 300 TL) are not included.

Can I swim during the boat trip?
Yes, travelers often swim in the turquoise waters around Kekova, which are known for being clear and inviting.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour’s full-day schedule and outdoor activities make it suitable for travelers of most ages, but keep in mind the long hours and walking involved.

What language are the guides?
While some reviews mention a tour with a German guide, it’s best to confirm specific language options when booking.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, comfortable shoes, and maybe a snorkel if you want to explore underwater remains.

How crowded do tours get?
Most tours have a maximum of 45 travelers, so expect a lively but manageable group size.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This trip offers a solid way to connect with Turkey’s ancient past and enjoy its stunning coastal views. With a bit of planning and an open mind, you’re set for a memorable day exploring the remarkable sites around Kemer.