Demre Myra Tour with Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip From Kemer

Discover the Demre Myra Tour with Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip from Kemer

This full-day tour from Kemer offers a compelling blend of history, natural beauty, and unique underwater sights for around $50 per person. Starting early in the morning, it takes you across seven to ten hours, with exciting stops at Kekova Island’s sunken city, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Ancient City of Myra. The tour includes a two-hour boat trip, providing the chance to see underwater ruins and swim in turquoise waters once favored by pirates.

While the tour features informative guides and scenic landscapes, it’s worth noting that admission tickets for certain sites like the Church of St. Nicholas and Myra Ancient City cost extra. It’s a well-balanced day suited for those eager to explore Turkey’s lycian archaeology, enjoy vivid coastal views, and learn about the legendary figure behind Father Christmas. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its advance booking rate of around six days, making it a reliable option for travelers staying near Kemer.

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining boat trips, ancient ruins, and historical visits
• Price of $50, with optional entrance fees for specific sites
• Tour duration of approximately 7 to 10 hours
• Includes hotel pickup and a boat trip to Kekova’s sunken city
• Visit to the Church of St. Nicholas (entrance fee not included)
• Explore Myra’s Lycian tombs and amphitheater
• Swim in clear, pirate-ruled waters at Kekova Island

Starting the Day with Pickup and the Kekova Boat Trip

The tour begins early with hotel pickup between 7:30 and 8:30 AM, setting a smooth tone for the day ahead. The first highlight is the boat trip across Kekova Island, starting around 10:00 AM and lasting about two hours. This boat journey offers views of the famous sunken city beneath the waters, which was submerged after severe earthquakes. Travelers get the chance to observe the remains of Simena, an ancient city now mostly underwater, and enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear sea.

The boat trip is a major draw and is included in the $50 price, making it a standout feature of this tour. The waters around Kekova have a history of piracy, adding a touch of adventure to the swim and sightseeing. The boat crew guides you through the site, and the calm, transparent waters make for a memorable experience.

Visiting the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre

After the boat tour, the group heads to Demre to visit the Church of St. Nicholas, dedicated to the legendary saint who inspired Father Christmas. This site provides a glimpse into early Christian worship and features impressive ruins. The visit lasts about one hour, but the entrance fee of approximately $18 is not included in the tour price.

The church’s remains reflect its historical significance, and the area around it offers opportunities to take photos and soak in the local atmosphere. Since the tour does not include the entrance fee, travelers should be prepared to pay at the site if they wish to explore further.

Exploring the Lycian Necropolis at Myra Ancient City

Next, the tour takes you to Myra, a Lycia city famous for its rock-cut tombs and antique amphitheater. Known as “Land of the Sun”, Myra’s tombs date back to the 4th century BC and are a striking reminder of Lycian craftsmanship. The Ancient City of Myra is about a two-hour visit, where the guide explains the significance of the site and its history.

You’ll find a necropolis of elaborate Lycian tombs cut into the cliffs, as well as an impressive amphitheater that once hosted large gatherings. This part of the tour offers the perfect mix of archaeological discovery and historic ambiance. The entrance ticket to Myra, costing around 300 TL, is optional and not included in the tour.

Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant

After exploring Myra, the group takes a 45-minute break at a local restaurant to enjoy lunch. The meal offers a chance to relax and discuss the morning’s sights, as well as savor traditional Turkish cuisine. This downtime helps pace the day comfortably before the afternoon activities.

Free Time at Myra and Return to Kemer

Post-lunch, travelers get about two hours of free time at the Myra site to explore more, take photographs, or simply enjoy the historic landscape at their own pace. The guide remains available for questions or additional insights.

The tour concludes with a return to Kemer, where guests arrive around 7:00 PM. The entire experience balances guided sightseeing with free exploration, giving a flexible yet organized day.

Practical Details: Transportation, Pricing, and Booking

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride between stops, and the tour is designed to accommodate up to 45 travelers. The cost of $50 covers the boat trip and lunch, but additional entrance fees for St. Nicholas Church and Myra Ancient City are paid separately. Infant seats are available for $15, and most travelers can participate, with confirmation provided at the time of booking.

Booking typically occurs about six days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activities, and the group size keeps the experience intimate enough for personal attention.

The Experience: Highlights and Limitations

The Kekova Sunken City boat trip remains the standout feature, offering scenic views and underwater sights that are hard to find elsewhere. The guide’s explanations during the stops are informative, especially at Myra and Kekova, where the history is vividly brought to life.

However, some reviews highlight issues with organization, such as last-minute changes or additional costs for site entrances. One review notes a lack of a German-speaking guide, which could be a consideration for visitors seeking language-specific commentary.

The tour’s pacing might be tight for those wishing to linger longer at each site, but overall, it offers a comprehensive snapshot of the area’s archaeological and maritime treasures.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This Demre Myra Tour with Kekova Boat Trip suits travelers interested in ancient history, coastal scenery, and sea swimming. It’s particularly good for those wanting a guided day that combines archaeological sites with scenic boat excursions in one package.

While it offers good value, travelers should be aware of additional entrance fees and the timing of stops. The tour may not appeal to those seeking a more leisurely exploration or in-depth visits to each site, but it delivers a solid overview of Turkey’s Lycian heritage with plenty of photo opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $50 fee covers hotel pickup, the boat trip to Kekova, and lunch. Entrance fees for St. Nicholas Church and Myra Ancient City are optional and paid separately.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 7 to 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Kemer around 7:00 PM.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch break at a local restaurant, offering Turkish cuisine.

Is the boat trip wheelchair accessible?
The information does not specify accessibility features; travelers with mobility concerns should inquire directly.

Can children join this tour?
Most travelers can participate; infant seats are available for $15 upon request.

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
Booking about six days in advance is recommended due to the tour’s popularity, especially during peak seasons.

Are there any weather restrictions?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include the Kekova Sunken City, Church of St. Nicholas, and the Lycian tombs of Myra. The boat trip and underwater views are particularly memorable.

How crowded does the tour get?
The maximum group size is 45 travelers, keeping the experience intimate but lively.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Participants should be comfortable walking outdoors and swimming. No specific physical requirements are detailed, but caution is advised for those with mobility issues.

This comprehensive review offers an honest look at what the Demre Myra Tour with Kekova Sunken City Boat Trip provides, balancing its scenic, historic, and practical aspects for potential travelers.