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

Planning a day trip that combines history, scenic views, and a bit of fun on the water? This tour from Antalya offers just that—visiting ancient Lycian sites, sailing over a sunken city, and exploring the legendary St. Nicholas Church. With a mix of cultural exploration and relaxing boat rides, it appeals to those eager to learn and unwind alike.

What we really like about this experience is how well it balances historical insights with the chance to enjoy Turkey’s beautiful coastline. The highlight for many is the glass-bottom yacht cruise, which offers a unique peek into the submerged remains of Kekova’s ancient city. The tour also includes a visit to the St. Nicholas Church in Demre, adding a spiritual and historical dimension.

One potential consideration is the long day involved—starting early and returning late. While the itinerary is packed with highlights, those with limited mobility or small children might find the extensive travel time a bit tiring. Still, if you’re keen to cover multiple key sites in one day, this trip could be perfect. It’s best suited for history buffs, water lovers, and travelers who appreciate comfortable, guided excursions with a good mix of activity and sightseeing.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining archaeological sites, religious history, and scenic boat cruising
• Excellent guides and well-organized transport make the day smooth and informative
• Boat ride offers stunning views of the sunken city with glass-bottom viewing, making it both fun and educational
• Delicious local lunch adds value, especially for those who love authentic Turkish cuisine
• Long but rewarding day suitable for active travelers, but less so for small children or those who prefer a shorter outing
• Affordable price point at $65 per person, offering a comprehensive experience for the cost

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup and drop-off, which instantly removes the hassle of finding your way around. This is especially valuable if you’re staying outside the city center or in a hotel that’s hard to reach. The transportation is in air-conditioned buses, offering a comfortable journey through the scenic Lycian countryside, which many reviewers find both relaxing and picturesque.

The group size is not specified, but reviews mention both large and smaller groups, suggesting some variation depending on the day. The professional guides, such as Natalia and Alp, are frequently praised for their knowledgeable explanations and friendly attitudes. These guides often go beyond basic facts, sharing stories and insights that bring ancient ruins to life.

Exploring the Lycian and Greco-Roman Sites

Your first stops are the rock tombs from Lycian times and a visit to the Greco-Roman amphitheater. These sites are evocative of Turkey’s layered history, with the tombs carved directly into the cliffs and the amphitheater offering a glimpse into ancient social life. Reviewers mention how these stops are well-paced and informative, thanks to guides who provide context that helps you understand their significance.

Next, the tour takes you to Demre, home to the Church of St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker. This site sits atop the 4th-century burial spot of the saint that inspired Santa Claus. Visitors often find the church stunning and the atmosphere peaceful. One reviewer appreciated the fact that the church and ruins felt like stepping into a museum, although they did note the gift shop’s prices are on the higher side.

The Yacht Cruise and Kekova Sunken City

After the cultural stops, it’s time for the highlight of the day—the glass-bottom yacht cruise to Kekova Island. The boat is well-equipped with glass windows that show the submerged ruins of the ancient city. Many reviews describe the boat ride as incredible, with some mentioning they didn’t even bother swimming because the views below the waterline are so captivating.

During the cruise, you’ll see the Simena Castle from afar and get close-up views of the sunken city. The ruins are partly visible from the boat, and the glass-bottom windows provide a fascinating look into a once-thriving Lycian town destroyed by an earthquake. Reviewers mention that the boat stops for swimming, and the waters near Kekova are refreshingly clear—perfect for a dip if you want to cool off.

Food and Breaks

A lunch break in Demre offers a chance to enjoy some Turkish cuisine. While reviews vary, many praise the local food served during the included lunch, considering it among the best they’ve had on holiday. The meal is usually a buffet, giving you variety and the freedom to sample Turkish specialties.

Additional Stops and Optional Experiences

One element some guests find less useful is the optional visit to onyx factories, which appears to be a standard part of the itinerary but isn’t as highly praised. Multiple reviewers note that it’s an unnecessary stop when compared to the main attractions, but it’s optional if you wish to explore or shop.

Analyzing the Value and Practicalities

At $65 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that combines history, scenic cruising, and local cuisine. It’s a good deal considering the inclusion of hotel transfers, guided explanations, boat ride, and lunch. The long duration (about 10 hours) might be a downside for some, especially if you prefer shorter excursions, but many find it well worth the effort given the richness of the experience.

The timing is flexible, with starting times varying, and the tour is suitable for adults and older children. The reviews repeatedly mention the well-organized nature of the trip, with plenty of stops for bathroom breaks and refreshments, making the long day more manageable.

Travelers with mobility issues should consider the length and nature of the coach seats, which some found less adjustable. However, the overall convenience of door-to-door pickup and the thoughtful pacing of stops make it accessible for most.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This outing is ideal for history enthusiasts, given the chance to see Lycian tombs, ancient ruins, and the story of St. Nicholas. Water lovers and those who enjoy boat rides will appreciate the scenic cruise and opportunities to swim in clean, inviting waters. Foodies will also enjoy the authentic Turkish lunch included in the package.

It’s suited for active travelers who don’t mind a long day on their feet and in transport. Families with older children or teenagers will find this tour engaging and manageable, especially given the well-organized stops and knowledgeable guides. However, if comfort or a shorter schedule is your priority, you might want to consider alternatives.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances historical exploration, beautiful scenery, and authentic Turkish cuisine. The guide’s expertise and the boat cruise’s spectacle make it a memorable way to connect with Turkey’s past and present. While the length of the day and some optional stops might not suit everyone, most travelers will find it a valuable and enjoyable outing for the price.

If you’re intrigued by ancient civilizations, love scenic boat rides, and want a practical, guided way to see key sites in one day, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a solid choice for those who want an immersive, hassle-free experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and learning.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, making the start and end of the day stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 10 hours, from early morning pickup to late evening return.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfers, a guided tour, a boat cruise with glass-bottom views, and lunch. Beverages and entrance fees (around $30) are not included.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s a chance to swim in the clear waters near Kekova Island, with stops designed for swimming and enjoying the sea.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Many reviews suggest it’s manageable for most adults and older children, but the long hours and coach comfort should be considered for those with mobility issues or small children.

Are there optional stops I can skip?
Yes, stops like the onyx factory are optional, and you can choose whether to visit or simply enjoy the main sites.

This tour from Antalya offers a fine mix of history, nature, and culture, making it a worthwhile addition to any Turkish itinerary if you’re after a day full of discovery and relaxation.