Antalya: Demre Myra Kekova Tour w/Boat Trip

Exploring Antalya’s Ancient Treasures and Sunken Cities: A Detailed Review of the Demre Myra Kekova Tour with Boat Trip

If you’re eager to uncover some of Turkey’s most captivating archaeological sites while enjoying scenic boat rides, the Antalya: Demre Myra Kekova Tour offers an engaging day out. Priced at $79 per person, this excursion combines historical exploration with breathtaking views, all wrapped up in a well-organized package. From Lycian tombs to sunken ruins on Kekova Island, it promises a full day of natural beauty and ancient wonder.

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is how smoothly everything is planned. You get convenient hotel pickup, guided visits, and a comfortable boat trip—all without the hassle of organizing admission tickets or transportation yourself. And, based on reviews, you’ll benefit from knowledgeable guides who really know how to bring history to life.

A potential consideration is the early start, with pickups beginning at 5:30 am, and some travelers noting long bus rides that can become tiring. The tour’s itinerary is quite packed, which might not suit those seeking a more leisurely pace. It’s best for travelers who enjoy a structured, full-day adventure with plenty of historic and scenic highlights.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, those fascinated by sunken cities, and travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see some of Turkey’s most iconic sites in a single day. Let’s explore what makes this experience worth considering—and what to keep in mind before booking.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Lycian rock tombs, St. Nicholas, and a boat trip around Kekova Island.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with solid knowledge and humor.
• Convenient transportation and pre-paid entrance tickets save time and effort.
• Early start (5:30 am) means a long day, but ensures full access to all sites.
• Balanced mix of history and natural beauty keeps the tour engaging and varied.
• Limited free time at some sites, so be prepared for a busy schedule.

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day trip from Antalya is a mix of ancient history, scenic drives, and boat cruising. It’s designed to offer a one-stop experience of some of Turkey’s most famous Lycian and sunken city sites. While the early start might seem daunting, it ultimately allows you to get the most out of your day.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins early at 5:30 am, with hotel pickups arranged for most travelers. The air-conditioned coach ensures comfort during the long drive, which spans approximately 8 to 10 hours in total. One review mentioned that the bus ride could be quite long—about three hours each way—and some found the process of hotel-hopping and pick-ups a bit exhausting. Still, the group size stays manageable, with no more than 45 travelers, making it easier for guides to provide attentive service.

Stops and Highlights

Church of St. Nicholas

Your first stop is the Church of St. Nicholas, a site that’s as much about legend as it is history. While the admission ticket isn’t included here, visitors often find the ruins quite evocative. It’s a picturesque spot, and the church itself is dedicated to the saint who inspired Father Christmas—adding a touch of festive magic to your trip.

Myra Antik Kenti (Ancient Lycian City)

Next, you’ll visit the ancient city of Myra, just a short distance from St. Nicholas. Here, you’ll see Lycian rock-cut tombs, which are thought to date back to the 4th century BC. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—like Huseyien—who make these ruins come alive with stories and context. One traveler particularly appreciated the detailed explanations and humor, which helped create a lively atmosphere.

The site also features an impressive theater, which hints at Myra’s importance in the ancient world. The entrance ticket for this site is included, making it a seamless experience.

Kekova Island and Sunken City

The highlight for many is the boat trip to Kekova Island, lasting about three hours. You’ll cruise past the remains of the sunken city of Simena, which collapsed after powerful earthquakes. The boat often stops near the submerged ruins, giving you a chance to admire the ancient walls and structures that have popped up from beneath the water.

The boat itself provides a comfortable vantage point for sightseeing and taking photos. Reviewers mention that the views during the cruise are stunning—especially the turquoise waters contrasting with the ancient ruins—and that the boat crew is friendly and attentive.

Is the Tour Worth It?

Analyzing value, $79 seems reasonable for a full day packed with guided visits, transportation, and a boat cruise. The inclusion of entrance tickets for Myra simplifies the planning process, saving you time and money. The lunch provided adds convenience, ensuring you stay energized for the day ahead.

However, some travelers felt that the busy schedule and lengthy bus rides could detract from the overall enjoyment. One review pointed out that the first and last three hours are spent in transit, which can be tiring, especially if you prefer more leisure time at each site.

The Experience from Real Travelers

Many reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, with one describing Huseyien as “funny and very knowledgeable.” The guides’ ability to weave history and anecdotes makes the experience richer. Conversely, a few travelers found the staff to be “harsh and strict,” which slightly dampened their enjoyment—something to keep in mind if you prefer a more relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Practical Tips

• Early start: Prepare for a very early morning wake-up. It’s worth it to maximize your sightseeing.
• Pace yourself: Expect a long day with minimal free time, so bring snacks and water.
• Dress comfortably: Consider the weather, especially if visiting in summer; bring sun protection and comfortable shoes.
• Expect some long bus rides: If you’re sensitive to lengthy travel, this tour might be a bit tiring, but the sights make it worthwhile.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who love history, archaeology, and scenic boat rides. It’s perfect if you want an all-in-one day trip that covers multiple major sites with minimal fuss. It’s especially good for those with limited time in Antalya, as it consolidates several highlights into one organized package.

However, if you prefer a leisurely pace or more free time at each location, you might find this busy schedule challenging. Also, if you’re sensitive to early mornings or long bus rides, consider whether the start time and duration fit your travel style.

In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded, value-for-money experience, especially for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and stunning views.

The Sum Up

The Antalya Demre Myra Kekova Tour is a solid choice for travelers who want to pack a lot into one day. It combines historical sites, like the Lycian tombs and St. Nicholas Church, with a scenic boat cruise over the famous sunken city of Kekova. The tour’s strength lies in its organized approach—everything from transportation to tickets is handled—allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights.

While the early start and long travel times might be tiring for some, the experience is enriched by expert guides who share stories and insights that bring the ruins to life. The boat trip adds a memorable touch of natural beauty and adventure, especially if you love coastal scenery.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, adventure seekers, and anyone eager to see a diverse slice of Antalya’s cultural and natural treasures in just one day. It’s a practical, value-packed option that balances guided exploration with scenic relaxation.

FAQ

• What is the starting time of the tour?
  The tour begins at 5:30 am, with hotel pickups arranged for most travelers.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day.

• Are entrance tickets included?
  Tickets for Myra are included, but the Church of St. Nicholas does not include an admission fee.

• How long is the boat trip?
  The boat cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to see the sunken city ruins.

• Is lunch provided?
  Yes, a meal is included, which helps keep everyone energized for the day.

• Can I join if I’m traveling alone?
  Absolutely, the group size is limited to 45 travelers, making it a good opportunity to meet others.

• What should I bring?
  Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and possibly a hat for sun protection.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Most travelers find it appropriate, but consider the early start and long bus rides for young children.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a different date or full refund is offered.

• How do I cancel?
  Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Antalya’s ancient sites and picturesque waters, all within a day. Its combination of guided storytelling, scenic boat cruising, and hassle-free logistics makes it a worthwhile choice for many travelers seeking a full immersion into the region’s history and natural beauty.