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

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines history, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure, this tour from Antalya might be just what you need. With a well-rounded itinerary that includes ancient ruins, a historic church, and a stunning yacht cruise over a sunken city, it promises a memorable experience.

What makes this tour stand out are the knowledgeable guides, the spectacular boat ride with glass-bottom views, and the opportunity to explore significant Lycian sites. Plus, the included lunch and roundtrip hotel transfers make the day convenient and straightforward.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour can be quite long—around 10 hours—and sometimes involves lengthy transfers, which might be tiring for some. Still, if you’re eager to uncover Turkey’s historical gems while enjoying a relaxing boat cruise, this experience offers excellent value for the price.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, scenery lovers, and those wanting a full-day adventure that blends culture with outdoor fun. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they’re comfortable with a busy schedule and some travel time.

Good To Know

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines ancient sites, a church, and a scenic boat cruise.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, helpful, and well-rated for their explanations.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit a 4th-century burial site, Lycian rock tombs, and the sunken city of Kekova.
• Relaxing & Active: Includes swimming, sightseeing from the boat, and walking through historical ruins.
• Value for Money: At $65, the tour offers a comprehensive day with transportation, lunch, and guided insights.
• Long Day: Expect a 10-hour experience with some busy travel times and multiple stops.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins early, with hotel pickup provided, which is especially convenient if you’re staying in Antalya or Kemer. The journey involves a scenic drive through the ancient Lycian territory, giving a glimpse of Turkey’s rugged coastline and historical landscape. Reviewers note the bus is air-conditioned and equipped with regular stops for bathroom breaks and refreshments, making the long ride more comfortable.

While some mention the transfer can be lengthy—starting as early as 6:55 am for some—you’ll be glad for the promptness and the smooth organization. The large group size (up to 47 people) means a lively atmosphere, but some travelers preferred a smaller group for quicker movement and more personalized attention.

Exploring Demre & St. Nicholas Church

A key highlight is visiting St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker Church in Demre. This site is not just a religious landmark but also a portal into the past, as it sits above the 4th-century burial site of St. Nicholas, the original Santa Claus inspiration. Visitors often find it both beautiful and a little museum-like, with a gift shop that some reviewers found slightly overpriced.

One traveler described it as “stepping into a museum,” and noted that it’s a must-see for those interested in history and culture. The church’s architecture and historical significance make it worth a dedicated visit, though some found the crowds and shops a bit commercialized.

Lycian & Greco-Roman Ruins

Next on the agenda are the Lycan rock tombs and Greco-Roman amphitheaters, which are easily accessible with guided commentary. We loved the way guides explain the significance of these sites, making the ancient stones come alive with stories. Reviewers mention that guides are very knowledgeable—one even said their guide Natalia was “super helpful” and “explained everything well.”

Walking around these ancient ruins, you get a real sense of the area’s once-flourishing civilization. The rock tombs are carved into cliffs, and although some are just remnants, their scale and craftsmanship remain impressive. The amphitheater, though smaller than some other Roman sites, still tells a story of a bustling Lycian maritime city.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch in Demre

A highlight for many is the included lunch. Several reviewers praise the food as some of the best they had during their trip, with a variety of local Turkish dishes served buffet-style. It’s a good chance to relax and recover before heading to the boat cruise.

Some note that the meal is simple but satisfying, with fresh ingredients. Keep in mind that beverages are not included, so you might want to bring water or buy drinks at the venue.

The Kekova Yacht Cruise & Sunken City

The core of the adventure is sailing on a glass-bottom yacht to Kekova Island. The boat’s transparent floor panels reveal the underwater ruins of the sunken city—an incredible sight that makes for fantastic photos and a sense of wonder.

Travelers often mention the views are stunning—turquoise waters, rugged coastlines, and ancient ruins under the surface. The boat ride itself is smooth, and the guides keep everyone engaged with stories about the history of Kekova and the earthquake that sank part of the city.

One reviewer described the experience as “incredible,” especially noting the glass-bottom windows that allow for underwater sightseeing without getting wet. You can also jump into the water for a swim, which is refreshing on a warm day. Many appreciated the chance to cool off and enjoy the clear, calm sea.

Additional Stops & Tips

The tour offers plenty of opportunities to take photos, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers advise bringing swimming clothes and towels—swimming gear is optional, but it’s a great way to make the most of the boat stop.

Some guests found the extra onyx factory visit unnecessary, with one saying it felt like an add-on that didn’t add much to the experience. If shopping isn’t your thing, it’s good to know this part can be skipped or just appreciated in passing.

Returning & Overall Experience

The tour wraps up after a full day of exploration and sailing, with drop-off back at your hotel. Expect to be on the move from early morning until around 8 pm, which can be tiring but ensures you pack in a lot in one day.

Reviewers consistently praise the professional and friendly guides, with many mentioning the tour was “well-organized,” “informative,” and “beautifully curated.” The combination of ancient ruins, scenic boat ride, and cultural insights provides a well-rounded view of this part of Turkey.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those eager to combine historical sites with the fun of a boat cruise. If you enjoy learning about ancient civilizations, scenic outdoor activities, and trying local Turkish cuisine, you’ll get plenty of value here.

Families with older children and couples will find it manageable and enjoyable, especially if you’re comfortable with a full-day schedule. Be prepared for the travel time and choose this tour if you want a comprehensive, guided day that covers both land and sea.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a great balance of culture, history, and leisure. The price of around $65 per person includes transportation, guided commentary, boat cruise, and lunch—making it a cost-effective way to see some of Turkey’s lesser-known ancient sites.

The highlights—like the sunken city of Kekova with its glass-bottom views and the historic Demre church—are well worth the long day. The guides’ expertise and friendly attitude add a lot to the experience, making complex history accessible and engaging.

While it’s a lengthy day, the variety of sights and activities keeps things interesting. If you’re a curious traveler who loves a mix of outdoor adventure and historical storytelling, this trip is likely to satisfy your wanderlust and educational cravings alike.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning with hotel pickup and ending late in the evening with return to your accommodation.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus is air-conditioned, and stops are made regularly for breaks, which helps manage the long journey.

Do I need to bring my swimming gear?
Yes, bringing swimwear and towels is recommended because there’s an opportunity to swim in the clear waters near Kekova Island.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance fees to certain sites (like St. Nicholas Church) are not included in the tour price and cost around 30 euros per person. Beverages are also not included.

Is the group size large?
The tour can accommodate up to 47 people, which some might find lively, but guides try to make it manageable and informative.

Would I enjoy this tour if I’m not a history buff?
Absolutely—many travelers enjoy the scenic boat ride, stunning views, and swimming opportunities even if they’re not deeply interested in history.

This tour from Antalya offers an authentic glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past while blending outdoor fun and cultural discovery. Suitable for those seeking a full, well-organized day with plenty of photo-worthy moments and engaging stories.

You can check if your dates are available here: