Demre

Tours

Explore ancient Lycia on a day trip and yacht cruise from Antalya. See a historic rock tomb from Lycian times, marvel at ancient Greco-Roman amphitheaters, and sail to the beautiful Kekova Island. Meet your driver outside your hotel and begin your adventure with a drive through the ancient state of Lycia. Marvel at an ancient rock tomb from the Lycian times and stop to visit the Greco - Roman amphitheater. Next, visit the church of St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker in Demre city. This ancient church sits above the 4th-century burial place of St. Nicholas, the original inspiration for Santa Claus. Enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to Kekova Island. Board a glass-windowed-bottomed yacht and sail through pristine waters to reach this fascinating island. Sail by the mysterious sunken city of Kekova, an ancient Lycia city, destroyed by an earthquake. Spot the ruins of the city and the Simena Castle from the side of the boat and under the water through the glass bottom windows. Before heading back, jump into the refreshing water for a swim. Finally, return to your hotel, having experienced Turkey's rich ancient history.

Kekova, with its breathtaking scenery and rich historical heritage, indeed presents an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and ancient wonders. Renaming it "Heaven" would aptly capture the essence of this picturesque destination. The turquoise waters of Kekova, adorned with numerous coves and bays, provide a serene backdrop to its historical sites. One of the most notable attractions is the Kekova Sunken City, a mesmerizing testament to the intertwining of nature and history. Exploring Kekova typically involves visiting several key locations, including the charming villages of Ucagiz and Kalekoy/Simena. Kalekoy, with its renowned fortress and inviting narrow streets, offers a glimpse into the region's storied past. Visitors on boat tours from Kas to Kekova have the opportunity to experience the allure of Kalekoy and indulge in its famous peach ice cream—a delightful treat not to be missed. Kekova Island, situated across from the Simena peninsula, bears the scars of its tumultuous history, marked by earthquakes and invasions. Despite its challenges, the island has endured and now stands as a protected area, offering glimpses of Byzantine ruins, including the remnants of a church in Tersane Bay. Akvaryum Bay, known for its crystalline waters, beckons travelers for a refreshing swim accessible only by boat. In summary, Kekova, aptly renamed "Heaven," encapsulates the harmonious convergence of nature's splendor and mankind's enduring legacy, making it a truly enchanting destination for explorers and history enthusiasts alike. The itinerary for a boat tour around Kekova offers an array of captivating stops, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. Here's a brief overview of each stop: İnönü Bay: Known for its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, İnönü Bay provides a peaceful setting for swimming and relaxation. Aquarium Bay: As its name suggests, Aquarium Bay boasts crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and observing marine life beneath the surface. Sunken City: One of the highlights of the tour, the Sunken City of Kekova offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past, with submerged ruins visible from the boat's deck. Simena Castle or Kaleköy: This historical site features the ruins of a medieval castle overlooking the picturesque village of Kaleköy. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Shipyard Bay: Shipyard Bay is steeped in history, once serving as a harbor for shipbuilding during ancient times. Today, it offers a scenic stop for swimming and admiring the coastal scenery. Pine Bay: Surrounded by lush pine forests, Pine Bay provides a serene setting for a leisurely swim or a picnic on the shoreline. Each stop along the tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making the Kekova boat tour an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to explore Turkey's stunning coastline.

Join a full-day boat trip to Kekova. This trip departs in the morning to maximize daylight hours for the best views of the surrounding landscape and ocean scenes. Prepare for a day of relaxation aboard the boat at Demre Harbor.  DEMRE HARBOUR Get ready for your action-packed day on the water! Make your way to Demre harbour before departing for the boat trip between 10:20 and 10.30 a.m. KEKOVA ISLAND AND SUNKEN CITY Discover the fascinating secrets of Kekova’s history on this unique adventure around Sunken City. The ancient city of Dolchiste was flooded due to an earthquake in the 2nd century, and its resulting underwater ruins never fail to leave an impression. Since this is a protected area, swimming is not permitted here, so what better way to explore the site than by cruising alongside the ruins on our boat, giving you the chance to capture unforgettable photos? SIMENA CASTLE Our boat will drop anchor in Kaleköy port (ancient Simena) for one hour, giving you time to visit this small authentic village home to castle ruins and a necropolis. A hike up the hillside will give you magnificent views of the Kekova region. If you’d prefer to admire Simena Castle from down below, you can use your remaining time to take another dip in the gorgeous blue waters. ESMERALDA BAY Time for a lunch and swim break at beautiful Esmeralda Bay, where you can enjoy peace and tranquillity during this fun journey. BURÇ BAY A 40-minute swim break in Burç Bay follows lunch. The sea is a little cooler in this area due to the cold underwater natural springs. GÖKKAYA BAY We’ll stop to swim in Gökkaya Bay, where you can experience the natural beauty of the area and opt to participate in one of the various exciting water sports on offer. PIRATES CAVE Discover this intriguing naturally-formed cave renowned for its large size and curved entrance. KAREMLIK BAY There are eight known types of turtles worldwide, 5 of which can be found in the Mediterranean. At Karemlik Bay, you’ll have the chance to look for these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. DEMRE HARBOUR After an exciting adventure, we’ll return to Demre Harbour, where this memorable boat trip ends.

Lunch is included in the price of the 12 island tour, which lasts for 8 hours. Fish or chicken, salad, fried potatoes, yoghurt appetizers are served for lunch. Tea service at certain times of the day, fruit is given on the way back to Gocek. There is a boat bar where you can supply your hot and cold drinks, snacks such as chips and biscuits throughout the day. After Gocek, there are 5 islands namely Gocek Island, Yassıca Islands, Zeytin Island, Tersane Island and Pig Island. The island of Yassica consists of a few small islands with a small pond. Traveling between the bays and islands of Gocek, you will not miss the rock tombs of the Lycian period. Gobun Bay is 8.4 km away from the center of Gocek and is a quiet bay during the days when daily tour boats leave. In this bay, there are also a mooring place, a restaurant, a historical place and a breakwater. The largest of the islands in the Gulf is Tersane Island and the ruins of the ancient Greek settlement are seen on this island.There are also remains of a shipyard and watchtower. There is also a restaurant here. In the Cleopatra Hammam, which was filled with boats in the summer, there are remains of a Byzantine monastery, some of which were under water. There are no facilities on the seven islands called Yassica islands or Yassicalar. Yassıca islands are preferred by families with children because of the sandy beach and the natural pool which are in the extension of the island. In the Yassicalarda, it is possible to catch the moonlight. Gocek Island, which is 10 minutes away from Gocek, is the most important choice for those who do not want to go on boat tours since it is the closest beach to Gocek center. The boats departing from Gocek coastal band carry passengers to this island from morning hours until evening. The island has a facility to meet your needs such as food, wc, shower. It is possible to camp for hours in the bay and rest under the trees that make shade.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the lively town of Kaş, exploring the stunning coastline and ancient wonders of Demre. Here's a shortened version of the tour route: Kaş to Demre Harbor: Begin your adventure with a morning transfer from Kaş to Demre Harbor, where the boat awaits to kickstart your trip to Kekova. Kekova Island and Sunken City: Cruise along Kekova Island and witness the mesmerizing ruins of Sunken City. Capture unforgettable photos as you glide on our boat, marveling at the underwater remains of the ancient city of Dolchiste. Simena Castle: Drop anchor at Kaleköy port, also known as ancient Simena. Explore the authentic village, visit castle ruins, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Kekova region from atop the hillside. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear blue waters. Esmeralda Bay: Indulge in lunch and swim break at the serene Esmeralda Bay, basking in the tranquillity of this beautiful location. Burç Bay: Experience the cool waters of Burç Bay, enriched by cold underwater natural springs. Take a swim break and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the area. Gökkaya Bay: Enjoy another swim break in Gökkaya Bay, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Engage in thrilling water sports activities if you're up for an adventure. Pirates Cave: Explore the intriguing Pirates Cave, famous for its large size and curved entrance, a natural wonder that captivates visitors. Karemlik Bay: Keep an eye out for sea turtles in their natural habitat as you visit Karemlik Bay, where three of the seven known sea turtle species can be found. Demre Harbor: After the boat trip, anchor at Demre Harbor, where your tour continues with a visit to a nearby museum. Optional Stops: St. Nicholas Church: Explore the Santa Claus Museum, originally built as a church in memory of St. Nicholas of Myra. Discover the remains of this ancient church and immerse yourself in history. The Ancient City of Myra: Step back in time as you explore the famous archaeological site of Myra. Marvel at the Roman-style theater, the largest in Lycia, and the eerie rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs. Demre to Kaş: At the end of the day, return to the picturesque town of Kaş, where your tour concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of the sights and experiences you encountered.

Enjoy a full-day tour of the beautiful Demre province in Turkey, and visit some of its most beautiful locations. Begin this fascinating tour with a visit to the ancient town of Myra located on the beautiful river Myros, and visit the ancient Greek amphitheater and the rock-cut tombs of the Lycian necropolis in Myra. After a complimentary lunch, sail over turquoise waters to the picturesque Kekova Island. Discover the extraordinary underwater ruins of the sunken city of Simena and visit the noteworthy Lycian necropolis at Teimiussa. Take advantage of the opportunity to swim and snorkel through the crystal clear waters surrounding the island, and continue the tour to the small town of Kale (or Demre) and visit the stunning church of St. Nicholas.

Ucagiz Village Get ready for your action-packed day on the water! Make your way to Ucagiz Village harbour in time to depart for the boat trip between 10:20 and 10.40 am. Aquarium Bay Cool off during a whopping one-hour swim break in this picturesque bay next to Kekova Island, and be dazzled by its beauty. Turkish tea and biscuits service at Aquarium Bay. Kekova Island and Sunken City Discover the fascinating secrets of Kekova’s history on this unique adventure around the Sunken City. The ancient city of Dolchiste was flooded due to an earthquake in the 2nd century, and its resulting underwater ruins never fail to leave an impression. Burç Bay Swim break in Burç Bay. The sea is a little cooler in this area due to the cold underwater natural springs. Pirates Cave Discover this intriguing naturally-formed cave, which is renowned for its large size and curved entrance. Gökkaya Bay Time for a lunch and swim break at Gökkaya Bay, where you can experience the natural beauty of the area and opt to participate in one of the various exciting water sports on offer. Esmeralda Bay We’ll stop to swim in Esmeralda Bay where you can enjoy peace and tranquility during this fun journey. Simena Castle Our boat will drop anchor in Kaleköy port (ancient Simena) for one hour, giving you time to visit this small authentic village that’s home to castle ruins and a necropolis. A hike up the hillside will give you magnificent views of the Kekova region. If you’d prefer to admire Simena Castle from down below, you can use your remaining time to take another dip in the gorgeous blue waters. Ucagiz Village After an exciting day of adventure, we’ll head back to Ucagiz Village harbour where this memorable boat trip ends. From here you can make your way to the centre for dinner options or continue to your next destination.

Distance from Kemer to Demre is 116 kilometers away, the road will take about two hours. And then you will visit the historical capital of the ancient state of Mira-Limire. Saint Nicholas the Pleasant lived and preached there. See the ancient Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. Visit the shrine, visited by pilgrims from all over the world. You will also take an amazing boat trip to the sunken city of Kekova, in which Jacques-Yves-Cousteau filmed one of the parts of his Odyssey. Learn about the city of Kekova interesting facts from our expert guide, therefore a mysterious place. The Demre-Myra-Kekova tour from Kemer will begin in the legendary ancient city of Myra, founded in the 5th century BC - the capital of the state of Lycia. The pearl of the city of Mira is an ancient Roman amphitheater with a capacity of up to 10,000 spectators. It is surrounded by citrus plantations. Near the amphitheater, there are Lycian tombs painted by skilled craftsmen of antiquity. One of them is breathtaking. Powerful tombs are carved into the rock and amaze with their scale. The height of the tomb depended on the status of the deceased. The richest and most famous Lycians have the largest tombs. Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker The Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is the so-called iconic center of the Church of St. Nicholas Demre. Every pilgrim considers it his duty to visit this church. Nicholas the Wonderworker is the patron saint of all children, travelers, fishermen and merchants. He was an unusually generous and just person. St. Nicholas served as an archbishop in the church. Inside a sarcophagus was installed in the church, which has miraculous powers. You will see picturesque murals, amazing mosaics, and ancient icons. We will return here immediately after the mystical city of Mira, to get acquainted with the main shrine of the city of Demre, as part of the excursion Demre-Myra-Kekova from Kemer Then take a sea voyage to the sunken city of Kekova. This historic city was previously located on an island. There is an answer to the common question - why the island of Kekova sank, proved by the facts of the occurrence of strong earthquakes in the 2nd century AD, they drove it under the water. And the residents had to leave their homes. We will sail here on a yacht with a special glass bottom. You will see what remains of the city - its ruins, stone stairs and walls of ancient houses, sidewalks, some household items and other interesting artifacts.

Embark on a mesmerizing tour that takes you through the historical heart of Demre, the ancient ruins of Myra, and the mystical waters of Kekova Island from Alanya, Side, Belek, Antalya, or Kemer. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history, archaeology, and natural beauty that defines this unique region of Turkey. Begin your journey with a convenient pickup from your hotel and venture towards Demre. Then, relax over a brief breakfast stop near Antalya at your own cost, savoring local flavors. Next, visit the museum and icon center at the Church of Saint Nicholas. This revered site pays homage to the saintly figure known worldwide as Santa Claus, providing insights into his life and the profound impact he has had on culture and history. Next, step back in time with a visit to the ancient city of Myra. Here, explore an impressive ancient theater and a fascinating necropolis carved into the rocks, offering a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity and artistic heritage of ancient civilizations. Following your journey through antiquity, enjoy a local lunch, refueling for the afternoon's activities and relishing the tastes of local cuisine. Then, take to the water on a boat cruise to Kekova Island and the Sunken City. Glide over the submerged ruins of this once-great city, visible beneath the clear turquoise waters, and marvel at the haunting beauty of a civilization claimed by the sea. As the day winds down, depart from Myra, carrying with you memories of the day's incredible sights and experiences, returning to your hotel.

Traveling on a Turkish gulet, this blue cruise has something for everyone, from the ancient cities and sights to crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkeling. Our depart Fethiye to cruise on to Butterfly Valley, where you can take the time to hike in the valley or enjoy the vivid blue ocean for your first swim. You then move past Europe's most photographed beach, Oludeniz, anchoring on the back of the Blue Lagoon. That afternoon, you arrive at St Nicholas Island, where you can explore the ruins before catching the sunset. Kas and the Kekova region will be explored over the next few days. You will be taken past the famous Sunken City of Kekova, have time to go shopping in Kas, and visit the ruins of Simena Castle. Throughout your blue cruise, you will be offered the chance to undertake some optional activities such as paragliding and diving; you will get the opportunity to relax and swim in some stunning bays while enjoying plentiful Turkish dishes and hospitality. You will cruise along on a standard Turkish gulet when you board your Blue Cruise. These gulets are now to a very high standard, and all the cabins come with private ensuite bathrooms. The gulet will be equipped with sunbeds shaded area, and some water toys are usually on board with snorkeling gear. The cabin options on the gulet could be twin, double, or triple, depending on the yacht layout. If you want to learn more about gulets and different private gulet options, please visit our Gulet Boat Turkey page. You will depart your Gulet cruise in Ucagiz Village Harbor, where you will be transferred to Olympos as part of your Blue Cruise adventure. The Fethiye to Olympos gulet cruise is Turkey's most popular because of the variety of highlight destinations and sites this coastline includes. The coastline keeps relics from the ancient Lycians, Romans, Ottomans, and Greeks. Lycia in Turkey is an ancient region in Turkey famous for the Lycian Way, which is a hiking track that stretches for 500 miles from Oludeniz to Antalya. Lycia derived from ancient Greece and was once a thriving civilization of the Mediterranean. Many extraordinary beaches are scattered along this coastal hiking route. One such beach is Patara Beach in Lycia, a cruise highlight.