Demre Myra Kekova Boat Tour: Sunken Island, Lycian Tombs & St. Nicholas Church from Kemer in Turkey, Kekova Island

Discover ancient wonders and sea beauty from Kemer! This full-day tour leads you to the Lycian rock tombs of Myra, the historic Church of St. Nicholas, and the mysterious Sunken Island of Kekova. Enjoy a scenic yacht cruise with a refreshing swimming stop in turquoise waters.

Highlights:

• Explore the Sunken Kekova Island: Marvel at the remnants of a lost civilization beneath the waves
• Learn About Lycian Sarcophagi: Discover the burial practices of the ancient Lycians
• Visit the Church of St. Nicholas: Step into the world of this iconic saint and the history surrounding him
• Discover the Ancient City of Myra: Walk among ruins that have stood the test of time

• Transfer from / to your hotel or meeting point
• Entrance ticket to the Ancient City of Myra
• Lunch (drinks not included)
• Yacht cruise (with swimming stop)
• Services of a Russian-speaking guide
• Insurance policy for the duration of the tour

Not included:

• Entrance ticket to the Church of St. Nicholas the Saint (for guests over 9 years old) - from 20 euro (optional)
• Breakfast (take a lunch box with you at the hotel)
• Drinks

Please note: Child price: 4-7 yo.

• Please be aware that the tour includes shopping stops, where you can learn about the traditional crafts and historical trades of the region.
• Weather and wind conditions during the autumn, winter, and spring seasons may affect the yacht cruise (it is not always possible to know about this in advance).
• The order of the tour sites may change depending on the weather or other factors. The final decision is made by the tour guide based on the local conditions.
• If you are traveling with children aged 6-7 years, please make sure to bring their passports (they may not be allowed entry with a free ticket without a document).
• Children under 3 years old are not provided with a separate seat in the bus. You need to book a ticket with a seat (paid).

If you're dreaming of an adventure that combines crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and rich cultural insights, the Demre-Myra-Kekova tour from Kemer is calling your name! This isn't just a day trip; its a full-fledged experience that immerses you in the heart of Lycian civilization while showcasing the stunning beauty of Turkeys turquoise coast.

Itinerary:

07:20 - 08:50 Pick-up from the hotels

08:30 Stop in the mountains for breakfast

09:30 Visit to the Icon Shop of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

10:00 Visit to the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker (1 hour)

• Viewing the frescoes in the Church of St. Nicholas
• Viewing the floor mosaics in the Church of St. Nicholas
• Pilgrimage to the sarcophagus of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

11:30

Visit to the Ancient City of Myra (1 hour)

• Exploration of the Lycian rock tombs
• Visit to the amphitheater of the Ancient City of Myra

13:00 Lunch stop

14:00 Yacht cruise + swimming stop (2 hours)

• View of the Simena Peninsula from the boat
• View of the Sunken Island of Kekova from the boat
• Swimming stop in the bay

16:30 Departure on the return journey

17:30 - 18:00 Arrival at the hotels

Demre Myra Kekova Tour from Kemer Along Turkey's Coast

This Demre Myra Kekova tour delivers real substance. Departing from Kemer, you travel past the Taurus Mountains toward Demre, where the Church of St. Nicholas holds the actual sarcophagus of the 4th-century bishop who inspired Santa Claus. Next comes the ancient city of Myra, where the iconic rock cut tombs and a Roman amphitheater rise from the cliffs. After lunch, a yacht cruise carries you over the Sunken City of Kekova, with submerged ancient walls visible through crystal-clear water along the Mediterranean coast. A swimming stop in a quiet bay near Simena adds pure joy. This experience blends Lycian League history, culture, and Turkey's most stunning sea views.

Tips for a Smooth Demre Myra Tour from Kemer

A bit of preparation keeps this long day effortless:

• Pickup from Kemer hotels starts between 7:20 and 8:50 AM, prepare a lunch box the night before
• Bring swimwear, towel, and sunscreen, the yacht cruise includes a swimming stop in turquoise water
• Wear sturdy walking shoes, the ancient city of Myra involves uneven stone paths
• Bring small euros for optional entrance fees to the Church of St. Nicholas
• Autumn through spring winds can reshape the yacht route, check weather the day before
• Pack passports for children aged 6 to 7, required for verification at entry points

Plan ahead and this tour delivers every promise.

More Facts About This Experience

Demre carries genuine cinematic weight. The 2021 Turkish Netflix film Kaçış (The Life) featured Mediterranean coast scenes filmed near the Kekova region, and the hit Turkish series Kuruluş Osman uses Lycian-era backdrops similar to Myra's rock cut tombs. The BBC series Around the World in 80 Days (2021) also showcased Turkey's coastal beauty. Saint Nicholas, bishop of Myra who served there in the 4th century, became the global figure behind every Santa Claus film, from Miracle on 34th Street (1947) to The Santa Clause (1994). Kekova's turquoise waters also dominate TikTok and Instagram travel reels worldwide.

Complementary Activities Near Kemer

After this historical adventure, Kemer offers plenty more. A full-day trip to Pamukkale's white calcium terraces and the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, combined with the turquoise Lake Salda, delivers landscapes that feel genuinely otherworldly. For something calmer, a Green Canyon boat tour through emerald reservoir waters surrounded by pine forests balances relaxation with natural beauty. And if ambition calls, a 2-day Cappadocia escape introduces fairy chimneys and cave hotels into the mix.

Who Will Enjoy This Demre Myra Kekova Tour

History lovers, couples, and families with curious children genuinely love this trip. Groups of friends enjoy the yacht cruise and swim. Solo travelers appreciate the guided structure and cultural depth.