Tour members will depart from Demre at 4:00 p.m. Demre is a coastal town named after the river that lies by the ancient Lycian town of Myra. We will guide you through many historical sites, cultural hotspots, beaches, and bays that are perfect for relaxing and swimming. The next stop on our tour is Pirates' Cave, located on Asirli Island, with the legend of its name deriving from pirates using the location as a secret hideout. Following the coastline southwestwards, we will head to Kekova, which is known for its uninhabited island and is home to the Sunken City, which we will visit en route. From here, the tour will cross back over to the mainland to Simena, an ancient Lycian town, before visiting Simena Castle. After an action-packed day, the tour will wind down in beautiful Gokkaya Bay.
Demre to Fethiye
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Sights Included
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Demre
A beloved destination with its turquoise blue coves and stunning beaches, Demre offers unforgettable memories. The region is full of striking ancient ruins from ancient civilizations such as Lycian rock tombs and the Church of St. Nicholas. The calm waters places like Kekova Island, Aquarium Bay, and Tasdibi Beach, create a serene atmosphere among all the hustle and bustle of the region.
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Pirates Cave
Lying on the Turkish Mediterranean coast, Pirates Cave is a famous tourist attraction in Alanya. The picturesque cave is half submerged in transparent sea water and has a long history entangled with legends.
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Kekova
Kekova is one of Antalya’s most-loved spots, especially for those traveling by boat. A mix of local history dating back to the Roman era as well as beautiful bays for relaxation are why it is so popular. Whether it be a hike in Simena, diving in the Sunken City, or relaxing in Esmeralda Bay, there is a great range of activities for all.
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Kekova Sunken City
The Sunken City at Kekova in Turkey is an unusual spectacle of the ruins of ancient civilizations under the water. Visitors can go diving in one of the most beautiful places in the world, so similar to the legendary Atlantis.
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Simena
Most known for its impressive Byzantine Castle, the village of Kalekoy is mostly a quiet seaside resort that is very popular in the summer months. Only approachable by boat, the charming Mediterranean village, previously the site of ancient Simena, boasts stunning views of neighboring Kekova and a lone, partially submerged Lycian sarcophagus.
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Simena Castle
Simena Castle is the ancient ruins of a fortress on the hill of a former Lycian city, which is one of the amazing sights of the Kekova region with Theimussa. At the top of the fortress, beautiful panoramic views of nature and a touch of history await visitors.
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Gokkaya Bay
Gokkaya Bay is a cove with extraordinary beauties located on the shores of the Mediterranean that can only be reached by boat. It is the largest bay in the region with its proximity to historical ruins, the clarity of the cerulean sea, and the surrounding natural greenery.
Yaglica Bay is a warm, secluded inlet located north of the Strait of Akar. It is highly sheltered from all but the northwest winds, which provide a cool breeze for visitors during the hot summer days. Due to the calm, clear waters, this bay is a favorite for boat excursions, particularly to anchor overnight. The next stop from here will be the coastal town of Kas. The town is located on the Lycian Way and is known today for being a popular resort and holiday destination. Whether it be beaches, bars, restaurants, or hiking tours, Kas has it all. It also has a rich history that dates back to the Lycian Period, with remnants of the ancient city of Antiphellos.
Sights Included
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Yaglica Bay
The virgin Yaglica Bay opens the doors of peace and serenity with its lush forests and pristine turquoise sea. In addition to swimming, guests can also take part in other activities such as snorkeling and diving to see sea creatures.
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Kas
One of the most preferred stops on Blue Cruises, Kas is a favorite of those who love sailing and swimming with its turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Thousands of years of history are revealed with ancient settlements, sunken cities, and Lycian rock tombs. With dozens of bars and taverns, fun nightlife and unique local shops, fun never ends in the city center.
Butterfly Valley is one of the most popular sites located in and around Fethiye and is a must-see location. The valley is home to various species of butterflies, hence its name, and is a great spot for ecotourism, camping, and enjoying its wonderful beach. Another must-see site and arguably the most well-known beach in Fethiye is the Blue Lagoon. The beach is naturally sheltered, providing incredibly warm, clear, and still waters, perfect for those with children. From here, we will move on to St. Nicholas Island, which also goes by the name of Gemiler Island. The island is home to a number of beautiful beaches and many ancient ruins, one of which is the tomb of St. Nicholas himself.
Sights Included
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Butterfly Valley
Butterfly Valley is a deep gorge in the Mediterranean known for its many butterfly species whose colorful colonies make for stunning photos. The valley’s waterfalls and greenery are second only to the bay’s cerulean waters and sandy beach.
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Blue Lagoon
Home to the picturesque and soft sandy beach, the Blue Lagoon is a natural beauty boasting an idyllic turquoise sea. It is a coastal mix of soft sand and white pebbles, which is popular for snorkeling.
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St Nicholas Island
The glistening turquoise sea around St. Nicholas Island is one of Fethiye’s most loved spots. Filled with local history, visitors can hike through an ancient Christian pilgrimage path or enjoy time swimming in the crystal clear water.
On the final day of the tour, we will depart from Samanlik Bay and end the tour in Fethiye at 9:00 a.m. Samanlik Bay lies a short distance away from Fethiye’s center and is home to coral reefs and an abundant ecosystem. The clear waters and marine life make it a perfect spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Before wrapping up the tour, the last stop will be Fethiye. The port city that sits along the Lycian Way is home to a wealth of tourism sites. Visitors can explore the old town and enjoy the restaurants, nightlife, local market, promenade, and souvenir shops. While in town, the Fethiye Museum is also a recommended site that can be visited.
Sights Included
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Samanlik Bay
The Samanlik Bay area on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast charms visitors with its calm, turquoise waters and verdant wooden hills. For swimming or sunbathing, the area is rich with atmospheric beauty.
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Fethiye
Fethiye is the address of sun, sand, and surf, with a seemingly endless array of turquoise bays and exquisite beaches. Visitors can explore local history by searching out the ruins of ancient Telmessos which are scattered around town or simply glance towards the local rockface to view striking Lycian rock tombs. The downtown Paspatur area is the town’s hub of nightlife and will not disappoint with its many colorful bars.