Ayia Napa: Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove and Famagusta with BBQ

Introduction

If you’re planning a day on the water in Ayia Napa, this boat tour of Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove, and Famagusta offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, history, and relaxation. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews paint a clear picture of an experience packed with memorable swims, tasty food, and friendly guides.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it’s family-run, with a long-standing reputation since 1992, promising a warm, authentic vibe. Second, the food on board is freshly prepared, with a live BBQ that adds a delicious, communal touch. Third, the friendly crew and top-notch amenities elevate the experience, making it comfortable and fun.

A possible drawback? The tour is not suitable for those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues, and the upper deck can get quite sunny, which might be uncomfortable for some.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and good food, especially if you appreciate attentive hosts who prioritize friendly service. It caters well to families, couples, and solo travelers looking for an authentic, value-packed day out on the water.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Long-standing family business with a reputation for friendly, professional service
• Multiple swim stops providing ample opportunity to cool off and snorkel
• Freshly cooked BBQ and tasty onboard meals for a true social dining experience
• Interesting stops at iconic sites like the sea caves and Famagusta’s ghost town
• Comfortable amenities including bar, restrooms, and plenty of shaded seating
• Turtle sightings are common, adding a magical touch to the trip

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

This 5-hour cruise begins at 9:30 am, so plan to arrive by 9:20 am at the Discovery Cruises Cyprus dock. From the moment you step aboard the Discovery, you’ll notice the inviting atmosphere, with a friendly crew and a vessel equipped for a smooth ride.

Scenic Views and Iconic Landmarks

Your journey kicks off with a quick safety briefing and an introduction to the boat’s features. The first stop is the Ayia Napa Sea Caves—a favorite for photographers and nature lovers. The caves are carved into the coastline, shaped over centuries, offering perfect photo opportunities and a good chance to appreciate the natural artistry of Cyprus’s coastline.

Next, you’ll cruise past Cape Greco, home to the iconic lighthouse. The views here are stunning, with rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The scenery alone makes the price worthwhile, and guides tend to share interesting tidbits about the area’s geology and history.

Unique Swim Stops

The first swim stop is at a secluded spot, ideal for a 15-20 minute dip in the calm, transparent waters. Reviewers rave about how pristine and inviting these waters are, often mentioning spotting marine life like turtles, which can sometimes swim alongside you. One guest recounted swimming unaware of a turtle nearby, calling it “the highlight of their trip.”

Further along, the boat passes Korakas Arch and the Agioi Anargiri Church, both picturesque landmarks that add to the scenic journey.

The Konnos Bay stop stands out for its tranquil setting, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing in relatively calm waters. Marine life viewing is common here, and many describe the experience as peaceful and breathtaking.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Famagusta and Historical Insights

As the boat approaches the Ghost Town of Famagusta, guides share a detailed narration about the 1974 events that shaped this area. Reviewers appreciated the respectful and informative commentary, which added context to the scenery. The view of Fig Tree Bay and Protaras is spectacular, giving a sense of the vibrant coastline.

Lunch at Green Bay

One of the tour’s highlights is the lunch stop at Green Bay, famous for its bay’s beauty and the chance to swim and snorkel with turtles. The onboard BBQ is cooked fresh on a live grill, and reviews consistently mention the tasty, plentiful food—a real treat after some water time. Guests often mention the seafood, salads, and grilled meats as being surprisingly high-quality and satisfying.

Final Swim and Return

After lunch, there’s a final swim stop, giving plenty of time to soak up the last rays of sunshine or explore the marine environment. The boat typically returns to Ayia Napa harbor by 2:30 pm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Family-Run Atmosphere

Since 1992, this cruise has maintained a family-run vibe, which guests describe as warm, attentive, and genuine. The crew, including guides who speak multiple languages (English, Slovak, Czech, German), make guests feel at ease and well-informed.

Quality Food and Amenities

The live BBQ is consistently praised, with reviews emphasizing how freshly prepared and flavorful the meals are. The onboard bar offers drinks (not included), and the ample seating, tables, and shaded zones ensure comfort for all guests. Restrooms onboard add a level of convenience that many day trips lack.

Marine Life Encounters

Turtle sightings are a highlight, with reviewers sharing stories of swimming alongside these gentle creatures. The guides emphasize respecting marine life, which many guests appreciated, noting that they were advised not to touch the turtles.

Value for Money

At $59 per person, the tour offers a balanced package: scenic cruising, multiple swim stops, a hearty BBQ, and professional guides. Several reviews mention how reasonable and worthwhile this price is, considering the quality of the experience and the inclusions.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early—the boat departs promptly at 9:30 am, and arriving 10 minutes early helps you settle in.
• Bring sun protection—a swimsuit, towel, and suncream are recommended, especially since the upper deck can get very sunny.
• Consider your comfort—if prone to seasickness, prepare accordingly or opt for a different experience.
• Prepare for swimming—if you plan to swim, bring a towel and snorkel gear if you have it, although equipment may also be available onboard.
• Book in advance—this popular tour often sells out, especially during peak months. Flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later.

The Sum Up

This cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to explore some of Cyprus’s most scenic spots in a single day. Its combination of stunning coastal views, interesting historical sites, and marine encounters makes it ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

The friendly guides and clean, well-equipped boat set the tone for a smooth experience, while the fresh BBQ and multiple swim stops keep guests energized and entertained. If you’re after an authentic, value-for-money day out that covers the highlights of the region, this tour is definitely worth considering.

However, it’s less suited for those with mobility issues or who dislike long hours in the sun. But for most, the opportunity to see turtles, enjoy delicious food, and soak in incredible scenery makes this a highlight of any trip to Ayia Napa.

FAQ

Is transportation to the harbor included?
No, transfers are not included but can be arranged for around 5 euros. You need to make your way to the dock on your own.

What should I bring for the trip?
A swimsuit, towel, suncream, and possibly a hat. If you want to swim, snorkeling gear is handy, but onboard equipment may also be available.

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, from 9:30 am to around 2:30 pm.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, a fully-stocked bar is available, but drinks are not included in the price.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but not for babies under 1 year or those prone to seasickness.

Can I see marine life or turtles?
Turtle sightings are common, especially at Green Bay, and swimmers have reported swimming alongside them.

What is the group size?
While the exact number varies, the vessel is set up to avoid overcrowding, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.

What about accessibility?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility limitations.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, beach-appropriate clothing, plus sun protection, is best.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Guests with food restrictions have noted that the crew was kind and prepared suitable options.

You can check if your dates are available here: