From Paphos: Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise

A Balanced Look at the Paphos: Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise

Taking a boat trip from Paphos to the Akamas coast is a popular way to enjoy Cyprus’s natural beauty, but how well does this particular cruise deliver? Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, we’ve gathered the key points to help you decide whether this 6-hour adventure matches your expectations.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to relax aboard a boat with stunning views, explore the famous Blue Lagoon, and indulge in seasonal fruits and wine. Plus, the cruise offers the opportunity to see some of Cyprus’s last untouched coastal areas, which is a rare treat. That said, some travelers point out issues like limited snorkeling equipment and a busy, sometimes crowded atmosphere, which are worth considering. This trip seems best suited for those craving an easy, scenic day on the water with a laid-back vibe.

Good To Know

• Scenic coastline: The cruise offers beautiful views along the unspoiled Akamas coast, including sights like Saint George’s Island and sea caves.
• Blue Lagoon swim: The highlight is swimming and snorkeling at the famous Blue Lagoon, with crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxing.
• Relaxed pace: The 6-hour trip balances sightseeing, swimming, and downtime, with onboard seasonal fruits and wine.
• Mixed reviews on equipment: Snorkeling gear may be limited; some travelers report broken or insufficient equipment.
• Family-friendly: The inclusion of a water slide and Wi-Fi onboard makes it appealing for families looking for a fun, casual day.
• Group size considerations: Expect a somewhat busy boat, with some reviewers noting limited space to sit in the sun.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Blue Lagoon Cruise

Starting from Latsi Harbor in Paphos, this cruise sets off on a tranquil journey along one of Cyprus’s most untouched coastlines. The boat, operated by GXG Xplore Cy Tours Ltd, features a friendly crew—including a captain, driver, and onboard staff—dedicated to making your trip enjoyable.

Pickup and Transportation: The experience begins with hotel pickup. The driver will meet you outside your hotel on the main road about 10 minutes before your scheduled departure. Be aware that pickups are punctual, with a strict five-minute window, so punctuality is key.

What’s on the route: As you sail along the coast, you’ll enjoy views of Saint George’s Island, the sea caves of Manolis Bay, Blaii Bay, and Fontana Amoroza. These sights are great for photo ops and to get a feel for the raw beauty of Cyprus’s last significant undeveloped coast.

Learning opportunities: The crew shares insights about the area’s importance as a turtle breeding ground, adding a layer of respect for the environment and the fragile ecosystems here.

The Blue Lagoon: Once you reach the Blue Lagoon, you’ll have plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. The water is famously sky-blue and inviting, but reviews suggest the snorkeling gear might not live up to expectations—some travelers found masks and snorkels to be broken or not as advertised. If snorkeling is a priority, consider bringing your own gear.

Onboard amenities: During your time at the lagoon, you can enjoy seasonal fruits, wine, or juice. The inclusion of Wi-Fi on the boat makes sharing your experience or simply staying connected easier. For those looking to add some fun, a water slide is available—perfect for kids or the young at heart.

Return journey: After swimming and relaxing, you’ll sail back to Latsi Port. The return leg offers more scenic views and the chance to soak up the sun and sea breeze.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This trip ticks many boxes with inclusions like hotel pickup and drop-off, roundtrip transportation by van, a captain and crew, and the boat itself. You’ll also enjoy seasonal fruits, wine or juice, and the water slide onboard. Free Wi-Fi adds a modern touch in the middle of the sea.

However, it’s worth noting that additional food and drinks are not included, so if you crave more than the seasonal fruits and wine, you’ll need to buy at the bar. Some reviews mention that the snorkel equipment may be limited or less than perfect, which is an important consideration for snorkel enthusiasts.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What travelers liked: Reviewers appreciated the overall stunning scenery and the peaceful atmosphere during the cruise. The blue waters of the lagoon are exactly as advertised—a highlight that delivers that perfect, relaxing escape. People also enjoyed the friendly staff and the opportunity to savour local fruits and wine while floating in Cyprus’s famous waters.

What could be better: Some feedback pointed out limited snorkeling equipment—a real bummer if snorkeling is your main goal. One traveler mentioned that the provided masks were broken, which could be frustrating. Plus, the boat can get crowded, with limited space for sunbathing or relaxing in the shade, especially during peak times.

Timing and group size: The trip lasts about six hours, with starting times varying based on availability. Since the boat is not overly large, expect a cozy atmosphere where sharing space might mean some standing or sitting in less-than-ideal spots.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you’re particular about masks and fins.
• Pack sunscreen, a towel, and sunglasses—the sun can be strong, and you’ll want to stay comfortable.
• Arrive early for pickup to avoid missing your transfer, especially during busy seasons.
• Be prepared for weather changes—route adjustments might happen due to weather, which can affect the schedule.
• Consider your mobility—this tour isn’t recommended for people with mobility impairments or heart problems due to the boat’s setup.

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Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This cruise is a fantastic choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a laid-back day on the water with beautiful views. If you love swimming, enjoy casual sightseeing, and don’t mind a somewhat busy boat environment, this trip offers good value. It’s especially suited for those who are content with a simple, scenic experience rather than a more luxurious or equipment-intensive adventure.

It’s less ideal if you’re a serious snorkeler seeking professional gear or a quiet, uncrowded atmosphere. Also, if you require accessible facilities, be aware that the tour isn’t designed for mobility-impaired guests.

Final Thoughts

The From Paphos: Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise provides a lovely way to spend half a day soaking up Cyprus’s coastal beauty. The standout feature is undoubtedly the Blue Lagoon, with its vibrant water and tranquil setting. While some reviews highlight minor inconveniences like snorkeling equipment and limited shade, many travelers find the experience well worth the price for the scenic views and relaxed vibe.

If your priority is to enjoy a peaceful swim, indulge in local fruits and wine, and take in some breathtaking scenery, this cruise is a simple, charming option. It’s best suited for those who want a straightforward day of fun and relaxation without too many frills.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, arranged by a driver who will meet you outside your hotel approximately 10 minutes before departure.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. Since snorkeling gear might be limited, consider bringing your own if you’re particular about masks and fins.

How long is the cruise?
The total duration is about 6 hours, including the time for pickup, cruising, swimming, and returning to Latsi Port.

Is the snorkeling equipment provided?
Snorkeling gear is included but may be limited or of questionable quality based on recent reviews. Some travelers reported broken masks or goggles, so bringing your own might be wise.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
You’ll see Saint George’s Island, the sea caves at Manolis Bay, Blue Lagoon, Blaii Bay, and Fontana Amoroza—all from the comfort of your boat.

Is the boat crowded?
Expect a somewhat busy atmosphere, with limited space to sit in the sun. The boat isn’t very large, so space might be tight during peak times.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a straightforward, scenic day out for those looking to unwind, swim in iconic waters, and enjoy Cyprus’s natural coastline. With some minor drawbacks like equipment limitations and crowding, it remains a good-value option for casual travelers and families wanting a gentle sea adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: