Paphos: Half Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar & Snorkelling

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back day on the water exploring Cyprus’ beautiful coastline, this half-day BBQ cruise in Paphos offers a relaxing blend of sightseeing, swimming, and good food. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a friendly, well-organized cruise that combines comfort with authentic coastal charm.

What we love about this experience is the stunning scenery of Coral Bay, the fascinating Sea Caves, and the chance to cool off with a swim in crystal waters. The all-you-can-drink open bar and delicious BBQ buffet are definite highlights, and the opportunity to take photos at iconic spots like St. Georges Island makes it a well-rounded day out. One thing to consider is that the tour runs for about four hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace and outdoor activities. This cruise is perfect for those craving a mix of scenic views, casual fun, and a taste of Mediterranean hospitality.

Good To Know

• Stunning coastal views including Coral Bay and Sea Caves.
• Comfortable yacht with three decks and sunbeds.
• Includes BBQ buffet and open bar, offering great value.
• Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
• Pickup and drop-off from designated hotels for convenience.
• Limited accessibility, not suitable for wheelchair users.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Paphos BBQ Cruise Experience

This cruise offers an inviting way to explore Cyprus’ coastline without the hassles of planning your own boat trip. With a duration of around four hours, it strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation, making it accessible for most travelers seeking a memorable day on the water.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup and Transfer: The tour starts with hotel pickups from either the Coral Beach Hotel & Resort or an alternative designated location, which is handy if you prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing transport yourself. The coach ride lasts around 30 minutes, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenic drive.

Cruising Coral Bay and Sea Caves: Once aboard, you’ll begin cruising along Paphos’ coast, with the first stop near Coral Bay. The views here are breathtaking—white sandy beaches hugging turquoise waters. The Sea Caves are a highlight, offering dramatic rock formations that make for fantastic photo opportunities. The trip includes a scenic pass-by of these natural wonders, and the guide is usually knowledgeable, sharing insights into the area’s geology and history.

Stop at St. Georges Island: The small island is a popular photo spot, and the boat slows down here for sightseeing and to give you a chance to appreciate its beauty. It’s also a prime spot for some quick photos or just soaking in the surroundings before heading to the next activity.

Swimming and Snorkelling: The highlight for many is the swim stop in the crystal-clear waters. You’ll have time to jump in, snorkel, or simply lounge on deck. Several reviews mention the water’s clarity and the opportunity to observe marine life up close. This stop is especially appreciated by those who enjoy water-based activities or want to relax on sunbeds, which are first come, first served.

Lunch and BBQ: After working up an appetite, guests are treated to a buffet-style BBQ lunch topped with fresh seasonal fruit. The food is generally well-reviewed; the buffet offers a satisfying spread that’s perfect for refueling. The lively atmosphere on deck, with the smell of grilled food, makes this part of the trip especially enjoyable.

Sightseeing and Scenic Passes: The cruise continues with a scenic pass through other parts of the coast, giving you a relaxed way to take in the views of the Paphos district from the sea. The guide often shares interesting tidbits about the local sights, making it feel like a gentle, floating sightseeing tour.

The Comfort and Convenience

The vessel features three decks, giving ample space to sit, socialize, or find a quiet corner. The sunbeds are available on a first-come, first-served basis, which means arriving early might be worth it if you want a prime spot. The open bar, including cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, is a big plus—perfect for raising a glass to the beautiful surroundings.

The cruise also offers additional activities like canoeing, which adds a bit of adventure for those wanting more than just lounging.

Authenticity and Service

Guests consistently mention the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. One review highlights the “super nice, attentive, and professional” crew that made the experience enjoyable, including a memorable live music performance by the captain. The guides are usually multilingual (English, Arabic, Greek), which helps create a welcoming atmosphere for diverse travelers.

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The Value Factor

Considering the tour price, the inclusion of hotel pickup/drop-off, a BBQ buffet, open bar, and multiple scenic stops makes this a good value for a half-day outing. The experience is designed for comfort and fun, rather than luxury, but most guests find it offers the perfect balance of affordability and quality.

The Experience from the Reviews

The positive feedback underscores some of the tour’s strengths. The friendly crew and stunning views consistently receive praise. One guest raved about the “lovely BBQ lunch buffet” and the great drinks, noting how well the crew served guests and kept the atmosphere lively. The live music performance is also a notable feature, adding entertainment beyond just sightseeing.

Some travelers have mentioned that the water clarity and the opportunity to snorkel are the best parts of the trip. For those who love taking photos, the scenery at Sea Caves and St. Georges Island provides plenty of picture-perfect moments.

Possible Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While overall positive, some guests pointed out that the size of the yacht and limited sunbed availability can be a concern if you prefer more space or want to secure a sunbed early. The cruise’s duration means it’s a relatively quick trip, so if you’re looking for an all-day adventure, you might want to supplement this experience.

Plus, as not all stops are equally long, travelers looking for extensive exploration may find it a bit abbreviated. Still, for a relaxed taste of the coastline with excellent food and drinks, it hits the sweet spot.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Arrive early if you want a preferred sunbed spot.
• Bring a towel and waterproof camera to capture underwater moments.
• Wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen, especially on decks.
• Check pickup times after booking for a smooth start.
• Be prepared for a first-come, first-served basis for sunbeds.
• No pets or high heels allowed, so pack accordingly.
• Bring your ID or passport for check-in.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or groups wanting a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and good food in a scenic setting. If you prefer a laid-back vibe with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photos, this tour fits perfectly. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate friendly service and want to avoid the hassle of self-organizing a boat trip.

Those with mobility restrictions should note the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but generally, it’s accessible for most travelers comfortable on a boat.

The Sum Up

This Paphos half-day cruise offers a pleasant way to spend a few hours on the water, soaking in Cyprus’ natural beauty. The combination of scenic views, water activities, a tasty BBQ, and an open bar creates a relaxed, enjoyable experience that’s well-suited for those seeking a balance of adventure and leisure. The friendly crew, comfortable yacht, and memorable stops make this a worthwhile addition to your Cyprus itinerary.

While it may not satisfy travelers craving a long, extensive cruise or luxury yacht experience, it provides excellent value for a fun, scenic, and tasty adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler wanting to see the coast from a different perspective, this tour is a reliable and enjoyable choice.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an open bar (including cocktails), a BBQ buffet lunch, three decks for comfortable sitting, sunbeds (first come, first served), sightseeing, swimming, and canoeing.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts approximately four hours. Check availability for specific starting times.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is included from designated locations like Coral Beach Hotel & Resort or other specified spots.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. It is designed for guests comfortable on a boat and able to enjoy outdoor activities.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a towel, and a camera. Sunscreen is recommended.

Can I bring pets?
No, pets are not allowed onboard.

Is the water safe for swimming and snorkeling?
Yes, guests have enjoyed the clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, with many reviews highlighting the excellent visibility.

Are there any activities besides cruising?
Yes, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and canoeing during stops along the coast.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This cruise offers a gentle, scenic escape along Cyprus’ coast, blending breathtaking views, good food, and friendly service into a memorable half-day adventure. Perfect for those looking to relax, explore, and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere without overly strenuous activities.

You can check if your dates are available here: