Paphos: Turtle Watching Cruise,Snorkelling Adventure &Sunset

Imagine gently bobbing along the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, with a chance to see majestic turtles in their natural environment, snorkel over a historic shipwreck, and watch the sky turn hues of orange and pink as the sun dips below the horizon. That’s exactly what this Paphos turtle watching cruise promises. It’s a full-day adventure that combines wildlife spotting, underwater exploration, and scenic relaxation, all wrapped into one memorable trip.

If you’re someone who loves a mix of nature, history, and relaxation, this tour delivers. We especially appreciate the high success rate of turtle sightings, the well-organized semi-submarine boat with an underwater viewing area, and the beautiful sunset finale. However, keep in mind that this experience isn’t suited for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness—so plan accordingly.

That said, this cruise is particularly well-suited for travelers craving a unique, nature-focused day with a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re a family, a couple seeking romantic scenery, or a small group wanting an intimate experience, it’s a flexible option. Now, let’s explore what makes it so special in detail.

Good To Know

• High success rate of turtle sightings makes this tour stand out for wildlife enthusiasts.
• The semi-submarine boat offers a comfortable, up-close look at marine life through large underwater windows.
• Snorkeling stops at a shipwreck and in clear waters provide hands-on underwater experiences.
• The sunset cruise creates a magical end to the day, perfect for photography or simply unwinding.
• Includes snorkeling gear upon request and onboard facilities, adding convenience.
• Ideal for travelers who enjoy natural beauty, history, and relaxation but not suitable for non-swimmers or seasick travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point: Paphos Harbor

The adventure kicks off at Apostolou Pavlou Ave 114, a lively spot right in the heart of Paphos Harbor. The meeting point is outside the Atlantis boat, at the end of the second pier, a short walk through a charming café corridor. It’s an easy, straightforward start that sets the tone for a relaxed day on the water.

The Boat: Semi-Submersible & Open Decks

What makes this cruise stand out is the semi-submarine vessel, designed specifically for turtle viewing. It’s cool because it’s air-conditioned, with a large windowed underwater viewing area, allowing everyone onboard to see marine life without getting wet. This setup ensures that even those who aren’t confident swimmers can still enjoy close encounters with the turtles.

There’s also a front open-air deck for sunbathers or those wanting a more panoramic view, especially of the turtles popping up to breathe. The shaded rear deck is perfect for hot days, offering relief from the sun. The boat provides toilet and shower facilities, which add a layer of comfort that’s often missing on similar tours.

Turtle Spotting: The Main Attraction

The core goal of this cruise is turtle watching, and it’s a hit thanks to a near 99% success rate, according to reviewers. The boat cruises from Paphos Harbor to the turtle reef, where the chances of seeing these gentle creatures are high. Guests often report seeing lots of turtles during the trip, with some lucky enough to get close enough to observe their slow, graceful swims.

One reviewer, Jacolien, described the skipper as “very hospitable” and someone who “organized the excursion with respect for nature”. She emphasized the passion of the crew and how turtles are the star, which is evident in the focus on conservation and respectful wildlife viewing. The large underwater windows mean you’re far from the shallow boat sides, but close enough to witness these animals in their habitat.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Shipwreck & Snorkeling Stops

Another highlight is the visit to the Vera-K shipwreck, which adds a layer of historical intrigue. The wreck lies in clear waters, making it an ideal snorkeling site. Guests are invited to swim and snorkel over the wreck and in the surrounding turquoise waters—an activity made even more accessible with snorkel gear provided upon request.

The swimming stop is well-timed, with enough time to cool down and explore. Reviewers like Juliette appreciated the friendly and professional crew, who made sure small groups felt personalized and cared for during these stops. The calm, clear waters make snorkeling both easy and rewarding, offering glimpses of underwater life beyond the turtles.

Sunset & Relaxation

As the day winds down, the cruise continues along the coastline, providing a fantastic vantage point to watch the sunset. The open deck is ideal for lingering and capturing photos of the changing sky, creating a serene, almost magical atmosphere to end your marine adventure.

Practical Details & Comfort

The boat’s facilities, such as toilets and showers, make the experience comfortable and hassle-free. You’re encouraged to bring your own drinks, snacks, and sunscreen, though available drinks can also be purchased onboard. The tour is not suitable for non-swimmers or those particularly prone to seasickness, so packing accordingly is wise.

Duration & Group Size

This is a 1-day experience with a typical cruise lasting around 2.33 hours, though total time includes boarding and the sunset viewing. It’s shared with small groups, which adds a cozy, intimate feel, especially appreciated by reviewers who noted how “friendly and professional” the crew was.

Pricing & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the inclusion of turtle watching, snorkeling gear, shipwreck visit, and sunset cruise makes it a compelling value—especially considering the high success rate of turtle sightings and the quality of the facilities. For travelers seeking a nature and wildlife-focused day without a hefty price tag, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Jacolien’s comment about the “respect for nature” and her mention of seeing lots of turtles underscore the tour’s success in wildlife encounters. Juliette’s feedback on small group friendliness highlights the personal touch that can make this experience stand out.

Her praise of the crew’s professionalism and the passion for animals hints at a genuine commitment to responsible wildlife tourism, which is reassuring for eco-conscious travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for nature lovers who want a hands-on experience with marine life. It’s particularly suited for those with an interest in turtles, snorkeling enthusiasts, and sunset watchers. Families with non-swimmers should note the focus on swimming and snorkeling, while those prone to seasickness might want to consider their tolerance before booking.

The small-group setting makes it a good choice for travelers craving a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere rather than large-group charters. If you’re after a combination of wildlife, history, and scenic beauty, this trip checks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

This Paphos turtle watching cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines wildlife encounters with scenic relaxation. The semi-submarine vessel ensures everyone, regardless of swimming ability, can enjoy close-up views of turtles, while the stops for snorkeling and the sunset finale provide variety and a sense of discovery.

While it might not be perfect for those with mobility issues or seasickness, the overall value, friendly crew, and extraordinary chances of seeing turtles make this a must-do for wildlife and nature lovers visiting Cyprus.

Whether you’re after a peaceful day on the water or an adventurous outing filled with marine life and history, this tour delivers a genuine, memorable experience worth your time and money.

FAQ

• What is the starting point for the tour? It begins at Apostolou Pavlou Ave 114, outside the Atlantis boat at the end of the second pier in Paphos Harbor.
• How long does the cruise last? The sightseeing portion runs about 2.33 hours, but overall experience including sunset and stops is a full day of activity.
• Is snorkeling gear provided? Yes, snorkeling masks and snorkels are available upon request, and you can also bring your own.
• Can non-swimmers join the tour? Unfortunately, this experience isn’t suitable for non-swimmers due to the swimming and snorkeling stops.
• What should I bring? Pack a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, drinks, and sunscreen for comfort and convenience.
• Are there facilities onboard? Yes, the boat has toilets and showers.
• Is this tour suitable for people prone to seasickness? It might not be ideal; if seasickness is a concern, consider medication or alternative activities.
• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
• What is the best time to go? Check availability for specific start times, but sunset cruises tend to be most stunning near dusk.

In summary, the Paphos Turtle Watching Cruise is a delightful blend of wildlife, history, and scenic beauty. It offers genuine chances to see turtles, explore underwater wrecks, and enjoy memorable sunsets—all within a comfortable, small-group setting. Perfect for travelers who value authentic experiences and a relaxed pace, it’s a day out that combines adventure with tranquility in true Cypriot style.

You can check if your dates are available here: