Imagine cruising along Cyprus’s shimmering waters in a spacious 32-meter Napa king boat, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and spot sea turtles — sounds pretty ideal, right? This boat trip from Protaras offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and incredible scenery, making it a favorite for travelers wanting a quick escape to the coast’s natural beauty.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the crystal-clear waters at Cape Greco Lagoon are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Second, the underwater viewing area and aquariums give you a peek into the vibrant marine life without getting wet — a fun twist for those who prefer dry adventures. Lastly, the chance to see and swim with sea turtles at Blue Lagoon is genuinely unforgettable.
One thing to consider is the duration — at just 2.5 hours, it’s a quick trip, so if you’re craving a full-day experience, this might feel a little brief. Still, its affordability and the quality of the stops make it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Cyprus’s marine wonders without breaking the bank.
This trip suits anyone looking for a bite-sized maritime adventure — perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides combined with water-based fun.
Good To Know
- Stunning swim stops at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove for snorkeling and swimming.
- Opportunity to see and swim with turtles, a rare highlight of the trip.
- Underwater viewing windows and aquariums bring marine life close, even from dry land.
- Spacious, comfortable boat with sun decks and air-conditioned interior for all-weather comfort.
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later features.
- Ideal duration of 2.5 hours balances adventure and relaxation.
An In-Depth Look at the Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove Boat Trip
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Starting Point: Protaras Pier
The adventure begins at the big pier next to the Evalena Hotel in Protaras. The check-in process is straightforward, and the boat is well-marked, so finding your vessel isn’t likely to be a hassle. The departure times are at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, giving you flexibility depending on your plans for the day.
From the get-go, the spaciousness of the boat impresses. With a length of 32 meters, the Napa king boat offers plenty of room to spread out, whether you want to lounge on the sun deck or chill inside in the air-conditioned area — which is especially appreciated on warmer days.
The Itinerary: A Mix of Scenic Views and Water Fun
The main stops are Cape Greco, Blue Lagoon (also called Turtle Cove), and the return to Protaras Pier.
- Cape Greco: This is your first stop, where you’ll get a guided tour of the area. Known for its striking rock formations and caves, Cape Greco is a favorite for scenic photo ops. The reviews mention that the boat passes by Konnos Bay and the sea caves, giving you spectacular views along the way. One reviewer noted that the boat didn’t go as far as Famagusta but still provided a nice coast cruise with photo opportunities.
- Blue Lagoon (Turtle Cove): The highlight for many is the swim stop here. The lagoon’s waters are famously clear and calm, creating a tranquil setting to snorkel, swim, or simply relax. This spot is well-known for sea turtle sightings, and travelers have reported swimming alongside or even feeding them — an experience that really stands out. One reviewer shared that they loved swimming with turtles and appreciated being allowed to bring their own snorkel gear to get a closer look.
- Underwater Viewing Area: The boat boasts glass bottom sections and 8 aquariums filled with freshwater fish, giving you a peek into marine life without getting wet. Many reviews pointed out that although the glass floor could have been cleaner, the underwater windows offered delightful glimpses of fish and the aquatic environment.
Water-Based Activities: Swimming, Snorkeling, and Animal Encounters
The swim stops at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove are the core attractions. Guests typically bring their own snorkeling gear, though this isn’t explicitly provided. The water is described as crystal-clear, making it ideal for viewing aquatic life.
Several reviews mentioned the joy of swimming with turtles, with some even feeding them, which suggests the chances of close encounters are pretty good. The calm waters and shallow areas make it suitable for all swimming abilities, and families with children found these stops particularly enjoyable.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyOnboard Comfort and Amenities
The boat provides refreshments for purchase, including cocktails, beers, soft drinks, ice-cream, and snacks. Reviews highlight the free ice cream and drinks as a pleasant surprise, adding to the value. The onboard toilet and bar service make the trip comfortable, especially for those who might want a quick refresh during the cruise.
Guests also appreciated the air-conditioned interior for relaxing between swim stops and the sun decks for soaking up the sun and enjoying panoramic views. The crew members, notably Captain Kypros and Captain Antonakis, are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, enhancing the overall experience.
The Sea and the Views
Travelers will love the scenic sea views on the way to each stop. Many reviews mention taking photos of Famagusta from the water, with one noting how the boat’s vantage point offers a different perspective of the city and coastline.
The boat passes by notable landmarks like Konnos Bay and the sea caves, which are visually impressive even from the sea. The duration is short but well-paced, allowing time to swim and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
What the Reviews Say
The positive feedback is clear: most travelers find the trip to be excellent value for money. Many loved the opportunity to swim with turtles and appreciated the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew. One reviewer emphasized the great value and ease of online booking, including QR codes for check-in.
A recurring theme was the quality of the stops — the lagoons are described as beautiful and calm, perfect for swimming, while the underwater viewing windows added a fun, educational dimension.
However, some reviews raise concerns about the conditions of the turtles in the tanks on the boat, which some travelers found upsetting. It’s worth noting that the animals are kept in tanks with water, but many see this as a point of ethical debate. The boat itself is otherwise praised for being clean, spacious, and well-organized.
The Balance of Value and Experience
While the trip is clearly shorter than some full-day excursions, the price point makes it a great option for those wanting a quick, scenic marine adventure. The stops are well-chosen, and the chance to see turtles and marine life close up adds significant value.
For travelers who prefer more extensive tours or longer snorkeling sessions, this might feel a bit limited. But for a half-day escape packed with sightseeing, swimming, and fun, it hits the sweet spot.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a short but memorable boat trip. It’s especially suited for those interested in marine wildlife, photos, or simply relaxing on the water with some swimming.
If you’re after a full-day adventure or want to explore Famagusta in detail, you might want to look for longer tours. But if your goal is a light, scenic cruise with chances to swim and spot turtles, this is a solid choice.
The Sum Up
This Protaras boat trip to Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove offers a compact yet delightful escape to some of Cyprus’s most beautiful waters. With stunning scenery, friendly guides, and the unforgettable experience of swimming with turtles, it provides excellent value for a half-day outing. The boat’s comfort, combined with onboard amenities like food and drinks, ensure you’ll stay comfortable whether basking in the sun or relaxing inside.
While it’s not a full-day tour, its well-chosen stops and tranquil waters make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a quick, scenic, and animal-watching adventure. It’s especially great for families with kids, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of Cyprus’s marine beauty without a hefty price tag.
All in all, this trip gives you a snapshot of the coastal wonders of Cyprus, leaving many eager to return for longer explorations. Highly recommended for those who love water, wildlife, and breathtaking views — just don’t forget your snorkeling gear!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the boat trip?
The trip lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity.
What are the departure times?
The boat departs from Protaras pier twice daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, including cocktails, beers, snacks, and ice-cream.
Can I see Famagusta from the boat?
Yes, the trip offers views of the city of Famagusta from the sea, providing a different perspective of the coast.
Are there facilities onboard?
Yes, the boat features a toilet, a bar for refreshments, a sun deck, and an air-conditioned interior.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all travelers.