Paphos: Swim Cruise with Turtle Watching, Drinks & Aperol

If you’re visiting Paphos and craving a mix of exploration, relaxation, and a touch of adventure, the Swim Cruise with Turtle Watching from Paphos Sea Lines might just be right up your alley. This two-hour journey offers a chance to see the famous Vera K shipwreck, spot turtles (especially in the afternoon), and enjoy some well-deserved drinks—all while cruising over the stunning waters of Cyprus.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the semi-submarine design with a glass underwater cabin provides a unique perspective, letting you observe marine life from the comfort of above and below water. Second, the swimming stop at Atlantis Beach offers some time to cool off and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Finally, the unlimited drinks, including Aperol Spritz, beer, and soft drinks, make it a laid-back, festive experience.

One thing to consider is that this tour isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, so if you’re a bit sensitive, plan accordingly. This cruise is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, family-friendly outing with plenty of opportunities for snapping photos and soaking up the sun.

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Key Points

Unique underwater experience via the glass cabin, with views of the Vera K shipwreck and marine life.
Swim stop at Atlantis Beach for snorkeling and leisure in turquoise waters.
Unlimited drinks including Aperol Spritz, ice-cold beers, soft drinks, and water.
Turtle spotting is more active in the late afternoon, offering the chance to see these gentle creatures.
Scenic cruise over Paphos underwater forest, providing impressive natural views.
Family-friendly with safe swimming stops, though not suitable for non-swimmers or seasick-prone travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Cruise

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Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins from Paphos Harbour, a lively spot where you’ll meet your crew and board the semi-submarine vessel. The tour lasts around 2 hours, but check the specific starting times when booking because they vary. The boat is designed to comfortably accommodate groups, often with friendly guides who share insights about the sights along the way.

The Vera K Shipwreck View

Your first stop is at the Vera K shipwreck, a 1950s vessel resting quietly beneath the sea. Here, a key highlight is the underwater cabin, which features large glass panels that let you observe the wreck and marine life from just above the seabed. Reviews describe this as a “fabulous” experience, with plenty of space for everyone to view from the large glass panel, making it a favorite feature for many.

Turtle Watching

Turtles tend to be more active in the afternoon, and many visitors mention spotting them near the vessel or swimming at Atlantis Beach. Several guests noted that, even early in the season, they saw large turtles and occasionally dolphins, which added to the magic. Guides are knowledgeable and often share interesting facts about these gentle creatures, making the sightings both educational and memorable.

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Atlantis Beach Swim Stop

After the shipwreck, the boat heads to Atlantis Beach, where you have 30 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on deck. Here, you can take advantage of the open bar, help yourself to drinks, or snorkel to see colorful fish. Several reviews highlighted how refreshing this stop was, with crystal-clear waters perfect for cooling down after sightseeing. Some guests appreciated bringing their own snorkeling gear for a closer look at the underwater world.

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Food and Drinks

The onboard bar is fully stocked with unlimited Aperol Spritz, beers, soft drinks, and water. Guests consistently praised the crew for keeping drinks flowing in a relaxed, lively atmosphere. For many, this was the perfect way to unwind and socialize while enjoying stunning ocean views. The inclusion of drinks in the tour price offers excellent value, especially considering how many reviewers raved about the quality and quantity.

The Experience: Details and Atmosphere

The Semi-Submarine Design

The boat’s semi-submarine structure is what we love about this tour. The large glass panel beneath the waterline offers a unique vantage point for wildlife and wreck viewing. Guests describe it as spacious enough for everyone to see, and the clear panels give a real sense of being underwater without getting wet.

The Crew and Guides

The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer mentioned that the crew “gave us all the history we needed,” indicating a good balance of informative commentary and relaxed hospitality. The captain and crew go above and beyond, making everyone feel comfortable and welcome, especially children and first-time snorkelers.

Comfort and Convenience

The tour is designed for maximum comfort, with plenty of shaded areas and open space for lounging. Guests are advised to bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, towels, cameras, and snacks, as well as their own snorkeling gear if preferred. The limited duration means it’s a perfect half-day activity—short enough to suit families, couples, or solo travelers.

Weather and Season

While most reviews are positive throughout the year, some mention that late-season or colder months might see fewer turtles and marine activity. However, seeing turtles even early or late in the season is still a possibility, making this cruise a flexible choice for different times of the year.

Pricing and Value

Given the inclusion of the cruise, the visit to the shipwreck, swimming stops, and unlimited drinks, the price offers good value. The friendly guides, well-maintained boat, and the unique underwater cabin experience add to the overall value for a two-hour boat trip. Compared to private boat trips or longer excursions, this offers a more relaxed, family-friendly alternative, especially for those wanting a taste of marine exploration without breaking the bank.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families with kids will find the safe swimming stops and gentle boat ride enjoyable. Couples looking for a romantic yet casual outing will appreciate the scenic views and relaxed atmosphere. Adventure seekers can relish the underwater viewing, while those simply wanting to unwind with a drink or two will find the unlimited bar and festive vibe irresistible.

However, if you’re not comfortable on boats or prone to seasickness, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options. Non-swimmers should remember that the tour is designed around swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

This Paphos Swim Cruise with Turtle Watching offers a fantastic blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. The highlight for many is the underwater cabin, which provides a rare peek into the marine world, combined with the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat—especially in the afternoon. The swimming stop at Atlantis Beach is a perfect break to cool off, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun, all while sipping unlimited drinks.

The crew’s friendly attitude and the well-organized itinerary make it a stress-free experience that balances fun and comfort. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this tour packs enough memorable moments and value to make your Paphos trip extra special.

It’s ideal for those who love a laid-back day on the water, enjoy wildlife spotting, or want a straightforward yet engaging activity that captures the spirit of Cyprus’s stunning coastline. Just keep in mind that seasickness and non-swimming guests might find it less suitable, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, the tour is focused on swimming and snorkeling. Non-swimmers may find it difficult to fully enjoy the experience unless they’re comfortable with water activities.

What should I bring?
Bring hats, swimwear, towels, cameras, sunscreen, snacks, and water. You can also bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour offers unlimited Aperol Spritz, beers, soft drinks, and water, included in the ticket price.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with stops at the Vera K shipwreck and Atlantis Beach.

Can I see turtles during the tour?
Yes, especially in the afternoon, turtles tend to be more active and are often seen near the shipwreck or swimming at Atlantis Beach.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, many reviews mention that families, even with small children, enjoy the trip. Just note that it’s best suited for those comfortable with water and boat rides.

What is the boat like?
The vessel is a semi-submarine with a glass underwater cabin, providing panoramic views of the seabed and marine life.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak season, but you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This cruise offers a fun, relaxed way to see some of Cyprus’s most captivating underwater sights. Whether you’re after wildlife encounters, scenic views, or just a chilled-out day with drinks in hand, it’s a great choice for a memorable Paphos experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: