Ayia Napa isn’t just about lively nightlife and sandy beaches — it’s also a fantastic place for sailing adventures. The clear Mediterranean waters, dramatic coastlines, and hidden coves make it a sailor’s paradise. Whether you’re after a luxurious sunset cruise, a family-friendly day out, or a chilled catamaran trip, Ayia Napa delivers. We particularly like the Protaras: DREAM of TURTLES | Luxury Yacht for its family-friendly vibe and the chance to possibly swim with turtles — a highlight for many visitors. For a longer, relaxed day on a catamaran, the Premium Catamaran Sailing Cruise with Lunch offers a luxurious blend of scenic sailing, water activities, and a tasty onboard meal. Whatever your style, these experiences showcase the best that Ayia Napa’s waters have to offer.
Quick Overview
This guide explores five top sailing options, each with its own flavor. From shorter luxury yacht trips perfect for families and sunset lovers to more extensive catamaran adventures with open bars and water sports, there’s something for all. Whether you want an easygoing day or a romantic evening, check out the details below to find the best fit.
1. Protaras: DREAM of TURTLES | Luxury Yacht | BBQ | 1 Drink
At number 1 on our list, this cruise combines family fun, scenic beauty, and the chance to swim with turtles (not guaranteed). Departing from Protaras, the St Georgios offers a comfortable, friendly environment with a reputation for excellent service, rated 4.8/5 from over 700 reviews. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, with options for different start times.
What makes this experience stand out is the diverse itinerary packed with snorkeling, sightseeing, and cultural stops. You’ll sail the Blue Lagoon, famed for its clear waters, and learn about Varosha, the ghost town that’s a symbol of Cyprus’s divided history. The onboard meal includes freshly cooked regional food, and each passenger gets one free drink — wine, beer, soda, or juice. The crew’s warmth and professionalism shine through, with many reviewers praising their attentiveness and fun atmosphere. Even if the weather shifts, the crew keeps the cruise lively, with opportunities for dancing, as one happy guest described.
Bottom line: This cruise is ideal if you’re traveling with family, love snorkeling, or want a friendly, relaxed vibe with great scenery and a tasty onboard meal.
2. From Protaras: Catamaran Cruise to Blue Lagoon
At number 2, this catamaran tour offers a slower, more luxurious vibe for those who want to lounge and soak up the views. Lasting 4 to 5 hours, it’s perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the open bar. The route passes the famous Sea Caves at Cape Greco and the Blue Lagoon, with a special focus on scenic coastline and crystal-clear waters.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of relaxed sailing, the opportunity to jump into the sea from the boat, and the picturesque stops at some Cyprus’s most iconic spots. The reviews note the professional organization, the delicious food, and the excellent staff who make the experience special. Many mention the refreshing swims and the fun of trying water activities like snorkels and canoes, which are included. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to take their time, enjoy good drinks, and avoid rushing.
Bottom line: If you’re after a laid-back, upscale day on the water with plenty of swimming and a premium experience, this catamaran is a top choice.
3. Protaras: Luxury Yacht Family Sunset Cruise | BBQ | 1 Drink
Number 3 features a luxury sunset cruise on the same yacht as the daytime trip but with a romantic twist. Starting around 3.5 hours, this tour is perfect for couples or families who want to enjoy Cyprus’s spectacular sunset over the Blue Lagoon. The St Georgios provides a comfortable, stylish setting, rated 4.6/5, with many reviews highlighting the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
During this cruise, you’ll get to see cape Greco, snorkel in clear waters, and enjoy a freshly cooked meal onboard. The highlight, of course, is the sunset over the coastline, which is described as stunning — a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. The onboard meal includes a free drink, and the crew is praised for their attentiveness. Many travelers also mention the laid-back, intimate environment, making it ideal for romantic evenings or relaxed family outings.
Bottom line: This experience suits those looking for a peaceful, scenic cruise with a romantic sunset, good food, and a touch of luxury.
4. Ayia Napa: Premium Catamaran Sailing Cruise with Lunch
At number 4, this luxurious semi-private catamaran ride takes you from Ayia Napa Marina for a full day of sailing, swimming, and water fun. With a duration of 6 to 7.5 hours, it’s the longest on our list, designed for travelers seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience. The tour includes a freshly cooked Mediterranean lunch, a wide selection of drinks, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and even fishing and inflatable flamingos.
What sets this apart is the exclusive atmosphere and the variety of water activities available. The reviews rave about the stunning vessel, clean facilities, and the quality of food onboard. Guests love the scenic stops at Blue Lagoon and Sea Caves, along with the chance for some serious relaxation or adventure depending on your mood. The crew’s friendliness and professionalism are consistently praised, making it suitable for couples, families, or friends wanting a more private, upscale experience. The only consideration might be the higher price point, but the value is clear given the length and inclusions.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want an all-day luxury outing with plenty of water activities and excellent food in a more intimate setting.
5. Ayia Napa: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Snacks & Drinks
Finally, this sunset cruise offers a perfect romantic escape or relaxing evening. Lasting 3.5 to 5 hours, it departs from Ayia Napa New Marina with a Prosecco welcome and unlimited drinks. The cruise features a breathtaking sunset, with light snacks and water activities like swimming and paddleboarding included.
What makes this tour special is its quiet, intimate atmosphere — perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for a scenic, peaceful experience. The reviews highlight the friendly staff, the amazing sunset views, and the opportunity to take beautiful photos with free WiFi onboard. It’s less about action and more about enjoying the calm, stunning scenery as the sun dips behind the horizon.
Bottom line: This cruise is best suited for those seeking a memorable, romantic evening with a relaxed pace and beautiful sunset views.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend on the water. If you’re traveling with family or want a fun, lively cruise, the Protaras: DREAM of TURTLES is a great pick. For a luxury, laid-back day with water sports, the Premium Catamaran Sailing Cruise with Lunch offers excellent value.
Romantic souls will love the Sunset Yacht Cruise or the Sunset Catamaran, both providing unforgettable sunset views. Meanwhile, if you prefer a full-day, private feel, the luxury catamaran stands out.
Remember, booking early is wise, especially for the more popular sunset cruises and full-day trips. Check availability, compare prices, and consider what experience matches your travel style best.
Final Thoughts
From short, scenic day trips to luxurious all-day adventures, Ayia Napa’s sailing options are diverse and high-quality. For families, the Dream of Turtles offers a friendly, fun experience with the chance to see turtles. For romance and serene sunsets, the Sunset Cruise provides a memorable way to end your day. And for those wanting to indulge in true luxury, the Premium Catamaran is hard to beat.
Whatever your preference, these trips showcase why sailing in Ayia Napa is a highlight — with stunning scenery, fresh seafood, and the clear, warm waters that make every trip special. Be sure to book early, and enjoy a memorable day on the water.