Ayia Napa: Blue Lagoon and Famagusta Boat Tour with BBQ

Understanding what makes a boat trip memorable can be tricky — especially when there are so many options around Ayia Napa. This particular tour, operated by Discovery Cruises Cyprus, has built a loyal following since 1992, thanks to its combination of scenic sightseeing, friendly service, and good-value food. With a stellar 4.9 rating from 172 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers consider this a highlight of their Cyprus holiday.

What sets this experience apart? First, it’s a family-run business that emphasizes personal touch and local expertise. Second, the BBQ meals cooked on board are consistently praised as delicious and generous. Lastly, the tour offers a great mix of sightseeing, swimming, and historical commentary — all in just five hours.

One thing to consider: the tour may change slightly depending on weather conditions, meaning some stops or routes could vary. However, this flexibility is standard for boat trips, ensuring safety and comfort.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with good food and friendly guides. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone eager to explore Cyprus’s coast in comfort.

History and Scenery: Combines stunning coastal views with interesting historical narration, especially about the 1974 Famagusta events.
Family-owned charm: Operated by a trusted family business with dedicated, knowledgeable staff.
Fresh BBQ: Meals are cooked live on the boat, with many reviews highlighting the quality and abundance.
Comfort and amenities: Well-equipped with ample tables, a bar, and restrooms for a smooth experience.
Wildlife sightings: Turtles often visit Green Bay, adding an exciting element to the trip.
Flexible and inclusive: Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and pictures, plus options for future bookings with pay later.

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Starting Point and Departure

The adventure kicks off at Discovery Cruises Cyprus, with the boat moored at the Ayia Napa harbor. Travelers are asked to arrive by 9:20 am for a 9:30 am departure, ensuring everyone’s on board before setting sail. The boat itself is a cozy, well-maintained vessel that’s been welcoming visitors for over three decades. Its friendly crew, including guides like Adrian — who reviews describe as funny and highly informative — make the start of the journey relaxed and engaging.

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Scenic Route and Key Sights

The tour’s itinerary is designed to highlight both the natural beauty and historical significance of the area. You’ll pass by Ayia Napa Sea Caves, where the cliffs carve dramatic shapes into the coastline, perfect for photos. The Palace Caves and Cape Greco lighthouse offer panoramic views, with the lighthouse standing as a prominent landmark.

As you cruise past Fig Tree Bay and Protaras, the coastline’s vibrant colors and bustling beaches paint a picture of Cyprus’s lively seaside life. The boat then heads toward the Konnos Bay, where a 20-minute stop offers a chance to admire the tranquil waters, snorkel, or just relax on deck. Reviewers like Emma appreciated the spotless boat and the informative narration from Adrian, making each view even more meaningful.

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The First Swim Stop: Crystal-Clear Waters

After the initial sightseeing, the boat pulls into a secluded swim spot — usually Green Bay. This is consistently praised for its clean water and calm environment. Many reviewers, like Jacqueline, loved the opportunity to swim in the blue waters and even spot turtles. The highlight for some is the chance to snorkel and see marine life, with a possibility of turtles visiting the bay, much to the delight of travelers.

The Historic and Scenic Highlights

Next, the tour passes by Korakas Arch and the Agioi Anargiri Church, offering both photo opportunities and an insight into local landmarks. The narration about the events of 1974 relating to Famagusta adds depth for those interested in Cyprus’s past. This segment blends history with scenic beauty, giving a richer context to your trip.

Famagusta and the Ghost Town

Reaching the Ghost Town of Famagusta is a poignant part of the journey. While only a quick pass-by or photo stop, it holds emotional weight for many visitors, with guides sharing background stories that bring the region’s history to life. The boat then heads toward Green Bay for the main event — lunch and swimming.

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The BBQ Feast at Green Bay

The lunch stop is widely regarded as a highlight. The freshly prepared BBQ — cooked on the boat’s live grill by the crew — includes options like pork and chicken, complemented by salads. Reviewers repeatedly mention how delicious and plentiful the food is, with comments like “plenty for all to eat” and “yummy BBQ.” The atmosphere is laid-back, with lots of space to sit, chat, and enjoy the scenery.

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Wildlife and Final Swims

After lunch, the boat makes a second swim stop, usually lasting around 30 minutes. Many travelers take this time to soak up the sun, swim, or snorkel before heading back to Ayia Napa. This part of the trip is perfect for those wanting a relaxing end to their day.

Return to Harbor

The tour wraps up around 2:30 pm, with the boat returning to the harbor. It’s a smooth trip back, with crew members like Adrian ensuring everyone remains comfortable, even when waters get a bit choppy, as some reviews mention.

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

Multiple reviews mention Adrian’s wit and knowledge, making the tour both informative and entertaining. Expect interesting stories about the coastal landmarks and the region’s history, delivered in a friendly manner. The crew’s attentiveness extends to ensuring everyone is comfortable, especially during the choppier parts of the sail.

Beautiful Scenery and Unique Stops

From caves and arches to secluded bays, the trip offers a well-rounded view of Cyprus’s coast. The Blue Lagoon is a major draw, with its clear, inviting waters perfect for swimming — a big plus for those who love a water-based adventure.

Quality Food and Amenities

The onboard BBQ is frequently praised for its freshness and taste, providing a satisfying meal in the middle of your day. Coupled with ample tables, a bar, and clean restrooms, the experience feels both relaxing and well-catered.

Authenticity and Family Ownership

The long-standing family-run nature of the business lends a personal touch few bigger operators can match. Guests often comment on the warm hospitality and the genuine care from the crew.

This trip suits those looking for a relaxed day of sightseeing combined with swimming, good food, and a touch of local history. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting an intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide. If you enjoy delicious meals cooked live, stunning coastal views, and wildlife spotting (like turtles), this tour ticks all the boxes.

It’s less ideal for travelers prone to seasickness or those with mobility issues — the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the trip depends on weather conditions. Children under 1 year are not recommended, but older kids will likely enjoy the mix of adventure and relaxation.

Considering the five-hour duration, the inclusion of multiple swimming stops, a fresh BBQ lunch, and the professional guides, this tour offers solid value. The reviews highlight that many regard it as excellent value for money, especially given the quality of food and scenic stops. The option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, making it easier to plan.

Is transportation included?
No, transfer to and from the harbor is not included but can be added for about €5.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring a swimsuit, towel, and suncream. Whether you swim or not is up to you, but having these items makes the experience more comfortable.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, or those prone to seasickness.

How long is each swim stop?
The first stop at Green Bay lasts about 45 minutes, with a second stop of around 30 minutes to relax and swim.

Can I see wildlife?
Yes, visitors often see sea turtles at Green Bay, which is a highlight for many.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, Slovak, Czech, and German.

This Ayia Napa boat tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, history, and relaxation. The friendly, expert guides and quality food elevate the experience beyond a simple boat ride. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, giving you a taste of both nature and local culture in just five hours.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authentic, family-run experiences and love to combine sightseeing with a good meal and a swim. While weather-dependent, the positive reviews and consistent praise suggest it’s a reliable choice for a memorable day out in Cyprus.

Whether you’re after stunning coastal views, a chance to swim with turtles, or just a relaxing cruise with delicious food, this tour hits most marks. Just remember to bring your suncream and a good attitude — you’re in for a lovely day.