Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras

If you’re considering a day on the water while visiting Cyprus, this Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras offers a tempting mix of sunshine, scenic views, swimming, and good company. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this tour includes the stunning coastline views, the generous open bar, and the delicious buffet lunch that keeps everyone fueled throughout the day. Plus, the swimming stops at iconic spots like Green Bay Beach and Blue Lagoon are sure to be a highlight. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the boat can get crowded, especially in peak season, which might make finding shade a challenge.

This cruise seems perfect for travelers craving a laid-back day with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and enjoy the scenery. It suits those who appreciate good value, friendly crew, and informal fun rather than a more structured or luxury experience. Families, singles, couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable day on the Mediterranean will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Price & Value: At around $75 per person, this cruise offers a balanced mix of food, drinks, and activities.
• Duration & Timing: The cruise lasts about 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am, giving you ample time to unwind.
• Highlights: Expect swimming, snorkeling, a buffet lunch, unlimited drinks, and impressive coastline views.
• Transport & Convenience: Pickup from select hotels or a central meeting point makes it easy to join.
• Weather & Cancellation: It’s weather-dependent, but full refunds are available if canceled due to poor conditions or low bookings.
• Repeatability: Many guests return, citing consistent quality and friendly service.

The Full Experience: What to Expect on the Catamaran Cruise

Setting the Scene: The Journey Begins

Your day kicks off with a pickup from designated meeting points or your hotel—most travelers report smooth, punctual transfers. The meeting point at East Coast Cruises in Famagusta is straightforward, and the check-in process appears hassle-free, setting the tone for a relaxing day. The boat itself is a beautiful catamaran, which guests describe as clean and comfortable, though some reviews mention that during peak times, it can get quite packed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise starts around 9:00 am, giving you a full five hours of adventure on the water. The first stop is Green Bay Beach, renowned for its clear waters and scenic cliffs. Here, you’ll have your first swim, with plenty of space and equipment like paddleboards and swim aids available. Reviewers highlight that the swim stops are a major highlight—”lots of fun and great for cooling off,” as one guest said.

Next, the cruise heads towards Konnos Bay and Cape Greco, famous for their rugged beauty and turquoise waters. These areas offer fantastic photo opportunities, and you’ll often see guests snapping shots of the coastline, capturing the moment’s beauty. Some reviews note that the boat’s crew are happy to share interesting facts about the local wildlife and ecosystem, adding a layer of educational value to your trip.

Swimming & Snorkeling Stops

The swimming stops are carefully spaced to maximize your time in the water without feeling rushed. Guests frequently mention that during these breaks, the crew provides paddleboards and other aids, which adds to the fun. The water is described as crystal clear, often inviting guests to spend as long as they like swimming or snorkeling. Several reviewers were delighted to spot sea turtles and marine life, confirming that the natural beauty lives up to the hype.

The Food & Drinks

A buffet lunch is served on board, featuring a variety of tasty options and fresh seasonal fruit. Reviewers often mention the lunch as “delicious” with generous portions that satisfy even the hungriest travelers. Complementing the meal is an open bar, offering a wide range of cocktails, soft drinks, and beverages, which guests say are of good quality and plentiful. Many guests appreciate the unlimited drinks policy, making the cruise feel more relaxed and fun.

Coastline & Scenic Views

Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of the coast, with many reviews praising the stunning scenery and the opportunity to snap photos of the coastline, Blue Lagoon, and Blue Flag beaches. Guests often comment on how the vessel’s vantage point allows for unique perspectives that you wouldn’t get from land, making it a particularly memorable part of the experience.

Crew & Atmosphere

The crew, including captain Mike and others, are frequently described as friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Guests rave about their helpfulness and willingness to answer questions about the area. The atmosphere onboard is generally relaxed, with many reviews mentioning the lively yet respectful vibe, especially during the open bar hours. Some mention the boat gets busy, particularly during peak season, and a few critiques point out that it can get crowded with limited shade, so bringing sun protection is a good idea.

Practical Details: What Travelers Should Know

Pricing & Value

At approximately $75.47 per person, the cruise offers a lot of value. Not only do you get the five-hour experience, but also the buffet lunch, unlimited drinks, and swimming stops. For many, the overall value is high, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickups and the quality of food and service.

Booking & Availability

Most travelers book about 12 days in advance, indicating steady interest. The tour operates subject to favorable weather conditions, which is worth keeping in mind if visiting during the shoulder seasons or unpredictable weather periods. The flexibility of full refunds if canceled due to weather or low bookings makes it less stressful to plan.

Group Size & Atmosphere

The maximum group size is 100 travelers, which keeps the boat feeling lively but not overcrowded. During busy times, it can feel crowded, and finding shade may be difficult; therefore, bringing hats, sunscreen, or even a light cover-up is advisable.

Departure & Duration

The tour starts at 9:00 am and lasts around 5 hours, perfect for a full but not overwhelming day. You’ll be back at the starting point by early afternoon, leaving the rest of your day free.

Accessibility & Suitability

Most travelers can participate, and the tour is family-friendly. Both seasoned sailors and first-timers find it enjoyable, with reviews emphasizing the friendly crew and straightforward logistics.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests have praised the friendly, attentive crew, noting that they go above and beyond to make everyone comfortable. Several mention the quality of the food and drinks, highlighting how the lunch is substantial and tasty, with a good variety of cocktails and beverages.

A recurring theme is the swimming stops, with reviewers loving the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy paddleboarding. Interestingly, some guests mention spotting sea turtles—a rare and memorable experience.

Others, however, point out potential downsides. A few mention overcrowding and lack of shade, which could lead to sunstroke or discomfort if unprepared. One review explicitly states they were missed due to misleading pickup details, underscoring the importance of double-checking your arrangements.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This day-long cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, social atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy good food and drinks. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who appreciate casual fun rather than luxury—that said, the beautiful scenery and quality of service make it feel quite special.

If you’re after a more intimate or quiet experience, or prefer less crowded settings, you might want to arrive early or consider booking during off-peak times. Those interested in learning about local wildlife and taking photos will find this cruise particularly rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras is a popular choice for anyone wanting to spend a fun, sunny day exploring the Cyprus coast. With stunning vistas, fresh seafood, and unlimited drinks, it offers great value and a lively atmosphere. The multiple swimming stops and friendly crew make it a memorable experience, especially for families and groups looking for a relaxed, social outing.

While it can get crowded, especially in busy season, the overall experience remains a fantastic way to see the coastline, unwind, and enjoy the warm Mediterranean waters. If you’re hoping for a day of sunshine, good food, and beautiful scenery, this cruise is likely to tick those boxes—and maybe even turn into a holiday highlight.

FAQ

What time does the cruise start?
The cruise departs at 9:00 am, giving you a full five hours on the water.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from select hotels or a central meeting point, making the start seamless.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the buffet lunch, unlimited drinks (open bar), swimming stops, and free WiFi onboard.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the cruise is suitable for families. Specific age restrictions aren’t listed, but the experience is family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Sun protection like hats and sunscreen is strongly recommended. Bringing a towel, swimwear, and perhaps a waterproof camera will enhance your day.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled due to poor weather conditions or low bookings.

Is there a limit to group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 100, ensuring plenty of space but also a lively atmosphere during peak times.

This engaging experience offers a great way to enjoy Cyprus’s stunning coastline with excellent food, drinks, and swimming opportunities. It’s a solid pick if you’re after a fun, relaxed day at sea with friends or family.