Paphos: Half-Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar and Snorkeling

Paphos: Half-Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar and Snorkeling — A Detailed Review

Imagine a sun-soaked afternoon on the water, where stunning coastlines meet delicious food, lively music, and refreshing swims. That’s exactly what the Wave Dancer offers with its popular half-day BBQ cruise in Paphos. This experience has earned a solid reputation, boasting a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from over 180 reviews, thanks to its combination of comfort, fun, and genuine local flavor.

We’re here to share a detailed look at what makes this cruise stand out — from the scenic stops to the top-notch food and entertainment. Along the way, we’ll also flag a few considerations to help you decide if it’s the right trip for your Cyprus holiday. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or your partner, this tour promises a lively, relaxing day on the water that you’ll remember long after you disembark.

Three things we love about this cruise:

• The inclusive nature of the open bar with cocktails and local drinks, making it easy to unwind.
• The well-organized stop at Coral Bay for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
• The excellent quality of food, with homemade-style BBQ dishes served right on deck.

A possible drawback? The limited duration means you only get one swim stop, which might feel a bit short if you’re eager to spend more time in the water.

This experience is ideal for those seeking a laid-back, fun-filled afternoon with good food, lively entertainment, and scenic views. It’s particularly great for families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy a mix of relaxation and activities in a beautiful seaside setting.

Key Points

• Comfort & Convenience: The cruise offers guaranteed sunbeds for adults, ensuring you can relax comfortably in the sunshine.
• Incredible Value: Includes a delicious BBQ lunch, open bar, live music, and swimming stop — all in just four hours.
• Impressive Facilities: Features 5-star washrooms and showers onboard, making comfort a priority.
• Authentic Experience: The live entertainment and open kitchen bring a lively, authentic vibe.
• Ideal for Relaxation: The spacious deck and dedicated sunbeds create a laid-back atmosphere perfect for soaking up the sun.
• Limited Stops: Only one swimming/snorkeling stop at Coral Bay, which means you’ll need to maximize your time in the water during that segment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Departure

Your day begins at Paphos Harbour around 11:00 am, a spot that’s easy to find thanks to clear signage and proximity to local cafes and restaurants. The process is straightforward: arrive early, pass through the ticket control, and meet your crew at Theo’s Restaurant before turning left toward the Wave Dancer vessel.

This cruise uses a larger, well-maintained boat that comfortably accommodates groups, with ample sunbeds for everyone, all guaranteed for adults. The relaxed boarding process and generous seating ensure no one feels crammed, which is a huge plus when you’re planning a chilled day out.

The Scenic Cruise & Stop at Coral Bay

Once underway, your vessel heads towards Coral Bay, renowned for its stunning sandy beach and crystal waters. While weather conditions can influence the exact route, the coastline views alone are worth the cruise. Reviewers highlight how the crew, led by a knowledgeable host, gives informative commentary, making the journey as engaging as the destination.

The primary stop is at Coral Bay, where you’ll have around 45 minutes to an hour to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the water. The water clarity is praised for being ideal for snorkeling, especially if you bring your own goggles — a tip many reviewers mention. The shallow, turquoise waters are perfect for families with kids or anyone looking to float and take in the scenery.

One reviewer shared that “the snorkel spot was perfect, with beautiful underwater views,” and others appreciated that life jackets and noodles are provided for safety and fun. If you’re into kayaking, you’ll find it available during this stop, adding an active element to your swim.

The BBQ Lunch & Live Cooking

Back on board, the highlight for many is the delicious BBQ lunch cooked right on the top deck. The chef, reputedly cooking in front of guests, prepares homemade burgers, marinated chicken, sausages, and fish options like cod or tuna during summer months. The menu also includes roasted potatoes, pita bread, and a generous selection of salads and dips.

Guests repeatedly mention how the food quality exceeds expectations — fresh, flavorful, and plentiful. Several reviews note that the lunch creates a festive atmosphere, with diners enjoying their meal in the warm sun, surrounded by friends or family.

The live music enhances this vibe, with talented performers and singers like Jenny, who is praised for her stunning voice and engaging banter. Many reviewers found the entertainment “brilliant” and a perfect complement to the relaxed setting.

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Drinking & Entertainment

The top deck features two professional bars serving local drinks and cocktails throughout the 4-hour trip. The all-inclusive drinks package means you can sip on cocktails, soft drinks, or local spirits without worrying about extra costs. The atmosphere is lively, with some guests noting how the music switches from chill vibes on the way out to more upbeat tunes on the return leg.

The entertainment is frequently highlighted as a major plus. Guests have praised the live singers and musicians, with some even quoting how the performances added memorable moments, like a guitarist covering Pink Floyd or a talented singer named Jenny.

Final Swim & Return Journey

After lunch, there’s a second opportunity to swim or kayak before heading back to Paphos Harbour. The return trip offers a chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps dance or sing along with the crew’s fun activities.

One reviewer pointed out that “the crew was attentive and friendly,” making everyone feel comfortable and engaged. The safety measures are also well-regarded, with staff consistently checking on guests and ensuring safe swimming practices.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Duration & Schedule

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with departure around 11:00 am. The exact starting times can be checked during booking, so you can plan your day accordingly. The trip includes one stop for swimming/snorkeling at Coral Bay, so prepare to make the most of that segment.

What to Bring

Travelers are advised to pack a towel and sunscreen. Given the guaranteed sunbeds for adults and the generous deck space, you’ll have plenty of room to lounge and soak up the sun.

Price & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews consistently highlight the excellent value for money. For a package that includes food, drinks, entertainment, and scenic cruising, most consider it a very reasonable outing. The all-inclusive drinks and BBQ alone make this a hassle-free experience, especially for those who enjoy a lively social atmosphere.

Accessibility & Facilities

The vessel is equipped with 5-star washroom and shower facilities, adding to the comfort for guests who prefer quick refreshes. The boat’s large size means ample space for movement, and the guaranteed sunbeds ensure everyone can relax comfortably.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests emphasize how well-organized and friendly the crew is. One noted, “Safety was always a priority,” and others appreciated the knowledgeable guides who provided interesting commentary about the coastline and local spots.

Food is consistently described as “plentiful,” “delicious,” and “fresh,” with some reviewers mentioning that they wish they’d booked a longer trip to enjoy more time on the water. Entertainment is another standout, with singers and live performers creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere — some even compare the quality of the music to top local acts.

Guests also commend the cleanliness and comfort of the boat, describing it as spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with soft padding on sunbeds and rest areas for drinks.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This half-day BBQ cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and scenic beauty. If you’re looking for an affordable, all-in-one seaside experience that includes good food, drinks, and a fun atmosphere, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or friends who want a lively but laid-back outing.

The tour’s focus on comfort and quality makes it stand out, but remember it only offers one swim stop — so if you’re craving more water time, you might want to consider a longer or different cruise. Still, the overall package delivers a memorable taste of Paphos’s coastline with a side of lively entertainment and tasty food.

This cruise is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing, swimming, and socializing in a scenic setting — all with the convenience of an inclusive bar and friendly crew. Expect a lively, well-organized experience that leaves you feeling relaxed, happy, and ready for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with kids enjoying the trip. There are life jackets and noodles provided, and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it suitable for all ages.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring a towel and sunscreen to stay comfortable in the sun. If you plan to snorkel, consider bringing your own goggles, as reviews note this is a good idea for better underwater views.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, the cruise offers an all-inclusive open bar for four hours, with local drinks and cocktails served by professional bartenders.

How many stops are there?
There is only one main stop at Coral Bay for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, lasting about 45 minutes to an hour.

Can I book a longer trip?
Yes, the tour offers a longer full-day option, which includes additional stops and activities, but this review focuses on the half-day experience.

Is the food vegetarian or vegan?
The menu features homemade burgers, marinated chicken, sausages, and fish options. Specific dietary requests aren’t detailed, so it’s best to check with the provider if you have special dietary needs.

The Paphos Half-Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar and Snorkeling delivers exceptional value for those looking to enjoy the best of Cyprus’s coast in a lively, comfortable setting. Whether you’re unwinding on deck, splashing in the waters, or tapping your toes to live music, this trip offers a charming slice of seaside paradise.

You can check availability for your dates here: