If you’re visiting Cyprus and looking for a memorable way to enjoy its famed coastlines and crystal waters, the Protaras boat trip to Famagusta, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove offers an exciting mix of relaxation, wildlife encounters, and stunning scenery. This 2.5-hour cruise on a spacious Napa king boat promises varied highlights, including swim stops in crystal-clear waters, underwater viewing opportunities, and the chance to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.
What really makes this experience stand out are the spectacular views of the coastline, the friendly and knowledgeable crew, and the value for money—especially considering the multiple swim stops and onboard amenities. However, a possible consideration is that the trip doesn’t go as far as Famagusta itself, which might disappoint travelers hoping for a longer or more distant excursion.
This tour suits those who love nature, enjoy a laid-back boat ride, and want a taste of Cyprus’s marine life without spending hours at sea. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples keen on a brief but rich outdoor adventure.
Key Points
- Short but sweet: 2.5-hour cruise ideal for a quick coastal escape.
- Wildlife lovers: Swim with turtles and observe marine life through underwater viewing windows.
- Comfortable boat: Spacious 32-meter vessel with sun deck and air-conditioned interior.
- Flexible options: Multiple departure times, including 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
- Authentic experience: Guided commentary in English and Greek with onboard aquariums.
- Value for money: Swim stops, scenic views, and onboard refreshments included in the price.
Overview and Practical Details
The Protaras boat trip takes you along some of Cyprus’s most picturesque coastlines, starting from the Protaras Pier, next to the Evalena Hotel. The boat itself measures 32 meters—plenty of space for relaxation, with deck areas perfect for soaking up the sun, and a comfortable, air-conditioned interior for those who prefer shade or a cooler environment.
The cruise is operated by Antonakis Gregoriou Boat trips, a reputable provider praised for their friendly crew and well-organized trips. The activity lasts about 2.5 hours, with scheduled departures at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, allowing you to choose a time that best fits your day. No hotel transfers are included, so you’ll need to make your way to the pier, but the starting point is easy to find, right next to the Evalena Hotel.
The tour includes swim stops at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove, two of the most notable spots for marine life and clear waters. Refreshments are available for purchase onboard, including cocktails, beers, soft drinks, snacks, and ice-cream, although food and drinks are not included in the initial price. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive experience for all.
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What to Expect on the Tour
The Itinerary in Depth
Start at Protaras Pier: The journey begins at the large pier next to the Evalena Hotel. Here, you’ll meet your crew and board your spacious vessel. The process is straightforward—just show your booking QR code or reservation name, as confirmed online.
Set sail towards Cape Greco: The route takes you along the coast, offering fantastic sea views and glimpses of Konnos Bay and sea caves along the way. Passengers can relax on the sun deck, sip drinks from the onboard bar, or stay inside in the cool air-conditioned cabin.
Swim and snorkel at Cape Greco Lagoon: This stop is the highlight for many. The lagoon’s waters are famously clear, inviting snorkelers and swimmers to explore. Multiple reviews mention the thrill of swimming with turtles—one guest even noted they were “allowed to bring their own snorkel to use.” The lagoon’s calm waters create a safe environment for families and novice swimmers.
Underwater viewing experience: The boat features large viewing windows beneath the waterline, giving passengers a glimpse into the vibrant marine world without getting wet. Plus, onboard aquariums display freshwater fish, adding to the overall underwater ambiance.
Visit the Blue Lagoon: This well-known spot is celebrated for its stunning, vibrant blue waters and the chance to see sea turtles in the wild. The tranquil lagoon provides a perfect backdrop for photos, and many reviews mention how beautiful the scenery is from the boat and water.
Return to Protaras: After the swim stops, the boat heads back to the pier, passing by Konnos Bay and the sea caves—though some visitors note it doesn’t go as far as Famagusta, and there’s limited opportunity for sightseeing in that direction.
The Experience from the Crew and Guides
Guests consistently praise the crew, especially the guides like Captain Kypros and Captain Antonakis, for their warmth, professionalism, and knowledge. Many reviews note they are welcoming, approachable, and eager to share interesting facts about the area—adding a layer of authenticity and local insight.
One reviewer mentioned that Captain Yamashita even let passengers drive the boat for 30 minutes, highlighting the friendly, informal atmosphere. The commentary, available in English and Greek, is generally appreciated, even if some find it occasionally hard to hear over the engine noise or during busy moments.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Boat and Facilities
The spacious 32-meter vessel is designed for comfort, with ample deck space for sunbathing and socializing. The sun deck is ideal for relaxing while soaking up the Cypriot sun, with some reviews pointing out that the deck can become slippery when wet—so caution is advised.
Inside, the air-conditioned cabin provides a cool respite from the heat, and the onboard toilets are convenient. The boat also features eight aquariums with freshwater fish, which add to the underwater curiosity factor. However, some reviews criticize the condition of the glass bottom windows, suggesting they could be cleaner to improve visibility.
The Swim Stops and Marine Encounters
The swim stops are carefully chosen for their calm, clear waters and potential turtle sightings. Many guests report swimming with sea turtles, which is often the main highlight. One reviewer mentioned they were even allowed to feed the turtles, creating a more interactive experience.
The underwater viewing areas have received mixed feedback—some loved how close they felt to marine life, while others wish the glass was cleaner. Regardless, this feature offers a different perspective from above the water, perfect for families or non-swimmers wanting to observe the underwater world.
Food and Drinks Onboard
While food and drinks aren’t included in the ticket, there’s a bar onboard where you can purchase cocktails, beers, soft drinks, snacks, and ice-cream. Many reviewers appreciate the availability of refreshing drinks, especially after swimming. The onboard bar adds to the relaxed vibe, allowing you to stretch out and enjoy the scenery without worrying about your meal.
Pricing and Value
Given the inclusions—swim stops, scenic views, underwater windows, aquariums, and onboard amenities—the trip offers good value. It’s a short excursion, but the variety of activities packed within 2.5 hours makes it worthwhile.
Some reviews highlight the affordability, especially with discounts available at booking. The experience is especially appealing for travelers seeking a quick, yet authentic marine adventure without the expense of longer or private charters.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This boat trip is ideal for families with children, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing with opportunities to see turtles and marine life. It’s also perfect for those who prefer a shorter cruise rather than a full-day adventure, making it easy to incorporate into a busy holiday schedule.
If you’re after a more distant exploration of Famagusta or want a longer, more in-depth tour, this may not meet those expectations. However, if you’re eager to enjoy Cyprus’s coastal waters with comfort and good company, this trip ticks many boxes.
Final Thoughts
The Protaras boat trip to Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove combines scenic beauty, fun swim stops, and marine wildlife encounters into a compact but memorable outing. The spacious boat, friendly crew, and underwater views ensure a comfortable experience, while the chance to swim with turtles adds a special touch.
It’s especially good value considering the multiple swim opportunities and onboard amenities, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting a taste of Cyprus’s marine environment without a lengthy commitment.
For families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxed day on the water, this cruise delivers a wholesome, authentic experience that’s both fun and photogenic.
FAQ
How long does the boat trip last?
The trip lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with departure times at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, depending on your schedule.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the large pier next to the Evalena Hotel in Protaras and ends back at the same point after completing the swim stops and scenic cruising.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is an onboard bar where you can purchase cocktails, beers, soft drinks, snacks, and ice-cream.
Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the vessel is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of guests.
Can I see marine life from the boat?
Yes, you can observe marine life through underwater viewing windows, and many guests report swimming with turtles in the designated stops.
Does the trip go as far as Famagusta?
No, the route doesn’t extend to Famagusta itself; it mainly focuses on the coast around Cape Greco, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove.
This boat trip from Protaras offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Cyprus’s stunning waters, wildlife, and coastal scenery—perfect for a quick, authentic adventure.
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