FROM PAPHOS: 1.5 HRS Glass Bottom Boat Cruise with swimming

If you’re in Paphos and craving a relaxed yet engaging way to explore the underwater world, this glass bottom boat cruise might be just what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into this experience to give you a clear picture of what it offers and how it might fit into your holiday plans. Whether you’re a keen snorkeler, a fan of marine scenery, or simply after a scenic boat ride, this tour packs a lot into just 1.5 hours.

What really draws people in are the stunning views of ocean life through the glass deck and the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters. Plus, spotting turtles during the breeding season adds a special touch that many travelers find unforgettable. That said, it’s not without its considerations—if seasickness is a concern or you’re less confident in the water, it’s worth thinking about those factors before booking. This trip tends to suit those looking for a gentle, scenic marine experience rather than a full-day adventure.

If you enjoy relaxing on the water, love observing marine life, or want a family-friendly way to add some excitement to your trip, this tour probably deserves a spot on your list. It’s a nice mix of sightseeing, light activity, and comfort—perfect for those who prefer a laid-back vibe with a splash of adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning underwater views through a large glass deck that offers plenty of space for everyone to observe marine life.
• Opportunities to swim and snorkel in the Mediterranean’s clear waters.
• Possibility of spotting sea turtles during their breeding season, making it a memorable wildlife encounter.
• Informative commentary about the famous 1950s Vera K. shipwreck beneath your feet.
• Comfort amenities onboard, including bar facilities, fresh water showers, changing rooms, and toilets.
• Family-friendly provisions like snorkels, noodles, and life jackets for children and less confident swimmers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This tour is operated by Gorgo Travel and offers a solid experience for those who want a taste of the sea without committing to a full-day adventure. The boat itself is the largest glass-bottom vessel in Paphos, which means plenty of space to enjoy the views comfortably. The main attraction is undoubtedly the 22m² glass viewing deck, offering an unobstructed glimpse into the underwater world as the boat glides along the coastline.

Starting at Paphos Harbour, you’ll meet at the first pier 20 minutes before departure, giving you time to settle in. The boat departs smoothly, and from there, you’re treated to a scenic ride out of the harbor. As you move along the coast, your guide will point out notable sights, including the famous Vera K. shipwreck, lying beneath the waves since the 1950s. This wreck is a fascinating piece of local history and adds a layer of intrigue to the journey.

The boat ride itself lasts about 1.5 hours, striking a balance between enough time to soak in the scenery and not overextending your day. During this time, you’ll get a glimpse of colorful reefs, schools of fish, and perhaps even the elusive sea turtles if you’re visiting during the breeding season. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience with stories and explanations about the marine environment and the wreck.

Anchor points are carefully chosen for their beauty and clarity, offering the chance to swim and snorkel. When you stop at these spots, you’ll have access to snorkels, noodles, and life jackets—free of charge—making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just want to paddle around in the water. The waters are known for being crystal clear, which really amplifies the enjoyment of observing marine life firsthand.

Many reviews mention the stunning vistas and the thrill of seeing the underwater world through the glass deck. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way we could see everything beneath us without even getting into the water.” For those keen on swimming, the short stop gives you a refreshing break and the chance to get closer to the fish and perhaps a turtle or two.

Facilities onboard are well thought out, with bar options to keep refreshment levels high, plus clean water showers, changing rooms, and toilets. These amenities ensure that comfort isn’t sacrificed for fun, which is a nice touch for a short, 1.5-hour trip.

What to Expect and Practicalities

Duration and Groups: The cruise lasts about an hour and a half, making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule. The group size tends to be comfortable, with plenty of space on the boat for everyone to observe the views and relax.

Pricing and Value: While the exact cost isn’t specified here, considering the included amenities, the viewing deck, and the opportunity to swim and snorkel, this experience offers good value. You’re paying for a scenic, guided tour with added water activities, which can be a nice change from more passive days.

What to Bring: Be sure to pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your camera—the views are worth capturing. Remember, turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, as they are wild animals, but during the breeding season, chances are higher.

Suitability: This tour is not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness. The short swim stop is optional, but if you’re uncomfortable in the water, you can still enjoy the scenery from the deck.

Meeting Point and Timing: Arrive at Paphos Harbour on the first pier 20 minutes before departure. Boarding begins 30 minutes before, so arriving early helps avoid any last-minute stress.

What Past Travelers Say

One review highlights, “The views of the underwater world are breathtaking,” emphasizing how impressive the glass deck is. Another pointed out, “Spotting turtles during breeding season was a real highlight,” which suggests timing your trip around that period could enhance your experience. Some users mention the comfort onboard and the well-organized facilities, making the trip feel relaxed rather than rushed.

A few reviewers noted that turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the chance of seeing the Vera K. wreck makes the journey worthwhile even if marine life remains elusive. The boat’s size and stability are a plus, especially if you’re wary of choppy waters or seasickness.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic boat ride with added opportunities for underwater viewing and swimming. It’s especially good for families with children given the free life jackets and snorkels, and for travelers who want a gentle introduction to the marine environment of Paphos. It also caters well to those on a short timetable but still eager to enjoy the water and sea views.

If you love sailing, marine wildlife, or simply enjoy beautiful coastal scenery, this tour delivers on those fronts. Conversely, if you’re seeking a long, in-depth snorkeling or diving experience, or are concerned about seasickness, you might want to consider other options.

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The Sum Up

For a short but visually rich experience, this Paphos glass bottom boat cruise offers a great balance of comfort, scenery, and activity. The stunning views of the underwater world through the large glass deck are a highlight, especially when combined with the chance to swim in the clear Mediterranean waters. The inclusion of amenities onboard, plus the opportunity to spot a sea turtle or explore the historic Vera K. wreck, adds layers of interest to the trip.

It’s particularly well-suited for families, casual sightseers, or anyone wanting a relaxed way to enjoy Paphos’ coastline. The fact that you can choose a shorter 90-minute version makes it flexible for different schedules. While the unpredictability of wildlife sightings means you can’t promise turtle encounters, the scenic cruise and underwater views are still likely to impress.

This experience is a reliable, enjoyable way to see part of Paphos from the water, with enough features to make it memorable without feeling rushed or overly commercial. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, camera, and a sense of curiosity—and you’re all set for a lovely coastal outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While snorkeling and swimming are optional, the tour provides life jackets and noodles for less confident swimmers. Non-swimmers can enjoy the scenic views from the deck, but if you’re uncomfortable on the water, consider that part of the experience.

Are turtle sightings guaranteed?
No, turtle sightings depend on the season and the turtles’ natural behavior. During their breeding season, the chances are higher, but they are wild animals, so sightings can’t be promised.

What should I bring?
You’ll want to pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. The waters are clear, so bringing a waterproof camera can be a plus if you want to capture underwater moments.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours. There’s also a shorter 90-minute option if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of the experience.

What amenities are onboard?
The boat has bar facilities, fresh water showers, changing rooms, and toilets, ensuring you can relax and refresh during the trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering you flexibility should your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, the tour provides free snorkels, noodles, and life jackets for children and less confident swimmers, making it a good choice for family outings.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure with a chance to see underwater life and historic wrecks, this Paphos glass bottom boat cruise is worth considering. It combines easy-going fun with the beauty of the Mediterranean, all wrapped into a compact tour that won’t overextend your day.

You can check availability for your dates here: