Protaras: Turtle Cove & Blue Lagoon Cruise

Thinking about booking a boat trip along Cyprus’s famous east coast? This 3-hour cruise from Protaras promises a mix of scenic coastline, snorkeling adventures, and the chance to see graceful sea turtles in their natural habitat. Whether you’re a nature lover, someone seeking a relaxing day on the water, or just curious about the local sights, this tour might be just what you’re after.

What really appeals is how accessible the trip is — departing directly from Protaras Pier, with easy parking nearby — and the variety of stops packed into a short timeframe. Plus, the reviews consistently highlight the friendly guides and the value for money. But keep in mind, it’s not a wildlife zoo, so guaranteed sightings aren’t part of the package.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy comfort, scenic beauty, and a laid-back vibe. If you’re okay with a bit of sun, some swimming, and a relaxed pace, it’s often praised as an enjoyable, straightforward coastal adventure. It’s less suited if you have mobility issues or seasickness concerns, but overall, it offers a well-rounded taste of Cyprus’s coastal charm.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views: Experience the dramatic coastline of Cape Greco and see notable landmarks like Lovers Bridge and Sharks Mouth Cave.
• Wildlife encounter: With some luck, you might swim alongside sea turtles in their natural environment.
• Comfortable experience: The boat is described as clean and well-maintained, with space to relax and enjoy the views.
• Affordable value: Many reviewers think this trip offers good value, with friendly staff, informative guides, and great swimming stops.
• Flexible stops: You get two main swim and snorkel stops, in Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove, with gear available for purchase.
• Informative guides: Expect engaging commentary on the sights and some historical context during the cruise.

Planning a 3-hour trip might seem short, but this tour packs in quite a bit — from stunning coastlines to underwater encounters. Starting from Aphrodite Cruises at Protaras Pier, the journey begins with a gentle cruise along the east coast, giving you a chance to see the local landscape from the water.

The first highlight is the panoramic boat ride, which offers sweeping views of the coast, including Paralimni Marina, Fig Tree Bay, and Konnos Beach. These spots are picture-perfect, and you’ll get plenty of chances to snap photos of the coastline, the clear waters, and the rugged cliffs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Caves and Coastal Landmarks

As the boat heads towards Cape Greco National Forest Park, you’ll pass by some of the coast’s most dramatic features. Notable among these are Lovers Bridge (Kamara tou Koraka), Sharks Mouth Cave, and Pirates Cave. These caves and rock formations make excellent photo stops, and the guides usually point out interesting facts about their history and formation.

While you won’t be getting off for long excursions, the boat’s stops at these landmarks give a good perspective on why this coast is so loved by locals and visitors alike. From the boat, you get a sense of the rugged beauty and see Famagusta’s ghost town from afar — a reminder of the area’s complex history, though crossing the Green Line isn’t permitted.

The Main Swimming & Snorkeling Stops

The two key highlights, especially for water lovers, are the stops at Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove. These are the main reasons many choose this tour. You’ll spend about 30 minutes at each, giving you enough time to swim, snorkel, or simply relax in the water.

• At Blue Lagoon, the waters are famously clear and calm — perfect for floating around with goggles or masks, which you can buy on board if you don’t have your own. Many travelers rave about how beautiful the water is here, with some even mentioning they saw fish during their swim.

• Turtle Cove is the star for wildlife fans, with a chance to see and swim with sea turtles in their natural environment. The reviews consistently mention the joy of swimming beside these graceful creatures, with some describing it as a “brilliant experience.” However, it’s worth noting that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed; the sea is undisturbed, and turtles might be shy or not visible every day.

Why the Guides Matter

Guides on this tour are generally described as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to enhance your experience. They provide commentary on the sights, explain the significance of caves and landmarks, and give tips for snorkeling. Several reviews mention how guides try to ensure wildlife isn’t touched or disturbed, respecting the animals’ space.

Comfort and Practicalities

The boat itself is praised for being clean and comfortable, with plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, or enjoy the scenery. You’ll want to bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, and waterproof gear, especially if you plan to take photos underwater or keep your valuables dry. The bar on board offers drinks at reasonable prices — many reviewers mention enjoying cocktails or beers during the cruise.

Be aware that weather conditions can influence the trip’s schedule — storms or rough seas might lead to cancellations or alterations. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges or serious seasickness issues.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Protaras Pier, the boat heads east along the coast, passing by notable sites like Paralimni Marina and Fig Tree Bay. This initial stretch is great for taking in the scenery and getting a sense of the coastline’s beauty.

The cruise then moves towards Cape Greco, one of Cyprus’s iconic natural parks. Stops at Konnos Bay and Ayioi Anargyroi Cave offer scenic views and photo opportunities. These are short stops, but they help set the tone for the natural beauty of the area.

The highlight is the Blue Lagoon — a designated swimming stop in a sheltered cove where the water’s clarity is truly remarkable. Many reviewers say this is the most stunning part of the trip, perfect for snorkelling and cooling off.

Next, the boat cruises past Cape Greco, giving a different perspective on the rugged coastline. The last significant stop is at Turtle Cove, where swimming with turtles is often a memorable moment. Just a heads-up: wildlife sightings depend on the day’s conditions, but many travelers have been lucky.

Finally, the boat heads back to Protaras, passing by scenic spots and enjoying the peaceful sea. Many people mention how relaxing and scenic the entire cruise feels, especially if you’re seeking a break from the busy beaches.

The Experience – What Travelers Say

Based on numerous reviews, many visitors describe this cruise as “good value,” “well-organized,” and “friendly.” Several mention the professionalism of the staff and the quality of the boat, highlighting how it’s a comfortable way to see the coastline without the hassle of land-based tours.

A common highlight? Swimming with turtles. Reviewers often describe this as an “amazing” or “brilliant” experience, with some saying it’s the biggest reason they’d recommend the trip. One review even noted, “We actually got to swim right beside the turtles!” That sense of peaceful wildlife watching, combined with snorkeling, makes this tour stand out.

The scenery, too, gets high praise. From the caves to the panoramic views of Famagusta, the coast’s natural and historical interest appeal to many. Some mention that the trip is peaceful — no loud music or overcrowding — making it ideal for those wanting a calm, scenic experience.

While most reviews are glowing, a few point out small issues — like the occasional difficulty hearing the guide clearly, or the fact that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed. Also, some mention that the boat could be a little crowded during peak times, but overall, most agree that it’s a good experience for the price.

This cruise is perfect for travelers looking for a quick, scenic boat ride with the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters and see wild turtles. It suits those who value comfort, good organization, and interesting commentary. If you enjoy a relaxed pace, natural beauty, and some light adventure, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding.

It’s less suited for people with mobility issues or seasickness, and wildlife sightings are unpredictable. Families with older children tend to enjoy it, especially those interested in snorkeling or wildlife, but it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour.

If you’re spending time on Cyprus’s east coast, this Protaras Turtle Cove & Blue Lagoon Cruise offers a straightforward way to enjoy the sea, explore caves, and possibly meet some gentle sea turtles. The trip is well-liked for its friendly guides, scenic stops, and overall value — many travelers call it a highlight of their trip.

While it’s not a wildlife zoo — and sightings can’t be promised — the chance to swim in those pristine waters and see the coast from the water makes it a memorable experience. The tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and gentle adventure, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers looking for a laid-back day out.

In the end, if you love crystal-clear waters, scenic caves, and the idea of floating alongside turtles, this trip is likely to leave you with some great memories. Just be prepared for the weather to influence your plans, and enjoy the laid-back Cypriot hospitality on board.

Is the boat trip suitable for families?
While the tour is generally enjoyed by many, it’s most suitable for older children and adults due to the nature of swimming and the boat environment. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but many families do enjoy it. Be aware that the trip involves some time in the water, so older kids who can swim will get the most out of it.

Can I guarantee wildlife sightings, like turtles?
No, wildlife is in their natural environment, so sightings depend on the day’s conditions. Many reviews mention swimming with turtles, but it’s not guaranteed. The guides do their best to give you the chance to see and swim with them.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, towels, waterproof gear, and a camera. If you want to snorkel, goggles are recommended — although you can purchase gear on board. Sunscreen and cash are also handy.

How long are the stops?
Each major swimming stop is about 30 minutes — enough time to relax, snorkel, or cool off. The whole trip lasts roughly three hours, including cruising and sightseeing.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Yes, weather conditions can influence the schedule. If seas are rough or storms are forecasted, the trip may be canceled or altered for safety reasons.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or serious seasickness. Also, high heels, weapons, large luggage, and non-folding strollers are not allowed onboard.

How do I meet the tour?
Departure is from Protaras Pier, with an early arrival recommended. There’s parking nearby, and if you’re late, you can go to Paralimni Marina, where the pickup is arranged 15 minutes later.

This boat tour offers a relaxed yet scenic glimpse of Cyprus’s coast, with the added thrill of swimming with turtles if luck is on your side. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable day on the water — combining beautiful views, gentle adventure, and a good dose of local charm. If you’re after a comfortable, value-packed experience that captures the essence of Cyprus’s coastal beauty, this tour might be just right.

You can check availability for your dates here: