Protaras: Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise with Swim Stops

Protaras: Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise with Swim Stops — An Honest Look

Imagine cruising along the captivating coast of Cyprus, with chances to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, spot sea turtles, and see iconic sights like the Blue Lagoon and the ghost town of Varosha. That’s the essence of the Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise offered from Protaras. We’ve looked into what makes this tour a popular choice, and while it’s not perfect, it offers plenty of memorable moments for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water.

What we really like about this experience is how customizable it is—you get to choose to swim in multiple beautiful spots and learn about local history from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the boat itself has recently been refurbished, giving it a charming, comfortable vibe that’s great for unwinding. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that sea conditions can sometimes affect the itinerary, so flexibility is key. This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy a leisurely scenic outing with opportunities for swimming and exploring, especially if you appreciate good guidance and stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible swimming options in the Blue Lagoon, Turtle Bay, and other scenic spots.
• Insightful guides sharing stories about Cyprus’s history and sites like Varosha.
• Beautiful boat and views, with panoramic sights along the coastline.
• Refreshments available on board, with the first drink included.
• Not suitable for those with limited mobility due to stairs and boat access.
• Good value for the 3.5-hour duration, especially with the inclusion of WiFi and drinks.

An In-Depth Look at the Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise

The Overall Experience

This cruise is designed to let you set your own pace while taking in some of Cyprus’s most beautiful sights from the water. The boat, the St Georgios, has been recently refurbished, which means it’s not only visually charming but also comfortable. You’ll find all the essentials onboard, from a bar offering drinks and snacks to free WiFi for sharing your photos in real time.

The duration of about 3.5 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to see the highlights but short enough to keep it relaxed. The tour is guided in English, Greek, and Arabic, which means it’s accessible to a diverse range of travelers, and the explanations you get will make the experience richer.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure and Setup

You’ll start at the end of the pier in Protaras, with a recommended arrival time of 10:45 am. The meeting point is straightforward, right at the boat, making it easy to find. If you prefer, transfers from local resorts can be arranged (note that this might be subject to availability once the transfer bus is full). This option offers convenience, especially if you’re not keen on navigating to the pier yourself.

Passing Famagusta and Varosha

Soon after departure, the boat heads towards the famous ghost town of Varosha in Famagusta. This part of the cruise is quite engaging because your guide will share stories of the 1974 division of Cyprus and how Varosha came to be abandoned. If you’re into history or simply enjoy seeing places that tell stories, this segment adds depth to your trip.

Coastal Sights and Scenic Stops

The cruise hugs the coastline, passing sights like Fig Tree Bay, Agioi Anargyri Church, Lovers Bridge, and the Sancta Maria Shrine. These are perfect Instagram moments—dramatic rock formations, historic churches, and natural bridges that make for stunning photos. The guide’s commentary makes these moments more meaningful, giving you background and context.

The Blue Lagoon

One of the main highlights is the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its clear, turquoise waters. The boat will moor here, allowing you to jump in for a swim or snorkel. The water is calm and inviting, making it ideal for a refreshing dip. Be aware that the boat may sometimes keep a flexible schedule based on sea conditions, so the timing of this stop can vary.

Turtle Bay and Snorkeling

Next, you’ll visit Turtle Bay, where the hope is to see turtles in their natural environment. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many travelers find it an exciting prospect. We loved that the tour emphasizes the importance of marine life, and guides are clear about respecting the environment—touching marine life isn’t allowed.

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What You’ll Experience Onboard

The boat’s bar is open throughout the trip, with drinks and snacks available for purchase. The first drink is on the house—choose from wine, beer, soda, or juice. This adds a relaxed, social vibe to your cruise, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the views.

You’ll also appreciate the free WiFi onboard, allowing you to share your photos or catch up on messages while sailing past stunning scenery. The boat’s layout ensures panoramic views from nearly every angle, making it easy to take in the coastline and landmarks.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour lasts 3.5 hours, making it manageable without feeling rushed. It’s suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should note that boarding involves managing around 15 steps, and the toilets are accessed via stairs. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly.

The itinerary can change if weather conditions aren’t ideal, which is a common practice for sea trips but worth considering if you’re sensitive to schedule changes. Also, no drinks are permitted to be brought onboard, so plan to purchase refreshments there.

Value for Money

With the combined offerings—a well-maintained boat, guided commentary, multiple swim stops, free WiFi, and a complimentary first drink—the cruise offers good value for the 3.5 hours. The price covers the cruise itself, which means you’re paying mainly for the experience and scenery, not extras, though snacks and additional drinks are available for purchase.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal if you’re after a scenic, laid-back day on the water with opportunities to snorkel and relax. It’s especially suited for those interested in Cyprus’s coastline, historic sites, and marine life. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy casual boat trips, this could be a highlight of your trip.

It’s not designed for travelers who need wheelchair access or have limited mobility, nor for those who want a more structured, all-inclusive experience. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic escape with knowledgeable guides and chances to see turtles (no guarantees, but hopeful), this cruise fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

The Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise offers a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and history—all packed into a comfortable 3.5-hour trip. The boat itself is charming, the guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is genuinely striking. While the schedule can be affected by weather, the flexibility and the chance to see some of Cyprus’s most iconic spots make this a worthwhile outing.

This experience suits travelers who crave a relaxed, scenic day out with a touch of adventure and learning. It’s especially good for those who enjoy good guides, beautiful views, and the chance to swim in crystal waters.

If you’re in Protaras and want a boat trip that balances sightseeing, culture, and fun, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-focused, the relaxed nature and opportunities for swimming make it suitable for most travelers, including families with kids who can manage the boat’s steps and enjoy the water.

How long do the swim stops last?
The exact length can vary depending on sea conditions, but generally, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy swimming and snorkeling at each stop, especially at the Blue Lagoon and Turtle Bay.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a credit card (for onboard purchases), and cash if you want to buy snacks or additional drinks.

Are there any restrictions on bringing drinks onboard?
Yes, passengers are asked not to bring drinks onto the boat, but you can purchase refreshments from the onboard bar.

How do transfers work?
There are options to include transfers from local resorts, but these fill up quickly. Once full, you’ll need to make your way to the pier yourself.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Greek, and Arabic. Additional languages can be accessed via the cruise app.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the itinerary might change due to sea conditions. The tour provider will inform you of any changes.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility should your plans change.

How accessible is the boat?
Boarding involves about 15 steps, and toilets are accessed via stairs. It’s not suited for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

Can I see turtles during the tour?
While the tour visits Turtle Bay in hopes of seeing turtles, sightings are not guaranteed. The focus is on enjoying the natural environment responsibly.

If you’re after a leisurely day on the water with beautiful sights and a friendly guide, this cruise from Protaras hits a good balance of fun, scenery, and cultural insight. Just remember to stay flexible and enjoy the ride!

You can check availability for your dates here: