Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras

If you’re looking to unwind and soak up the scenery along Cyprus’s east coast, a catamaran cruise can be a wonderful choice. This particular tour, the Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras, has earned a solid reputation among travelers — with a 4.5/5 rating based on 56 reviews. It offers a good mix of scenic views, leisurely swimming, tasty food, and plenty of drinks, making it appealing whether you’re into relaxing days at sea or looking for a fun group activity.

What we love about this experience is how it combines beautiful coastal vistas with refreshing swim stops and a generous buffet lunch. Plus, the availability of an open bar really elevates the atmosphere — it’s easy to imagine relaxing with a cocktail in hand while the boat drifts along the shoreline. One thing to consider, however, is that some travelers have mentioned overcrowded conditions and limited shade, so if you’re sensitive to the sun or prefer a more intimate setting, that’s worth keeping in mind.

This trip seems best suited for those who want a laid-back, social day at sea with good food, drinks, and scenic views. It’s also a great option if you’re traveling with friends or a group, but it might not be ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, private experience or those very concerned about crowded spaces.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal views and photo opportunities
• Swim stops for snorkeling and relaxing in the water
• Open bar with unlimited drinks for a carefree vibe
• Buffet lunch includes seasonal fruit and beverages
• Pickup and drop-off available from select hotels or central meeting points
• Weather dependent — cancellations possible if conditions aren’t favorable

Exploring the Full-Day Catamaran Experience in Detail

If you’re considering booking this tour, it’s helpful to know what to expect and what makes this cruise stand out. From the moment you step onboard, you’ll notice how well-organized the experience is. Tour providers like MTS GLOBE CYPRUS LTD. ensure that your day flows smoothly, from pickup to return.

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The cruise kicks off at 9:00 am from the East Coast Cruises meeting point in Famagusta, with pickup options from various hotels around Protaras. This flexibility is handy, especially if you prefer not to worry about logistics and just focus on enjoying the day.

The main stops include Green Bay Beach, an idyllic stretch of shoreline perfect for swimming and sunbathing. As some reviews mention, the boat will also navigate past iconic spots like Konnos Bay, Cape Greco, and the Blue Lagoon. These are prime locations for snapping photos and appreciating the gorgeous scenery. However, a critical point surfaced in some reviews: some guests felt the itinerary was not as initially described, with only the Blue Lagoon being visited. If visiting specific areas is important to you, it’s worth clarifying with the operator beforehand.

The Swimming and Snorkeling Stops

One of the biggest draws of this cruise is the chance to cool off in the clear Mediterranean waters. The stops are thoughtfully timed, giving you plenty of opportunity to snorkel and explore marine life. Many travelers have noted the excellent swim stops, with a few mentioning the availability of paddleboards and swim aids during these breaks, adding to the fun.

From reviews, we know that the crew tends to be attentive, making sure everyone has enough time and feels comfortable in the water. The swimming conditions are generally described as ideal — calm waters and good visibility, perfect for both novice and experienced swimmers.

Food and Drinks: A Highlight

The buffet lunch on board gets high praise from guests. Expect a variety of dishes, including seasonal fruit and beverages, providing enough fuel for the day. Several reviews have specifically mentioned the delicious, plentiful food and the big choice of cocktails and drinks available via the open bar.

Travelers like Richard note that the food and drinks were “very good and plenty of it,” making the cruise feel like a value-packed experience. For many, the unlimited drinks are a real highlight, allowing you to sip on cocktails, soft drinks, or water as you relax and take in the scenery.

The Atmosphere and Crew

Many reviews describe the crew as friendly, attentive, and professional. From the initial booking to the end of the trip, they aim to make passengers feel comfortable and well taken care of. The atmosphere onboard is often described as fun and relaxed, with some reviews mentioning lively crew members and the enjoyable social vibe.

Of course, there are some complaints about overcrowding and lack of shade, which can impact comfort levels during peak season. Kelly mentions that the boat can get overpacked, with limited space to sit in shade, which could lead to sunburn or overheating if you’re not prepared.

Duration and Group Size

The cruise lasts approximately five hours, which is enough time to enjoy multiple swim stops, a hearty lunch, and some relaxing cruising along the coast. The maximum group size is around 100 travelers, so you’re in a large but manageable crowd. For those who dislike big groups or busy environments, this might feel a little crowded, especially during peak season.

Pricing and Value for Money

At $75.47 per person, this cruise offers a fair balance of cost and the experience provided. For that price, you’re getting a full-day excursion with multiple swim stops, lunch, an open bar, and a scenic cruise — all of which adds up to a good deal, especially considering the quality of the food and drinks.

Some reviews have highlighted the good value — guests appreciated the generous buffet and unlimited drinks, making the overall experience feel worth it. However, others have pointed out that if you’re expecting a more private or quiet trip, or if you are very particular about the itinerary, the value might be less for you.

Considerations About Crowds and Comfort

A recurring theme in reviews is the overcrowded nature of the boat, which can diminish comfort. If you’re someone who prefers more space, or if you’re prone to sunburn, be prepared with sun protection and a hat. Some travelers have expressed disappointment when they couldn’t find shaded seats or the boat was too packed to relax comfortably.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideally suited for those looking for a fun, social day at sea with plenty of opportunities to swim, dine, and enjoy drinks. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or even families who want a lively atmosphere and don’t mind the crowd. If you’re seeking a peaceful, private, or romantic escape, this might not be your best bet.

Travelers who enjoy good food, lively crew members, and scenic views will find this cruise very satisfying. It’s also great if you want a value-packed day with multiple highlights packed into one trip.

Practical Information and FAQs

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered from designated hotels or a central meeting point in Protaras.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers buffet lunch, unlimited drinks from the open bar, swimming stops, and free WiFi onboard.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are possible if weather conditions are unfavorable. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, a maximum of 100 travelers.

Will I get enough shade?
Some guests have noted limited shaded areas, so bring sun protection if you’re sensitive.

Are children suitable for this trip?
The tour is most appropriate for most travelers, but keep in mind the crowded conditions and the open water stops.

Final Thoughts

The Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras offers a lively, scenic way to enjoy the Mediterranean. With its comfortable boat, friendly crew, delicious food, and plenty of swim stops, it’s a solid choice for those looking for a fun day out in Cyprus. While it’s not ideal for travelers seeking solitude or a quiet escape, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to relax, socialize, and take in the stunning coastline.

If you’re after a relaxed, enjoyable cruise with a good mix of activities and great value, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to bring sun protection, and be prepared for a lively, sometimes crowded environment. It’s a day that promises fun, good vibes, and plenty of photo opportunities — a memorable addition to your Cyprus holiday.

Additional Questions

What is the main focus of this cruise?
It’s primarily about cruising along the coast, swimming and snorkeling at scenic stops, and enjoying good food and drinks on board.

How is the food onboard?
Guests consistently praise the buffet lunch as delicious and plentiful, with seasonal fruit and beverages included.

Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, there’s an open bar with unlimited drinks, including cocktails, soft drinks, and water.

Can I expect to see specific sights like Famagusta or Blue Lagoon?
The tour includes stops at the Blue Lagoon, and some reviews mention other locations like Green Bay and Konnos Bay, but itinerary details can vary.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is provided during the cruise.

What if I miss my pickup?
It’s important to confirm your pickup details; some reviews mention issues with incorrect or missed pickups. Make sure your pickup location matches your reservation.

Would this trip be good for a special occasion?
While it’s a fun social outing, it may not be the most romantic or private choice. It’s better suited for groups, families, or friends celebrating together.

This detailed look at the Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras hopefully helps you decide if it’s the right fit for your Cyprus adventure. Whether you’re in it for the stunning scenery, the lively atmosphere, or just a relaxing day on the water, it’s a tour that many find well worth the experience.