If you’re planning a trip to Paphos and considering a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon, you’re in for a treat. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve gathered plenty of honest insights that can help you decide if it’s the right outing for you. This experience promises a scenic cruise, a delicious BBQ, and ample time for swimming in some of the clearest waters you’ll find in Cyprus.
What really draws people in are the beautiful views of Akamas Forest and the relaxed vibe of a comfortable boat. Plus, the inclusion of a BBQ lunch—a nice touch for those who enjoy a hearty meal by the water—is consistently praised. But, there’s one thing to keep in mind: some reviews mention the extra cost for the BBQ and issues with certain equipment like snorkels.
This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable day out with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food. It’s especially suitable if you’re after a value-for-money experience that combines relaxed cruising with some memorable stops. If you’re looking for an active adventure or something very family-specific, you might want to consider other options.
Key Points
- Comfortable boat with scenic views of the Akamas Forest and coastline.
- 2-hour stop at Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
- Inclusion of BBQ buffet lunch, with drinks like wine, juice, and water.
- Flexible pickup and drop-off from Paphos hotels, making it hassle-free.
- Some reviews mention extra costs for the BBQ and equipment quality issues.
- Well-rated for staff friendliness and organization, with a 4.6 out of 5 from over 125 reviews.
An Honest Look at the Tour Experience
When it comes to boat trips in Paphos, the Blue Lagoon tour stands out for its balanced mix of relaxation and scenery, all wrapped in a convenient package. What makes this trip appealing is the ease of logistics—hotel pickup in the morning or afternoon, depending on your preference, and the promise of a comfortable boat ride. The boat itself is well-renovated, with some added fun like an inflatable water slide, which is a hit for those wanting a splash of extra excitement.
Planning more time in Paphos District? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary and Stops
Starting from Latchi Harbour, the day kicks off with a pickup from all hotels in the Paphos area, which is a big plus for travelers who prefer to avoid the hassle of figuring out transportation. The journey to the boat is about an hour, giving you plenty of time to relax and get into vacation mode. The boat, run by Demetris Chara BBQ Boat Latchi, is described as spacious enough for a comfortable experience—an important detail for those wary of crowded tours.
The main highlight—and what most reviews focus on—is the Blue Lagoon stop. You’ll have around two hours to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun in the water’s calm, clear embrace. Reviewers like Amanda and Jason mention how good the swim stop was and how the time allocated was just right, giving plenty of opportunity to cool off and explore the underwater world.
The BBQ Lunch and Drinks
The BBQ buffet lunch is included in the tour, which many consider a real highlight. The food is generally described as delicious and filling, providing enough sustenance after swimming. Some reviews note that the BBQ costs extra—around 15 euros—so if you’re expecting it to be included, it’s worth double-checking. Beverages like wine, juice, and water are complimentary during lunch, but alcohol beyond that (like beer or cocktails) is not included and must be paid for separately.
The quality of the BBQ seems to meet most expectations, with comments specifically praising the taste and quantity of the food. One reviewer, Laurence, did mention not receiving a safety briefing, which is worth noting if safety is a priority for you, although this doesn’t seem to be a common concern.
Additional Highlights
The boat features a new inflatable water slide—a fun addition that other reviews and promotional material highlight. It allows you to slide straight into the water, adding a splash of adventure to the day. On the upper deck, you’ll find a perfect spot to sit back with a drink in hand while taking in the breathtaking views of the coast and forests.
Other suggested stops include the Baths of Aphrodite, St. George Island, Manolis Bay, and Baji Bay—each offering another chance to admire the scenery or take photos. The Blue Lagoon remains the star attraction, with the 2-hour swim and snorkel allowing you to truly enjoy the water in its most pristine state.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience for Different Travelers
From the reviews, it’s clear that this tour is highly valued for its organization and friendly staff. Many patrons mention how smoothly everything runs, from booking to drop-off, which really adds to the overall experience. The small group size and well-maintained boat** make for a relaxed outing without the feeling of being just another face in a crowd.
The cost is generally seen as reasonable considering the inclusions—transport, a buffet lunch, drinks, and the scenic cruise. However, some travelers might find the additional fees for alcohol and BBQ a little surprising if they didn’t read the fine print.
Practicalities and Considerations
The tour is around 4 hours long, which is just enough time for a leisurely cruise and a good swim. It’s not overly long, so it suits those who prefer a half-day activity that’s relaxing but not exhausting.
What to bring? A swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and your ID or passport. Keep in mind, baby carriages are not allowed, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with very young children.
The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years and doesn’t mention specific accommodations for those with mobility issues, so if you or someone in your group falls into these categories, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.
Why This Tour Works
If you’re after a value-packed day of scenic views, swimming, and good food, this trip hits the mark. The scenery of Akamas Forest and the coastline is enough to satisfy any nature lover, and the Blue Lagoon’s waters are often described as stunning—clear, calm, and perfect for a swim.
The friendly staff and smooth organization really help make the experience enjoyable. Many reviews talk about how everything ran like clockwork, from pickup to return. That kind of reliability is important when you’re on holiday and want to relax.
The BBQ lunch scores high marks, especially with those who appreciate a hearty, flavorful meal with drinks included. While the extra cost for the BBQ might catch some off guard, most agree it’s worth it for the quality and convenience.
Who Should Book This?
This tour is ideal for travellers looking for a relaxing day, not an adrenaline rush or a party boat. It’s great for those who enjoy nature, scenic cruising, and a good meal. Families with older children or teenagers tend to find this experience suitable, especially since it’s not overly strenuous. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it offers a nice balance of socializing and downtime.
If you want a hassle-free day with reliable logistics and plenty of opportunities to swim and relax in beautiful surroundings, this tour is a safe bet.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from all hotels in the Paphos area and drop-off afterward, making it very convenient.
How long is the boat trip?
The total duration is about 4 hours, with most of that time spent cruising, swimming, and enjoying the scenery.
What’s the main highlight?
The 2-hour stop at Blue Lagoon is the biggest draw, offering time to swim, snorkel, and unwind in crystal-clear waters.
Is food included?
Yes, there is a BBQ buffet lunch included, with wine, juice, and water. Note that the BBQ itself is an extra cost of around 15 euros.
Can I bring my own drinks?
You can bring your own drinks, but alcohol beyond the provided wine, juice, and water is not included and must be paid for separately.
Are snorkels provided?
Yes, snorkels are provided, but some reviews mention they are in poor condition, so consider bringing your own if you’re particular.
Is this suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most older children and teenagers. However, baby carriages are not allowed, and the tour may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.
What if I’m prone to sea sickness?
Sea sickness pills are available on board, and the boat is described as comfortable, helping to mitigate discomfort.
Are there additional costs?
Apart from the extra charge for the BBQ and any alcohol, other costs are included. Be prepared for optional extras like cocktails or spirits at additional cost.
What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.
From Paphos: Blue Lagoon Tour with BBQ and Hotel Pickup
“Friendly staff. Good food. Was a bit surprised we didn't have a safety briefing when on the boat.”
Final Thoughts
This Blue Lagoon tour from Paphos offers a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized way to enjoy some of Cyprus’s most beautiful waters. The combination of a comfortable boat, a generous swim stop, and a tasty BBQ makes it a solid choice for travelers who value trustworthy service and simple enjoyment.
It’s especially suitable for those after a laid-back day of water, nature, and good food without the fuss of complicated arrangements. If you’re not looking for a party or intense activity, but rather a peaceful cruise with friends or family, this experience likely fits the bill.
Just keep in mind some minor details like the extra BBQ fee and the snorkel quality. Overall, it seems like a reliable, enjoyable excursion that many travelers have rated highly. It’s worth considering if you want a memorable day on the water with a friendly, professional crew guiding the way.
Happy planning, and I hope your trip to Cyprus is as lovely as this tour promises to be!
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