Private Diving Cyprus Experience Protaras and Ayia Napa & Turtles

If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving in a sunny Mediterranean setting, this private tour in Cyprus might catch your eye. With a focus on beginners and a good reputation, it promises a safe yet thrilling introduction to the underwater world. But is it worth your time and money? Let’s unpack what this tour offers, based on detailed reviews and the info available.

What we particularly like about this experience is the emphasis on safety and high-quality instruction. The guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. Plus, the chance to see turtles and underwater statues makes the trip feel special for those who love marine life and unique sights beneath the waves.

However, one potential consideration is the group size and dive structure. Some reviews note that dives are split into groups, which might mean not everyone sees the same things or spends the same amount of time underwater. If you’re hoping for a totally shared experience or lots of photos, you may find this a slight downside. But overall, this tour seems well suited for beginners, families, or anyone curious about trying scuba in a controlled environment.

If your goal is a manageable, fun, and safe introduction to diving—with the bonus of underwater scenery—this experience might fit well into your Cyprus itinerary. It’s especially good if you’re looking for a private, guided adventure that balances fun and safety.

Key Points

• Beginners Welcome: Designed for those with no prior diving experience, with thorough pre-dive training.
• Includes Educational Components: Online learning plus in-person briefing helps boost confidence.
• Underwater Sights: Expect to see fish, turtles, and interesting underwater statues.
• Safety is Priority: Certified, high-qualified instructors oversee all activities.
• Value for Money: At around $97, the experience offers a lot, including gear and guidance.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, with confirmation within 48 hours.

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what this tour involves. We appreciate that it’s tailored for beginners—which means the entire process is designed to be approachable and stress-free. The experience kicks off with online e-learning, so you can familiarize yourself with basic safety rules and breathing techniques before you even arrive. This preparation makes the in-person part much smoother.

Once at the Yellow Fins Scuba Centre in Protaras, the real fun begins. After an introduction and safety briefing, you’ll head to Green Bay for practical practice. This part is particularly important because it helps you get comfortable with breathing underwater and learning a few basic skills. It’s a chance to get used to the equipment and ask any last-minute questions.

The highlight, of course, is the actual dive, which lasts about 45-50 minutes. Guided one-on-one or in small groups with a certified instructor, you’ll descend gradually to a maximum depth of 10 meters—a depth suitable for beginners and safe for those with moderate physical fitness. The underwater scenery is notable—visitors often report seeing turtles and a variety of colorful fish. The underwater statues are also a feature that adds a unique touch to the dive, making it more than just a swim in the sea.

An important thing to keep in mind: the group structure means that not everyone will necessarily see the same things at the same time or in exactly the same way. One reviewer mentioned that their group didn’t see certain attractions or go as deep as others, but this is managed by the instructors for safety. The maximum depth is capped, and the instructors are responsible for everyone’s safety, which is reassuring.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at the Yellow Fins Scuba Centre, conveniently located in Protaras. The center offers pickup options, which simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying nearby. With open hours from 8 AM to 6 PM, you can pick a time that fits your schedule—ideally in the morning when the sea is calmer.

The online learning phase is quick but essential, giving you a basic understanding of what will happen. This is especially helpful if you’re a nervous first timer, as it sets expectations and reassures you that safety comes first. Past guests have appreciated the transparent communication and well-organized instructions, which reduces pre-dive jitters.

Next, the team takes you to Green Bay—a picturesque spot with calm waters ideal for practice. Here, your instructor will guide you through breathing exercises, mask clearing, and other fundamentals. The underwater environment in Green Bay is perfect for beginners: clear, peaceful, and full of marine life, including the chance to spot turtles.

The actual dive is unhurried and carefully managed. Descending gradually, you’ll follow your instructor along the seabed. The underwater statues and marine life make this more than just a swim; it feels like a tiny underwater adventure. The visibility is generally good, and the experience of floating in the sea, observing fish and turtles, is often described as unforgettable.

Real Guest Experiences

Reviews paint a generally positive picture, with many highlighting the friendly and professional guides. One guest shared, “Great communication before hand with Barbara to arrange pick up from our hotel.” This personal touch makes the experience feel more seamless.

Another guest, Ian from the reviews, mentioned that their first dive with their daughter was “a great experience,” emphasizing the instructor’s calming explanations and the overall safety. It’s clear that this tour is quite suitable for families or anyone new to diving.

Some reviewers, however, raised concerns about group dynamics. One noted that their group didn’t see the statues or go as deep, which they found disappointing. But it’s important to remember that the instructors prioritize safety, and the dive structure means each group could have a slightly different experience.

On the upside, visitors have described the underwater scenery as “beautiful,” with lots of fish and the chance to see turtles—an experience many described as “exceptional.” The fact that some guests booked another dive immediately after shows how much they enjoyed it.

The Cost and Value

At just over $97 per person, this experience offers fairly good value. It includes all necessary equipment, guidance, and the underwater adventure itself. Given that the tour is private—meaning only your group participates—it offers personalized attention, which can be rare at this price point.

When you consider that the tour includes both the training and the actual dive, plus the use of brand-new, checked equipment, it’s a comprehensive package. For beginners, this kind of guided, safe introduction can be priceless—especially if you’re hesitant about underwater activities.

Keep in mind, the tour is often booked about 20 days in advance, so planning ahead helps secure your spot during peak seasons. The flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours before—adds a layer of security, especially if weather conditions change.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for beginners or those who want a gentle introduction to scuba diving. It’s suitable if you’re traveling with someone who’s nervous about doing something new but still eager to try. Families with older children (like the reviewer who went with their 13-year-old) will find it manageable and fun.

It’s also a good fit for travelers who value personalized attention—since it’s a private tour—and who want to experience the underwater beauty without the intimidating depth or complexity. If you’re curious about marine life and want a memorable, guided adventure, this tour ticks many boxes.

That said, if you’re expecting to see a lot of underwater statues, or want to dive multiple times in a day, this might not fully meet those expectations. It’s a short, beginner-focused experience, but that’s part of its charm.

If you’re after an accessible, well-led introduction to scuba diving in Cyprus, this tour from Yellow Fins offers a safe and enjoyable experience. The guides’ professionalism and the quality of the equipment help set the stage for a memorable underwater encounter—whether it’s your first time or you’re just looking to try something new.

You’ll love the friendliness of the staff and the opportunity to see turtles and underwater art. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, offering good value, especially considering the private group setting and inclusions. It’s a smart choice if you want a manageable, safe, and fun dive adventure in a stunning setting.

However, if your expectations include seeing a wide variety of sites or doing multiple dives, you might want to plan for additional options. For most, though, this experience will leave you with a lasting impression of Cyprus’s underwater charm.

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s specifically designed for those with no prior diving experience. The combination of online learning and guided practice ensures you’ll be comfortable before the actual dive.

What age is appropriate for this activity?
While the reviews mention a 13-year-old participant, the tour is generally geared towards beginners of moderate physical fitness. It’s best to check directly with the provider if you’re planning for children or teenagers.

Are safety measures and equipment provided?
Absolutely. The equipment is brand new and regularly checked. Certified instructors oversee all activities, prioritizing safety while making sure everyone has fun.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary equipment, instructor guidance, and the dive itself are included. Pickup is offered, making the logistics straightforward.

How long does the entire experience last?
The activity takes about 3 hours, including preparation, practice in Green Bay, and the underwater dive.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Will I see turtles during the dive?
Many guests report seeing turtles and a variety of fish. While sightings depend on conditions, the chance is quite good at this location.

If you’re curious about trying scuba or want a safe, guided underwater adventure, this Cyprus experience offers a solid, enjoyable introduction. Just remember to book in advance, arrive prepared, and get ready for a memorable splash into the Mediterranean’s underwater world.