Protaras: Famagusta, Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove Boat Trip Review
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to see some of Cyprus’s most iconic spots, this boat trip from Protaras might just fit the bill. It’s a cruise that promises crystal-clear waters, chances to swim with turtles, and a peek into the vibrant underwater world—all aboard a spacious, 32-meter Napa king boat.
What we really like about this experience is how it blends fun with comfort. The boat’s large size means there’s plenty of space to stretch out, whether you want to sunbathe on the deck or chill in the air-conditioned interior. Plus, the swim stops at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove tend to be highlights, especially for anyone who loves snorkeling or simply soaking up stunning sea views.
One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention the glass bottom’s clarity isn’t perfect—likely due to the tanks of fish and turtles being in tiny tanks with minimal water. So, if seeing underwater life from the glass is a big part of your trip, you might find the experience slightly less impressive than expected. Still, the chance to swim with turtles and enjoy the scenic coast makes this a pretty solid choice for most travelers.
This tour is especially well-suited for those who want a balance of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on the water—no need for complicated plans or long excursions. It’s perfect if you’re in Protaras, want a taste of the sea, and love the idea of a flexible, family-friendly boat ride.
Key Points
- Comfortable and Spacious Boat: At 32 meters, the Napa king boat offers plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, or stay cool inside.
- Swim with Turtles and at Blue Lagoon: The stops are the real stars, especially for nature lovers and snorkelers.
- Underwater Viewing Area: Get a glimpse beneath the waves without getting wet—though the clarity can vary.
- Ideal for Relaxed Sightseeing: The trip combines scenic views with opportunities to swim and unwind.
- Food and Drinks Available: You can purchase cocktails, beers, soft drinks, and snacks on board, adding to the leisurely vibe.
- Family-Friendly and Accessible: The boat is wheelchair accessible, making this a comfortable outing for a range of travelers.
A Detailed Look at What to Expect
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Starting Point: Protaras Pier
The adventure begins at the big pier next to Evalena Hotel. It’s straightforward to find, and the staff are generally friendly, offering a smooth check-in process. The boat departs twice daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, giving some flexibility depending on your schedule.
The Journey and the Stops
Once on board, you’ll notice how spacious and well-maintained the vessel is. The cruise itself lasts about 2.5 hours, so it’s not a long day out but enough to enjoy the scenery and your swim stops without feeling rushed.
The first main stop is at Cape Greco Lagoon, often lauded for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings. This is where many fans say the trip really pays off, especially if you’re eager to swim, snorkel, or even feed the turtles. The reviews speak highly of the chance to swim with turtles—“Amazing! We swam with turtles! Was even allowed to bring own snorkel on to use,” one traveler shared, highlighting how special this part of the trip can be.
Next, the boat moves to Blue Lagoon, a well-known spot for sea turtle sightings and strikingly vibrant waters. This area is often described as otherworldly, with a calming blue that makes it perfect for swimming and taking photos. The trip offers guided tours around the lagoon, providing some context and background, although it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the commentary can be hard to hear at times.
Underwater and Viewing Experiences
One of the unique features of this cruise is the underwater viewing area with glass-bottomed sections. You’ll love the way it lets you peek into the underwater world without getting wet. However, some reviews point out that the glass bottom isn’t always as clear as one might hope—likely due to tanks of fish and turtles being kept in small tanks with minimal water, which is a bit of a downside animal welfare-wise.
Onboard, there are eight aquariums with freshwater fish, which can be a neat touch if you enjoy observing aquatic life in a controlled environment. But again, some critics feel that the focus on the tanks might detract from the reality of the animals’ natural habitats.
More Great Tours NearbySwimming and Snorkeling
The swim stops are clearly the most loved part of this cruise. Bring your snorkeling gear if you have it—many guests do—and you’re likely to encounter turtles, especially at Turtle Cove. Several reviewers mentioned how “amazing” it was to swim with turtles or even feed them, which makes this experience stand out for wildlife enthusiasts.
Keep in mind that the water can be very clear, but the actual observation of marine life depends on conditions on the day. Some reviewers note that they got limited time in the water—about an hour or so—which is enough for a decent swim but not a full day of underwater exploration.
Food and Drink
While the trip doesn’t include meals, you’ll find a bar on board selling refreshing cocktails, beers, soft drinks, snacks, and ice-cream. The drinks are reasonably priced considering the setting, and they’re perfect for relaxing on deck while soaking up the sun. Several reviews mention the free ice cream and beer as a delightful bonus, especially during the warm summer months.
Scenic Views and Passing Spots
As the boat cruises past Konnos Bay and the sea caves, you’ll get plenty of great photo opportunities. The views of Famagusta from the water are particularly stunning, giving you a different perspective of this historic city. One reviewer commented that they “got great value for money as there was a 25% discount,” which makes booking easier and more affordable.
The Practicalities
Duration and Group Size
At 2.5 hours, this is a nice short trip that leaves you enough time for other activities in Protaras or nearby areas. The large size of the boat also means the group isn’t overly crowded, and the spacious deck allows everyone to find their own spot.
Accessibility and Convenience
The boat is wheelchair accessible, which is a considerate feature for travelers with mobility concerns. The tour is straightforward, with meeting points clearly marked, and no hotel transfers are included—so plan to arrive at the pier yourself.
Costs and Booking
You can reserve your spot in advance with the option to pay later, providing some flexibility. Full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.
Real Traveler Insights
From the reviews, it’s clear that many guests find value in this cruise. “Loved it, well worth the money,” says one traveler, emphasizing how the price reflects the experience. Swim stops at Turtle Cove and Cape Greco Lagoon are consistently praised, with comments like “We saw turtles!” and “The turtles were amazing.”
On the downside, some guests have expressed concern about the condition of the glass bottom and the small tanks of animals, which could be an animal welfare issue. Also, the commentary can sometimes be difficult to hear, so bringing a personal audio device or simply enjoying the scenery might be best.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This boat trip suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience with opportunities for swimming and wildlife viewing. It’s great for those who enjoy being on the water, sunbathing, and snapping photos of stunning coastal scenery. If you like wildlife encounters, especially with turtles, this tour can be quite memorable.
It’s not the best choice if your main goal is to explore Famagusta’s city or historical sites—this is more about a scenic cruise and water-based fun. Also, if you’re particularly interested in unspoiled underwater viewing, you might want to temper expectations about the glass bottom’s clarity.
The Sum Up
All in all, this boat trip offers a pretty good balance between scenery, wildlife, and relaxation. The large boat and multiple swim stops make it a comfortable and flexible outing, especially if you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even as a solo adventurer looking to meet others. The chance to swim with turtles and see Famagusta from the water creates lasting memories, and the onboard amenities boost the overall experience.
The main strengths are the friendly guides, scenic stops, and the overall value for money, especially if you catch a discount. The potential downsides—like the glass bottom’s clarity or the small tanks—are worth considering if animal welfare is a priority for you.
This tour is best for those who want a straightforward, enjoyable boat cruise with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and wildlife spotting. If that sounds like your idea of a great day out in Cyprus, this trip could definitely hit the spot.
Protaras: Famagusta, Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove Boat Trip
“It did what it said on the can. We went on the Coca-cola boat. It was a cruise along the coast in a glass bottom boat (cant confirm this as we stay…”
FAQ
Is there food included in the trip?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard, including cocktails, soft drinks, snacks, and ice-cream.
What are the departure times?
The boat departs twice a day at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM from the Protaras pier.
Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility concerns to join.
How long does the trip last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the stops and scenery without it feeling rushed.
Can I snorkel with my own gear?
Yes, many travelers bring their own snorkels to swim and explore, especially to get close to the turtles.
Are there guided commentary or tours?
Yes, guided tours are provided in English and Greek. The commentary can sometimes be hard to hear, so bring a personal device if you’d like to listen more clearly.
Is there a limit on the number of participants?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, the boat’s large size and spacious deck suggest it can accommodate a good number of travelers comfortably.
What should I bring with me?
Bring sun protection, your snorkeling gear if you have it, maybe a waterproof camera, and a towel if you plan to swim. Don’t forget your booking QR or confirmation.
If you’re after a laid-back day on the water with a chance to see some wildlife and enjoy stunning coastal views, this boat trip from Protaras might just be what you’re looking for. It combines the fun of swimming in beautiful waters with the comfort of a spacious boat—and, on a good day, the unforgettable sight of swimming with turtles.
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