Ayia Napa: Blue Lagoon and Famagusta Boat Tour with BBQ

If you’re heading to Cyprus, especially around Ayia Napa, chances are you’ll want a memorable way to experience the stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and fascinating history. This Blue Lagoon and Famagusta boat tour with Discovery Cruises has been delighting visitors since 1992 — and with a rating of 4.9 from 172 reviews, it’s clear many find it worth their time.

We like this trip for its combination of scenic beauty, informative narration, and on-board amenities that make for a relaxed yet engaging day. The freshly cooked BBQ lunch on board is a definite highlight, offering a taste of local flavors in a setting that feels both comfortable and exclusive.

One thing to consider: the tour lasts about five hours, which is a lovely length for most but might be a bit long for anyone prone to seasickness or who prefers shorter excursions. This tour suits travelers looking for a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insight without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

Key Points

• Trusted Family Business: Operating since 1992 with a reputation for quality and friendliness.
• Great Value: Combines scenic boat rides, multiple swimming stops, and a freshly cooked BBQ — all included in one ticket.
• Educational Element: Narration offers context about Cyprus’s history, especially around Famagusta and the 1974 events.
• Comfort & Convenience: Plenty of shaded and sunny seating, bar, restrooms, and friendly staff.
• Authentic Experience: Opportunities to spot turtles and enjoy natural beauty, not just touristy sights.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Off on a Scenic Sea Adventure

This boat tour begins bright and early, with a departure from Ayia Napa harbor scheduled around 9:30 am — though you’ll want to arrive by 9:20 am to ensure a smooth start. The boat, named the Discovery, is a vessel that’s been captivating visitors for over three decades. Its reputation for cleanliness and cozy, family-run charm means you’ll feel like you’re on a friendly boat with friends rather than a commercial operation.

The first impression is of a comfortably sized boat with enough space for everyone, including both shaded and open-air areas. The crew, praised for their knowledgeable and humorous service, makes an effort to ensure everyone is comfortable and informed. Expect to hear engaging stories and details about the sites, which enhances the sightseeing experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Actually See

The tour packs in an impressive lineup of sights and activities, all designed to balance stunning scenery with opportunities for swimming and exploring. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:

Agia Napa Sea Caves

Your journey starts with a cruise past the famous sea caves just outside Ayia Napa. These natural formations are a favorite photo stop, offering dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops. Reviewers frequently mention how beautiful and photogenic these caves are — a perfect first impression of the rugged Cypriot coast.

Palace Caves & Cape Greco

Next, you’ll pass by the Palace Caves and the iconic Cape Greco lighthouse. These scenic spots are notable for their geological formations and sweeping views. Many guests comment on how picturesque this part of the coast is, with some mentioning that the lighthouse is a symbol of the region’s rugged beauty.

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First Swim Stop: Secluded Waters

The first chance to dip into the water arrives at a private, secluded spot. This break, lasting around 15-20 minutes, offers crystal-clear, calm waters ideal for a quick swim or snorkel. You’ll love the chance to cool off in the quiet, natural surroundings — perhaps spotting a turtle or two, as numerous reviews suggest. One guest fondly recalls, “plenty of opportunities for having a swim in the crystal clear blue water in amazing surroundings.”

Korakas Arch & Agioi Anargiri Church

As the boat moves along, you’ll pass the Korakas Arch, a striking natural rock formation, and the Agioi Anargiri Church, a small but charming religious site perched on the coast. These landmarks add historical and cultural depth to your scenic cruise.

Konnos Bay & Marine Life

The tranquil Konnos Bay is next, a favorite for its peaceful waters and stunning natural backdrop. Here, you’ll likely want to take photos, enjoy a swim, or just relax on the boat. Multiple reviewers mention the opportunity to see marine life, with some lucky travelers spotting turtles. The bay’s calmness and clarity make it perfect for snorkeling and simply soaking up the scenery.

Famagusta & Historical Insights

The boat then heads towards the Ghost Town of Famagusta, a poignant reminder of the 1974 conflict. Here, the narration becomes more historical, providing context about the region’s complex past. Many guests appreciate the chance to learn about Cyprus’s history while enjoying the coastal views. It adds a meaningful layer to the journey, especially for those interested in the island’s past.

Green Bay: The Lunch & Turtle Spot

The highlight for many is the stop at Green Bay. This secluded cove is famous for its clear waters and turtle sightings. Here, you’ll enjoy a barbecue lunch cooked on board, with many reviewers praising the delicious and plentiful food — including fresh salads, grilled pork, and chicken. The opportunity to swim, snorkel, or just relax in this peaceful spot makes it an ideal midday break.

Final Swim & Return

After lunch, you’ll get a final 30-minute swim opportunity, perfect for soaking in more sun or exploring the marine environment. The boat then heads back to Ayia Napa harbor, arriving around 2:30 pm, leaving you with a full but relaxed day at sea.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Several aspects of this experience are consistently praised by past travelers:

• The friendly, knowledgeable crew—reviewers repeatedly mention how engaging and helpful the staff are, making everyone feel welcome.
• The quality of the food — freshly prepared on board, hot off the grill, with many saying it’s more than just a snack, but a full meal.
• The scenic variety — from sea caves and natural arches to historical sites and quiet bays, the tour offers a well-rounded coastal experience.
• The opportunities for swimming and marine encounters — especially with the chance to see turtles, which many find unforgettable.
• The value for money — considering the duration, sightseeing, swimming stops, and included meal, many say it’s a good deal.

Authenticity & Comfort

The boat’s family-run nature and long-standing operation built on genuine care shine through. The amenities — including restrooms, a fully stocked bar, and ample shaded seating — add to the comfort, making the journey relaxing rather than crowded or uncomfortable.

Considerations & Practical Tips

While most reviews are glowing, here are some points to keep in mind:

• The tour lasts about five hours, which may be long for some, especially if seasickness is a concern. The boat can get choppy, especially on the return trip, so those sensitive to motion should bring medication or opt for a calmer day.
• The upper deck can be exposed to a lot of sun, and during busy days, seats might be hard to find in the shade. Bringing sunscreen, a hat, or a light cover-up is recommended.
• There’s an optional extra charge for transfer to the port (~5 euro), so plan accordingly if you’re staying outside central Ayia Napa.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or very young children under 1 year, so check your group’s needs before booking.
• The tour is conducted in multiple languages including English, Slovak, Czech, and German, which appeals to a diverse crowd.

Why Choose This Tour?

This boat trip is more than just a boat ride — it’s a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, relaxed swimming, and tasty food. It’s especially suited for those who want a full, engaging day at sea without the hassle of planning multiple activities or meals.

If you love natural landscapes, marine life, and stories about the region’s history, this tour hits all those notes. Families, couples, and groups of friends will appreciate the friendly atmosphere, comfortable amenities, and the chance to experience Cyprus’s coast from a unique perspective.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience works best for travelers looking for a laid-back yet engaging cruise, with opportunities for swimming and sightseeing. It’s ideal if you value delicious on-board food and personal service, or want to learn a bit about Cyprus’s history while enjoying stunning coastal views.

It’s perfect for those who enjoy social atmospheres, wildlife spotting, and comfortable amenities. However, if you’re prone to seasickness or seeking a very short trip, consider whether the 5-hour duration suits your style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year, but children of all ages are generally welcome, provided they can enjoy the length of the trip.

Are drinks from the bar included?
No, drinks from the bar are additional. The tour includes all taxes and charges, but you can purchase beverages onboard.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The starting point is on the right side of the Ayia Napa harbor near the Discovery boat. Transfers to and from the port are available for a small extra charge.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
A swimsuit, towel, and suncream are recommended. If you don’t plan to swim, you might not need a towel or swimsuit.

Is there shade on the boat?
Yes, there are shaded areas, but during busy days, seats in the shade may be limited, so sunscreen and hats are advised.

Are the tours conducted in English?
Yes, the main narration is in English, with options in Slovak, Czech, and German.

How long are the swimming stops?
Stops generally range from 15-20 minutes at each spot, with the final swim stop around 30 minutes.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be subject to change based on weather conditions to ensure safety, but refunds or rescheduling options are available.

For anyone seeking a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and good food on Cyprus’s coast, this Blue Lagoon and Famagusta boat tour offers excellent value. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging narration, friendly service, and freshly cooked BBQ makes it a memorable experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy being on the water, exploring natural landmarks, and soaking up local history in a relaxed setting.

While the longer duration might not suit everyone, those who enjoy a full-day adventure at sea will find this trip rewarding. The consistent praise from past travelers suggests this tour is both reliable and enjoyable, offering a taste of everything that makes Cyprus’s coastline so special.

Whether you’re traveling solo, a couple, or with family, this cruise provides a comfortable, scenic, and authentic slice of Cyprus’s maritime charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: