Cyprus: Odyssey Boat Safari from Larnaca to Protaras

If you’re contemplating a day on the water in Cyprus, the Odyssey Boat Safari from Larnaca is an experience that promises a blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and laid-back luxury. Although we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect. It’s a chance to see some of Cyprus’s most iconic sights from a comfortable vessel, coupled with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and tasting authentic local cuisine.

What we really appreciate about this cruise is how it balances adventure with relaxation. The stops at the Zenobia shipwreck and Cape Pyla, along with the chance to enjoy a Cypriot buffet, make this more than just a boat ride. It’s a well-rounded day designed to showcase the best of the coast. One potential downside? The route is weather-dependent, so if a storm rolls in, some parts might be altered or canceled. Still, for anyone who enjoys being on the water, discovering scenic spots, and sampling local flavors, this trip hits many sweet spots.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of Cyprus’s famous coast without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It offers a good mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insight—plus good value for money considering the included meals, drinks, and hotel transfers. Read on for a detailed breakdown that will help you decide if this is your next memorable Cypriot adventure.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal exploration with knowledgeable guides
• Unique stops at famous shipwrecks and natural caves
• Opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and dolphin spotting
• Enjoy a traditional Cypriot buffet and unlimited drinks
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Weather conditions may influence the route

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Odyssey Boat Safari

This five-hour cruise from Larnaca Marina offers a comprehensive look at Cyprus’s scenic coastline, with a crew that seems to go out of their way to create a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The boat itself is described as lively and friendly, making it perfect for groups or families seeking a memorable day out.

The cruise’s main focus is on coastal highlights like Cape Pyla, the Red Cliffs, Cape Greco, Love Bridge, and the Pirate Caves. Plus, the stop at the Zenobia shipwreck is a highlight for anyone into snorkeling or exploring underwater sites. The shipwreck is famous for its size and preservation, and snorkelers often marvel at divers exploring its depths.

Detailed Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

Starting Point: Larnaca Marina

The adventure kicks off at the bustling Larnaca Marina, where guests are picked up from their hotels (included in the price). Boarding the vessel, you’ll immediately notice the friendly ambience, with staff ready to make your day comfortable. Expect a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of space to sit back and enjoy the views.

Zenobia Shipwreck

The first major stop is the legendary Zenobia — a wreck that’s often called one of the world’s best. The ship sank in 1980 but remains remarkably intact, creating a surreal underwater landscape. Many reviews highlight snorkelers’ and divers’ excitement at exploring its decks and corridors. As one traveler put it, “Marveled at divers exploring the depths of Zenobia,” which underscores how impressive this site is. You’ll spend time swimming near the wreck, and if you’re lucky, you might see some local marine life.

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Cape Pyla and the Red Cliffs

Next is Cape Pyla, famed for its stunning caves, towering cliffs, and the habitat of sea eagles. The water here is crystal clear, inviting a swim amid dramatic scenery. Guests often spend time floating or snorkeling, taking in the breathtaking views of the cliffs and the sea’s deep blue. A review noted, “Great opportunity to swim in the deep, clear waters,” which captures the appeal of this stop.

The Pirate Caves and Love Bridge

Another highlight is passing by the Pirate Caves—an evocative name for caves once used by pirates and smugglers. It’s worth keeping an eye out for the Love Bridge, a natural rock formation that’s quite photogenic. These spots offer excellent photo opportunities and a sense of adventure, especially if you’re into exploring or learning local lore.

Blue Lagoon and Swimming

The tour’s pièce de résistance is the Blue Lagoon, a pristine, tranquil spot for swimming and snorkeling. Guests rave about the beautiful and serene environment, perfect for cooling off after the boat’s sightseeing. One traveler described it as “paradise-like,” highlighting how idyllic this area feels.

Gourmet Cypriot Lunch

By 1:00 PM, everyone gathers for a traditional Cypriot buffet. Expect mouthwatering homemade dishes, including BBQ favorites. The reviews emphasize how good the food is; one noted, “the food was fantastic,” with particular praise for the chicken and potatoes. The buffet is a generous, satisfying meal that adds real value to the tour.

Passing by Ayia Napa Beaches and Famagusta

As the cruise continues, you’ll sail past Ayia Napa’s famous white sandy beaches, offering spectacular views of the tourist hotspot from the water. Approaching Famagusta, the guide provides insights into the Ghost City, a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s complex history. This sightseeing detail adds a meaningful layer to the trip, making it more than just pretty scenery.

Final Stop: Golden Coast Fishing Port

The cruise concludes around 2:00 PM at the Golden Coast fishing port. From here, guests are transported back to their hotels via private buses, making the entire experience convenient and stress-free.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about 5 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. This means you get a full half-day of activities without feeling rushed. Be sure to check the schedule in advance to match your plans.

Included Amenities

• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics
• Unlimited drinks (local wine, zivania, soft drinks, juices, tea, coffee, water) ensure you stay refreshed
• Cypriot BBQ buffet offers generous, homemade flavors
• The live English-speaking guide adds local insights and friendly interaction

Weather and Route Flexibility

One important note is that weather conditions can influence the route and stops, which is typical for sea excursions. The captain has the final say to ensure safety, so some stops or sights might be altered in less ideal weather.

Price and Value

Considering the all-inclusive nature — hotel transfers, meals, drinks, and guided commentary — this tour offers excellent value. Many reviews describe it as “great value for money,” with mentions of friendly staff, good food, and engaging sightseeing.

Authentic Experiences and Passenger Feedback

The reviews provide a solid sense of what to expect. Travelers consistently mention the friendly crew and knowledgeable guides, making the journey smooth and enjoyable. One review highlights the dolphins that appeared near the boat, adding a magical moment to the trip. Others praise the snorkeling, especially when encountering turtles, which indicates the diverse marine life you might see.

Food gets high marks as well — many travelers describe the Cypriot buffet as “fantastic,” with some emphasizing the good-quality BBQ and homemade dishes. The atmosphere is often described as lively and fun, with opportunities for dancing and socializing onboard.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for those seeking a relaxed yet adventurous day on the water, with a good balance of sightseeing, swimming, and local culture. Families with children will appreciate the safe environment and engaging stops, while couples can enjoy the scenic beauty and romantic spots. Solo travelers looking for a social atmosphere will find the crew welcoming and the environment lively. It’s especially appealing if you love marine life, stunning coastal views, and authentic food.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers wanting a comprehensive coastal experience in Cyprus without the hassle of organizing individual activities, this tour offers solid value. The combination of scenic beauty, engaging stops, and delicious food makes it a well-rounded choice. The fact that many travelers rate it nearly perfect (4.8 out of 5 based on 130 reviews) speaks to its consistent quality.

While weather can always change plans, the flexibility and professionalism of the crew help ensure a memorable day. The inclusions—hotel transfers, meals, drinks, and guided commentary—add convenience and comfort. If you’re someone who enjoys cruising, snorkeling, and learning about Cyprus’s coastline, this is a trip to consider.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 5 hours, including sightseeing, swimming, and lunch.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics more straightforward.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, beachwear, and a towel to enjoy swimming and snorkeling comfortably.

What meals are included?
A traditional Cypriot BBQ buffet is provided, with homemade dishes and BBQ treats.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there’s an open bar with local wine, zivania, soft drinks, juices, tea, coffee, and water.

Is the route flexible?
Yes, the route can change depending on weather conditions and the captain’s decisions.

Can I see marine life?
Many reviews mention sightings of dolphins and turtles during snorkeling and swimming stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families often enjoy the stops for swimming and the relaxed atmosphere onboard.

What is the price point?
While specific prices aren’t listed here, considering the inclusions, it is viewed as good value for money by many travelers.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot now with flexible payment options, including pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

In sum, the Cyprus Odyssey Boat Safari offers a lively, scenic, and culturally enriching way to enjoy the island’s coast. Whether you’re into snorkeling with marine life, exploring shipwrecks, or simply lounging with a local drink, this tour hits multiple marks for a memorable day in Cyprus.

You can check availability for your dates here: