Thinking about a boat trip in Cyprus? This three-hour cruise offers a chance to enjoy some of the most scenic spots along the Protaras coastline, all from the deck of the largest glass-bottom boat in the area. It’s a popular choice for families, couples, and anyone eager to see sea turtles, explore sea caves, and relax in crystal-clear waters.
What we love about this experience is the chance to swim with sea turtles, often considered a highlight for visitors — and not just a promise, but something many travelers actually get to do. The stunning views of Fig Tree Bay, Pirate Caves, and Lover’s Bridge make the trip visually rewarding. Plus, the onboard diving show and water slides add a splash of excitement.
The only thing to consider? The trip is weather-dependent, especially the turtle sightings and dolphin views, which are always at the mercy of nature. But even without guaranteed wildlife encounters, the journey offers plenty of memorable moments and beautiful scenery.
This cruise suits travelers looking for a relaxed, family-friendly outing that combines wildlife, scenic views, and fun activities. If you’re after a mix of adventure and easygoing sightseeing, it’s a solid choice.
Key Points
- Wildlife encounters: Chances to swim with turtles and possibly see dolphins.
- Scenic highlights: Blue Lagoon, Pirate Caves, Lover’s Bridge, Konnos Bay, Fig Tree Bay.
- Family-friendly: Water slides, swimming stops, and a safe, comfortable boat.
- Professional crew: Knowledgeable guides and a focus on safety and fun.
- Value for money: Many reviews praise the trip’s affordability relative to the experience.
- Authentic experience: Combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and marine life.
An Honest Look at the Experience
If you’re searching for a way to explore Cyprus’s coastline without the hassle of renting a boat or doing a self-guided tour, this glass-bottom boat trip could be your answer. We’ll walk through what you can expect, what makes it special, and what potential drawbacks to keep in mind.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Protaras.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Starting at Protaras Pier, you’ll board the largest glass-bottom boat in the area, which is fully equipped to give you a comfortable and enjoyable ride. The boat departs at a designated time, with check-in happening at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start. From there, it’s a 3-hour adventure that barely feels long enough to soak in all the sights and activities.
Your first stop is the Blue Lagoon at Cape Greco, a famous stretch of water known for its turquoise color and calm, inviting waters. Here, the main attraction is the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters, which many say are perfect for relaxing, floating, or taking photos. Several reviews mention how their kids loved the swimming breaks, and some even swam with turtles — a rare treat that many travelers find unforgettable.
Next, you’ll visit Turtle Cove, an area where the chance (though not a guarantee) to swim with turtles draws many visitors. Several reviews highlight how lucky some travelers felt to encounter and even touch these gentle creatures. One reviewer enthusiastically noted, “We swam with sea turtles! Everything was amazing, and the staff very kind.”
The trip also includes a visit to the Sea Caves along Cape Greco, famous for their unique rock formations and legendary Lover’s Bridge. These geological features are best appreciated from the boat’s vantage point, offering fantastic photo opportunities of the rugged coastline. The guide will tell stories about these sights, adding context and making the views even more engaging.
Onboard Activities and Comfort
The boat is designed for fun and comfort. It features water slides for both adults and kids, which are perfect for those who love a splash and a bit of thrill. For those who prefer to stay dry, there’s a fully air-conditioned underwater deck with 23 portholes—an ideal spot to relax, cool off, and observe marine life without getting wet.
The crew also offers a diving show, which adds a lively element to the trip, and you’re encouraged to purchase chilled drinks from the onboard bar to help you unwind. Many reviews rave about the friendly, knowledgeable crew, highlighting their passion for marine life and the smooth, well-organized nature of the trip. A common theme is that the staff make everyone feel welcome, safe, and well-informed.
Swimming, Wildlife, and Marine Life
While dolphin sightings are possible, they are not guaranteed, as with all wildlife. Your best bet is with the turtles, which many guests report seeing during their swim stops. One reviewer shared that they “got to swim with three sea turtles,” describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience.
The fully air-conditioned underwater deck with 23 portholes provides a different perspective of the underwater world. Even if you don’t swim with the turtles, you can still see fish and other sea creatures from this vantage point. It’s a neat feature that adds value for those who love marine life but prefer not to get wet.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Review Highlights
Many travelers are effusive in their praise. A typical comment is, “The crew were fantastic, the swimming stops were amazing, and the entire trip was the highlight of the kids’ holiday.” Others mention how great the guides are, always eager to share knowledge about the coastline, caves, and marine animals.
A recurring theme is that the trip offers excellent value for the price. For around three hours, you get multiple swimming stops, entertainment, scenic views, and the chance to see turtles and fish, all with friendly staff ensuring your safety and fun.
Practical Considerations
- Departure point is at Protaras Pier, with a simple check-in process.
- The tour duration is about 3 hours, which is perfect for including multiple stops without feeling rushed.
- Price is considered reasonable, especially given the number of activities and the quality of the boat.
- What to bring: swimwear, towel, snorkeling gear, and a sense of adventure.
- Not included: food and drinks (though you can buy refreshments onboard), snorkel gear, or transportation from your accommodation.
One important note from reviews is that wildlife sightings depend on luck, so if seeing turtles or dolphins is your main goal, remember these aren’t guaranteed. Still, even without wildlife, many find the scenery and boat experience delightful.
Authentic Experiences and Unique Highlights
What truly sets this trip apart is the combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and fun onboard activities. Guests often mention how the guides’ knowledge and friendliness make the trip memorable — not just a boat ride, but an educational and engaging experience.
The seaside views of Cape Greco are stunning from the water, with the rock formations and caves providing a dramatic backdrop. The Legend of Lover’s Bridge and Pirate Caves make for dramatic photo opportunities and fun stories.
The Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove: Places to Relax and Explore
The Blue Lagoon is famed for its tranquil waters and vibrant color, perfect for a relaxing swim. Many reviews describe it as the highlight of the trip, with some travelers spending their entire stop floating or snapping photos. Turtle Cove offers a slightly more adventurous experience — swimming and hoping to spot sea turtles.
While sightings are not guaranteed, the guides often scatter lettuce and attract fish, making the underwater viewing more vibrant. Several travelers mention how lucky they felt to see and even touch turtles, adding a personal, emotional element to their holiday.
Additional Fun and Entertainment
The boat is equipped with water slides and jumping platforms, which are especially popular among younger guests. These features turn the trip into a playful, lively outing. During the return journey, there’s usually music and a bit of a party atmosphere, which many reviews say makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Safety and Comfort
The crew places a strong emphasis on safety — providing life jackets, offering clear instructions, and maintaining a clean, well-maintained vessel. The air-conditioned underwater deck ensures comfort, especially during hot days, and the toilet facilities onboard make the whole experience convenient.
Is It Worth It? Analyzing the Value
While the trip isn’t cheap, many reviews highlight the value for money. For around three hours, you get multiple swimming opportunities, scenic views, wildlife encounters, entertainment, and access to a well-equipped boat. The chance to swim with turtles and see marine life without needing snorkel gear is a big plus for many.
Guests often mention how the friendly staff and knowledgeable guides make the trip special, adding value beyond just the scenery. The onboard bar and music foster a laid-back, convivial atmosphere, making the journey feel more like a fun day out rather than just a sightseeing tour.
Who Will Appreciate This Trip
This experience is best suited for families with kids, couples, or groups who want a relaxed yet activity-filled outing. It’s ideal for those who love nature, marine wildlife, and scenic vistas but also enjoy some fun onboard activities like slides and swimming.
If wildlife sightings are a priority, keep in mind that dolphins and turtles are wild animals, and encounters are not guaranteed. But even if you don’t see the turtles, the stunning coastline, caves, and water-based fun make the trip worthwhile.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids love the water slides and swimming stops. Life jackets are available, ensuring safety for younger guests.
Do I need to bring snorkeling gear?
Snorkel gear isn’t included, so if you want to explore underwater more closely, consider bringing your own. But the underwater deck with portholes offers a good view for those who prefer to stay dry.
Can I see dolphins on this trip?
Dolphin sightings are possible but not guaranteed. The main wildlife encounters are with turtles, which some guests are lucky enough to swim with.
How long is the trip?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable outing for most travelers.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, snorkeling gear if you have it, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen. The boat has toilets and a bar for drinks.
Is food or drink included?
No, but refreshments are available for purchase onboard. You might want to bring some snacks if you prefer.
What’s the best time to go?
Check availability for current departure times, but generally, mid-morning to afternoon trips are common. Weather conditions can affect wildlife sightings, so sunny, calm days are ideal.
Is the boat accessible?
Most of the trip is on a well-maintained boat with amenities for comfort, but if you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to contact the provider directly.
How many people typically go on this tour?
The boat is large and designed to comfortably accommodate a good-sized group. Many reviews mention a friendly, lively atmosphere without feeling overcrowded.
Final Thoughts
This Protaras boat trip to Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove, and Sea Caves offers a delightful blend of scenery, wildlife, and fun activities. Its professional crew, beautiful locations, and the chance to swim with turtles make it a highlight for many visitors. It’s particularly good value considering the stops, entertainment, and the unique experience of marine life observation—all from the comfort of a large, glass-bottom vessel.
If you’re seeking a family-friendly outing or a relaxing day with a splash of adventure, this cruise ticks many boxes. The emphasis on safety, knowledgeable guides, and vibrant views makes it a dependable choice. Just remember, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but the trip’s scenic and fun elements ensure you’ll still leave with plenty of stories and photos.
Whether you’re after a memorable wildlife encounter, a scenic cruise, or just a relaxing day on the water, this tour offers an authentic taste of Cyprus’s coast that you won’t forget.
Note: Always check current availability and weather conditions before booking, as these factors influence the experience significantly.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Protaras
- Protaras: The Family Fun Cruise with The Yellow Boat Cruises
- The Yellow Boat Cruises: Lazy Day Cruise (Adults Only & BBQ)
- From Protaras: Cruise to Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove & Sea Cave
- Protaras: Blue Lagoon Glass-Bottom Boat Sunset Tour
- Protaras: Blue Lagoon and Turtles Pirate Cruise
- Protaras: Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove Boat Trip
More Tour Reviews in Protaras
- Protaras: Discover Scuba Diving (For Beginners)
- Protaras: The Family Fun Cruise with The Yellow Boat Cruises
- The Yellow Boat Cruises: Lazy Day Cruise (Adults Only & BBQ)
- Protaras: Bubblemaker Diving Course & 2-Meter Dive
- From Protaras: Cruise to Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove & Sea Cave
- Try Dive – Scuba Diving – private guided – with lot of fish
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Protaras we have reviewed
- Protaras: Discover Scuba Diving (For Beginners)
- Protaras: The Family Fun Cruise with The Yellow Boat Cruises
- The Yellow Boat Cruises: Lazy Day Cruise (Adults Only & BBQ)
- Protaras: Bubblemaker Diving Course & 2-Meter Dive
- From Protaras: Cruise to Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove & Sea Cave
- Try Dive – Scuba Diving – private guided – with lot of fish
- Cyprus: Introductory Scuba Lesson and Dive with Transfer
- Protaras: Blue Lagoon Glass-Bottom Boat Sunset Tour
- Protaras: Blue Lagoon and Turtles Pirate Cruise
- Discover Scuba Diving Experience
- Protaras: Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove Boat Trip
- Golden Coast: 2.5-Hour Mermaid Adventure Cruise for Families