Nafsika II Half Day Cruise Swimming to blue lagoon water slide

If you’re planning a trip to Paphos, Cyprus, and are looking for a relaxing yet visually stunning activity, a half-day cruise aboard the Nafsika II might just be your perfect pick. This tour offers a blend of scenic coastline views, refreshing water activities, and a chance to unwind with free drinks on deck—all for a modest price.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is — with easy booking and a roughly 2.5-hour window that fits well into a packed day. Plus, the crystal-clear waters at Blue Lagoon promise some unforgettable swimming and snorkeling. A second highlight? The friendly crew and the well-organized itinerary that makes sure you get the most out of your short cruise.

That said, a potential consideration is the weather dependency. The tour can be canceled due to winds or rain, which might be disappointing if you’re eager to dip into the Blue Lagoon’s famed waters. This tour suits travelers seeking a short, scenic adventure with a bit of water fun, especially families, couples, or anyone wanting a taste of the coast without a full-day commitment.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Cruise past notable sites like the Baths of Aphrodite and sea caves.
• Great value: For about $29, you get snorkeling, drinks, and a scenic boat ride.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with snorkeling gear included and a water slide at Blue Lagoon.
• Authentic experience: Friendly staff and well-organized stops make it feel genuine.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations do occur if the weather turns bad.
• Limited time at Blue Lagoon: One hour for swimming and snorkeling allows a refreshing dip without rushing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Our journey begins at Latchi Harbour, a charming spot on the northwest coast of Cyprus. From here, the Nafsika II sets sail along the Akamas coastline, giving us a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery from the deck. The boat itself is spacious, with plenty of room to move around and take in the sights, making it ideal for groups or families.

The first noteworthy stop is the Baths of Aphrodite, a legendary site associated with love and myth. While most travelers are there for the legend, the views from the boat make it clear why this coast has been a favored spot for centuries. As we cruise past Saint Georges Island and the sea caves at Manolis Bay, the natural beauty becomes more apparent. A few reviews mention that the commentary is brief, so if you’re a history buff, bring your own curiosity.

Soon, we arrive at the Blue Lagoon, the star of the trip. The water here is famously clear and inviting, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. We loved the way the tour is timed — one hour at Blue Lagoon gives enough opportunity for a good splash, but not so long that it drags on. You’ll find snorkeling equipment on board, and the water slide adds an extra thrill, especially for kids or those feeling adventurous.

A common theme in reviews is the quality of the water— many mention that it’s so clear and calm it feels like swimming in a giant glass bowl. The crew often offers free wine, juice, and fresh oranges while you relax in the lagoon, making the experience both refreshing and enjoyable.

After our swim, the boat heads back, passing additional sights like Blaji Bay and Fontana Amoroza, with the crew sharing snippets of local stories and facts. The return trip provides ample opportunity to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the panoramic views.

The Onboard Experience

The boat itself is described as comfortable and spacious, with a bar offering free alcoholic beverages during the trip. Multiple reviews praise the staff for their attentiveness and friendliness, which enhances the overall experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear is a thoughtful touch, removing the hassle of bringing your own equipment.

Many reviewers have noted that the crew is both professional and accommodating — one even mentions a staff member calling to offer a different departure time when the first was full, which shows genuine customer care. The boat’s layout allows easy movement, and the open deck provides unobstructed views of the coastline and sea caves.

What Travelers Say

Feedback from past participants is overwhelmingly positive, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 163 reviews. Travelers highlight the breathtaking scenery, friendly staff, and value for money as key strengths. For example, Darren F. raves about the “great views, a chance to swim, and the bar on board,” emphasizing how the tour is an excellent way to enjoy Cyprus’ coast without overspending.

The water slide at Blue Lagoon is a big hit, especially with kids, and many reviews mention the crystal-clear waters that make snorkeling a delight. One traveler noted that the blue lagoon is stunning, and another appreciated the printed photos taken by the crew—a nice souvenir from the day.

Of course, not all reviews are perfect. Some mention that the commentary can be brief, and a few travelers experienced cancellations due to bad weather. These are important considerations if you’re planning your day—always check the weather forecast and consider booking a flexible ticket.

Practical Aspects and Pricing

At $29.07 per person, this cruise offers good value. It includes snorkeling equipment, free drinks, and a scenic boat ride, making it an affordable way to experience some of Cyprus’ most scenic spots. Booking is usually done about five days in advance, which suggests it’s popular but not oversaturated.

The tour duration, around 2.5 hours, strikes a nice balance—long enough to enjoy the scenery and swim at Blue Lagoon, but short enough to fit into a busy schedule. The tour departs from Latchi Harbour, which is easy to reach via public transportation or car, and the boat accommodates up to 120 travelers, so it’s popular without feeling overcrowded.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic escape without committing a full day. Families with children often enjoy the water slide and calm snorkeling waters. Couples looking for a romantic, quiet cruise will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and stunning coastline views. It’s also suitable for those new to snorkeling, as gear is provided, and the water is calm.

If you’re after a deeper dive into local history or longer exploration, this tour might feel a bit brief. But if you’re after a short, beautiful trip to Blue Lagoon with plenty of photo opportunities and a fun water slide, this is a winning choice.

Final Thoughts

The Nafsika II Half Day Cruise offers a well-organized, affordable, and genuinely enjoyable way to see part of Cyprus’s stunning coastline. The highlight for most is the Blue Lagoon, famous for its crystal waters, which live up to their reputation. The friendly staff and included amenities make it a stress-free experience, especially for families and first-timers.

While weather can impact the schedule, most travelers leave with memorable stories and photos. The value for the price, combined with the scenic stops and the fun water slide, makes this cruise a popular and worthwhile addition to your Cyprus holiday.

In short, if you want a relaxing boat trip with plenty of beautiful views, a splash in the Blue Lagoon, and some onboard drinks, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s a perfect quick getaway from the land-based sightseeing, offering a taste of the coast’s tranquility and charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly, with snorkeling gear included and a water slide at Blue Lagoon that children and adults alike can enjoy.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but you may want to bring your own mask or fins if you prefer.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including the time spent at Blue Lagoon.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to winds or rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are drinks included?
Yes, free alcoholic drinks and juice are provided during the trip. You can also purchase souvenirs like magnets or keyrings.

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is at Latchi Harbour in Polis, Cyprus. The exact location is Latchi Boat Trips – Blue Lagoon, Akamas.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing you to cancel and get a full refund if needed.

Whether you’re seeking a fun family outing, a romantic escape, or just a quick way to enjoy Cyprus’s stunning coast, the Nafsika II cruise offers genuine value and memorable scenery. Just check the weather forecast, book in advance, and prepare for a lovely day on the water.