Paphos: Half-Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar and Snorkeling
Introduction
If you’re looking for a way to combine the beauty of Cyprus’s coastline with a lively social atmosphere, this half-day BBQ cruise from Paphos might just hit the spot. It promises a mix of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing out on the water, all topped off with good food and drinks. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews suggest it delivers on comfort, entertainment, and value.
What we particularly like about this tour is the guaranteed sunbeds for all adults—a rare perk on boat trips—and the quality of the food and live entertainment that keeps the energy lively. A potential drawback? Depending on weather conditions or personal preferences, some might find the single stop at Coral Bay a bit short if they’re eager for more water-based activities. Still, this cruise is ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting a laid-back day with a splash of adventure and plenty of good vibes.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate comfortable settings, great company, and a chance to enjoy Cyprus’s stunning coastline without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy a lively atmosphere paired with authentic local cuisine.
Key Points
- Comfortable Experience: Guaranteed sunbeds and modern facilities make this cruise enjoyable for all adults.
- Authentic Food & Drinks: A hearty BBQ lunch cooked on board, complemented by all-inclusive local drinks and live music.
- Ideal Water Activities: One stop for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, plus safety equipment and facilities.
- Family-Friendly & Relaxing: Suitable for all ages, with a relaxed vibe and friendly staff ensuring everyone’s safety and fun.
- Great Value: The combination of food, drinks, entertainment, and water activities makes for impressive value.
- Excellent Reviews: Consistently high ratings highlight the quality, with many travellers calling it the highlight of their trip.
A Complete Look at the Paphos BBQ Cruise Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Paphos.
Setting Out from Paphos Harbor
Your adventure begins at Paphos Harbour, where you’ll meet the Wave Dancer. The departure time around 11:00 am is perfect for a leisurely morning—no early alarm needed. The boat itself is praised for being spacious, clean, and well-equipped, with plenty of soft, padded sunbeds reserved for adults. This exclusivity means you won’t be fighting for a spot to soak up the sun, which many travelers find a big plus.
The crew’s friendly and professional attitude is often highlighted. You’ll pass through ticket control, so arrive about 30 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding and get a head start on your day of fun.
Cruising Along the Coastline
Once underway, the boat glides along the rugged coastline towards the well-known Coral Bay—a stunning stretch of water famed for its clarity and beauty. Weather permitting, this is the first highlight of your trip, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of Cyprus’s scenic cliffs and shimmering sea.
Travelers often rave about the spectacular views, with many noting that the turquoise waters and blue sky create a picture-perfect backdrop. The boat’s high vantage points give you a broad perspective of the coast, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of local wildlife or just enjoy the calming rhythm of the sea.
The Water Stop: Swimming, Snorkeling, & Kayaking
The main water activity stop is at Coral Bay, where you can jump into the inviting waters. Many reviews mention the beautiful underwater scenery, and while some bring their own snorkeling gear, the waters are perfect for swimming and floating around. You’ll find plenty of floating noodles and safety equipment—plus a slide and kayaks, making this a versatile water playground.
One review mentions: “Stop for swimming and kayaks was great. It would have been nice if there was more music after the swim, but overall, a super time was had.” This suggests the water stop is well-organized, but some may wish for a longer swimming session or more entertainment during breaks.
More Great Tours NearbyThe BBQ Lunch & Onboard Atmosphere
Back on the deck, the highlight for many is the delicious BBQ lunch served right in front of everyone. It’s cooked on the upper deck, adding to the festive summer vibe. The menu features homemade burgers, marinated chicken, sausages, and seasonal fish (cod or tuna in summer), alongside roasted potatoes, pita bread, and fresh salads. Several reviewers mention the generous portions and flavorful dishes, making it a satisfying meal after a morning of swimming.
The live cooking process adds authentic charm, and the aroma of freshly grilled food is undeniably tempting. Accompanying the meal is seasonal fruit and an all-inclusive open bar that runs for four hours, including cocktails, local beers, and soft drinks. Reviewers frequently note the high-quality drinks and the friendly bartenders.
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Entertainment & Atmosphere on Board
While enjoying your lunch or lounging on your sunbed, you’ll be serenaded by live music performances. Many reviews describe the entertainment as lively and enjoyable, with a mix of talented singers and instrumentalists. One reviewer commented, “The singers and guitarist were fantastic, creating a great atmosphere,” highlighting how the music elevates the experience.
The crew keeps the vibe upbeat but relaxed, making it perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. The onboard staff is attentive, checking in regularly to ensure safety and comfort, which many travelers appreciate. As one review states, “Safety was always the priority, but everyone still had a blast.”
The Return & Overall Comfort
The cruise lasts approximately four hours, which flies by thanks to the engaging environment. The boat’s five-star washroom and shower facilities are a thoughtful touch, especially for families or those wanting to freshen up after swimming.
As you head back to Paphos harbor, there’s often a more relaxed atmosphere, with some guests enjoying the last sips of their cocktails or a final round of music. Many reviews express how much they enjoyed the friendly staff, the quality of the food, and the overall value for money. One enthusiast even called it “the best day trip I’ve had abroad.”
Who Will Love This Cruise?
This cruise is best suited for those who enjoy a balanced mix of relaxation and activity. Families with older children, couples looking for a fun day out, or groups of friends seeking lively entertainment will all find something to love. The guaranteed sunbeds and plush facilities make it comfortable, while the water stop offers enough time for swimming and floating to satisfy water lovers.
If you’re someone who appreciates good food and drinks without the hassle of organizing, and you like the idea of a scenic boat ride with friendly company, this cruise will hit the mark. However, if you desire multiple swimming stops or a longer water-based adventure, you might prefer the full-day option or other tours.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
With a rating of 4.8 from over 180 reviews, this Paphos BBQ cruise wins points for its comfort, quality food, engaging entertainment, and overall value. The inclusion of live music, all-inclusive drinks, and a hearty BBQ makes it stand out as a well-rounded experience. It’s clear that many travelers revisit their reviews to emphasize how memorable and fun this trip is.
The cruise fosters a friendly, lively environment that suits travelers who want to enjoy Cyprus’s stunning coastline without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those who want to unwind, soak up the sun, and indulge in some delicious food and drink, all while surrounded by spectacular views.
FAQs
What time does the cruise start?
The departure from Paphos Harbour usually begins around 11:00 am, but check availability for exact starting times.
How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts approximately four hours, giving enough time for swimming, eating, relaxing, and enjoying the entertainment.
Are sunbeds included?
Yes, all adults are guaranteed a sunbed, which is a rare and appreciated feature on boat trips.
What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, BBQ lunch, seasonal fruits, a four-hour open bar (including cocktails), live music, one water stop for swimming and kayaking, and access to excellent facilities.
Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, some reviews note bringing their own goggles, although snorkeling gear isn’t provided by the tour.
Is there any extra charge for photos or drinks?
Photos taken by onboard professional photographers are optional and not included in the ticket price. Imported or branded drinks are also extra.
In the end, this cruise offers a lively, comfortable, and delicious way to see the Cyprus coast. It’s especially suited for those who want good value, great food, and authentic local entertainment, all with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. If you’re after a fun-filled yet laid-back day out, this tour deserves a serious look.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Drinking Tours in Paphos
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