Paphos: Half Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar & Snorkelling

If you’re considering a cruise along the stunning Paphos coastline, this half-day tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with friends or family. It’s not a full-day extravaganza, but it hits just the right notes for travelers wanting a taste of the sea without losing a whole day to the water. From scenic cruising past the Sea Caves to the lively buffet on deck, this experience feels informal enough to be fun but well-organized enough to be dependable.

Two things stand out about this cruise. First, the stunning views—you’ll get excellent vistas of Coral Bay, the Sea Caves, and St Georges Island, which are just as captivating from the water as they are on land. Second, the crew’s friendly attitude and attentiveness, which many reviews highlight as making the trip memorable. However, a possible drawback is that the group size and timing might not suit those looking for a very private or flexible experience; it’s a scheduled tour with a typical four-hour window.

This cruise suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing with plenty of opportunities for swimming and enjoying good food and drinks. It’s also perfect for those seeking an authentic maritime experience with local touches—like the live music from the captain and the chance to see some of Cyprus’s most beautiful coastlines.

Key Points

• Comfortable yacht experience with three decks and sunbeds for a relaxed vibe.
• Scenic stops include Coral Bay, Sea Caves, and St Georges Island.
• Inclusive amenities like open bar, BBQ buffet, and snorkeling gear.
• Authentic local hospitality with friendly crew and live music.
• Ideal for those seeking a laid-back, scenic cruise with swimming and lounging.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with pets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Comprehensive Look at the Paphos Half-Day Yacht Cruise

The Itinerary: A Whirlwind of Coastal Highlights

The tour kicks off with pickup from your hotel—either from Coral Beach Hotel & Resort or a designated location near Paphos Airport. After a roughly 30-minute bus ride, you’ll board the yacht at Peyia, a charming spot where the vessel is ready to set sail. The first leg is a one-hour cruise that takes you past Coral Bay, famous for its sparkling sands and vibrant underwater life. This initial stretch sets the tone for a scenic, leisurely day on the water.

Next, the cruise pauses at Peyia for a one-hour break. This is when you can enjoy the BBQ buffet lunch, which many reviewers praise for its quality and generous spread. Expect seasonal fresh fruit and a hearty meal served on deck, with plenty of time to relax, soak up the sun, or take a swim.

The boat then glides towards the Sea Caves, with a photo stop built into the cruise. These formations are dramatic and photogenic, offering stunning backdrops for photos. Passengers often comment on the scenic views as the boat passes by, giving a sense of Cyprus’s rugged coastline.

The final leg takes you back along the coast, passing St Georges Island, another highlight with its picturesque charm. The cruise duration here is about one hour, giving ample time to enjoy the views and perhaps a drink from the open bar.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, an open bar (including cocktails), a BBQ buffet lunch, access to three decks, sunbeds (on a first-come, first-served basis), sightseeing, swimming, and even canoeing. The open bar is a nice touch—many guests appreciate the variety of local drinks and the fact that they can sip casually as they take in the scenery.

What’s not included? High-heeled shoes and pets are not allowed, which is standard for boat trips. Also, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues might need to consider other options.

The Cruise Experience: What Travelers Can Expect

Most reviews point to the friendly and attentive crew, who go out of their way to make sure everyone feels comfortable. One reviewer mentioned how the captain’s live music performance added a special touch, turning a simple cruise into a lively event. The BBQ buffet is often highlighted as a highlight—meaty, flavorful, and satisfying after some swimming or sunbathing.

Swimmers will love the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing dip. Snorkeling gear is provided, allowing you to explore underwater life near the coast. Several travelers note the tranquility of the water and how perfect it is for relaxing or just floating around.

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The Views: Why They Matter

Views are the backbone of this experience. Cruising past the Sea Caves reveals impressive natural formations, while the sight of Coral Bay from the water gives a fresh perspective on its beauty. Passing by St Georges Island adds an island-hopping feel, even if you’re just on the boat.

Many reviews emphasize the stunning scenery as a major draw. The gentle sounds of water and the sight of rugged cliffs make for memorable photos and peaceful moments.

Value for Money

While the tour isn’t inexpensive, it offers good value considering what’s included—a buffet meal, open bar, scenic cruising, swimming, and sightseeing. The experience of relaxing on a luxury yacht with panoramic views, coupled with the friendly crew and well-organized itinerary, makes the price worthwhile for many travelers.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a towel, camera, and comfortable shoes for the pickup and disembarkation.
• Arrive early for sunbeds—the first come, first served policy can fill up quickly.
• Pack sunscreen and a hat—there’s plenty of sun, and shade is limited on deck.
• The tour lasts four hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Since high heels are not allowed, wear comfortable footwear.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise appeals mainly to travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water, especially those interested in swimming and snapping photos of Cyprus’s coast. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who want a lively but not overly crowded outing. The inclusive nature—lunch, drinks, and activities—adds to its appeal for anyone wanting a hassle-free day out.

However, if you’re looking for a private or very flexible experience, or if you have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s scheduled stops and group setting are designed for a broader audience, and it moves at a steady pace.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This half-day cruise offers a good dose of what makes Paphos’s coast special—breathtaking views, friendly service, swimming opportunities, and a tasty BBQ. The scenic stops and informative commentary from the crew make it a worthwhile outing for those wanting to see the coastline from a different perspective.

The value comes from the combination of good food, drinks, comfortable sailing, and the chance to relax in a beautiful setting. If you enjoy being on the water and want a casual, well-organized way to explore Cyprus’s coast, this cruise fits the bill.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want an authentic, lively atmosphere without the formality or expense of a full-day tour. A friendly crew and scenic vistas mean you’ll leave with plenty of great photos and memories. Just remember to bring your sun protection and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The cruise is approximately four hours from pickup to drop-off, including sightseeing, swimming, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers hotel pickup and drop-off, an open bar with cocktails, a BBQ buffet lunch, access to three decks, sunbeds, sightseeing, swimming, and canoeing.

Can I bring my pets?
No, pets are not allowed on this cruise.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Are the snorkeling gear and swimming facilities included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided, and there are swimming opportunities during the cruise.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, a towel, and a camera. Sunscreen and hats are recommended for sun protection.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickup is from either Coral Beach Hotel & Resort or a nearby location near Paphos Airport, with the exact time confirmed after booking.

Is there live music on board?
Yes, the captain sometimes performs live music, which many guests find adds a special touch to the cruise.

This cruise is a good choice for those seeking a straightforward, scenic, and fun way to experience the coast of Paphos without overcomplicating the day. Whether you’re after the photos, the swimming, or simply a relaxing time on the water, you’ll probably find this experience hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: