Paphos: Swim Cruise with Turtle Watching, Drinks & Aperol

Imagine gliding across the clear waters of Paphos, Cyprus, with the chance to spot sea turtles, peer into a historic shipwreck through a glass underwater cabin, and enjoy unlimited drinks all in just two hours. That’s exactly what this semi-submarine cruise promises. It’s a well-balanced experience that blends relaxation, exploration, and a touch of adventure—perfect for those who want a taste of the sea without spending a full day on the water.

What makes this tour stand out? For us, it’s the stunning views from the underwater cabin—a real highlight—and the friendly, knowledgeable crew who go above and beyond to make sure everyone has a good time. Plus, the unlimited drinks, especially the refreshing Aperol Spritz, add a lively, festive touch. But keep in mind, this trip is not suited for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, which might be a consideration for some.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who appreciate a laid-back vibe, love marine wildlife, and want an easy, memorable way to experience Paphos’ coastal beauty. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a solo adventurer, this experience offers a nice mix of activity and relaxation.

Key Points

• Unique Underwater Cabin: View the Vera K shipwreck from a glass underwater section.
• Wildlife Spotting: Chances to see sea turtles, especially in the afternoon.
• Swim Stop: 30-minute swimming and snorkeling at Atlantis Beach.
• Unlimited Drinks: Ice-cold beer, soft drinks, water, and Aperol Spritz.
• Scenic Underwater Views: Cruise over Paphos’s underwater forest and shipwreck.
• Family-Friendly: Safe and relaxed environment, good for kids if they’re comfortable in the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Paphos Swim Cruise Experience

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Coastal Journey

Once you arrive at Paphos Harbour, the tour begins with a gentle departure aboard a semi-submarine vessel. The main attractions are carefully spaced to maximize both sightseeing and relaxation. After setting off, your first stop is the famous Vera K shipwreck, a vessel from 1950 that rests just beneath the surface. Here, you’ll get a 10-minute glimpse from the underwater cabin, which features a large glass panel, allowing you to peer into the history of local maritime life without getting wet.

This spot is highly praised for its clarity and the detailed view of the wreck, making it a favorite among reviewers. One guest noted, “We loved the way you could see the shipwreck from the glass cabin — it felt like floating right next to it.” It’s a quick stop but packed with visual impact.

Next, the boat heads toward Atlantis Beach for a 30-minute swim stop. This is where you can jump into the turquoise waters, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat’s deck. The underwater visibility is generally excellent, and you can see fish feeding at the surface — a lively scene described by a traveler who called it the “fish feeding frenzy from the underwater cabin” (a fun highlight). The swim stop is flexible enough that you can take your time, and the crew is on hand to assist with snorkeling gear or safety tips.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll cruise over the Paphos underwater forest, a lush area teeming with marine life. The views here are fascinating and give you a sense of the vibrant ecosystem beneath the waves.

Wildlife Watching: Turtles and More

One of the main draws is turtle spotting. The best time to see them is in the afternoon, when they tend to come out of hiding, searching for food. Guests often mention how lucky they felt to spot one, even if it was early in the season. One reviewer shared, “Even off-season, we were lucky enough to see a huge sea turtle, which totally made the trip for us.” The friendly guides provide insights about the turtles and help you understand their behavior, making it a more meaningful experience.

The Swim and Snorkel Stops

The 30-minute swim stop at Atlantis Beach is often described as refreshing and well-paced. The water is crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling and cooling off. You might find fish feeding nearby, adding a lively element to your swim. Many reviews highlight the well-organized stops, with plenty of time to relax, explore, and take photos.

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Drinks and Atmosphere: A Relaxed, Festive Vibe

The open bar is a big hit, and not just for the drinks themselves but for how it enhances the overall laid-back atmosphere. Unlimited ice-cold beers, soft drinks, water, and Aperol Spritz keep everyone refreshed and in a cheerful mood. Guests report the crew as being attentive, friendly, and eager to keep the drinks flowing. The relaxed ambiance makes it easy to chat, enjoy the scenery, and unwind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you enjoy a combination of gentle adventure and relaxation. It suits families with kids who can swim, couples looking for a romantic yet fun outing, and solo travelers seeking a laid-back day on the water. However, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those sensitive to seasickness, as the boat keeps a steady pace but is still on the water.

Value and Practical Tips

At around 2 hours, this cruise is a great value for what it offers—beautiful views, wildlife encounters, swimming, and unlimited drinks. The price point reflects the quality of the experience, especially considering the inclusiveness of drinks and the unique underwater views.

To get the most out of your trip, arrive at Paphos Harbour a little early, bring essentials like sunscreen, hat, towel, and camera, and consider bringing your own snorkeling gear if you prefer using your own equipment. Since meals are not included, plan to eat beforehand or after the tour.

What Reviewers Say

Many guests emphasize the knowledgeable guides, who add context to the sights and make the trip more engaging. One reviewer praised, “The crew gave us all the history we needed and made us feel welcome,” highlighting the friendly service. The stunning views and crystal-clear waters receive frequent mention, with guests describing the water as “perfect for a refreshing swim” or “great visibility for snorkeling.”

Even those visiting outside of the peak turtle season still found value, as one traveler noted: “Even though it’s early in the season, we still saw a big turtle and a few dolphins — worth every penny.” The overall enthusiasm in reviews points to a reliable, enjoyable experience that exceeds many expectations for a short coastal trip.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This swim cruise offers a rare combination of marine wildlife spotting, scenic underwater views, and relaxed fun. It’s best suited for travelers who want a light, enjoyable adventure with a bit of snorkeling, wildlife watching, and a lively social atmosphere. Families with kids who can swim will find it particularly appealing, as will couples and solo travelers seeking a memorable, easy-going outing.

If you’re looking for a short, well-organized trip that balances nature, history, and leisure, this cruise fits the bill perfectly. It provides a unique perspective on Paphos’s marine environment and a chance to unwind with a drink in hand, all while enjoying some of the best sights the coast has to offer.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers. The tour involves swimming and snorkeling stops, so a basic comfort level in water is needed.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including stops and cruising time.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, you can enjoy unlimited ice-cold beers, soft drinks, water, and Aperol Spritz during the cruise.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
It’s optional. You are welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer, but equipment may also be available onboard.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, and a towel. Dress comfortably for the warm weather and water activities.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
While specific group sizes aren’t mentioned, reviews suggest a friendly, manageable group atmosphere typical of small cruise experiences.

What is the best time of day for turtle spotting?
Turtles are more active in the afternoon, so booking later in the day may increase your chances of seeing them.

This Paphos swim cruise offers a delightful blend of marine wildlife, scenic views, and relaxed socializing, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a memorable taste of the coast. Whether you’re eager to spot turtles, see a historic shipwreck, or just enjoy a couple of hours floating on crystal waters with drinks in hand, this trip is a practical and enjoyable way to experience the best of Paphos’s seaside charms.

You can check availability for your dates here: