Protara: Afternoon Family Fun Cruise

Planning a day on the water in Cyprus? The Protara: Afternoon Family Fun Cruise offers an engaging, relaxed way to explore the stunning coastline near Protaras. With only 30 guests on board, this trip promises a more personalized experience, away from the crowds. It’s ideal for families, small groups, or anyone looking to enjoy Cyprus’s natural beauty with friendly, attentive hosts.

What really sets this cruise apart are two big things: its innovative shallow draft landing craft that gets you close to the shoreline and the generous swimming stops that let you really enjoy the water. The family-owned vibe adds warmth and authenticity, making it feel less like a tour and more like a day with friends. The only thing to consider is that it’s a 3-hour experience, which is perfect for a relaxed afternoon but might be too short if you’re craving a full-day adventure. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting an authentic, cozy boat trip along the Cypriot coast.

Key Points

• Limited Group Size: Only 30 guests, ensuring personal attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Close to Shore: Unique shallow draft design allows the boat to come extremely close to the coastline.
• Authentic Hospitality: Family-owned operation that emphasizes warm, local service.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: Two extended breaks for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing.
• Spacious Deck: Open, comfortable space with upholstered seating and shaded areas.
• Inclusive Features: Snorkel masks, noodles, life jackets, and a fully stocked bar included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Coastal Experience

This cruise is designed for those who want more than just a quick sightseeing journey. From the moment you meet Captain Chris and hostess Anna at Protaras Pier, you’ll sense the friendly, informal atmosphere. The boat, Sirena One, is a spacious vessel with an open deck, upholstered seats, and shaded areas — perfect for relaxing and taking in views without feeling cramped.

The boat’s shallow draft design is a real advantage. It allows the crew to navigate closer to the coastline, giving you a more intimate look at the rocky shores, hidden coves, and natural beauty of the area. This means you’ll get closer to the water than most larger boats, creating a sense of being in a private boat for just your group. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, especially when capturing photos or just soaking in the scenery.

The Itinerary: A Well-Paced Scenic Journey

The cruise itinerary includes several stops, each offering unique sights and activities. Here’s how the day unfolds:

• Protaras Cruises Departure: Starting point at the pier, with easy access and friendly staff ready to help.
• Fig Tree Bay: A brief guided tour and sightseeing. This beach is famously postcard-worthy — a perfect quick stop for photos and a sense of place.
• Green Bay, Protaras: A longer break allows for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The crew provides masks, noodles, and life jackets, so you don’t need to bring your own gear unless you prefer it.
• Konnos Beach: Another guided sightseeing stop, giving you a chance to appreciate one of the most scenic beaches in the area.
• Ayioi Anargiroi Church & Kamara tou Koraka: Photo stops that highlight the region’s charming architecture and natural formations.
• Blue Lagoon, Ayia Napa: The highlight for many — a break for swimming and snorkeling in the famous Blue Lagoon, with crystal-clear waters and marine life.
• Return to Protaras: The cruise concludes back at the starting point, giving you a full yet relaxed 3-hour journey.

Each stop is thoughtfully designed to mix sightseeing with water fun. The long swimming breaks are a real highlight — they aren’t rushed, allowing ample time to float, snorkel, or just soak up the sun. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the crew encouraged us to relax and enjoy the water at our own pace.”

What You’ll Love About the Cruise

The personalized service truly makes this experience stand out. With just 30 guests, Captain Chris and Anna make sure everyone feels looked after. Whether it’s helping with snorkeling gear or suggesting the best spots to swim, their friendly approach shines through. It’s no surprise that many reviews mention the warm hospitality that makes this feel more like a day spent with friends than a commercial tour.

The stunning coastline views are another major draw. The boat’s ability to get so close to the shore means you’ll see hidden coves, rocky cliffs, and family-friendly beaches up close. The Blue Lagoon, in particular, is a must-see for its clear waters and scenic setting.

The onboard amenities add to the comfort: a fully stocked bar with drinks and snacks, music playing through a system that keeps the mood lively, and ample shaded areas for those who prefer to avoid too much sun. The spacious open deck makes it easy to socialize or find a quiet spot to relax.

The Value and Practicalities

Considering the cost — which includes snacks, one drink, snorkeling masks, noodles, and life jackets — this cruise offers excellent value. It’s a more intimate experience than larger boats, typically crowded and rushed, so you get more personal attention and time at each stop. For families or small groups, it’s a relaxing, safe environment with plenty of space for kids to enjoy the water.

The duration of three hours strikes a good balance — long enough to see several spots without feeling exhausted. If you’re short on time or prefer a shorter adventure, this is perfect. For those with younger children or less confident swimmers, the availability of life jackets and floats is reassuring.

The meeting point is straightforward, located at Protaras Pier, with a dedicated ticket booth. It’s advisable to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The tour also offers flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, making it a low-stress booking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for families, small groups, or couples looking for a relaxed, friendly outing. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate authentic hospitality and want to see the coastline from a comfortable, well-equipped boat. Water lovers will enjoy the two swimming stops, and those interested in photography will find plenty of scenic vistas and natural photo ops.

If you prefer larger, bustling tours with more structured activities, this might feel too intimate or slow. But for anyone wanting a cozy, personal day on the water, this cruise hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a balance of scenic beauty, water fun, and friendly service, the Protara: Afternoon Family Fun Cruise offers a genuine taste of Cyprus’s coastline. The boat’s ability to come close to shore and the generous swimming stops make it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s an opportunity to connect with the natural environment and enjoy a laid-back afternoon.

The small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and the authentic, family-owned atmosphere makes the experience memorable. Whether you’re floating in the Blue Lagoon or snapping photos of Kamara tou Koraka, you’ll leave with a sense of having truly enjoyed the island from a different perspective.

If your idea of a perfect afternoon involves gentle sailing, scenic views, and water-based relaxation, this cruise deserves a spot on your Cyprus itinerary.

How long is the cruise?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time to see several highlights and enjoy multiple swimming stops without feeling rushed.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It starts at Protaras Pier, at the first gate to the left. The ticket booth is the first on the right from the seaside, so it’s easy to find.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the departure for a full refund, making it flexible for your travel plans.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is limited to just 30 guests, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience. Larger groups should consider booking early to secure spots.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included in the price, and crew members are happy to provide extra or assist if needed.

What facilities are available on board?
The boat has upholstered seats, shaded and sunny areas, a central table, a fully stocked bar, and a WC — everything needed for comfort and convenience.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, with life jackets and floats available, kids can join in the water fun safely. The relaxed pace makes it family-friendly.

Are drinks and snacks included?
One drink of your choice is included, and there’s a bar offering drinks and snacks for purchase.

Is transportation provided to the departure point?
No, transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrive at the pier a bit early. The meeting point is straightforward and accessible.

To sum it up, the Protara: Afternoon Family Fun Cruise offers an authentic, cozy way to see the coast of Cyprus with an emphasis on personal service and water fun. It’s perfect for travelers who value small-group intimacy, stunning scenery, and a relaxed pace. Whether you’re traveling as a family or just want a peaceful afternoon on the water, this cruise provides a memorable slice of Cypriot hospitality and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: