Protaras: Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove Boat Trip

If you’re headed to Cyprus and searching for a way to experience its stunning coastline without spending all day on the water, this 3-hour boat trip around Protaras could be just what you need. Offering a blend of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and fascinating geological sights, it’s one of the most popular excursions in the area — and for good reason.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to swim with sea turtles in their natural environment is a rare treat, and the boat’s route around Cape Greco uncovers some of the most dramatic caves and coastlines Cyprus has to offer. Second, the Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip and snorkel, making this trip a fantastic way to combine sightseeing with some well-deserved relaxation.

That said, it’s worth noting that wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed — as the environment is undisturbed, the turtles and marine creatures prefer to keep to themselves. This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming stops, and learning a bit about the area’s highlights from friendly guides. If you’re seeking a laid-back, value-filled excursion that combines nature, history, and fun, you’ll likely find this tour very satisfying.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views from a comfortable boat, highlighting Cyprus’s east coast.
• Wildlife encounters with sea turtles, though sightings depend on nature’s mood.
• Multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling at Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove.
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts about the caves and coastline.
• Good value with inclusive amenities like life jackets, Wi-Fi, and upper sun deck.
• Flexible options for different times of day, including morning, afternoon, and sunset trips.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This boat trip offers a practical way to explore some of Cyprus’s most beautiful coastal sights without the hassle of self-driving or organizing separate excursions. The journey kicks off at either Protaras Pier or Paralimni Marina, depending on your booking. The boats, operated by Paraskevas Ch. Paraskeva Travel & Tours, are well-maintained, and the crew is praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.

The route is thoughtfully designed to cover the key highlights of the east coast. On your way out, you’ll cruise past Famagusta, with its ghost town visible from Paralimni Marina, offering a poignant reminder of the island’s complex history. The boat then heads towards Cape Greco, a national park known for its stunning limestone formations and caves like Lover’s Bridge and Shark’s Mouth Cave. These caves aren’t just pretty; they also tell stories of pirates and legends, which guides often share with enthusiasm.

A real highlight for most travelers is the time spent at Blue Lagoon. With an allocated 30 minutes, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Many reviews mention how clear and inviting the water is, with some even describing the experience as “perfect for snorkeling” and “worth every penny.” Gear is available for purchase onboard, so even if you forget your goggles, you can still join in the fun.

Next, the boat moves to Turtle Cove, where there’s a chance — though never a guarantee — to see and swim alongside sea turtles. Several travelers have noted that they managed to spot and even swim with turtles, which enhances the trip’s appeal. As one reviewer put it, “We saw swam with the turtles, which was a bonus,” indicating how memorable this experience can be. But it’s important to remember that, as wildlife is undisturbed, animals might not always be visible.

Throughout the trip, guides provide commentary, sharing fascinating facts about the area’s geology, history, and marine life. Many reviews commend the crew for their knowledge and friendly attitude, which adds a personal touch to an already enjoyable experience. The boat itself offers Wi-Fi and an upper sun deck, allowing you to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the views.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

1. Protaras Pier: The starting point, where the crew boards and prepares for departure. It’s easy to find, with clear signage and a big green umbrella.
2. Famagusta View: As you set sail, you’ll pass by the ghost town of Famagusta, giving you a glimpse into Cyprus’s layered past.
3. Paralimni Marina: A quick photo stop and scenic view point, providing a lovely backdrop for pictures.
4. Fig Tree Bay: Famous for its secluded charm, the boat glides past this popular beach, with some guided commentary and scenic views.
5. Konnos Beach: Another picturesque spot, passing by on the way to Cape Greco.
6. Cape Greco National Forest Park: A must-see for its limestone caves and stunning cliffs. The boat stops for photo opportunities and brief guided visits.
7. Kamara tou Koraka (Lover’s Bridge): A striking natural formation that’s perfect for photos.
8. Blue Lagoon: The highlight for swimming and snorkeling. You’ll have about 30 minutes here.
9. Cape Greco (from the water): Offers a different vantage point of the coastline and caves.
10. Konnos Beach (again): With another 30-minute stop for swimming, relaxing, or exploring.
11. Return to Protaras Pier: After a full trip packed with visual delights and water fun, you’ll head back to where you started.

What’s Included and What Isn’t

The tour’s price includes the guided cruise, life jackets, Wi-Fi, and use of the sun deck. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, and snorkeling gear can also be bought if you want to explore underwater more comfortably. Tours do not include hotel transfers unless you pay extra, but the meeting points are convenient, with clear instructions.

Note that the trip is weather-dependent, meaning strong winds or rough seas might cause cancellations or rescheduling. Also, as the sea isn’t a zoo, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, though many guests have been fortunate enough to see turtles and dolphins.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a laid-back day of swimming, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting. Many reviews mention how friendly and accommodating the crew is, making it especially inviting for those traveling with children or less confident swimmers. It’s also a fantastic value considering the number of stops, the included amenities, and the chance to see parts of Cyprus you might not explore on land.

The trip’s duration of about 3 hours makes it manageable even if you’re on a packed schedule, and the scenic route provides plenty of photo opportunities. Just remember, if you’re prone to seasickness or looking for a very high chance of turtle sightings, you might want to keep expectations realistic.

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The Bottom Line

This Protaras boat trip balances fun, education, and relaxation beautifully. It’s well-organized, with friendly guides and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Cyprus’s stunning coastline and marine life. The stops at Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove are memorable highlights, especially given the chance to snorkel in clear waters and possibly swim with turtles — a rare and delightful experience.

The overall excellent reviews, averaging 4.7 out of 5 from nearly 1800 travelers, reflect consistent quality and value. Many guests mention how much they enjoyed the informative commentary, the beautiful scenery, and the calm atmosphere onboard.

If your idea of a holiday includes relaxing on a boat with great views, exploring caves, and enjoying some swim time in pristine waters, this tour offers a safe and rewarding way to do it.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Not included in the standard package but available for an extra charge from the Protaras area. The meeting points at Protaras Pier and Paralimni Marina are easy to find.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, hat, swimwear, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, beachwear, cash, goggles, and snorkeling gear. These essentials will make your experience more comfortable.

Can I buy snacks and drinks onboard?
Yes, snacks and drinks are available for purchase during the trip, including a selection of cocktails.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling gear can be purchased onboard, but it’s not included in the price. You might find it handy for exploring Blue Lagoon.

Are children allowed?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families, and pushchairs can be stored during the trip. Many reviews highlight how family-friendly the experience is.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent. Cancellations or rescheduling can occur if conditions are unsafe. Check the forecast before your trip.

Can I see turtles?
Wildlife sightings, including turtles, are not guaranteed since animals remain undisturbed in their environment. Several guests have successfully swum with turtles, but it’s not a certainty.

How long is each stop?
The Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove stops are each around 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a well-balanced experience of scenic beauty, wildlife, and water fun at a reasonable price point. It’s perfect for those who want a manageable, enjoyable glimpse of Cyprus’s coast, especially if you’re looking to relax, take photos, and possibly encounter sea turtles in the wild. The friendly guides, excellent reviews, and attention to comfort make it a reliable choice for a memorable day out on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: