Protaras: DREAM of TURTLES | Luxury Yacht | BBQ | 1 Drink

Imagine a day spent on a beautifully maintained yacht cruising along Cyprus’s coast, stopping for swims in crystal-clear waters, with chances to see turtles in their natural habitat. That’s essentially what the “DREAM of TURTLES” cruise promises — a family-friendly adventure with plenty of scenic highlights, tasty regional food, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insight all packed into about 3.5 hours of sailing.

What we love about this experience is the stunning scenery—from the ghost town of Varosha to the lively Blue Lagoon—and the welcoming crew that makes every guest feel included and well cared for. Plus, the on-board lunch is consistently praised as delicious, with generous portions and regional flavors. One thing to consider is that seeing turtles is not guaranteed, so if that’s your main goal, keep expectations flexible.

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of light adventure, cultural stories, and seaside leisure. If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed day out with good food and friendly service, this trip hits the mark. However, those with mobility issues should note there’s some walking involved and the boat has stairs.

Key Points

• Scenic coastline: Sail past beautiful spots like Fig Tree Bay, Lovers Bridge, and Cape Greco.
• Cultural insight: Learn about Varosha and the Cyprus division from an informative guide.
• Swim stops: Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in Blue Lagoon and Green Bay, with chances to see marine life including turtles.
• Delicious lunch: Savor a hearty Cypriot-style meal, with options for vegetarians and kids.
• Relaxing atmosphere: Comfortable boats with shaded and sunny seating, lively crew, and music.
• Flexible options: Tours with or without hotel transfers, suitable for different needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Yacht Cruise Experience

The Boat: St Georgios II

The vessel itself is often praised for being one of the most beautiful and friendly boats in Protaras. It’s a luxury yacht with plush leather seating, a spacious relax deck, and a lounge with air conditioning for those who prefer a bit of cool comfort. The captain’s table at the bow is the spot everyone seems to gravitate toward — offering the best views and a great vantage point for photos. From reviews, it’s clear that the crew maintains a high standard of cleanliness and professional service, making the whole trip feel special without feeling overly formal.

Boarding and Transferring

Most guests will appreciate the convenience of optional hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics, especially after a day in the sun. The meeting point is at the end of Protaras Pier, with clear directions from nearby hotels like Evelena or the surrounding resorts. Expect about a 5-7 minute walk if not using the transfers, and remember to arrive 5 minutes early to avoid missing the boat.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins with a scenic drive along the coastline, passing notable sights like Fig Tree Bay and the Agioi Anargyri Church. The highlight for many is the opportunity to learn about Varosha, the ghost town of Famagusta, which has a haunting history rooted in Cyprus’s division since 1974. The guide’s commentary is both engaging and informative—adding context to the scenery without overwhelming.

Next, the boat approaches Cape Greco National Park, home to the famous Lovers Bridge and the Sancta Maria Shrine. These spots are perfect for Instagram shots and offer a glimpse of the island’s natural beauty. The slight detour to Famagusta and Varosha adds a historical depth to the trip, giving insight into Cyprus’s complex past.

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Swimming and Snorkeling Stops

The Blue Lagoon is the star attraction — a ribbon of turquoise waters renowned for their clarity. Passengers are encouraged to swim, snorkel, or just relax on the boat. Several reviews mention the marine life viewing opportunities, and although turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, many travelers still hope for that unforgettable moment. You might find the waters warm and inviting, and the snorkeling gear is available for rent onboard.

Green Bay is another popular stop, offering a similar chance to swim and see marine life in calmer waters. The reviews consistently highlight how the water is super clear and warm, making these stops perfect for families or anyone wanting a chilled-out break from sightseeing.

The Lunch: Authentic Cypriot Flavor

One of the most praised aspects is the lunch onboard, which is generous and tasty. The menu features baked chicken, homemade chipped potatoes, Cyprus couscous, salad, bread, and Tzatziki. Vegetarian options include a veggie patty, and kids can enjoy chicken nuggets if requested — a thoughtful touch for families. Several reviews emphasize how the food is well cooked, ample in portion, and regional in flavor.

The onboard bar offers one free drink of your choice — beer, wine, soda, or juice — with additional drinks available for purchase. Many guests appreciate the value for money here, considering the quality of the meal and the scenic setting.

The Atmosphere and Crew

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the crew makes a big difference — they are consistently described as friendly, helpful, and lively. Many mention that the crew went above and beyond to ensure everyone was comfortable, entertained, and engaged — whether it was sharing stories about Cyprus, playing music, or dancing at the end of the trip. The lively, welcoming environment adds to the overall relaxed vibe of the cruise.

Returning to Protaras

As the cruise winds down, you’ll retrace your route past beautiful coastlines and picturesque coves. The boat’s WiFi allows you to share your photos and memories in real time, which many reviewers find convenient. The cruise ends back at the original meeting point, with options for drop-off at your hotel or resort.

Practical Considerations and Value

The price of this experience reflects its inclusive nature — lunch, WiFi, and a free drink are all part of the package, making it a good value for a half-day trip. The duration is just enough to see key sights, swim, and enjoy the onboard amenities without feeling rushed.

For those concerned about mobility, note that boarding involves about 15 steps, and the boat’s toilets are accessed via stairs. The tour might not be suitable for guests with significant mobility issues.

Flexibility is a plus — there are options for with or without transfers, which accommodate different travel plans and budgets. The transfers are generally smooth, and the guides provide clear instructions about where and when to meet.

Authentic Experiences from Guest Feedback

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, making even a cloudy or windy day feel fun and memorable. Many reviews highlight the delicious, hearty lunch and reasonably priced drinks onboard, showing how well the cruise balances comfort and value.

A few travelers mention that turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed—but even without the turtles, the trip offers stunning scenery, warm waters, and a chance to relax on a comfortable yacht. The lively atmosphere, with music and dancing, helps create a festive vibe that many find irresistible.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers seeking an easy, scenic day on the water with some cultural highlights. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy swimming, scenic views, and good food. If you crave a relaxed, friendly environment with a knowledgeable crew, you’ll find this trip worthwhile.

If you’re interested in learning about Cyprus’s history and natural beauty, this tour offers both in a laid-back setting. The flexibility in options and the emphasis on comfort and good service make it a reliable choice for those looking for value.

Final Thoughts

The “DREAM of TURTLES” cruise from Protaras offers a well-rounded experience blending scenic coastline views, cultural stories, and relaxing stops for swimming. The friendly crew, delicious lunch, and stunning scenery make it a standout choice for travelers wanting a memorable half-day adventure. While turtle sightings are not guaranteed, the overall value—especially with included lunch and drinks—makes this a smart pick.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy light adventure, cultural tidbits, and seaside leisure in a friendly, welcoming environment. If you appreciate quality service, scenic beauty, and regional flavors, this cruise fits the bill.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the option. Pickup points are centrally located in Ayia Napa, Protaras, Pernera, and Kapparis, typically 5-7 minutes walk from your accommodation.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with a flexible itinerary that includes sightseeing, swimming stops, and lunch.

Can I see turtles?
Turtle sightings are not guaranteed. The tour includes a visit to Turtle Bay, and many guests hope to see turtles in their natural environment, but it depends on sea conditions and luck.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, cash for additional drinks or souvenirs, and a credit card if you wish to purchase more drinks onboard.

Are there vegetarian or kid-friendly options?
Yes, vegetarian options like a veggie patty are available, and kids can enjoy chicken nuggets if requested in advance.

Is the tour suitable for mobility-impaired travelers?
This experience involves some walking and stairs, so it may not be suitable for guests with significant mobility issues.

In summary, this cruise offers a great way to see parts of Cyprus’s beautiful coastline, enjoy regional cuisine, and relax on a comfortable yacht. The friendly crew and stunning vistas make it a worthwhile addition to any Cyprus itinerary, especially for those who enjoy swimming, scenic views, and a touch of local history.

You can check availability for your dates here: