Traveling in Cyprus, especially around Protaras, offers a chance to enjoy stunning coastlines, historical sights, and warm, inviting waters. One of the most popular ways to experience the region’s natural beauty and marine life is on a boat trip to Famagusta, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove. This review takes a close look at this 2.5-hour adventure, giving you all the details you need to decide if it’s worth your time and money.
What makes this trip appealing? First, the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters, especially at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove, is a big draw. Second, the boat’s underwater viewing area offers a chance to glimpse marine life without getting wet — a treat for snorkelers and non-swimmers alike.
But be aware — some reviewers mention that the glass-bottom tanks housing turtles might not be to everyone’s taste, as conditions vary and animal welfare concerns are raised.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of wildlife, and you enjoy being on the water with some comfort and amenities, this tour could be just right.
Key Points
- Beautiful swimming spots at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove, with chances to see and swim with turtles
- Comfortable boat with a sun deck and air-conditioned interior, suitable for all weather preferences
- Underwater viewing adds a unique perspective of marine life from the boat
- Food and drinks available for purchase — snacks, soft drinks, and cocktails
- Guided commentary in English and Greek enhances understanding of the sights
- Accessible and family-friendly, with facilities like toilets and friendly crew
The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Boat Trip
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Pernera.
Starting Point and Duration
Your adventure begins at Protaras Pier, conveniently located next to the Evalena Hotel. The boat departs twice daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, each trip lasting around 2.5 hours. This makes it easy to slot into a day’s plans, whether you’re looking for a morning or early afternoon activity.
The Boat: Comfort and Style
The boat itself is a spacious 32 meters — large enough to feel open and airy, yet cozy enough to enjoy the company of other travelers. It features a sun deck perfect for sunbathing and taking in the views, as well as an air-conditioned interior if you prefer a cooler spot. This dual setup is ideal for those who want to alternate between basking in the sun and relaxing in cooler comfort.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The trip is designed for maximum enjoyment of Cyprus’s coastal beauty with two major swim stops.
- First Stop: Cape Greco Lagoon — this well-known spot is famous for its crystal-clear waters and the chance to see and swim with sea turtles. Bring your snorkel gear if you want to get closer to the marine life, as many guests find this to be a highlight. Several reviews praise the opportunity: “We swam with turtles! It was even allowed to bring your own snorkel,” and others mention the value for money with “The turtles were amazing.”
- Second Stop: Blue Lagoon — renowned for its vivid blue waters, this area offers another opportunity to swim and relax. The underwater viewing windows on the boat add a touch of magic, allowing you to observe fish and other sea creatures without even getting in the water.
- Passing Along the Coast — during the cruise, you will pass notable sights like Konnos Bay and the sea caves, providing a visual feast and great photo opportunities. Some travelers mention, however, that the trip does not go as far as Famagusta as advertised, which can be disappointing if you expected a more extensive journey.
What You Can Do During the Cruise
While swimming and snorkeling are the main activities, you can also enjoy:
- Browsing the bar for cocktails, beers, soft drinks, snacks, and ice-cream
- Relaxing on deck or in the air-conditioned interior
- Appreciating the views of Famagusta from the sea
Reviews reveal that the crew and guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly, with several travelers praising the guides for their professionalism and hospitality. However, some note that the commentary can be hard to hear, which might detract from the experience if you’re keen on learning about the sights.
Marine Life and Animal Welfare
One of the most debated aspects of this trip involves the glass-bottom tanks housing turtles. While some travelers find it fascinating to see turtles in captivity, others express concern about animal welfare. Critics point out that the tanks are small and bare minimum in water, which feels cruel and unnecessary given the turtles’ natural habitat is the open sea. Several reviews urge the tour operators to remove the animals from tanks and prioritize their well-being.
Food, Drinks, and Extras
Food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, but you can purchase snacks, soft drinks, and cocktails on board. Several guests mention the complimentary ice-cream and fruit, which adds a nice touch to the journey. Some reviews even mention free pizza for kids and unexpected fun interactions with the crew, like riding the boat or driving it briefly — experiences that create extra memorable moments.
The Value of the Tour
Pricing for this tour is generally reasonable, especially considering the scenic cruising, swim stops, and onboard amenities. For around two and a half hours of relaxed entertainment, many travelers say it offers good value for money. The opportunity to see turtles, swim in pristine waters, and enjoy stunning coastal views makes it a worthwhile addition to a Cyprus itinerary.
The availability of online booking with flexible cancellation (up to 24 hours in advance) adds convenience and peace of mind. On the downside, some travelers feel the glass-bottom experiences are less impressive than expected, citing dirty or empty tanks and animal welfare concerns.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy water-based activities in a comfortable setting. It’s also perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic cruise with opportunities for snorkeling and animal encounters. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, be aware of the debates surrounding the turtles’ captivity, and decide if that aspect is a dealbreaker.
Final Thoughts
This boat trip from Protaras to Famagusta, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove offers a nice mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and marine observation. The boat’s comfort and amenities make it accessible for most travelers, and the stunning coastal views make it a memorable outing.
While not an exhaustive tour of the Famagusta coast, it hits key highlights, especially if you’re keen on swimming in clear waters and spotting turtles. The value for money is generally good, especially considering the onboard facilities and the chance to relax under the Cypriot sun.
If you’re traveling with kids or want a family-friendly, easy-going activity that balances sightseeing and leisure, this trip fits the bill well. Conversely, animal lovers should weigh their comfort with the turtle tanks and consider the ethical implications.
Overall, it’s a well-organized, enjoyable tour that will leave most guests with plenty of beautiful photos and memories of Cyprus’s shimmering waters and vibrant coast.
FAQ
Is this boat trip suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for all ages. The boat has facilities like toilets and a shaded interior, and the stops for swimming are fun for kids and adults alike.
What should I bring for the swim stops?
Bring your snorkeling gear if you have it, along with swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour provides the opportunity to swim in clear waters, so be prepared.
Are food and drinks included?
No, they are available to purchase on board. There are snacks, soft drinks, cocktails, and ice-cream, with some reviews mentioning complimentary fruit and ice-cream.
Can I see Famagusta from the cruise?
The cruise offers views of Famagusta from the sea, but some reviews mention it doesn’t go as close as expected, and the visibility of the city might be limited.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning your day.
This boat trip offers a delightful taste of Cyprus’s coast and marine life, combining scenic beauty with a touch of adventure. Whether you’re keen on swimming with turtles or simply relaxing on deck, it’s a solid choice to add some sea air to your holiday.
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