San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras

Thinking about a day on the water while visiting Cyprus? The San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise offers a relaxing, scenic escape along the coast near Protaras and Ayia Napa. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the Mediterranean’s beauty without too much fuss — a mix of history, stunning views, and good food.

What makes this cruise stand out? For starters, the views of the eastern coastline are breathtaking, and the opportunity to see Famagusta’s ghost town adds a fascinating historical twist. Plus, the refreshing swim stops and inclusive buffet lunch with open bar help make the day as enjoyable as possible.

One thing to consider: this tour lasts about 5 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a boat trip and looking for a relaxed, scenic day. It’s particularly appealing for couples, families, or small groups seeking a blend of sightseeing, beach time, and good eats. If you love maritime scenery and a touch of history, this cruise is worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views and glimpses of Cyprus’s eastern shoreline
• Unique visit to the ghost town of Famagusta (Varosha)
• Multiple swim stops in crystal-clear waters
• All-inclusive package with buffet lunch and open bar
• Pickup and drop-off from major hotels in Protaras and Ayia Napa
• Flexible cancellation policy, cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect and Why It Matters

We loved the way this cruise balances sightseeing with relaxing moments, making it a perfect day out without feeling rushed or overcrowded. Starting from Cape Greco, the journey takes you along the coast, offering picturesque views that are truly worth a camera pause. The cruise heads toward Famagusta, where you get a rare glimpse of the famous ghost town of Varosha. This abandoned city, once a bustling resort area, now stands as a haunting reminder of Cyprus’s complex history.

According to travelers’ reviews, the guide, Angela, created a warm atmosphere with interesting commentary, enhancing the experience. As one guest put it: “Thanks to our guide Angela, who created a wonderful mood and accompanied us with interesting information throughout the entire trip.” Such knowledgeable guides make a difference, turning a boat ride into an engaging journey into the area’s past.

Next, the boat moves toward Derynia Bay, where you can take a refreshing swim in the calm, crystal waters. The swim stops are well-timed, giving everyone a chance to cool off and explore underwater with snorkeling gear—if you bring your own or rent theirs. The reviews highlight the quality of the water saying it’s beautiful and clear, perfect for a relaxed dip.

Following the swim, the cruise continues along the coast, passing Fig Tree Bay—a popular spot for its sandy beach and scenic beauty. The tour then arrives at the Cape Greco area and Blue Lagoon, renowned for their stunning blue waters and rugged cliffs. Here, the crew ensures enough time for another swim or just lounging with drinks in hand.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

One of the standout features, as reviews mention, is the buffet lunch. It includes seasonal fresh fruit, dessert, and a variety of tasty options—enough to satisfy most tastes after a morning of swimming and sightseeing. The open bar keeps drinks flowing, with complimentary options available throughout the trip.

Guests consistently praise the friendly service and quality of the food, with one reviewer calling the service “full full,” emphasizing how well-cared-for everyone felt. The small group size—often just a handful of guests—makes for a more intimate experience.

The Vessel: The San Antonio Schooner

The cruise uses a traditional schooner, which adds a charming, classic maritime feel. Its design offers plenty of shade, making the ride comfortable even in Cyprus’s warm weather—something appreciated in the scorching heat of summer, as one guest happily noted. The size of the group, usually around seven people, makes it feel like a private charter, which many travelers find enhances comfort and personal attention.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 5 hours, so bring your sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The timing varies, so check availability.
• Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off from all major hotels in Ayia Napa and Protaras, making logistics simple.
• What to Bring: Swimwear, towel, snorkeling gear (if desired), sun protection, and a sense of adventure.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind if your plans change.
• Booking: Reserve now and pay later option makes planning flexible.

More Great Tours Nearby

Accessibility and Group Size

With a small group atmosphere and included hotel pickup, this experience suits travelers seeking a relaxed, personalized day on the water. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a guided experience that’s both informative and fun.

Authentic Traveler Insights from Reviews

Multiple reviews mention how much guests appreciated the knowledgeable guides. Nadiia praised Angela for creating “a wonderful mood” and sharing interesting information, which shows the value of local expertise. Peter appreciated the shaded boat during the hottest part of the day, making the trip comfortable even in 41°C heat. Ákos summed it up by calling the service “full full,” highlighting friendly staff, delicious food, and a memorable experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, and small groups who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing with good food and drinks included. It’s particularly suited for those interested in history and culture thanks to the stop at Famagusta, yet it’s equally appealing for travelers simply wanting to unwind on the water in stunning surroundings.

It’s a good choice for anyone looking to avoid overly commercialized tours, given its intimate group size and relaxed pace. If you prefer all-in-one experiences that combine scenery, history, and leisure, this cruise will meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In terms of value, this cruise packs a lot into a manageable 5 hours. With hotel transportation, a buffet meal, open bar, and guided commentary, it offers a well-rounded experience for a reasonable price. The chance to see Famagusta’s ghost town, enjoy multiple swim stops, and relax aboard a traditional schooner makes it stand out from standard boat trips.

The small group size and attentive service contribute to a more personalized, enjoyable outing. Many reviews mention how the crew’s friendliness, the delicious food, and the impressive scenery left lasting impressions. It’s a perfect way to combine recreation, education, and culinary pleasure.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a bit of everything: scenic views, historical intrigue, and leisurely beach time, all wrapped up with good food and drinks. It’s especially appealing if you value small-group intimacy and expert guides who add a layer of storytelling to your journey.

If your idea of a perfect day includes swimming in crystal waters, soaking up Cyprus’s coastline, and learning about local history in a relaxed setting, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

On the other hand, those seeking a high-energy nightlife or adventure-packed tour might prefer other options. But for those wanting a taste of the Mediterranean’s charm combined with comfort and culture, this cruise hits the mark beautifully.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from all major hotels in Ayia Napa and Protaras is included, with details sent via email 1-2 days before the trip.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, with departure times varying based on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and snorkeling gear if you have it. It’s also wise to wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for boat decks.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a buffet lunch, and an open bar.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and small group size make it suitable for most ages, provided children are comfortable on boats and swimming.

This San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, history, and leisure—perfect for those wanting to enjoy Cyprus from the water in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you seek a peaceful day at sea or an engaging journey into the island’s past, this tour delivers on both fronts.

You can check availability for your dates here: