90-Minutes Glass Bottom Trip With Quick Dip

Paphos, Cyprus, offers a stunning coastline filled with history, natural beauty, and vibrant marine life. Our review of the 90-minute glass-bottom boat tour aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from this popular activity. It’s a quick, affordable way to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea without committing to a full day at sea.

What really draws us in is the combination of sightseeing and a chance to swim—all wrapped into just 90 minutes. You get to peek beneath the waves through a large 20m² glass bottom deck and see shipwrecks, reefs, and maybe even some sea turtles. One thing to keep in mind is that this is a fairly short trip, so it’s ideal if you’re on a tight schedule but still want a taste of the sea. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who love marine scenery but don’t want to spend hours on the water.

A possible consideration is the limited amount of underwater visibility during the boat ride, especially if the weather isn’t perfect. Several reviews mention that sometimes the coral reefs and sponges are not as prominent as expected, and the main focus is the shipwreck and marine life visible through the glass. Still, for the price, most find it to be a good value for money and a fun, lighthearted experience.

This tour suits those looking for an affordable, informative, and scenic excursion. If you’re interested in marine ecosystems, shipwrecks, and light activity, you’ll likely find this trip a worthwhile addition to your Paphos itinerary.

Key Points

• Affordable activity with a focus on sea views and marine life
• Great for short visits or those with limited time in Paphos
• Opportunity to see shipwrecks, reefs, and potentially sea turtles
• Includes swimming and snorkeling gear, plus a new extended swimming platform
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting facts
• Comfortable facilities like restrooms, water showers, and a sundeck

The Details of the Tour

What’s Included and What’s Not

For just around $20, this tour offers quite a bit. You’ll have access to restrooms on board, a new extended swimming platform for easy water access, a fresh water shower, and snorkeling equipment. The upper sundeck lets you soak up the sun, which many reviews rave about as a highlight, especially when the weather is bright and warm.

However, snacks and alcoholic drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own if you’re looking to nibble or sip during the trip. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and is close to public transportation, making it easy to reach the meeting point.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Paphos Coast & Shipwrecks
The cruise starts at Paphos Harbour, where the crew navigates along the coastline for about 20 minutes. The main highlight here is the Vera K shipwreck from the 1950s, visible through the glass bottom. This wreck is a compelling relic that adds a dash of maritime history to your trip. According to reviews, the crew is very knowledgeable about shipwrecks, often providing detailed explanations that make this stop particularly engaging.

Stop 2: The Sponge Look-Alike
Next, you’ll visit a spot where you can see the shape of natural sponges before they arrive on your bathroom shelf. It’s a fun, quick stop for about 20 minutes, where guides often share insights into how sponges are harvested and their importance to marine ecosystems.

Stop 3: Reefs, Marine Life & a Quick Swim
The final part of the tour takes you further along the coast, where reefs teem with marine life. If you’re lucky, you might spot sea turtles—something many reviewers mention as a memorable part of the trip. The period here is around 50 minutes, during which you can snorkel or simply relax on the boat, soaking up the Cyprus sun. The extended swimming platform makes it easier to jump into the water for a quick dip.

Authentic Experiences and Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and crew, who go out of their way to share interesting facts about the shipwrecks, sponges, and local marine life. Susan R. notes that the staff’s knowledge about shipwrecks and sponges made the experience both enjoyable and educational. Many also appreciated the safety standards maintained throughout the trip, with several mentioning that they felt very secure while on board.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Excellent value for such a short trip
– Beautiful views of the coast and shipwrecks
– Opportunity to swim or snorkel with provided gear
– Knowledgeable crew that enhances the experience
– Relaxing sundeck for soaking up the sun

Cons:
– The short duration might leave some wanting more time underwater or exploring
– Sometimes, the marine sights might not be as vibrant or extensive as hoped, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal
– Limited shade on the boat’s open deck, so bring sunscreen if you burn easily

Who Is This Tour For?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a quick, affordable taste of the Mediterranean’s underwater world without dedicating a full day. It’s great for families with children, couples looking for a romantic yet light outing, or solo travelers eager to see shipwrecks and marine life without too much fuss. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic cruise with the chance to swim, this trip hits the sweet spot.

It’s also perfect for those on a budget who want to maximize their experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and facilities means you won’t need to rent equipment elsewhere, and the friendly guides make the trip informative without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

The 90-minute glass-bottom boat tour in Paphos offers a fun, cost-effective way to see some of Cyprus’s underwater highlights. The combination of shipwreck views, marine life, and swimming makes it a well-rounded experience for those wanting to enjoy the sea without overextending their schedule.

While it’s not a deep-sea adventure, the trip’s value for money, friendly crew, and scenic stops give it a solid reputation among travelers. If you’re in Paphos and looking for a simple but enjoyable boat trip, this one ticks many boxes—especially if you love a bit of history, a splash in the sea, and some sunshine.

In the end, this tour is best for those seeking a light, scenic, and educational maritime experience—perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a relaxed day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Approximately 90 minutes, including stops and swimming time.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get access to restrooms, snorkeling equipment, a new swimming platform, a fresh water shower, and the sundeck.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, there’s a designated stop for a quick dip, and you’re welcome to snorkel with the provided gear.

Are there facilities on board?
Yes, there are restrooms, a changing room, and a water shower.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, with snorkeling gear, life jackets, and games provided for kids. The reviews suggest it’s a family-friendly activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Sail At Castle, Paphos Harbour, Apostolou Pavlou Ave.

How much does it cost?
Around $20.74 per person, which many see as good value for a scenic half-day activity.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, especially during busy seasons.

This glass-bottom trip offers a practical, friendly introduction to Paphos’s coast, blending history, marine life, and leisure in just 90 minutes. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and affordable sea adventure, it’s worth considering.