From Protaras: Cruise to Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove & Sea Cave

Getting on a boat in Protaras to explore some of Cyprus’s most stunning coastal sights sounds idyllic, and this particular cruise manages to blend natural beauty, fun activities, and a touch of history into just three hours. Whether you’re a family looking for a memorable outing, a couple wanting scenic views, or just someone eager to see the local marine life, this tour offers a pretty good deal. The biggest glass-bottom boat in the area is equipped with water slides, a diving show, and a comfy undercover deck—plus the chance to swim with turtles or spot dolphins if luck is on your side.

One of the highlights? The fully air-conditioned underwater deck with 23 portholes makes exploring the marine world easy, even on a hot day. We love how the crew keeps the energy lively, blending fun with informative commentary, especially about the history of nearby towns. A potential consideration? Given the popularity and the chance of sea animal sightings being unpredictable, don’t expect to see dolphins or turtles every single trip. Still, most people report fantastic encounters. This trip is ideal for those who want a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging journey that’s suitable for families, couples, and groups of friends.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money with swimming stops, water slides, and marine viewing
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with facts and fun stories
• Multiple scenic spots including Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove, Pirate Caves, and Lover’s Bridge
• Good for all ages thanks to swimming, slides, and the glass-bottom viewing deck
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay-later reservations
• Potential wildlife sightings are not guaranteed but are highly appreciated when they occur

The Experience in Detail

Easy Departure and Booking

Starting at Protaras Pier, the trip kicks off with a straightforward check-in process—just show your booking, arrive at least 10 minutes early, and get ready for three hours of coastal adventure. The tour runs in the daytime, with available times to suit most schedules. The process is smooth and stress-free, making it perfect for last-minute planners or those wanting to organize on the go.

The Boat: Comfort Meets Fun

The boat itself is spacious, clean, and well-equipped. It’s the largest glass-bottom vessel in the area, which means plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the views. The top deck offers shaded areas and sun loungers, while the fully air-conditioned underwater deck with 23 portholes provides a different perspective—close-up views of fish, turtles, and other marine creatures without getting wet.

Onboard, the atmosphere is lively but relaxed. The crew, including guides like Brian (mentioned in reviews), are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share insights about the coastline, caves, and local history. The bar is well-stocked with drinks and snacks, so you can purchase refreshments without having to leave the boat.

Scenic Highlights and Stops

This cruise features several well-loved spots along the coast, with each offering something unique:

• Cape Greco and Sea Caves: As you cruise past this protected national park, you’ll marvel at the jagged cliffs and sea caves. They’re a photographer’s dream and provide fantastic photo opportunities. The guide will likely point out interesting formations and tell stories about their formation—an added touch for history buffs.

• Lover’s Bridge and Pirate Caves: These iconic rock formations are fun to look at, and the stories behind them add to their allure. The guide’s commentary makes them more than just pretty rocks; they’re part of local lore.

• Famagusta “Ghost” Town: You’ll travel past the abandoned city, with insights into its poignant history, which adds a meaningful layer to the scenery.

• Fig Tree Bay: Recognized for its stunning sandy beach, this is a popular stop for photos and a quick swim.

• Blue Lagoon & Turtle Cove: These are the main attractions. The Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear waters tempt you to jump in for a swim, while Turtle Cove offers the chance to snorkel with sea turtles. Reviewers often mention the thrill of swimming with turtles—something many travelers rate as a highlight. The trip’s timing can influence wildlife sightings, but most are lucky enough to get close to these gentle creatures.

Activities and Amenities

Onboard fun is guaranteed. The water slides—two big slides for adults and a smaller one for kids—are a hit, providing a fun break from sightseeing. For those who want to stay dry, the diving show offers entertainment and a chance to learn about marine life.

For swimmers, the steps into the water and the diving platform make getting in and out easy, and life jackets are available for those who want them. The crew emphasizes safety and fun, and many reviews praise their helpfulness and friendliness.

The underwater deck is a star feature: from your air-conditioned vantage point, you can observe fish, sea turtles, and other marine life without having to swim. It’s particularly good for families with young children or non-swimmers.

Wildlife and Marine Encounters

While sightings of dolphins and turtles are not guaranteed, most travelers have positive experiences. Swimmers often report encountering sea turtles near Konnos Bay and other stops, with some reviews highlighting touching and swimming with these animals as unforgettable moments. The guides do their best to attract wildlife—scattering lettuce to lure fish and turtles close.

The Return and Atmosphere

As the boat heads back toward Protaras Pier, the atmosphere shifts to a relaxing vibe with music and good company. The scenic views of Connos Bay and Fig Tree Bay make for a lovely farewell. Many reviews mention the fun party atmosphere on the way back, with some even dancing onboard.

Practical Tips

• Bring your swimwear, towel, and snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater more closely.
• The bar offers refreshments, but you can also bring snacks if preferred.
• Check the departure times in advance, as they vary.
• This tour is suitable for families, couples, and groups—it’s a flexible, inclusive experience.
• No pets, smoking, alcohol, or fire allowed onboard for safety reasons.
• While dolphin and turtle sightings are common, remember that wild animals are unpredictable.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This cruise is a fantastic pick for travelers wanting a beautiful, relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy scenery. It’s especially good for families with kids (who love the slides and the glass-bottom viewing) and nature lovers eager to see marine life and dramatic coastal formations. The friendly guides and lively atmosphere make it accessible for all ages and activity levels.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a value-packed, fun, and scenic boat trip that combines natural beauty with interactive activities, this tour ticks all the boxes. The experienced guides and crew add value with their knowledge and friendly attitude, making every moment enjoyable. The chance to swim with turtles, explore sea caves, and see iconic landmarks like Lover’s Bridge makes this a memorable outing.

This experience is best suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with swimming and wildlife encounters without overcomplicating things. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed, engaging day out in Cyprus’s stunning coastline.

While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, most leave with fantastic stories of their encounters and a camera full of beautiful photos. The mix of scenic stops, onboard fun, and educational commentary makes this cruise a worthwhile investment for a memorable day by the sea.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is great for families. Kids particularly enjoy the water slides and the glass-bottom deck, and the crew is attentive to safety.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard. There is a bar with a selection of beverages and snacks.

How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with departure times varying. Check availability for specific starting times.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Snorkel gear is not provided, so bringing your own is recommended if you want to explore underwater more closely.

Can I expect to see dolphins or turtles?
Wildlife sightings depend on the day, but most travelers report seeing turtles and sometimes dolphins. The guides scatter lettuce to attract fish and turtles, increasing your chances.

Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available, so you can share your photos or stay connected during the trip.

What should I wear?
Swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothes are ideal. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

Is there parking nearby?
While not explicitly stated, Protaras Pier is usually accessible by car, and parking options are generally available nearby.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Whether you’re after a scenic cruise, wildlife encounters, or just a relaxing day on the water, this trip from Protaras offers a well-balanced experience. With friendly guides, engaging activities, and the chance to see some of Cyprus’s most iconic sights, it’s an outing that many find well worth the time and money.