Paphos: Half-Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar and Snorkeling

If you’re after a laid-back day on the water with good food, drinks, and some playful swimming, this half-day BBQ cruise from Paphos ticks all the boxes. With the promise of comfortable decks, an open bar, live music, and a stop at Coral Bay for swimming and snorkeling, it’s a popular choice for those wanting a balanced mix of relaxation and fun.

What makes this trip stand out? We loved the guaranteed sunbeds for adults, which means no fighting for a spot in the sun, and the top-quality BBQ lunch cooked right on board—not to mention the friendly, attentive staff and lively entertainment.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the trip offers only one stop at Coral Bay—so if you’re hoping for multiple swimming or snorkeling locations, you might find the time a bit limited. That said, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, all-in-one experience without the hassle of multiple stops.

This tour suits families, couples, or groups of friends looking for an easy, enjoyable day on the water with plenty of opportunities to unwind, socialize, and soak up the scenery.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: Guaranteed sunbeds for all adults ensure a relaxing day without the scramble for space.
• Gourmet BBQ: Expect freshly cooked burgers, marinated chicken, sausages, and fresh seafood, all served with salads and dips.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: The open bar features local drinks and cocktails, making it easy to stay refreshed.
• One Beautiful Stop: The highlight stop at Coral Bay offers ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy talented performers and live music, creating a lively, summery vibe onboard.
• Excellent Value: Considering food, drinks, entertainment, and the scenic cruise, this experience offers great value for money.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Sail from Paphos Harbour

The tour kicks off promptly at 11:00 am from Paphos Harbour, a lively hub packed with cafes and boats. You’ll want to arrive about 30 minutes early to pass through ticket control and get settled. Once aboard the Wave Dancer, you’re greeted by a spacious, well-maintained vessel equipped for comfort and fun.

The Cruise and Scenic Views

The journey mainly heads toward the Coral Bay area, famed for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coastline. The crew — led by friendly guides like Chris, who is praised for his entertaining banter and insightful commentary — make the trip feel like a friendly day out with knowledgeable hosts. Reviewers consistently mention how attentive and safety-conscious the staff are, whether checking that everyone is comfortable or monitoring swimming safety.

The Coral Bay Stop

The main attraction is the stop at Coral Bay, where the turquoise waters beckon for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Bring your own snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater, as some reviewers noted they supplied their own. The bay’s calm, transparent waters are ideal for both novice and experienced swimmers. Several reviews highlight how well-organized the snorkeling stop is — with plenty of life jackets, noodles, and a safe environment.

Reviewer Lucy, who traveled with her boyfriend, described this stop as “the perfect amount of time in the water,” emphasizing how beautiful the scenery was. Others appreciated the opportunity to relax on soft, provided soft noodles or even use an inflatable slide, adding a splash of fun.

The BBQ Feast

While anchored, the top deck transforms into a lively open kitchen where a delicious BBQ lunch is prepared in front of guests. The menu includes homemade burgers, marinated chicken, sausages, and seasonal seafood options like cod or tuna in summer months. Accompanying the mains are roasted potatoes, pita bread, and a variety of salads and dips. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and plentifulness of the food, describing it as “super good,” with some calling it “fresh and flavorful,” surpassing expectations for a boat lunch.

Live music performers keep the atmosphere upbeat, with talented singers and guitarists creating a summery, holiday vibe. Many reviews note how entertainment is “brilliant” and enhances the overall experience, making the trip feel more like a celebration than just a cruise.

Drinks and Entertainment

The onboard bar is fully stocked with local drinks, including cocktails, soft drinks, and water, all included in the price for the 4-hour duration. The friendly bartenders ensure your glasses stay filled, and the live performers keep the energy high, with some reviews describing the music as “a lovely relaxing atmosphere” and “good vibes all around.”

Additional Facilities and Comfort

This trip’s guaranteed sunbeds for adults are a notable perk—reviewers love the ability to lounge comfortably without fighting for space. The boat boasts modern washroom facilities and showers, which are especially appreciated after swimming or kayaking.

What Travelers Are Saying

The glowing reviews tell us a lot about what makes this trip memorable. Many comments highlight the amazing value for money, with guests feeling they received a lot more than they paid for. For example, one reviewer said, “What you get for your money is incredible,” praising the food, drinks, entertainment, and comfort.

The entertainment gets particular praise, especially the live singers, with one reviewer comparing the guitarist to Mark Knopfler — high praise for a casual boat trip! Guests also love the friendly, attentive staff — keeping safety in check while ensuring everyone has fun.

Safety is a recurring theme, with reviews emphasizing how staff constantly check and remind guests about safety, which reassures families — from young children to older adults. The boat’s spacious layout and plentiful sunbeds contribute significantly to the relaxed feeling onboard.

Something for Everyone

From lively music and dancing to quiet moments drifting on the water, this trip balances social fun with peaceful relaxation. Families with kids appreciate the soft noodles, inflatable slide, and safety measures, while couples and friends love the scenic views, good food, and drinks.

Some Points to Consider

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention that the single stop at Coral Bay means there’s only one swimming opportunity, which might be a downside if you’re hoping for multiple spots. Also, since the trip is only four hours, those seeking extensive exploration or multiple snorkeling spots might find it a bit limiting.

Why This Tour Works Well

If you’re looking for a relaxed, all-in-one seaside experience that combines scenic cruising, delicious food, drinks, and entertainment, this cruise hits the mark. The easygoing pace, friendly staff, and comfortable setup make it ideal for those wanting to unwind without feeling rushed.

It’s especially good for families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy a lively atmosphere but also value safety, comfort, and quality. The inclusive drinks and plentiful food mean you won’t need to worry about extra costs, making it a straightforward, value-packed day.

Who Would Love This Experience?

Travelers who enjoy a good mix of relaxation and entertainment will find this cruise appealing. Those who appreciate well-organized tours with friendly guides and a focus on comfort will be especially happy. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the scenic beauty of Paphos’s coastline without the hassle of multiple stops or complicated itineraries.

If you’re after beautiful swimming spots, good food, lively music, and a friendly crew, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience that’s both fun and relaxing. Families with children, couples celebrating a holiday, or groups of friends looking for a memorable day out will find a lot to love here.

FAQs

Is the BBQ lunch included in the price?
Yes, the freshly cooked BBQ lunch is part of the package, served on the top deck while the boat is anchored.

Are drinks included?
The tour features an all-inclusive open bar with local drinks and cocktails for four hours, so you can enjoy unlimited drinks during the trip.

How many stops are there?
There is only one main stop at Coral Bay for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The rest of the cruise is spent cruising along the coast with entertainment and socializing.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the stop and while lounging on deck. If you plan to snorkel, bringing your own goggles is recommended.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While designed as an adults’ sunbed guarantee, the trip is family-friendly, with safety and comfort prioritized for all ages. Kids can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and the inflatable slide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

This half-day BBQ cruise from Paphos combines scenic views, friendly service, lively entertainment, and excellent food into a memorable seaside escape. Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the water or a fun gathering with loved ones, it’s a trip that offers good value and plenty of genuine moments to cherish.