Cape Greco, Blue Lagoon and Protaras Boat Tours

Introduction

If you’re looking to explore the best natural sights around Protaras in Cyprus without breaking the bank, the Cape Greco, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove boat tour might just be your ticket. This roughly 2.5-hour cruise offers a mix of scenic landscapes, memorable swimming opportunities, and educational commentary—all from the comfort of a boat that departs right from Protaras jetty.

One of the things we love about this experience is the chance to see iconic spots like Fig Tree Bay, Konnos Bay, and the famous sea caves, all while enjoying a laid-back ride over calm waters. The highlight for many travelers is the opportunity to swim in the Blue Lagoon, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, and to snorkel near Turtle Cove, where you might spot some of Cyprus’s protected sea turtles.

However, a potential drawback is that the tour’s commentary isn’t perfectly audible due to unclear speakers, which might leave history buffs or curious travelers wanting more context during the trip. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, easy swims, and want a relaxed way to see some of Cyprus’s stunning coastal features without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Views: Experience iconic beaches and caves from the water.
• Swim Stops Include Turtles Cove: Opportunity to swim with sea turtles, weather permitting.
• Educational Component: Captain explains Cyprus’s history, including the 1974 conflict.
• Affordable Price: At just over $23, it offers good value for a scenic boat trip.
• Short but Sweet: Perfect for travelers with limited time or families seeking a gentle cruise.
• Light Crowd: Max of 175 travelers, making the experience comfortably social.

An In-Depth Look at the Cape Greco, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour departs from Protaras Pier, a convenient starting point close to public transportation options. The boat, named Napa King II, is operated by Protaras boat, a company with a decent reputation and a friendly onboard team. With a price tag of $23.15 per person, this experience is quite accessible, especially considering it includes visits to several top sights and swimming stops.

The journey begins as the boat slices through calm waters towards the sea borders near Famagusta, where the guide provides a brief but meaningful explanation of Cyprus’s complex history, touching on events from 1974. While some reviews mention the speakers aren’t the clearest—like one reviewer who noted “it wasn’t easy to hear the captain talking”—the information shared still adds a layer of context that enriches the experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Famagusta Ghost Town and Sea Borders

The trip kicks off with a view of Famagusta’s ghost town from the sea. This is a poignant moment, reflecting on the island’s divided past. The guide’s commentary here is appreciated, even if not crystal clear, and provides a brief historical overview. For history enthusiasts, this side of the tour offers a valuable, if succinct, educational element.

Cruising Past Fig Tree Bay and Konnos Bay

Next, the boat glides past the famed Fig Tree Bay, known for its golden sands and turquoise waters, and Konnos Bay, a favorite among locals for its natural beauty. These scenic views set the tone for a peaceful ride. As you pass by, you’ll see the Sea Caves—photogenic formations that are perfect for snapping some memorable shots. The caves are one of the highlights, offering a rugged, natural backdrop and some fun spots for photos.

Cape Greco and its Sea Caves

The boat then reaches the Cape Greco National Forest Park, a highlight with its striking sea caves and the chance to admire the coastline from a different perspective. The caves are officially included in the stop, giving you about 20 minutes to explore or simply marvel at the natural artistry. Expect clear water, interesting rock formations, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Blue Lagoon – The Main Swimming Stop

The most anticipated part of this tour is the Blue Lagoon. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and offers swim opportunities in water so transparent it’s almost surreal. The lagoon’s vivid blue hues make it an Instagram magnet, but more than that, it’s genuinely relaxing. Many reviewers, including one who called it a “short and wonderful trip,” appreciate this time to float and snorkel in calm, warm waters.

Turtles Cove for Marine Encounters

After the Blue Lagoon, the boat heads to Turtles Cove for an additional 15-minute swimming stop, weather permitting. This is where you’ll have the chance to see and perhaps swim with sea turtles, which is a real treat for wildlife lovers. The admission here is free, making this experience even more appealing. While some may wish for longer in this area, the short stop is enough to get a glimpse of these gentle creatures.

What to Expect During the Stops

The stops are straightforward and designed to maximize your time in the water. Expect about half an hour at Blue Lagoon—long enough for a refreshing dip, some snorkeling, and photos. The Turtles Cove stop is brief but memorable; many reviewers mention the joy of swimming with turtles and the clear waters that make snorkeling easy.

Weather and Sea Conditions: Since the tour’s success depends heavily on good weather, check the forecast before booking. In poor weather, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, and the company offers full refunds if this happens.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to explore underwater more thoroughly—though the tour provides free access to the Turtle Cove area.
• Sun protection is essential—think hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.
• Arrive at the pier a few minutes early to avoid missing the departure.
• If you’re sensitive to noise, note that the speakers can be unclear, so consider bringing your own headphones/earbuds if you want to listen to the commentary more clearly.

What the Reviews Say

With a 4 out of 5 rating based on 10 reviews, most travelers find this trip a good value and a memorable experience. One reviewer called it a “short and wonderful trip,” emphasizing the beauty of swimming with turtles. Others pointed out that while the trip is well-organized and scenic, the audio quality for the narration could be improved.

The experience clearly appeals to families, solo travelers, and couples looking for a relaxed day out that combines sightseeing, swimming, and light history. The group size, with a maximum of 175 travelers, keeps it lively but not overcrowded.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers seeking an affordable, scenic, and family-friendly way to see some of Cyprus’s most beautiful coastlines and natural features. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy easy swimming, short excursions, and informative guides—even if the audio isn’t perfect. If you’re after a laid-back day with opportunities to relax and take photos, this trip fits the bill.

However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into Cyprus’s history or more extensive snorkeling, you might find this experience somewhat limited. It’s best for those who want a snapshot of the area with a focus on stunning views and wildlife encounters.

The Sum Up

The Cape Greco, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove boat tour offers excellent value for money and a chance to enjoy some of Cyprus’s most famous coastal sights effortlessly. The scenic passages, crystal waters, and chance to swim with turtles combine to make this a memorable outing, especially for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

While the commentary could be clearer, the stunning scenery and relaxed pace make up for it. It’s a practical choice for those who want a well-organized, affordable, and family-friendly adventure that balances sightseeing with leisure.

If you’re after a gentle boat trip that provides fantastic photo opportunities and a little wildlife magic, this tour is worth considering. Just bring your swimwear, sunscreen, and a spirit of adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the short duration and calm waters make it suitable for families with children, especially those comfortable with swimming and boat rides.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Protaras Pier, a convenient location near public transportation.

What can I expect to see?
You’ll see iconic beaches like Fig Tree Bay, Konnos Bay, sea caves, the Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove. There’s also a brief explanation of Cyprus’s historical context at sea borders.

Are there opportunities for swimming?
Yes, the Blue Lagoon offers about 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling, and Turtle Cove has a 15-minute swim stop if weather permits.

Is food or drinks included?
The tour doesn’t mention any included food or drinks, so bring your own refreshments if needed.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, snorkeling gear if you prefer your own, and a towel. Waterproof cameras or phones are great for capturing the scenery.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This well-rounded, authentic review aims to give you all the practical details and honest insights needed to decide if this trip fits your Cyprus itinerary. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, wildlife encounters, or scenic views, this boat tour offers a taste of the island’s coastal beauty.