Karnic SL702-Self Drive boat with WC,Cabin, BT music and shower

Imagine steering your own speedboat along the stunning coastline of Cyprus, feeling the wind in your hair and the salt spray on your face. That’s precisely what the Karnic SL702 Self-Drive Boat Tour offers—a chance to take the wheel of a powerful 250hp speedboat, with all the comforts of a cabin, WC, shower, and sunshade. This experience is designed for those craving a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and independence on the water.

What really appeals to us about this tour is how it blends self-guided exploration with safety and expert oversight. You’re in control of your vessel, yet surrounded by a professional team ready to assist if needed. The boat’s features, such as the cabin and WC, make it a surprisingly comfortable way to spend several hours on the water, even if you’re not used to piloting boats regularly.

One aspect to consider is the fuel surcharge—an extra cost payable at check-in that’s outside the tour provider’s control. While this adds to the total expense, many find the overall value justified by the unique experience of navigating their own speedboat in a beautiful setting. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic views, and family-friendly fun, offering a memorable day on the Mediterranean for all ages.

Key Points

• Self-Driving Freedom: You control your boat, with a briefing and safety instructions provided beforehand.
• Comfort & Convenience: The vessel comes equipped with a cabin, toilet, shower, and sunshade, making it suitable for longer outings.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking sights of the Cyprus coastline and the Akamas Peninsula from a unique vantage point.
• Family-Friendly: The tour is suitable for kids and adults alike, with reviews highlighting fun learning experiences for children.
• Professional Guidance: A friendly watersports team provides safety oversight and is reachable via radio contact.
• Value for Money: Priced at around $468 for a group of up to 9, including all the comforts, it’s a good investment for an active day on the water.

A Deep Dive into the Speedboat Experience

Starting Point: Latchi Watersports Centre

Your adventure begins at the Latchi Watersports Centre, situated in the charming harbor of Polis Crysochous. This location is convenient, with easy access by public transportation, and offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the team, who will give you a thorough briefing about the Akamas coastline and how to operate your vessel safely.

The briefing is crucial—think of it as your mini-lesson in boat piloting, designed to make even first-timers comfortable behind the wheel. The team emphasizes safety, and you’ll be given lifejackets (which are required for all passengers) and access to the cool box for drinks and snacks.

The Boat: A Practical and Well-Equipped Vessel

The Karnic SL702 boasts a 250hp engine, promising enough power for swift cruising and exploring the coastline at your own pace. The boat’s cabin provides shelter if you want to escape the sun temporarily, or if the weather turns unpredictable. A WC and shower add a level of comfort that’s often unexpected on similar watercraft, making it feasible to spend several hours on the water without feeling cramped or uncomfortable.

The sunshade is a welcome feature, especially during the hot Cypriot summer months, providing some respite from the intense Mediterranean sun. Meanwhile, the cool box allows you to keep drinks cool—perfect for staying refreshed during a day on the water.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Latchi Watersports Centre marks the starting point, where you’ll meet your crew and get your safety instructions. The initial 30-minute briefing might seem brief, but it packs enough information to ensure you’re comfortable handling the boat. The team is friendly and eager to share tips, making it more of a fun, interactive session than a formal lesson.

Driving the Boat: After the briefing, you’re handed the keys—literally—and invited to take the helm. Many reviewers, including Anette_S, mention how much they appreciated the guidance and the chance to learn knots and basic boat handling from the crew. Once underway, you’ll enjoy cruising along the coast, with the option to explore various spots along the Akamas Peninsula.

The Views: A Highlight of the Tour

What sets this experience apart is the chance to see Cyprus from a completely different perspective—from the water. The coastline here offers stunning blue waters, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves, many of which are inaccessible from land. The reviews mention how beautiful the seas are, with one guest noting, “Beautiful blue seas,” capturing the serenity and vivid color of the water.

You might find yourself stopping at secluded bays for a quick swim or simply cruising along and admiring the scenery. The open water also provides chances for fun water sports, if you’re interested, as the watersports team keeps you in radio contact should you want to coordinate activities.

The Experience: Authentic, Relaxed, and Fun

From the reviews, it’s clear that many guests find this tour to be a relaxing yet exciting way to spend part of their holiday. The ability to pilot your own boat appeals to those seeking independence and adventure, but the safety oversight means you don’t need to be an expert captain.

The highlight for some, like the reviewer who loved the “loads to see and lots to learn,” is the personalized interaction with the crew, especially with Captain David, who is praised for his friendliness and patience. Kids are often delighted by the experience—learning knots, spotting sea life, or simply enjoying the thrill of steering.

Practical Details & Pricing: What You Need to Know

At $468.40 for up to nine people, the tour offers good value considering the amenities and the fun of self-driving a speedboat. Keep in mind the fuel surcharge isn’t included in this price, so budget for that extra fee at check-in. The tour duration varies from 1 to 8 hours, giving you the flexibility to choose a quick trip or a full-day adventure.

Booking is straightforward, with most trips booked around 15 days in advance. The private nature of the tour means you won’t share the boat with strangers, adding to the sense of freedom and personalization.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy water-based activities. The boat’s features make it suitable even for those who might not be seasoned boaters but want to try steering in a safe environment. It’s perfect for those looking for a combination of exploration, scenic beauty, and active fun.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a unique way to experience Cyprus’s coastline, this self-drive speedboat tour ticks many boxes. The combination of power, comfort, and scenic access makes it stand out among typical boat trips. The ability to control your own vessel provides a real sense of achievement and freedom, and the safety briefing and communication system ensure peace of mind.

Reviewers consistently praise the views, the helpful crew, and the ease of piloting the boat. The luxury features like the WC and shower are a bonus, allowing for longer, more comfortable excursions. However, keep in mind the extra fuel surcharge and the need to book in advance, especially during peak season.

This tour offers a memorable, active day on the water that balances thrill, comfort, and scenic beauty—ideal for those craving an authentic experience beyond typical sightseeing.

FAQs

Can I drive the boat myself?
Yes, the tour is designed for self-driving, but you’ll first receive a briefing and safety instructions from the crew before taking the wheel.

What amenities are included on the boat?
The vessel has a cabin, toilet, shower, sunshade, and cool box, making it comfortable for longer trips or relaxing breaks.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is suitable for families with children, though specific age restrictions aren’t detailed. It’s best to check with the provider if you have young kids.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from about 1 hour up to 8 hours, depending on your booking choice.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, a fuel surcharge is payable at check-in. It’s not included in the listed price and varies depending on consumption.

How do I book this experience?
Most bookings are made around 15 days in advance, and it’s a private tour for your group, so only your party will be on the boat.

Whether you’re seeking a fun family adventure or a solo thrill, this self-drive speedboat experience in Cyprus offers a delightful mix of freedom, comfort, and spectacular scenery. It’s a chance to see the coast from a fresh angle while enjoying the thrill of piloting your own vessel in crystal-clear waters.