Odyssey Boat Safari from Larnaca

If you’re looking for a memorable way to explore Cyprus’s gorgeous coastline, the Odyssey Boat Safari from Larnaca offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, fun activities, and relaxing moments. With a 4.0-star rating from 20 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour a worthwhile way to spend half a day on the water. From the iconic Zenobia shipwreck to the dramatic sea caves and Love Bridge, this cruise packs a lot of the island’s highlights into just five hours. The added bonus of a BBQ buffet and open bar makes it a flexible and enjoyable outing for many.

What really stands out about this experience is the chance to snorkel at multiple stops—perfect for those wanting a closer look at Cyprus’s underwater life—and the stunning vistas you’ll enjoy along the way. However, a small consideration is that some reviews mention the boat’s appearance isn’t quite what was expected based on promotional images, and the transfer arrangements can sometimes be a bit unpredictable. This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded day on the sea with lots of photo opportunities, good food, and a friendly crew.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: The tour covers iconic spots like Love Bridge, Cape Pyla, Cape Greco, and the Zenobia shipwreck.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Multiple stops allow for underwater exploration, giving you a chance to spot local marine life.
• All-Inclusive: Buffet lunch, fruits, and an open bar are included, making it a value-packed experience.
• Transport & Convenience: Pickup from most Larnaca hotels and transfer back from Protaras streamline the day.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Up to 150 travelers, with weather conditions influencing the experience.
• Mixed Reviews: While most find it enjoyable, some note the boat’s appearance and the animation style as minor drawbacks.

Exploring the Itinerary

Starting Point: Larnaca Marina

Your day begins at the lively Larnaca Marina, where the boat departs promptly at 9:00 am. The first stop is the Zenobia shipwreck, often cited as one of the world’s top 10 wreck dives, which is a huge attraction for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Reviewers mention the wreck as a highlight, with some noting it’s fun to swim around and see divers exploring the site. One traveler pointed out that although the boat itself isn’t exactly as shown in promotional photos, the crew’s friendly attitude made up for it, ensuring everyone had a good time.

The Zenobia Wreck

This Swedish cargo ferry sank in 1980 and has since become a haven for snorkelers and divers. You’re given 30 minutes here, which might not seem long, but it’s enough to get a good look at the massive structure and observe the marine life. Multiple reviews praised this stop, with one traveler saying it was “an absolute blast” and a favorite part of the tour. The experience of swimming close to such a well-preserved wreck is not just visually impressive but also quite surreal. You’ll love the way the sunlight filters through the water and illuminates the rusty, coral-encrusted steel.

Passing Iconic Beaches & Cape Greco

Next, your boat glides past some of Cyprus’s most celebrated beaches, giving you postcard-worthy views. From there, it’s on to Cape Greco, a rugged headland famous for its dramatic cliffs and sea caves. Along the way, you’ll pass by Love Bridge—an unusual rock formation that’s become a symbol of romance—and approach the Pirate Caves, which historically served as hideouts for pirates and smugglers. These caves are a photographer’s dream and a fun swim stop for those brave enough to explore the nooks and crannies.

Sea Caves & Blue Lagoon

This stop is a favorite among travelers, who appreciate the chance to snap photos of the striking rock formations and clear waters. The review mentions a “photo stop at the picturesque sea caves,” which is exactly what you’ll get—an opportunity to capture the natural beauty and walk along the rocks if you wish. The Blue Lagoon, renowned for its turquoise waters, is typically included in the stop, offering another excellent swimming spot. As one reviewer said, “swimming here felt like being in a postcard,” with calm waters perfect for relaxing and snorkeling.

Approaching Famagusta & the Ghost Town

The cruise then follows the shoreline toward Protaras, with a brief mention of Famagusta’s abandoned city. Travelers interested in history or urban exploration will find this glimpse intriguing. The boat’s commentary provides context about the ghost town, making it a compelling, if fleeting, cultural pause.

Kalamies Beach & Return

The tour ends at Kalamies Beach, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. After about 30 minutes to unwind on the beach, the group is transferred back to Larnaca Marina. Opinions differ on the bus transfer; some find it seamless, while others, like one review, mention being left without transport back to their hotel, which is worth noting for planning purposes.

What You Can Expect on the Boat

The Odyssey Boat offers full facilities, including sunbeds, snorkeling gear, and a spacious deck for relaxing or sunbathing. The boat’s amenities ensure comfort throughout the trip, especially with the availability of soft drinks, wine, lemonade, coffee, and zivania (a local spirit). The buffet lunch, described as hearty and tasty, features a barbecue and fresh fruits—perfect for refueling after swimming. Several reviews highlight the quality of the food, calling it “delicious” and “more than enough to satisfy everyone.”

The crew is generally friendly and attentive, with some reviewers mentioning they went out of their way to make birthday celebrations special or to accommodate specific needs. However, some noted that the onboard entertainment and announcements could be a bit over the top or repetitive, which might not suit all tastes.

The Experience’s Strengths & Considerations

Strengths include the variety of stops which allow for multiple swimming and snorkeling opportunities—something travelers truly value. The inclusion of a buffet and open bar adds to the day’s enjoyment, making it a good value for the price. The scenic route along Cyprus’s coast offers plenty of photo opportunities and a relaxed vibe.

Possible drawbacks include the appearance of the boat, which some feel doesn’t quite match promotional photos. The entertainment style might be too lively or loud for some, and the transfer arrangements are not always consistent—some travelers reported being left without transport back to their hotel. Also, weather conditions can impact the trip’s overall quality; the tour is weather-dependent and can be canceled or altered if conditions aren’t suitable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy scenic views. It’s suitable for those who want a hassle-free experience, thanks to hotel pickups and all-inclusives like food and drinks. It’s also good for adventure seekers eager to explore the Zenobia wreck and the sea caves. However, travelers seeking a quieter, more subdued experience might want to skip the lively onboard announcements and animation.

The Sum Up

The Odyssey Boat Safari from Larnaca offers a well-rounded glimpse of Cyprus’s coast, blending exhilarating stops like the Zenobia wreck with tranquil swimming spots. It’s perfect for those who want to see the island from the water, enjoy local cuisine, and partake in snorkeling adventures—all while soaking up stunning scenery. The included buffet and open bar make it a great value, especially when considering the multiple stops and full amenities.

While the boat’s appearance and onboard entertainment aren’t for everyone, the overall experience delivers genuine moments of joy—whether you’re marveling at the wreck, taking photos at Love Bridge, or lounging on the deck with a glass of wine. This tour best suits those who appreciate a mix of adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty, and who don’t mind a lively atmosphere.

For anyone wanting a fun, scenic, and memorable day that balances activity with relaxation, the Odyssey Boat Safari is a solid choice—especially if you book a few days in advance to secure your spot.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most hotels in Larnaca are covered for pickup, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the entire tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, beginning at 9:00 am and ending at Kalamies Beach before transfer back.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transfer to and from the boat, a buffet lunch with fruits, an open bar (soft drinks, wine, lemonade, zivania, coffee, tea), and access to all onboard amenities like sunbeds and snorkeling gear.

Can I snorkel at the wreck and caves?
Absolutely. You’ll have multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling, with around 30 minutes at each site, enough to explore underwater and photograph the scenery.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
Weather conditions can impact the trip, and some reviews mention that the boat’s appearance might not match promotional images. Also, the transfer back from Protaras isn’t guaranteed to be seamless for everyone, so plan accordingly.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 11 days ahead, especially during peak season, to secure their spot and preferred date.

This detailed review hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect from the Odyssey Boat Safari. Whether it’s the allure of the shipwreck, the beauty of the caves, or simply relaxing on deck with good food and drinks, this tour offers a genuine taste of Cyprus’s maritime charm.