Protaras: DREAM Luxury Yacht Cruise w/ Slide, BBQ & 1 Drink

Protaras: DREAM Luxury Yacht Cruise w/ Slide, BBQ & 1 Drink – An Authentic Day on the Water

This luxury yacht cruise in Protaras offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural insight, all wrapped into a 3.5-hour journey. We’re talking about a beautifully maintained yacht, a variety of scenic stops, and plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. With reviews often highlighting the friendly crew, stunning views, and good value, this experience seems to deliver plenty of memorable moments without breaking the bank.

What truly catches the eye is the huge inflatable slide—a hit for kids and kids-at-heart alike—and the well-cooked, generous food on board. But as with any tour, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as the potential for a change in itinerary due to weather or sea conditions. This cruise appears best suited for families, small groups, and anyone looking to combine sightseeing with some fun in the water.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal journey with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and turtle spotting
• Informative guides share insights about Varosha and other local sights
• Excellent value with a delicious, regionally-inspired lunch included
• Family-friendly with features like a water slide and kid-approved meal options
• Relaxed atmosphere with options for shaded and sunny seating
• Good reviews for crew friendliness, boat cleanliness, and overall experience

A Luxurious Day on the Water with Practical Perks

This 3.5-hour cruise departs from Protaras and takes you along the coastline, offering a perfect mix of sightseeing and leisure. The boat, called the St Georgios II, is a modern, well-equipped vessel that combines style with comfort. During the trip, you’ll get panoramic views of the rugged coastline, past iconic sights like Fig Tree Bay, Lovers Bridge, and the Holy Trinity Church at Cape Greco.

The boat itself is designed for a family-friendly experience, with a relax deck for sunbathing and an air-conditioned lounge for those seeking shade or cooler comfort. The captain’s table at the front becomes a social hub, where everyone chats while enjoying the scenery. It’s a thoughtfully laid-out boat that balances social spaces with private areas, making it easy for everyone to find their preferred spot.

The itinerary is carefully crafted, starting with a view of Famagusta’s Varosha, the ghost town that symbolizes the island’s divided past. Guides share succinct insights into the 1974 events that reshaped Cyprus. The commentary is in English, Greek, and Arabic, with written guides available in multiple languages on the cruise app, which adds a layer of inclusivity.

The Highlights of the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Famagusta & Varosha: A Glimpse into Cyprus’s Past

The tour kicks off with a scenic cruise towards Famagusta, stopping briefly to admire the abandoned Varosha. This area is a stark reminder of Cyprus’s divided history, and the guide explains the story with clarity and sensitivity. We loved the way the guide, often described as very knowledgeable, provided context that made the ghost town come alive in a respectful manner, making it more than just a photo stop. Reviewer comments mention the “scenic views” and the “guided tour,” emphasizing that the stop isn’t just about snapping pictures but understanding the significance.

Coastal Sights: Fig Tree Bay & Cape Greco

Sailing along the coast, you’ll pass Fig Tree Bay, famed for its crystal-clear waters and fine sands. As the boat hugs the shoreline, you’ll get plenty of chances to take photos. The Cape Greco National Park Area offers stunning backdrops—Lovers Bridge, Agioi Anargyri Church, and the Sancta Maria Shrine. These spots are “instagram moments”, as many reviewers note, perfect for capturing memorable scenes.

Blue Lagoon: The Main Swim & Snorkel Stop

The highlight for many is the stop at the Blue Lagoon, where the boat anchors in turquoise waters. The lagoon is renowned for its warm, vibrant blue color and marine life. Here, you can swim, snorkel, and even try out the huge inflatable slide, which is described by one reviewer as “breath-taking”. Snorkeling gear is available with a refundable deposit (20 EUR), and the crew graciously provides life jackets—important for less confident swimmers.

One reviewer mentioned, “the water slide is not so painless,” which is worth noting—it’s definitely fun, but perhaps not the smoothest ride. The lagoon’s calm waters and clear visibility make it an ideal spot for families, and the multiple reviews rave about the plenty of time allocated for swimming, which is not always the case on short cruises.

Turtle Bay & Marine Wildlife

Re-tracing the route, the boat stops again at Turtle Bay, where many hope to see turtles in their natural environment. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the reviews indicate that many guests are fortunate enough to spot them, including one who described it as “unforgettable”. The crew’s enthusiasm and patience enhance the experience, making it more engaging.

Lunch & Drinks: Authentic Cypriot Flavors

A major highlight for us was the local, homemade lunch served onboard—a true value add. It includes baked chicken, homemade chipped potatoes, Cyprus couscous, salad, bread, and Tzatziki, with vegetarian and kid-friendly options available upon request. Reviewers consistently praise the generous portions and authentic taste, emphasizing that it surpasses expectations for a boat meal.

The bar remains open throughout, offering a complimentary drink (beer, wine, soft drink, or juice), with additional drinks available for purchase. One reviewer noted the good selection of drinks at reasonable prices, which contributes to a relaxed, social atmosphere.

The Return & WiFi Share

As the cruise winds down, you’ll sail past the scenic coastline once more, with plenty of photo opportunities. Many guests mention enjoying free WiFi onboard, which helps share the stunning views with friends and family. The cruise ends with optional resort transfers, although some reviews highlight that once the transfer bus is full, guests must arrange independent transportation.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Booking & Transportation

You can opt for transfer included or meet directly at the boat. Transfers are arranged from a selection of resorts, and guests appreciated the timely pickups. One review mentioned that pickup times are confirmed after booking, but it’s worth being flexible as schedules can shift due to sea conditions.

Duration & Group Size

The 3.5-hour tour is a perfect length for a relaxed day without feeling rushed. The group size appears to be moderate, ensuring a friendly atmosphere where everyone gets enough time in the water, and the crew can give personalized attention.

Cost & Value

At $41 per person, the cruise provides excellent value. The included lunch, WiFi, and a free drink make it a well-rounded experience that’s cheaper than many land-based excursions for the variety of activities and sights it offers. Reviewers emphasize that the quality of food and friendliness of staff make this a worthwhile purchase.

Accessibility & Suitability

While the boat is modern and clean, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the need to navigate about 15 steps to board and the stairs to access toilets. This tour is best suited for active guests comfortable with boats and outdoor activities.

Authentic Experiences from Guest Reviews

Many visitors highlight the knowledgeability of the guides, with comments praising their ability to tell stories clearly and humorously. For example, one reviewer appreciated the “informative and fun” commentary in multiple languages, enhancing the overall experience.

The crew’s friendliness often gets special mention, with guests describing them as “super friendly,” “professional,” and “warm.” This consistent theme adds a genuine, welcoming feel that makes the cruise memorable.

The food quality repeatedly impresses guests, with many mentioning that the lunch is “delicious,” “generous,” and “authentic.” The inclusion of regional dishes like Tzatziki and Cyprus couscous adds to the cultural flavor.

The water slide remains a signature feature, especially appreciated by families and children. Despite some comments on it being “not so painless,” the fun factor outweighs any minor discomfort, according to reviews.

Finally, guests love the opportunity to see turtles, with many describing it as a highlight. Even those who didn’t see them still appreciated the peaceful, scenic stops and the chance to simply relax in the sun and sea.

The Sum Up: Is This Cruise Right for You?

This Protaras yacht cruise offers an engaging mix of sightseeing, water fun, and regional flavors, all wrapped into a friendly, family-oriented package. The ample swimming and snorkeling time, combined with the informative guides and delicious lunch, makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural insight. The value for money is evident in the quality of the food, the variety of sights, and the friendly crew.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy adventure, scenic views, and good food, this cruise will likely tick all your boxes. It’s especially suited for those looking for a relaxed pace, with enough time for swimming, photos, and enjoying the surroundings. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a very long, in-depth cultural tour, this might not be the best fit.

This cruise is praised for its thoughtful organization, friendly atmosphere, and memorable stops—a perfect way to spend part of your Cypriot holiday on the water.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention kids enjoying the water slide and swimming stops. The boat has life jackets for less confident swimmers, making it family-friendly.

Are vegetarian options available?
Absolutely. The onboard lunch includes a vegetarian patty, and you can request chicken nuggets for kids—just let the staff know when you board.

How long are the swimming stops?
Each stop generally offers around 45 minutes, giving enough time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the water.

Can I see turtles?
Turtle sightings are not guaranteed, but many guests do see them, especially at Turtle Bay, which is included in the itinerary.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Cypriot lunch is served onboard, with generous portions including baked chicken, potatoes, couscous, and salads.

What drinks are included?
You get one complimentary drink—beer, wine, soda, or juice—and additional drinks are available for purchase at the bar.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility impairments?
No, access involves navigating about 15 steps, and the toilets are only reachable by stairs.

Can I book transfers?
Yes, transfers from selected resorts are available and confirmed after booking. Some reviews recommend booking early as the transfer buses fill up.

What should I bring?
Towels, sunscreen, cash, credit cards, and possibly a waterproof bag for valuables.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change due to sea conditions. The crew will do their best to ensure a good experience, but some flexibility is advisable.

This yacht cruise in Protaras offers a well-rounded day with stunning views, fun water activities, and authentic regional cuisine—all delivered by a friendly crew in a comfortable setting. Whether you’re after family fun, scenic photography, or just a relaxing boat ride, this experience hits the mark for many travelers looking for real value and genuine moments on their Cypriot holiday.