Protaras: Famagusta, Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove Boat Trip

If you’re visiting Cyprus and crave a relaxed day on the water with moments for swimming, snapping photos, and maybe even swimming alongside sea turtles, this boat trip from Protaras hits many marks. Operated by Antonakis Gregoriou Boat trips, this excursion explores the captivating coastlines and crystal-clear waters of Cape Greco, offering an authentic taste of the region’s natural beauty. With a spacious 32-meter Napa king boat featuring sun decks and air conditioning, it’s designed to keep you comfortable whether you’re soaking up the sun or cooling off in the shade.

One thing we love about this tour is the opportunity to see turtles in their natural habitat, a highlight that many reviews praise as a truly memorable experience. The underwater viewing area and aquariums allow you to observe marine life without even getting wet, which is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed experience. However, a potential consideration is that the boat doesn’t go as far as Famagusta itself, which might disappoint those looking for a longer or more extensive sea journey. This trip suits travelers looking for a quick, scenic cruise with some fantastic swimming opportunities and a chance to see local wildlife.

Key Points

• Stunning Swim Stops: Enjoy crystal-clear waters at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove, with the chance to swim with turtles.
• Underwater Viewing: The glass-bottom sections and aquariums let you see marine life without getting wet.
• Comfortable Boat: Spacious 32-meter vessel with sun decks and air-conditioned interior for all-day comfort.
• Great Value: With included swim stops and scenic views, it offers good bang for your buck.
• Authentic Experience: Knowledgeable guides and a relaxed vibe make for an enjoyable outing.
• Limited Famagusta Sightseeing: The trip doesn’t venture deep into Famagusta but provides lovely sea views and photo opportunities.

The Experience in Detail

This boat trip is a compact 2.5-hour adventure, making it ideal for travelers short on time but eager to experience the coast’s highlights. The departure point is straightforward — the big pier next to Evalena Hotel in Protaras — and the trip operates twice daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, giving you flexibility to fit it into your schedule.

The Itinerary

The journey begins at Protaras Pier, where you’ll board the spacious Napa king boat. From there, the boat heads toward Cape Greco, a natural landmark famous for its rugged cliffs, sea caves, and, of course, the Blue Lagoon. The guides, including Captain Kypros and other crew members, are often praised for their welcoming attitude and knowledge. As you cruise, you’ll pass Konnos Bay and the sea caves, which provide excellent photo moments even if the boat doesn’t stop there.

The main highlights are the swimming stops at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove. Here, you can bring your snorkel gear and look out for the sea turtles that frequent these waters. One reviewer shared how they were allowed to bring their own snorkel to actively search for turtles, which elevates the experience from just lounging to an interactive adventure. The clear waters and underwater viewing windows make it easy to spot marine life without even getting into the water.

The Swim Stops — Why They Matter

The Cape Greco Lagoon is famous for its inviting, transparent waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. The water’s vivid blue hue makes it a favorite among visitors, with many reviews mentioning how beautiful the scenery is. Swimming alongside the turtles, a highlight described by many, feels almost surreal. Several guests expressed delight at being able to feed or simply watch these gentle creatures in their natural environment.

Underwater Views and Aquariums

The boat features eight aquariums with freshwater fish, providing a glimpse into marine life even if the weather isn’t perfect for outdoor swimming. Plus, the glass bottom gives passengers a unique perspective of the underwater world, making it a hit with families or anyone eager to learn about local sea life without getting wet.

Comfort and Amenities Onboard

You’ll appreciate the spaciousness of the boat, which allows for plenty of room to relax, sunbathe, or roam between the sun deck and shaded indoor areas. A well-stocked bar offers soft drinks, beers, cocktails, and snacks for purchase, so you can stay refreshed throughout the cruise. One review even mentioned free ice cream and fruits, which adds to the feeling of good value.

The Views and Photo Opportunities

The cruise offers prime views of Famagusta from the sea, perfect for capturing stunning photos of the city’s skyline and rugged coastlines. The boat passes Konnos Bay and the caves, providing scenic vistas that make for great memories and social media shots.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and crew, with Captain Kypros earning particular praise for his friendly professionalism. Guests often mention how smoothly the trip runs and how well-organized it is, especially given the short duration. The value for money stands out strongly, with travelers appreciating the range of activities packed into the 2.5 hours.

One reviewer noted that the guides and crew are very welcoming and professional, enhancing the overall experience. Others loved the chance to swim with turtles and appreciated the relaxed atmosphere on the boat, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers.

However, some pointed out minor drawbacks. For instance, the glass-bottom area can sometimes be less impressive if tanks are empty or the glass isn’t clean, and the trip doesn’t go as far as Famagusta itself. Also, the commentary by the captain can be hard to hear at times, though this didn’t seem to detract significantly from the overall enjoyment.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your own snorkel gear if you want to maximize your chances of seeing turtles.
• Expect sun exposure, so pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Be prepared with cash or card for onboard drinks and snacks.
• Wear slip-resistant footwear as the deck can get slippery when wet.
• Arrive early to ensure you get a good spot on the boat.
• Check the departure times — the boat leaves at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM — and plan your day accordingly.
• Consider bringing a waterproof camera or phone case to capture underwater moments and scenic views.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Protaras to Cape Greco, Blue Lagoon, and Turtle Cove offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that balances relaxation, adventure, and scenic beauty. The comfort of the boat, combined with the opportunity to swim in clear waters and see turtles, makes it a standout for nature lovers. The underwater viewing windows add an educational twist, while the friendly crew and good organization ensure a smooth journey.

It’s especially suited for travelers looking for a short but memorable outing that packs in both sightseeing and aquatic fun. Families, couples, or solo explorers will find plenty to enjoy without the hassle of a long trip or complex arrangements. The value for money is hard to beat, considering the swim stops, scenic views, and onboard amenities.

If you’re in Protaras and want a chance to relax on the water while spotting wildlife and soaking up the sun, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring your snorkeling gear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
The overall experience lasts about 2.5 hours, including the time for swimming and sightseeing.

What are the departure times?
The boat departs twice daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM from Protaras Pier.

Is food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, including cocktails, beers, snacks, and ice-cream.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear?
Yes, some guests have mentioned bringing their own snorkels to enhance their experience, especially for swimming with turtles.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to check with the operator in advance for specific needs.

Will I see Famagusta?
The trip offers scenic views of Famagusta from the water but does not go into the city itself. It’s more of a sea-view experience with some photo opportunities.

Are there opportunities to swim?
Absolutely. The stops at Cape Greco Lagoon and Turtle Cove are designed for swimming and snorkeling, with many guests enjoying the chance to connect with marine life.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, families often find this trip enjoyable, especially with the aquariums and underwater viewing windows making it engaging for kids.

In essence, this boat trip offers a mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to any Cyprus itinerary.