San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras

If you’re visiting Cyprus and looking to combine stunning scenery with laid-back luxury, the San Antonio II schooner cruise offers a compelling way to see the coast. This five-hour boat trip takes you along the eastern shores of Cyprus, stopping at iconic spots like Green Bay and Blue Lagoon, while offering plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy great food and drinks.

What makes this tour truly appealing is its blend of scenic stops, generous amenities, and a friendly crew that reviewers rave about. We especially appreciate the value for money, with a well-organized experience that feels both relaxing and engaging.

That said, like any boat trip, it’s worth considering the weather and how much time you’ll want to spend on deck. Still, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a balanced day of sightseeing, swimming, and socializing in Cyprus’ beautiful waters. Perfect for couples, families, or anyone eager to unwind and soak up the sun with a splash of adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning Stops: Visit Green Bay, Cape Greco’s Blue Lagoon, and Konnos Bay, with free admission to Green Bay.
• Relaxed Pace: About 2 hours at Blue Lagoon and ample swimming opportunities.
• All-Inclusive: Buffet lunch and unlimited drinks, including alcohol and soft drinks.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off from select hotels make logistics easy.
• Expert Crew: Friendly, attentive staff that make the journey smooth and memorable.
• Highly Rated: Consistently praised by travelers for its organization, scenery, and friendly guides.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Booking and Arrival

Booking this cruise well in advance (most travelers do about 3 weeks ahead) is highly recommended, especially during peak season. The tour, priced at $71.45 per person, offers excellent value given the inclusions—buffet lunch, unlimited drinks, and access to some of Cyprus’ most beautiful swimming spots.

Upon booking, you’ll receive confirmation with details on pickup options. The tour departs at 9:00 am from East Coast Cruises in Famagusta, with hotel pickup available from selected locations. The process is straightforward, and reviews highlight the seamless pickup process and friendly staff, making the start of your day hassle-free.

The Journey Begins

Boarding the San Antonio II schooner, you’ll find a spacious boat with plenty of room to move around—reviewers have mentioned the large, comfortable deck and clean bathrooms, which are rare on boats of this size.

From the outset, the crew provides lively commentary about the coastline, including a view of the famous Famagusta ghost town, which adds an intriguing historical note. The boat then glides along the coast, passing Protaras coastline and Fig Tree Bay, giving you ample opportunities to snap photos of Cyprus’ rugged shoreline.

Stop 1: Green Bay

Green Bay serves as the starting point and is a lovely place to take in the scenery. You get about an hour here, with free admission, so you can enjoy the beach or simply relax on the boat. Some reviews mention how the calm waters and scenic backdrop make this a lovely spot for a quick swim or just soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

Stop 2: Blue Lagoon and Konnos Bay

The highlight for many travelers is the stop at Blue Lagoon, where you can jump into the crystal-clear waters of Cape Greco or Konnos Bay for a swim. The 2-hour stop allows plenty of time to float around, paddle in the shallow areas, or just lounge on the boat with a drink in hand.

The reviews emphasize how spectacular the scenery is, with one traveler noting it as an “amazing trip from start to finish,” praising the beautiful scenery and attentive staff.

Lunch and Drinks

A buffet lunch is served during the cruise, featuring fresh fruits, desserts, and a variety of hot and cold dishes. Guests can indulge while enjoying unlimited alcoholic and soft drinks from the open bar. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the meal and the generous drinks service, which truly keeps the atmosphere lively and relaxed.

Additional Stops and Passing Views

As the boat cruises along, you’ll pass Varosha Ghost Town, adding a touch of Cyprus’ complex history to your journey. The entire experience is complemented by live commentary, making even the passing scenery informative and engaging.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Beyond the scenery, what makes this cruise shine is its excellent organization and friendly crew. Reviewers frequently mention how helpful and attentive the staff are, often going the extra mile—like one guest noting they celebrated their wedding anniversary with a surprise announcement and a bottle of champagne.

The value for money is clear when considering the inclusions: a buffet meal, drinks, swimming, and scenic views all bundled into a 5-hour experience. Plus, the hotel pickup adds convenience, especially if you’re based in one of the participating hotels.

What Could Be Better?

While the cruise offers a lot, there are a few considerations. The tour’s success heavily depends on the weather. If poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, but you should keep in mind that a cloudy or windy day might limit the swimming and sightseeing experience.

Some travelers might find the duration (around 5 hours) a bit long if they prefer more active days or if they’re prone to seasickness. Plus, since the boat has a maximum capacity of 49 travelers, it tends to fill up quickly during peak times, so early booking is wise.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed day on the water with stunning coastal views, good food, and drinks. It’s perfect if you want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure—great for couples celebrating special occasions, families, or groups of friends wanting a social day out.

The inclusive amenities and easy logistics make it suitable for those who prefer a hassle-free experience. If you’re someone who enjoys beautiful scenery, swimming, and good company, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

The San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day on the water with friendly service, picturesque stops, and excellent value. The combination of scenic beauty, comfortable facilities, and delicious food makes it a standout option for anyone wanting to explore Cyprus’ coast in a leisurely way.

While weather conditions can influence the experience, the overall feedback points to a trip that delivers on its promises—stunning views, engaging crew, and a generous, relaxing atmosphere. It’s particularly worth considering if you want to combine sightseeing with some serious downtime and fun.

Whether you’re celebrating an occasion or simply craving a peaceful day by the sea, this cruise promises a memorable Cyprus adventure filled with sunshine, swims, and good vibes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from select hotels, making this trip convenient and easy to plan.

How long is the cruise? The total duration is approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point afterward.

What should I bring? Remember to bring sun protection, swimwear, and a towel, especially since you’ll be stopping for swims.

Are drinks included? Yes, the cruise features an open bar with unlimited soft drinks and alcoholic beverages throughout the trip.

Is the trip suitable for children? While most travelers of all ages enjoy it, check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.

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

In summary, this cruise delivers a delightful mix of scenic stops, delicious food, and friendly service—all at a reasonable price. It suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to swim and enjoy Cyprus’s coastline without feeling rushed. Perfect for making memories or just unwinding in the Mediterranean sunshine.