Paphos: Sunset Cruise, Turtle Watching, & Unlimited Drinks

A Sunset Cruise in Paphos That Combines Adventure, Relaxation, and a Touch of the Underwater World

When I first heard about the sunset cruise offered by Paphos Sea Lines, I was intrigued by the mix of activities packed into just two hours. Imagine cruising over Paphos’s underwater forest, catching a glimpse of the famous Vera K shipwreck, and if you’re lucky, spotting turtles—all while enjoying unlimited drinks as the sun dips toward the horizon. The reviews are glowing, with a high rating of 4.8 from nearly 400 travelers, and it’s easy to see why so many find this experience both fun and value-packed.

What really stands out for me are two things: first, the remarkable underwater views from the semi-submarine’s large viewing windows—it’s like having a mini underwater safari without getting wet—and second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the trip informative without making it feel like a lecture. That said, a potential consideration is the limited duration—just two hours—which means you’ll want to arrive ready to pack in as much as possible without feeling rushed.

A minor point to keep in mind is that there’s no included food, so if you’re feeling peckish, plan accordingly. Still, with the open bar offering unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, and the chance to enjoy a refreshing swim at Atlantis Beach, this cruise offers a well-rounded balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and social fun.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Underwater Views: The semi-submarine features 20 large viewing windows, giving you a unique perspective of Paphos’s underwater forest, reef, and shipwrecks—perfect for snapping photos or just marveling at marine life.
• Turtle Spotting: There’s typically a 90% chance of seeing turtles from the underwater cabin during the sunset cruise, a highlight for many travelers.
• Shipwreck Exploration: The Vera K shipwreck, which you visit during the trip, is a favorite spot for underwater enthusiasts and offers a glimpse into local maritime history.
• Swim Stop at Atlantis Beach: A 20-minute swim at Atlantis Beach allows you to cool off and enjoy the sea, with masks and floaties provided to make your swim easier.
• Unlimited Drinks: The open bar offers free wine, beer, and soft drinks, making it a relaxed and social experience—many reviews mention how plentiful and enjoyable the drinks are.
• Beautiful Sunset Experience: As the cruise winds down, you’ll get to see the iconic Paphos harbor and the sunset, creating perfect photo moments and a memorable end to your day.

Entering The Underwater World: What to Expect from the Semi-Submarine

The journey begins at Paphos Sea Lines, where you’ll find the distinctive yellow semi-submarine waiting in the harbor—hard to miss. Once on board, you’re immediately struck by the spaciousness and the 20 large viewing windows. This is not your typical boat ride; it’s designed specifically for underwater sightseeing.

The guides, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, will tell you about the reef, the shipwreck, and the marine life you might spot. Many reviews mention how helpful and fun the staff are—one reviewer even said their guide, Jack, was “thoughtful and friendly.” This conversational approach makes the experience accessible for everyone, whether you’re a marine enthusiast or just after a relaxing evening.

Expect a leisurely cruise over the underwater forest, a habitat teeming with marine life. The shipwreck is particularly captivating—many travelers note the impressive views from the cabin—and some have been lucky enough to see multiple turtles during their trip. The guided commentary helps you appreciate these sights rather than just stare in awe.

The Vera K Shipwreck and Underwater Forest: Highlights of the Itinerary

Visiting the Vera K shipwreck is a centerpiece of this cruise. You’ll spend about 20 minutes exploring this famous wreck, which is both historically interesting and visually striking underwater. The guides often share stories about the ship’s history, adding context to the sight. From the reviews, it’s clear that the wreck and the surrounding reef are a hit, with many describing the underwater views as “shocking” and “super cool.”

Following that, the boat takes you again over the underwater forest—a lush habitat that offers fantastic photo opportunities. The guides frequently point out marine life, and many reviewers talk about how seeing turtles swimming past the cabin windows makes the trip unforgettable.

Swimming at Atlantis Beach: A Refreshing Break

After the underwater sightseeing, the cruise makes a stop at Atlantis Beach for about 20 minutes. This is a perfect chance to cool off and enjoy the sea. The provided masks and floaties make it easier to swim and observe marine life from above water if you prefer not to go fully underwater.

Several guests have commented on how refreshing and relaxing this stop is—especially after the heat of the day. Be sure to bring your swimming gear and towel if you want to maximize comfort. The time is enough for a quick dip, some photos, and perhaps a chat with fellow travelers about what they saw.

Sunset and the Final Moments of the Cruise

As the cruise winds down, you’ll glide back towards Paphos harbor, where the sunset views are spectacular. The open bar remains available, and many mention how the unlimited drinks add a social, carefree atmosphere, often leading to friendly conversations among strangers.

The boat’s deck offers a great vantage point for photos, and the sunset creates a memorable backdrop for your evening. The trip ends back at the starting point, so it’s convenient without the hassle of transfers or complicated logistics.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a relaxed, enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours in Paphos. It’s especially suitable for those who love marine life and underwater views but don’t necessarily want to dive or snorkel extensively. The unlimited drinks and light activity make it a good choice for travelers seeking a social and scenic outing.

It’s also perfect if you want to combine a bit of history (the shipwreck) with nature (turtles and underwater forests) without the commitment of a full-day trip. Those with mobility issues may find the short duration and easy access to the boat advantageous, but it’s worth noting that the swim stop requires some comfort in the water.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At about two hours, this cruise offers a good value—many reviewers mention it as “great value for money”—especially considering the unlimited drinks and the chance to see turtles, shipwrecks, and underwater scenery all in one trip. Since food isn’t included, it’s best to eat beforehand or plan to grab a bite afterward in Paphos.

You meet at Paphos Sea Lines in the harbor, easily recognizable by the yellow semi-submarine. The activity starts at various times (check availability), so you can pick a slot that suits your schedule. The tour is mostly group-based, but it manages to feel intimate and friendly, thanks to the guides’ personable approach.

Note that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility if your plans change. Payment can be deferred until booking, making it easier to secure your spot without immediate commitment.

Final Thoughts: Is This Experience Right for You?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and fun way to explore Paphos’s marine environment, this sunset cruise hits the mark. The underwater views are the highlight, especially for anyone interested in marine life or underwater photography. The unlimited drinks contribute to a laid-back, convivial atmosphere, making it perfect for social travelers or couples celebrating a special evening.

The combination of shipwreck exploration, turtle watching, and the swim stop balances adventure with relaxation. It’s especially appealing if you want a shorter activity that still delivers plenty of memorable moments.

However, if you’re looking for a more active or intensive snorkeling or diving experience, this cruise might feel a little light. Also, since the trip doesn’t include food, plan accordingly if you want a full meal afterward.

In all, this experience offers good value and authentic fun—a lovely way to cap a day in Paphos, soaking in the scenery, the sea, and a bit of local marine life.

FAQ

How long is the sunset cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, with activities such as sightseeing, swimming, and sunset viewing all included within this time frame.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Paphos Sea Lines, in the middle of Paphos Harbour, where the yellow semi-submarine is located.

Is food included?
No, food is not included. It’s advisable to eat beforehand or explore local dining options after the trip.

What drinks are available on the open bar?
You can enjoy unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks during the cruise.

Is there a chance to see turtles?
Yes, with about a 90% chance, you’ll see turtles during the sunset cruise from the underwater cabin.

How long is the swim stop?
The swim stop at Atlantis Beach lasts around 20 minutes, giving you enough time to dip in the sea and take some photos.

Do I need to bring my own swimming gear?
It’s recommended, although masks and floaties are provided on board, so no need to bring your own unless you want to.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.