Paphos: Half-Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar and Snorkeling

A Practical Look at the Paphos Half-Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar and Snorkeling

This Paphos boat tour promises a lively four-hour escape combining delicious BBQ food, swimming, snorkeling, and live entertainment on the sea. Based on hundreds of reviews, it’s clear this vessel, operated by Wave Dancer Cruises & Events, offers a memorable slice of Cypriot coastal life. I found the experience to be a well-rounded mix of relaxation, fun, and good value that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

What I like most are the guaranteed sunbeds for adults, which means no scrambling for a spot, and the quality of the food and drinks, with a homemade barbecue and an open bar serving cocktails and local drinks all day. On the flip side, one consideration is that the single stop at Coral Bay might feel brief if you’re a snorkeler eager for more underwater exploration—but that’s part of the trade-off for a shorter trip.

This cruise seems perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a relaxed day out with plenty of amenities. The lively atmosphere, paired with the scenic views and attentive staff, makes it a highly recommended outing—if you’re ready to enjoy a good mix of activity and leisure at sea.

Key points / Takeaways

• Comfortable, well-equipped boat: The vessel offers the most comfortable deck and guaranteed sunbeds for adults, making it easy to relax without fighting for space.
• Delicious, freshly cooked food: The BBQ lunch features homemade burgers, marinated chicken, sausages, and fresh salads—good quality food that adds real value.
• All-inclusive drinks: Two professional bars serve local drinks and cocktails, making it easy to unwind without worrying about extra costs.
• Ideal swimming stop: Coral Bay provides clear, inviting waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, with safety equipment like life jackets and noodles supplied.
• Live music and entertainment: Talented performers add a lively atmosphere on board, creating a festive vibe that appeals to all ages.
• Flexible booking and cancellation: With options to reserve now and pay later, plus a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, planning is straightforward.

Exploring the Experience: What to Expect on the Half-Day Cruise

Starting at 11:00 am from Paphos Harbour, the cruise takes you along the coast toward Coral Bay, often regarded as one of the prettiest spots on the Paphos shoreline. You’ll be on a spacious, clean vessel with ample sunbeds for every adult guest, according to reviews, which is a rare treat on a cruise—nothing worse than fighting over a patch of sun. The crew, known for their friendly professionalism, will set the tone for a relaxing day.

Once you arrive at Coral Bay, the boat anchors, offering approximately 90 minutes for swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking. You’ll love the crystal-clear waters, which are ideal for underwater exploration, and many reviewers mention bringing their own goggles or snorkel gear for the best experience. The water’s refreshing, and the scenery is simply stunning—turquoise seas against a backdrop of a bright blue sky.

Back on deck, the barbecue lunch is served right in front of you—a lively scene with the chef cooking on the top deck. The menu includes homemade burgers, marinated chicken, sausages, roasted potatoes, pita bread, and plenty of salads and dips. Many reviews emphasize how tasty and plentiful the food is, often describing it as a highlight of the trip. One reviewer even raved about the chef, who also performs as a guitarist, adding a personal touch to the experience.

While the food and scenery are the stars, the live music elevates the vibe—ranging from talented singers to guitarists. One reviewer mentions how the entertainment is “superb,” creating a relaxing yet energetic environment. Drinks are served from two professional bars, including cocktails, with an open bar for four hours. The inclusion of local drinks and cocktails in the price offers impressive value, especially considering the quality and variety.

Why This Trip Works Well for Different Travelers

This cruise caters to a broad audience. Families love the safe swimming stop and the soft drinks and soft play noodles supplied, making it easy for kids to enjoy the water. Couples and groups of friends appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, live music, and the chance to unwind with a drink in hand. Solo travelers or honeymooners will enjoy the friendly social environment and the chance to meet new people.

The trip’s duration and itinerary—a single stop at Coral Bay—are ideal for those who want a taste of the coast without committing to a full day. If you’re craving multiple stops or more snorkeling time, the reviews suggest the full-day trip might be better—but for most, the value and comfort of this half-day cruise hit the right spot.

The Logistics: Practical Info for Bookings and Planning

Getting on board is straightforward. After arriving at Paphos Harbour, walk towards Theo’s Restaurant and then left to find the Wave Dancer vessel. You’ll need to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to pass through ticket control, so plan your timing accordingly.

The trip lasts about 4 hours, with various start times available depending on the day. Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, which makes planning easier—plus, a full refund is available if you cancel 24 hours in advance. Remember to bring a towel and sunscreen—shade is limited on the boat, as some reviewers noted—and perhaps a waterproof camera or goggles for snorkeling.

Overall Value and Who Should Consider This Trip

At a price point that includes lunch, unlimited drinks, live entertainment, and a scenic cruise, many reviews highlight the great value for money. The quality of the food and the comfortable environment set this cruise apart from more cramped or less organized options. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a relaxed, fun, and social way to experience Paphos’s coastline.

The professional staff and well-thought-out amenities make this a hassle-free choice, especially for travelers who appreciate comfort and good service. It’s an ideal outing for families, couples, or friends celebrating a holiday, with plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy stunning scenery, and indulge in tasty food and drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, with a single stop at Coral Bay for swimming and snorkeling.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the cruise from Paphos Harbour, BBQ lunch, seasonal fruits, an open bar with local drinks and cocktails, live music, and guaranteed sunbeds for adults.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

Is there enough space and comfort onboard?
Absolutely. The vessel is described as spacious and equipped with comfortable padded sunbeds for all adults, ensuring a relaxing environment.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
While the boat provides safety equipment like life jackets and noodles, you should bring your own goggles or snorkel if you want to explore underwater more comfortably.

Are drinks really unlimited?
Yes, the open bar is available for four hours, serving a range of local drinks, cocktails, and soft drinks—offering excellent value.

Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for children as long as they are comfortable in the water and can follow safety instructions. The review by Tiffany mentions a group with kids from 12 years old up enjoying the trip.

To sum it up, this half-day BBQ cruise from Paphos offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, good food, and friendly entertainment. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a relaxed, social experience with plenty of comfort and value. Whether you’re after a scenic swim, a lively atmosphere, or just a break from sightseeing, this trip seems to hit the right notes. Just remember to bring your sunscreen and snorkeling goggles—and perhaps an appetite for BBQ and a thirst for cocktails.