Ayia Napa: Blue Lagoon & Turtle Cruise with Optional Lunch

If you’re considering a cruise along Cyprus’s famous coast, the Blue Lagoon & Turtle Cruise offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, fun, and relaxation. Based on extensive reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience takes you on a 4.5-hour journey from Ayia Napa harbor, with highlights that include snorkeling among vibrant marine life and sea turtles, thrilling daring jumps from the top deck, and breathtaking views of rugged coastlines and caves. The friendly crew, especially guides like Captain Marko, seems to make all the difference, keeping the mood lively yet relaxed.

What I really like about this cruise is the balance it strikes between adventure and leisure. First, the two swim stops at Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove are genuinely memorable — swimming alongside turtles and observing fish in clear waters is an experience I’d recommend to anyone. Second, the well-organized itinerary and attentive crew mean you’re never left wondering what’s next or feeling rushed. And the optional onboard lunch for just 12 euros is a surprising bonus, offering hearty portions and a chance to refuel without breaking the bank.

The only thing to consider is that the itinerary might change due to weather—a normal thing in boat trips—but it’s worth being flexible and prepared for possible adjustments. Also, if you’re not comfortable on boats or have mobility issues, this adventure might be less suitable since it’s mostly about swimming, jumping, and relaxing on deck.

This cruise offers fantastic value, especially given the opportunity to snorkel with turtles and explore stunning seascapes from the water. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and friendly hospitality without spending a fortune.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Natural wonder: You’ll love the opportunity to swim with sea turtles and explore colorful marine life.
• Well-organized: The itinerary balances sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation, thanks to attentive crew members like Captain Marko.
• Authentic experience: The crew’s friendly approach and detailed commentary make the tour feel genuine and informative.
• Value for money: The optional onboard lunch is generously portioned and quite affordable.
• Scenic stops: The Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove are truly picture-perfect, with crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.
• Weather flexibility: Be aware that the itinerary may change if sea conditions become unsafe, so stay flexible.

Diving Into the Experience: What to Expect on the Cruise

Starting at Ayia Napa harbor, you’ll want to arrive early — boarding begins at 09:00 am and the boat departs promptly at 10:00 am. The check-in process is straightforward, and it’s wise to get there early if you prefer a good seat, especially on the top deck with the best views and sunshine.

Once onboard, you’ll quickly realize this isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a well-paced adventure. The crew provides a friendly welcome and offers a safety briefing, but the real highlight is the stunning coastline passing by as you leave the harbor. You’ll glide past iconic landmarks, rugged caves, and scenic spots like the Ayia Napa Sea Caves and Cape Greco, with photo stops along the way.

Scenic Landmarks and Photo Stops

The itinerary includes several stops for sightseeing and photos, such as the Kamaras tou Koraka and Ayioi Anargiroi Church. These are brief visits, but they offer great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs. The Guided tour of Cape Greco is particularly noteworthy, with the guide sharing insights to enrich your experience.

Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove: The Main Attractions

The two main swimming stops are at Blue Lagoon and Konnos Beach, each lasting about an hour. These are prime spots for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun. Many reviews mention swimming alongside turtles at Turtle Cove, an experience that’s often described as unforgettable. One reviewer happily noted they saw turtles and even swam with them — a highlight for many.

Expect to see vibrant fish and marine life, thanks to the clarity of the waters. The crew is careful about respecting the animals’ space, which makes the experience more authentic and respectful of nature.

Adventure and Relaxation on Deck

For thrill-seekers, there’s the option to jump off the top deck, adding an adrenaline rush to the day. For those preferring to relax, the plush sunbathing mattresses on the deck are perfect. With 20 mattresses available, you can soak up the sun, sip a cold drink from the onboard bar, or simply unwind with the waves gently rocking the boat.

Food and Drinks

The onboard bar offers a variety of refreshing beverages, including cocktails and beers, but food and drinks are not included in the standard price — you can purchase drinks and the optional lunch for just 12 euros. The reviews praise the large, delicious portions and the friendly service. One reviewer loved the generous roast chicken lunch, which left them full and ready to continue swimming.

End of the Day and Reflection

As the cruise winds down, you’ll head back to Ayia Napa harbor, with plenty of memories of sun, sea, and sea turtles. Many guests rate this trip highly for its value, scenic beauty, and friendly crew.

The Itinerary Breakdown: Why Each Stop Matters

The cruise’s detailed itinerary ensures you see the most beautiful and interesting spots along the coast. It begins with a scenic photo stop at the Sea Caves, which are dramatic and photogenic, then moves to the guided tour of Cape Greco — a highlight for the landscape lovers.

The Blue Lagoon is the star of the show, with its crystal waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. The Turtle Cove is particularly special because of its marine life and the chance to swim with turtles — an experience that reviewers consistently describe as “unforgettable.”

The stops at Kamara tou Koraka and the Ayioi Anargiroi Church offer more scenic views, giving you a bit of cultural and natural context. The Konnos Beach stop is another favorite, providing ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

Why the Stops Matter

Each scenic stop is carefully chosen to showcase Cyprus’s rugged and beautiful coastline. The Blue Lagoon is a well-known spot for its striking turquoise waters, while Turtle Cove’s peaceful environment makes it ideal for marine encounters. The stops are long enough to enjoy without feeling rushed, giving you time to swim, snorkel, or relax.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience suits a wide range of travelers. If you love marine life and snorkeling, the two swim stops are a dream. The adventure junkies will enjoy jumping from the deck and the excitement of spotting turtles. If you’re after scenic views and photo opportunities, the coastline scenery and landmarks won’t disappoint.

The friendly crew and informative guides make it a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging day out. The value — especially with the optional onboard lunch — makes it accessible without feeling like you’re splurging.

However, if you prefer land-based sightseeing or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The focus on swimming, boat boarding, and standing on deck makes it less suitable for those with limited mobility or seasickness.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At about 4.5 hours, the cruise offers a full morning to early afternoon of entertainment. The cost of the optional lunch at 12 euros is reasonable, especially considering the large portions and quality reviews. The included features — such as sunbathing mattresses, snorkeling gear, and life jackets — add value, and the friendly, knowledgeable crew makes the whole experience smoother.

Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is advisable to secure a good spot. The flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) makes it a low-risk choice for planning.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy water activities, photography, and scenic coastlines. If you want a memorable day swimming with turtles and exploring Cyprus’s coast from the water, this trip checks all boxes.

It’s particularly good for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a relaxed, fun experience with friendly guides. The value-for-money factor is high, especially with the option for a hearty, affordable lunch.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and engaging day out, this cruise offers a genuine taste of Cyprus’s natural beauty, with enough adventure and comfort to make it worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
Not necessarily. While snorkeling gear isn’t provided, reviewers suggest bringing your own to ensure a comfortable fit and clear experience, especially since marine encounters are a highlight.

What should I wear for the cruise?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, a sun hat, and beachwear. Don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen to protect the marine environment. Flip-flops or sandals are ideal for deck comfort.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
This activity may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves swimming and boarding the boat.

Is there a minimum age for children?
While not explicitly stated, the cruise’s focus on swimming and jumping suggests it’s suitable for children comfortable in the water. Life jackets are provided for all ages.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing some flexibility if plans change.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and costs 12 euros if ordered at check-in. Many guests find the large portions and quality worth the extra, making it a good value.

Are drinks available onboard?
Yes, the bar offers a selection of beverages, including cocktails and beers, which can be purchased during the trip.

In essence, this cruise offers a beautifully balanced day of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. With stunning stops, friendly guides, and good value, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Cyprus itinerary — especially if you love exploring the sea and coastline.