From Paphos: Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise

Exploring Cyprus’s coast from the deck of a boat offers a different kind of magic—one that’s relaxing, scenic, and a tad adventurous. The Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise departing from Paphos is a popular way to see this protected coastline, which remains largely untouched and is a key nesting ground for sea turtles. While the trip offers plenty of picture-perfect moments, it’s worth knowing what’s included and what to expect, especially if you’re on the lookout for a laid-back day with a splash of snorkeling.

What I particularly like about this experience is the opportunity to relax while sailing along the rugged coastline of the Akamas Peninsula, with views that are as impressive as the swim in the Blue Lagoon itself. The boat is equipped with a water slide and Wi-Fi, making it suitable for those who want a little fun and some connectivity. Plus, the seasonal fruits and wine onboard add a refreshing touch to the afternoon, making it a genuine treat. However, a noteworthy consideration is that the snorkeling gear can be limited or not up to the mark, as some travelers have reported goggles that aren’t proper masks or even broken snorkels. This might be disappointing if snorkeling is a main goal.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unspoiled Coastline: The cruise showcases the last significant undeveloped coastal stretch in Cyprus, with scenic views of Saint George’s Island and the sea caves at Manolis Bay.
• Blue Lagoon Swim: The highlight for many is the chance to swim and snorkel in the famously crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, with its vivid sky-blue color.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and roundtrip transportation simplify logistics. The boat crew includes a captain and staff who ensure a smooth trip.
• Limited Information & Space: Some reviews note the boat ride offers little commentary or guiding information, and space to enjoy the sun can be tight if the boat is busy.
• Snorkeling Gear: Equipment quality varies—some travelers found the masks and snorkels insufficient or broken, so consider bringing your own if snorkeling is important.
• Price & Value: With a 6-hour duration, including drinks, fruits, Wi-Fi, and transport, it offers good value, especially for those wanting an easy day of swimming and scenery.

An In-Depth Look at the Paphos Blue Lagoon Cruise

If you’re heading to Paphos and craving a day on the water, the Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise offers a leisurely way to enjoy some of Cyprus’s most scenic coastline. This tour, operated by GXG Xplore Cy Tours Ltd, is a solid choice for travelers eager to combine gentle sailing, scenic views, and a refreshing swim, all with minimal hassle.

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

The cruise departs from Latsi Harbor, a charming spot that sets the tone for a relaxed day. The route takes you past Saint George’s Island, with its rugged silhouette, and the sea caves at Manolis Bay, which are perfect for sightseeing and photo ops. As you sail further, your boat glides past Blaii Bay and Fontana Amorosa, each offering unique vistas and a sense of the untouched nature that characterizes this coast.

The real star is the Blue Lagoon, a sparkling stretch of turquoise waters—so clear that the underwater visibility makes snorkeling appealing. Here, you can take a dip, float around, or just relax on the boat. This is an ideal spot to escape the crowds, though it can get busy when multiple boats arrive at once. The onboard snorkel gear is included, but as some reviews mention, it may not be of the highest quality; bringing your own might be worth considering if snorkeling is your main goal.

What to Expect During the Trip

The cruise lasts around 6 hours, which includes plenty of time to relax, swim, or just soak up the sun. The boat features a water slide—great for kids and the young at heart—and Wi-Fi, so you can share your photos or catch up on messages while enjoying the sea breeze. The crew, including the captain and staff, are friendly, and they serve seasonal fruits and wine or juice onboard, adding a festive touch to the experience.

The boat ride itself is smooth, but as one traveler noted, it offers limited commentary, so don’t expect an in-depth guide or historical facts. If you’re a fan of storytelling or detailed explanations of the coastline, this might not be your best bet. Also, space can be at a premium, especially in the sun, so arriving early or being prepared for limited seating might enhance your comfort.

Practicalities and Logistics

Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your planning. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple, especially if you’re staying in Paphos or nearby.

A key point to remember—this trip is not suitable for people with mobility issues or heart problems, as the boat and walking involved may pose challenges. Pack essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, a towel, and sunglasses to ensure your comfort.

The Value for Money

For around six hours of sailing, swimming, and sightseeing, the price includes transportation, a crew, drinks, fruits, and Wi-Fi. While some travelers may wish for more comprehensive snorkeling equipment, the overall experience offers good value—especially if you’re keen on a relaxing day in beautiful surroundings rather than a deeply informative tour.

What the Reviews Say

The mixed reviews highlight a few key points. Some appreciate the stunning views and the chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon, describing the trip as “a lovely way to see the coast and enjoy a swim.” Others, however, point out limitations with snorkeling gear—with one traveler noting that the equipment was “rubbish” and not very effective, which could be a letdown if snorkeling is your main goal.

One reviewer mentioned that the pickup was late, but appreciated the staff’s communication. Another pointed out that space is limited to sit in the sun, so bringing your own shade or arriving early could improve your comfort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water with minimal fuss. If you love taking in coastal views, enjoy a quick swim in calm waters, and want a hassle-free way to see part of Cyprus’s pristine coastline, this fits the bill. It’s also a good option for families looking for a fun outing, thanks to the water slide and onboard amenities.

However, if you’re a serious snorkeler or crave a detailed guided experience, you might find this trip somewhat limited. Also, those with mobility issues or seeking a more active, information-rich tour may want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Paphos Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to spend half a day soaking up Cyprus’s natural beauty. With plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and snacking on seasonal fruits, you’ll leave with relaxing memories of turquoise waters and scenic coastlines. While the snorkeling gear could be better and the commentary limited, the overall experience delivers on its promise of scenic tranquility and simple fun.

Good value, easy to book, and perfect for those who want a laid-back day at sea. Just keep your expectations in check about the snorkeling equipment, and you’ll likely have a very pleasant cruise. This trip is an excellent way to add a splash of sea adventure to your Cyprus itinerary without overcommitting.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient if you’re staying in Paphos or nearby.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience runs approximately 6 hours, including sailing, swimming, and onboard relaxation.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, but reviews suggest the gear may not be of high quality—consider bringing your own if snorkeling is important to you.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. Pack light but be prepared for sun exposure.

Is this trip suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s suitable for children, especially with the water slide, but not recommended for people with mobility impairments or heart problems due to boat and walking activities.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This cruise provides a solid, relaxing way to see some of Cyprus’s most stunning coastlines with an easygoing atmosphere. Perfect for sun lovers, water enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of the Mediterranean without the fuss.