From Protaras: Cruise to Blue Lagoon, Turtle Cove & Sea Cave

Cyprus’s coast is dotted with natural treasures, and this boat trip from Protaras offers a window into some of the most scenic and wildlife-rich spots along the eastern shoreline. From the moment I read about the highlights—such as swimming in the Blue Lagoon, possibly catching a glimpse of sea turtles, and exploring impressive sea caves—I knew it would be a trip packed with memorable moments. The boat itself is described as the largest glass-bottom vessel in the area, promising a good view of the underwater world without even getting wet, which is especially appealing if you’re traveling with kids or just prefer to stay dry.

Two things I particularly like about this experience are its focus on nature and the variety of activities. The chance to see turtles in their natural habitat and enjoy the scenic coastline from the water really sets this trip apart. Plus, the onboard water slides and diving shows add a playful touch that makes the whole journey feel lively rather than just sightseeing.

One potential drawback is the unpredictability of wildlife sightings—like dolphins or turtles—since they’re wild animals. The reviews make it clear that seeing turtles is not guaranteed, which might disappoint some travelers expecting a certain animal encounter. Still, many guests have reported lucky moments, and the overall experience seems to be about the journey and the views, not just animal spotting.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Wildlife Encounters Are a Bonus: Many guests report swimming with sea turtles and even spotting dolphins, but these are wild animals so sightings aren’t guaranteed.
• Excellent Guides and Crew: Visitors praise the staff for their friendliness, helpfulness, and knowledge, especially guides like Brian, who make the trip more engaging.
• Great for Families and Solo Travelers: With facilities like water slides for kids, swim stops, and fully air-conditioned viewing decks, it suits a range of travelers.
• Value for Money: At around three hours, with multiple swimming spots, entertainment, and snacks available, this tour offers pretty good bang for your buck.
• Scenic and Educational: The trip isn’t just about fun; you’ll learn about places like Famagusta’s ghost town and Cape Greco’s sea caves.
• Comfort and Convenience: The boat provides Wi-Fi, clean facilities, and life jackets, making it comfortable for all ages.

Exploring the Coastline of Protaras on a Glass-Bottom Boat

If you’re looking for a way to combine scenic views, wildlife spotting, and some fun on the water during your stay in Cyprus, this 3-hour boat trip from Protaras ticks a lot of boxes. I’ve looked into what past travelers experience, and the consensus is that it’s a well-rounded, enjoyable outing—particularly for families and those wanting a relaxed, scenic adventure with opportunities for swimming and a touch of wildlife excitement.

Starting at Protaras Pier: Setting the Scene

The journey begins at the Protaras Pier, a straightforward location where you’re asked to arrive about 10 minutes early. The boat is described as the biggest glass-bottom vessel in the area, which means you’ll get a good view of the sea life beneath the water even without diving in. The onboard crew is noted as friendly and professional, with some reviews mentioning guides like Brian who make the trip informative and engaging.

What Makes This Trip Special

What I love about this cruise is its combination of scenic coastline views and interactive activities. The boat travels past the legendary Lover’s Bridge, Pirate Caves, and Fig Tree Bay, giving you a visual feast of striking rock formations and natural beauty. Many reviews highlight how the boat’s glass bottom allows for a unique perspective of the underwater world—an advantage if you’re short on time or less comfortable in the water.

Another highlight is the chance to swim in the Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove. Many travelers have shared their excitement about swimming in crystal-clear waters and, if lucky, swimming alongside sea turtles. The onboard diving show and water slides add to the fun, making it a lively experience that appeals to children and adults alike. The water slides, in particular, seem to be a hit, with reviews praising their size and the fun element they add.

Wildlife Spotting – A Serendipitous Bonus

While the trip offers plenty of entertainment, the real bonus is the possibility of seeing dolphins and swimming with turtles. As one reviewer enthusiastically put it, “we managed to swim with sea turtles,” which is a memory that sticks for a lifetime. However, it’s worth noting that such sightings are not guaranteed, as these are wild animals. The crew’s attentiveness—making announcements when turtles are nearby—adds to the experience and shows their commitment to safety and education.

The Onboard Experience

The boat features a bar with refreshments, Wi-Fi, and toilet facilities, all of which make the trip more comfortable. The fully air-conditioned underwater deck with 23 portholes is a particular highlight, providing a climate-controlled spot to watch marine life without getting wet. The water slides are a big plus, especially when stopping at the Blue Lagoon or Turtle Cove for swimming.

Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and well-organized nature of the trip. Many mention the helpful guides giving insightful commentary about the coast, caves, and local history, which enriches the experience beyond just the water fun.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

• Protaras Pier: The starting point, where you board the vessel.
• Passage of Cape Greco: One of the most stunning parts of the coastline, where you’ll see impressive sea caves and rock formations known as the Lover’s Bridge.
• Blue Lagoon: The main swimming stop, famed for its bright turquoise waters, perfect for a refreshing dip. Many reviews mention how clear the waters are—ideal for floating around and relaxing.
• Turtle Cove: A prime location for swimming with sea turtles. Guests often report seeing them up close, making this a highlight.
• Sea Caves and Pirate Caves: Exploring these natural formations offers a glimpse into the island’s volcanic past and provides excellent photo opportunities.
• Connos Bay & Fig Tree Bay: As you head back, the boat passes these popular beaches, rounding out an already scenic journey.

Who Will Enjoy This Trip?

This cruise suits families with children, thanks to the kid-friendly slides and shallow swimming areas. It’s also perfect for couples or solo travelers wanting a relaxing day out with scenic views, wildlife encounters, and a bit of fun. If you’re into nature and marine life, the possibility—even if not guaranteed—of swimming with turtles and dolphins makes this trip especially attractive.

Price, Duration, and Practical Tips

At roughly three hours, the trip hits a sweet spot—not too long to be tiring, but enough time to see multiple sights and enjoy swimming. The cost offers good value for money, considering the included amenities like the glass-bottom deck, water slides, and multiple swim stops.

To get the most out of this experience, bring swimwear, a towel, and snorkel gear if you have it. While food and drinks are available for purchase, many travelers recommend bringing snacks for the trip—especially if you plan to spend extra time in the water or want to avoid waiting.

Arrive early at Protaras Pier to secure your spot and avoid last-minute stress. The trip operates in various time slots, so check availability for your preferred day.

The Sum Up

This boat trip from Protaras offers a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The opportunity to see sea turtles, explore sea caves, and enjoy the turquoise waters makes it a highlight for many visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. The friendly crew, well-organized itinerary, and onboard activities combine to provide solid value for the price.

While wildlife sightings are wonderful surprises rather than guarantees, the journey itself—full of breathtaking views, interesting geology, and fun swimming stops—delivers an engaging day on Cyprus’s coast. If you’re after a relaxed, activity-packed tour that emphasizes natural beauty and marine life, this cruise is a strong choice.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a good mix of sightseeing and hands-on fun, especially with kids or wildlife enthusiasts. Just be prepared for the possibility that you might not see turtles or dolphins, but even without that, the experience will leave you with plenty of beautiful moments to cherish.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
While snorkeling gear isn’t provided, you might find it helpful to bring your own if you have it, especially for the swim stops. The trip focuses more on the views and swimming rather than snorkeling, but gear can enhance your experience.

Is this trip suitable for young children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the water slides, shallow swim stops, and the friendly atmosphere. Life jackets are available if needed, and the tour staff is attentive to safety.

Can I see dolphins on this tour?
Dolphins may be spotted, but sightings are not guaranteed. The main wildlife highlight tends to be sea turtles, with the crew making announcements when they’re nearby.

What should I wear and bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. If you plan to swim or snorkel, don’t forget your gear. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended for sun protection on deck.

Is food and drink included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard. Many guests bring snacks, and you can buy refreshments at the bar.

How long is the trip?
The cruise lasts about three hours, a perfect length to enjoy multiple swim stops and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is Wi-Fi available on the boat?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided, so you can share your experiences or stay connected during the trip.

This boat trip from Protaras offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and lively fun. It’s a great way to spend a few hours soaking up the highlights of Cyprus’s coast with plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and make lasting memories.