Paphos: Half Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar & Snorkelling

Paphos: Half Day BBQ Cruise with Open Bar & Snorkelling — A friendly, scenic escape along Cyprus’s coast

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Paphos beyond its ancient ruins and bustling streets, this half-day luxury yacht cruise offers a relaxed, enjoyable slice of Cyprus’s maritime beauty. The experience takes you along the coastline, with stops at Coral Bay, the Sea Caves, and St Georges Island, giving you plenty of chances to swim, take photos, and soak up the sun. From the reviews, it’s clear that the crew’s friendly attitude and the stunning scenery make this a solid choice for travelers craving a mix of comfort, scenic views, and tasty food.

Two features I particularly appreciate about this cruise are the well-organized itinerary that balances sightseeing with downtime and the generous open bar that keeps drinks flowing while you’re floating or lounging. You’ll enjoy the BBQ buffet lunch in the company of fellow travelers, often with live music or a friendly captain’s commentary to add a personal touch. A small downside to consider is that the cruise’s duration of around four hours can feel a bit short if you’re eager to explore every nook of the coastline, but it’s perfect for a quick half-day escape.

One possible consideration is the group size and seating arrangements. With three decks and sunbeds on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s best to arrive early if you want a prime spot or shaded area. Also, those with mobility issues should note that the experience isn’t suited for wheelchair users. Still, for most, this cruise offers a good balance of comfort, views, and fun, especially considering the included hotel pickup and drop-off that makes logistics hassle-free.

Key points / Takeaways

• Scenic coastline with stops at Coral Bay, Sea Caves, and St Georges Island
• Comfortable yacht with three decks and sunbeds for relaxing
• All-inclusive drinks from the open bar, including cocktails
• Tasty BBQ buffet lunch and seasonal fresh fruit served onboard
• Swimming and snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters
• Friendly crew praised for their professionalism and attentiveness

Discovering the Paphos Coastline

This cruise promises a visual feast as you glide past iconic spots like Coral Bay, known for its golden sands, and the dramatic Sea Caves, which are perfect for photo ops or a quick swim. The boat itself is described as a luxury yacht, offering ample space and three decks—meaning you can choose to sunbathe, sit in the shade, or get closer to the water.

I love the way the itinerary balances sightseeing with downtime. You’ll spend about an hour at Peyia, enjoying the lunch, swimming, or snorkeling, which are often the highlights for most travelers. The stop at the Sea Caves, for about 30 minutes, is ideal for snapping scenic pictures or just marveling at the geological formations. The cruise also passes by St Georges Island, providing more panoramic views and photo opportunities that are difficult to beat from land.

The Meal: BBQ, Fruit, and Refreshing Drinks

The BBQ buffet lunch is often highlighted in reviews as a tasty, hearty meal served in a casual, friendly atmosphere. You’ll also find a seasonal fruit platter, which makes for a light, refreshing finish. The open bar is a real boon—offering everything from soft drinks to cocktails—so you can sip as you enjoy the scenery. One reviewer mentioned that the crew even performed live music, adding a lively vibe to the cruise.

The Crew and the Atmosphere

According to reviews, the crew stands out for their warmth and professionalism. They’re attentive without being intrusive, making sure everyone’s comfortable and well-served. One guest commented, “The captain and the crew were super nice, attentive, and professional,” which is a compliment that hints at good service and a welcoming environment.

The small group setting and friendly guides enhance the experience, making it more like a trip with new friends rather than just a tour. This is especially true if you enjoy engaging with the crew and fellow travelers.

Practicalities and Logistics

Pickup from your hotel is included, which simplifies logistics and allows you to relax from the moment you wake up. The cruise lasts about four hours, with start times varying based on availability. It’s advisable to check the schedule and confirm your pickup time after booking.

What to bring? A towel, comfortable shoes, a camera, and your passport or ID are recommended. Since swimming is part of the experience, packing some sunscreen and a hat is wise. High heels and pets aren’t allowed, and the cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

The price offers good value considering the inclusions—hotel pickup, a buffet meal, drinks, swimming, and sightseeing—especially when you factor in the scenic beauty and the relaxed pace. If you prefer a shorter, stress-free outing that combines activity, comfort, and good food, this cruise fits the bill.

Who is this for?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic escape without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals. Families with kids, couples, or groups of friends will find it appealing, especially if they enjoy snorkeling, lounging, and socializing. It’s also good for those who appreciate attentive service and are looking for a casual but well-organized trip.

However, people needing wheelchair access or with pets should consider other options, as those are not permitted here. Also, if you’re after an in-depth exploration of Cyprus’s history or culture, this cruise won’t satisfy those interests, but it’s perfect for a quick, scenic break on the water.

Final thoughts

This half-day cruise offers a fun, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Paphos’s stunning coastline. With friendly crew, plenty of swim and photo opportunities, and a tasty BBQ lunch, it balances relaxation and sightseeing beautifully. While the duration might be a bit short for those eager to explore every corner, it’s an ideal choice for an easy, enjoyable maritime adventure.

If you value comfort, good food, and scenic views, this cruise provides excellent value and a memorable way to see Cyprus from a different perspective. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a carefree, social outing with all the logistics taken care of.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately four hours, with the exact start time depending on availability. It includes sightseeing, swimming, and dining.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from designated hotels are included, making it convenient to start and end the tour without extra hassle.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transportation, an open bar (including cocktails), a BBQ buffet lunch, three decks for sitting, sunbeds, sightseeing, swimming, and canoeing.

Can I swim and snorkel during the cruise?
Absolutely. The cruise offers a dedicated stop for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters, and most reviews mention it as a highlight.

Is this suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but children should be comfortable with boats and swimming. Check the specifics with the provider if you have young kids.

Are there any restrictions?
High-heeled shoes and pets are not allowed. The cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and it’s best to arrive early if you want a preferred seating spot.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, camera, comfortable shoes, ID, and sunscreen. Pack light but include essentials for swimming and photos.

What is the atmosphere like?
The crew is praised for being attentive and friendly, creating a welcoming environment. The overall vibe is relaxed, social, and scenic.

In summary, this cruise balances comfort, scenery, and good food, making it a smart choice for anyone wanting a laid-back day on the water in Paphos. It’s a chance to see Cyprus’s coastal beauty from a different angle, with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and enjoy local hospitality.