Protaras: DREAM of TURTLES | Luxury Yacht | BBQ | 1 Drink

Protaras: Dream of Turtles – A Balanced Look at a Scenic Yacht Experience

Taking a tour like this aboard the St Georgios II offers a chance to see Cyprus from a different angle—on a comfortable, well-equipped yacht sailing along its stunning coastline. With stops at notable sights like the Blue Lagoon, Varosha, and Turtle Bay, it’s designed to cater to families, nature lovers, and anyone craving a relaxing day on the water. The tour also includes a traditional Cypriot lunch and a free drink, with an optional transfer service that improves convenience.

Two things I especially like about this experience are the knowledgeable crew and the breathtaking scenery. The crew, as many reviews highlight, is both friendly and professional—making the day smooth, engaging, and fun. The panoramic views of Cape Greco and the chance to swim with turtles or snorkel in crystal waters add a special touch. My one consideration? The itinerary may change due to weather, so flexibility is key.

Another note worth mentioning is that, while the trip offers excellent value for money—including lunch, WiFi, and a free drink—it’s worth planning for possible weather disruptions or the chance that turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed. Still, many travelers find the overall experience worth every penny, especially given the high praise for the crew and the idyllic stops.

Key points / Takeaways

• Luxurious Yacht: The St Georgios II is often described as one of the most beautiful and friendly boats in Protaras, with both shaded and sunbathing areas.
• Scenic Stops: Highlights include the Blue Lagoon, Varosha, and Lovers Bridge, with plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration.
• Family-Friendly: The tour offers options like chicken nuggets for kids and vegetarian patties, making it suitable for families with diverse tastes.
• Authentic Lunch: The traditional Cypriot meal—baked chicken, homemade chips, couscous, and Tzatziki—comes generously portioned, with vegetarian and kid-friendly options available.
• Informative Guides: Reviewers repeatedly praise the crew, especially for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey both fun and educational.
• Turtle Sightings: While sightings are not guaranteed, several reviews mention the thrill of seeing turtles in their natural habitat near Turtle Bay.

A Deep Dive into the Yacht Cruise Experience

Setting Sail from Protaras

The adventure begins at the end of Protaras Pier, where you’ll find the impressive yacht ready for departure. Depending on your booking, transfers are available from local resorts, which many find convenient, especially if you’re not staying close to the pier. The process is straightforward—just a short walk from hotels like the Sunrise Oasis or the Grecian Park. Be sure to arrive a few minutes early as the staff emphasizes punctuality; once on board, you’ll notice the yacht’s luxurious decor, with leather seats and a sleek design that immediately sets a relaxed tone.

The Itinerary: Scenic Journey with Snorkeling and Sightseeing

The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, taking you along the shoreline to a series of scenic stops. Many reviews praise the well-planned route, which includes a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insights. The guide provides commentary in English, Greek, and Arabic, making the experience accessible for a diverse group.

First, you’ll pass Famagusta’s ghost town of Varosha, which has a haunting yet fascinating history. Many travelers express appreciation for the guided tour and the stories shared about how the district was divided in 1974. It’s a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s complex history, and the photo stops here are very well organized.

Next, the yacht hugs the coastline, passing iconic spots like Fig Tree Bay, Lovers Bridge, and Sancta Maria Shrine—all visually stunning and perfect for capturing on your camera. The scenic views are complemented by the feeling of being out on the water, with many reviewers noting how the crisp air and gentle waves add to the experience.

Blue Lagoon and Marine Life: The Highlights

The Blue Lagoon is often called the crown jewel of this cruise. The waters are turquoise and inviting, and the boat anchors there for about 45 minutes. Many guests take this opportunity to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on deck. The marine life viewing can be extraordinary, and while seeing turtles isn’t guaranteed, several reports mention how exciting it is when they do appear.

Protaras’s calm and warm waters make it ideal for a family-friendly swim. The bar stays open throughout the cruise, offering wine, beer, soda, and juice—the free drink included in your package is a thoughtful touch. Many reviews rave about the generous portions of food and the friendly staff who are happy to accommodate dietary preferences like vegetarian patties or chicken nuggets for kids.

The Family-Style Lunch: A Genuine Taste of Cyprus

The lunch onboard is a true highlight for many guests. It’s a traditional Cypriot meal that combines baked chicken, homemade chips, couscous, bread, and Tzatziki. As one reviewer noted, “The crew made a really, really nice meal,” and many agree the portions are quite generous. Vegetarian and child-friendly options are available if requested in advance, which is helpful for families.

Return Journey and Final Stops

As the cruise winds down, you’ll visit Green Bay for another swim or snorkel session and then begin heading back toward Protaras. The retrace along the coastline offers some of the best views, making it a perfect time to review your photos and share the experience with friends via the free WiFi onboard.

The cruise ends with a drop-off at 36 locations, including popular hotels and resorts, making logistics straightforward. Many reviews mention how the transfer service adds value, though it’s worth noting that if the bus fills up, you might need to make your way to the pier on your own.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is especially suited for families, couples, or groups eager for a relaxed day on the water with plenty of scenic views and a delicious meal. If you’re looking for informative guides with a friendly vibe and chances to see turtles or snorkel in warm waters, you’ll find this tour appealing. It’s also a good choice if you want value for money—the package includes lunch, WiFi, and a free drink, making it a hassle-free way to explore Cyprus’s coast.

However, if you’re not comfortable with boat movement or have mobility issues, you should consider the physical aspects—boarding involves about 15 steps, and the toilets are only accessible by stairs. Also, keep in mind that weather conditions can influence the itinerary, so flexibility helps.

Final Tips

• Bring sunscreen, a towel, cash, and a credit card for extras.
• Book transfers if you prefer door-to-door convenience.
• Request dietary options in advance if needed.
• Be prepared for possible weather-related itinerary changes.
• Arrive a few minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process.

FAQ

Is the transfer service included?
Yes, if you select the transfer option, pickup from key resorts is included, though it’s best to arrive early as schedules are punctual.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, the cruise policy prohibits bringing drinks onboard. The bar offers a variety of beverages for purchase, and your free drink is included in the package.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is perfect. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a towel for swimming stops.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian patties are available if requested beforehand, and kids can have chicken nuggets upon request.

How long are the swimming stops?
Stops at the Blue Lagoon and Green Bay are approximately 45 minutes each, ample time for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, especially with family-friendly meal options and shallow swimming spots. Some reviews mention children having a great time.

What if I don’t see turtles?
While turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, many guests have still enjoyed the trip and found the scenery and swimming equally rewarding.

How much does it cost?
Prices include lunch, WiFi, and a free drink, making it a good value given the scenic stops and onboard amenities.

What languages are spoken onboard?
Guides speak English, Greek, and Arabic. Additional languages are available via the cruise app.

Is it worth the price?
Most guests agree it is, especially considering the inclusive lunch, scenic views, and the friendly crew. The positive reviews reflect high satisfaction with the overall value.

This cruise from Protaras offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, cultural sights, delicious food, and friendly service. Whether you’re after a relaxing day swimming in turquoise waters or a fun family adventure with a bit of local history thrown in, it’s a worthwhile choice that balances comfort with authenticity.