From Paphos: Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise

From Paphos: Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise — A Practical Guide

Imagine setting off from the bustling harbor of Latsi in Paphos for a 6-hour cruise along one of Cyprus’s most pristine coastlines. This tour, offered by GXG Xplore Cy Tours Ltd, takes you to the celebrated Blue Lagoon — a shimmering, sky-blue cove renowned for its clear waters and scenic surroundings. Along with stops at stunning sea caves, Saint George’s Island, and the unspoiled Akamas coast, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. The price, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, makes this an accessible way to enjoy a slice of Cyprus’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning.

Two features stand out: firstly, the beautiful scenery of the Akamas coastline, the last significant untouched stretch of Cyprus’s coast, and secondly, the onboard seasonal fruits and wines, which add a nice touch of local flavor. The crew, consisting of a captain and friendly staff, work hard to make sure everyone feels comfortable and cared for.

A consideration worth noting is that the snorkeling equipment may be limited and not of the highest quality — some travelers have mentioned broken or basic gear, which can be disappointing if you’re eager to snorkel in the Blue Lagoon. Also, space on the boat can be tight, especially in the sun, so it’s better suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, straightforward boat ride rather than seeking detailed commentary or extensive amenities.

This tour suits travelers who want a beautiful scenic outing, enjoy swimming and snorkeling, and are happy with a relaxed atmosphere. If your main goal is to experience the stunning Blue Lagoon and see Cyprus’s unspoiled coast rather than detailed historical or ecological commentary, this trip offers excellent value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The cruise offers views of unspoiled coastlines, sea caves, and Saint George’s Island.
• Blue Lagoon Swim: The highlight is swimming and snorkeling in the well-known, sky-blue waters.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Perfect for those seeking a chill day on the water with opportunities to sunbathe and unwind.
• Limited Snorkeling Gear: Some travelers found the equipment lacking or broken, so bring your own if you’re serious about snorkeling.
• Inclusive Experience: Hotel pickup, drop-off, seasonal fruits, wine/juice, and Wi-Fi onboard are included.
• Casual and Flexible: No deep historical narration or extensive guide commentary—more about enjoying the scenery and sea.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in Paphos, a process that’s straightforward if your hotel is within the pickup zone. The tour lasts around 6 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. Once onboard, you’ll be transported to Latsi Harbor, where the boat awaits. This included transportation ensures a hassle-free start, freeing you from the need to navigate or find parking.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise kicks off with a scenic sail along the Akamas coastline, a stretch often praised for its untouched beauty. You’ll pass notable sights like Saint George’s Island—a tiny, rugged islet—sea caves at Manolis Bay, and Blaii Bay, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of the area’s seclusion.

The main event is a stop at the Blue Lagoon. Here, the waters are famously crystal clear and vibrant—a perfect setting for a refreshing swim. The tranquil environment is ideal for cooling off after a short sail, and snorkeling is available for those eager to see the marine life. However, based on traveler reviews, the snorkeling gear might leave something to be desired: some report broken snorkels and inadequate masks, so bringing your own equipment might be wise if snorkeling is a priority.

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The Blue Lagoon

This cove is the reason many book this tour. The waters are often described as sky-blue and incredibly inviting. As you float or swim, you’ll appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and stunning surroundings. Many guests enjoy relaxing in the sun, especially with the onboard seasonal fruits and refreshing drinks—wine or juice—served during the trip.

While the scenery is undeniably beautiful, some travelers have pointed out that the boat can get busy, especially during peak season, which might affect the feeling of exclusivity. Still, the overall vibe is casual and friendly, making it a good outing for families, couples, or groups looking for a straightforward day on the water.

The Sea Caves and Other Stops

Beyond the lagoon, the boat drifts past sea caves at Manolis Bay and Fontana Amoroza—areas that add a touch of ruggedness and natural beauty. These spots are perfect for quick photo ops and enjoy the feeling of being in a less developed, more authentic part of Cyprus.

Onboard Comfort and Facilities

The boat itself is described as nice enough, with friendly staff. It features a water slide for fun, Wi-Fi (though it’s probably slow and more for checking messages), and a clean, spacious toilet—though not lockable, so plan accordingly. There’s some limited space in the sun, so if you’re sensitive to heat, bringing a hat and sunscreen is recommended.

Food and Drinks

The inclusion of seasonal fruits and a choice between wine or juice adds a pleasant touch to the experience, especially after swimming. However, additional food and drinks are not included, and some travelers have noted that watermelon and mango were the only fruits offered, with other drinks available at extra cost.

The Return Journey

After a leisurely sail back, you’ll return to Latsi Harbor where your transportation awaits. The overall pace is relaxed, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery, chat with fellow travelers, or just soak up the sun.

What Travelers Are Saying: Authentic Perspectives

The reviews offer a balanced view. One traveler mentioned, “The pick-up transport was running late and they phoned to let us know,” which highlights the importance of punctuality but also the staff’s communication. The same review held back from snorkeling enthusiasm, noting that “the snorkeling equipment was rubbish,” and the snorkel was broken, which could be disappointing if snorkeling is your main goal.

Another traveler appreciated the “lovely trip” but pointed out the limited space to sit in the sun and the lack of detailed information about the sights, suggesting that this tour is more about enjoying the scenery than learning about it.

These insights remind us that this experience is best suited for those who simply want a beautiful boat ride with swimming opportunities rather than a comprehensive guide to Cyprus’s history or ecology.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Akamas Blue Lagoon Afternoon Cruise is an excellent choice for travelers seeking relaxation, stunning coastal views, and a refreshing swim. It’s especially suitable if you’re okay with the basic snorkeling gear and don’t mind a lively, sometimes crowded boat environment. Families with children, couples, or groups looking for a straightforward day of sun and sea will find this a good value.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic escape on the water—without a lot of fuss or complex itineraries—this cruise fits the bill. Just remember to bring your own snorkeling gear if you’re eager to explore underwater, and plan for some limited shade onboard.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Akamas Blue Lagoon Cruise

What is included in the tour?
Your fare covers hotel pickup and drop-off, roundtrip transportation by van, the boat cruise, seasonal fruits, wine or juice, Wi-Fi onboard, and a snorkel.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 6 hours, including transportation, sailing, swimming, and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Remember to pack sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. If you want to snorkel seriously, bringing your own gear might be worthwhile.

Is there any food onboard?
Only seasonal fruits and a choice of wine or juice are included. Additional food and drinks are available for purchase but are not part of the package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or heart problems, due to the boat’s setup and the nature of the activity.

What is the boat like?
It’s described as a nice vessel with a water slide, comfortable enough for a relaxed group experience, though space in the sun may be limited.

Will I get detailed information about the sights?
No, the tour offers limited commentary, focusing mainly on the scenery and environment rather than historical or ecological details.

How crowded does it get?
During peak season, the Blue Lagoon can be quite busy, so expect some proximity to other travelers while enjoying your swim.

This cruise offers a breezy, scenic, and accessible way to enjoy the natural beauty of Cyprus’s coast. It’s a solid pick if your main aim is to relax, swim, and take in incredible views without fussing over complicated arrangements.

You can check availability for your dates here: