Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras

Protaras Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise Review: A Day on the Water with the Best Views and Flavors

Imagine gliding along the calm, sparkling waters of Cyprus’s east coast, surrounded by the sound of gentle waves and the warm sun on your skin. For five hours, you’ll enjoy a full-day catamaran cruise departing from Protaras, exploring iconic spots like Green Bay Beach, Konnos Bay, and Cape Greco’s Blue Lagoon. This experience is designed for those who love a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and lively social atmosphere — all at a reasonable price of around $75 per person.

What makes this trip particularly appealing are the stunning coastline views and the well-organized stops for swimming and snorkeling. We loved how the crew kept the drinks flowing at the open bar and how the buffet lunch hit the spot after some invigorating dips in the sea. The ability to snap photos of Cyprus’s rugged shoreline while sipping a cool drink gave this tour a laid-back, holiday vibe.

One thing to keep in mind is that the boat can get quite crowded, especially during peak months, which might limit your space or shade. Still, if you’re after a fun, sociable day on the water with good food and drinks, this cruise tends to deliver. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, family trips, or couples seeking a relaxed day at sea.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views and frequent swimming stops make this a memorable way to experience Cyprus’s shoreline.
• All-you-can-drink open bar adds to the relaxed, festive atmosphere.
• Buffet lunch and seasonal fruit provide good value and satisfy hunger after swimming.
• Pick-up and drop-off options make logistics easier, especially if staying in Protaras.
• Most travelers find it suitable for families and those seeking a lively, social cruise.
• Be aware that overcrowding can occur, and shade might be limited during hot days.

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect from This Catamaran Cruise

Starting Out: Easy Booking and Convenient Pickup

From the moment you book, you’ll notice the reviews praise how straightforward the process is. Most travelers like the smooth organization, with pickups in Protaras from designated hotels or a central meeting point. The start time is 9:00 am, a good choice to maximize the day’s sunlight and activities.

The tour is operated by MTS GLOBE CYPRUS LTD., with a maximum of 100 travelers, which feels just right for creating a lively yet intimate mood without feeling overcrowded. Once onboard, you’ll quickly realize that the crew, like “Gail and the team,” are friendly, attentive, and helpful, making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed.

The Itinerary: Scenic Stops and Swimming Fun

The cruise covers notable spots such as Green Bay Beach, Konnos Bay, Cape Greco (Blue Lagoon), and Famagusta. The itinerary promises about five hours of sea adventure, with swimming stops that include paddle boards and swim aids, according to reviews.

The first major highlight is Green Bay Beach, a picture-perfect cove with clear, calm water. The boat often pauses here to give everyone a chance to swim, snorkel, or just float with the sun warming your back. As one traveler put it: “The stops and swims were really fun, and the catamaran was tidy, really cool for teenage kids to enjoy even with bloody WiFi available on the boat.”

Next, you’ll cruise past the Famagusta coastline, offering a chance to see the area from the water, and visit Cape Greco, famed for its dramatic cliffs. The Blue Lagoon, with its striking waters, is a favorite photo spot, making for stunning memories.

Food and Drink: A Feast at Sea

The buffet lunch is a highlight for many, with a variety of options including seasonal fruit and drinks. The open bar is unlimited, with many reviews praising the selection of cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. One review called it “lots of drinks” and appreciated how “the lunch was delicious with a big choice of cocktails & drinks onboard.” This makes the cruise feel more like a floating party, which can be enjoyable but might be a drawback if you’re after a quieter, more relaxed experience.

Atmosphere and Crew: Friendly and Welcoming

Many reviews focus on the friendly crew, describing them as “first class” and “amazing.” Travelers like Mike, Cal, and Gail are often mentioned by name for their attentiveness and good humor. The WiFi on board allows you to share your experience or check your photos, which is a nice perk if you want to stay connected.

However, some reviews pointed out overcrowding, particularly in the heat, with little shade available. Kelly B. mentioned not having enough space to sit comfortably, which could unfortunately lead to discomfort or even sunstroke if you’re not cautious. It’s worth bringing a hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and perhaps a light cover-up.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want good value — great food, unlimited drinks, and scenic stops — with a bit of adventure thrown in. If you’re seeking a relaxed, tranquil day with fewer people or prefer less noise, you might find this tour a bit crowded or loud, especially during peak times.

Why This Cruise Offers Good Value

At roughly $75, including lunch, drinks, and transportation, the cruise delivers a lot of what many travelers seek—scenic beauty, fun swimming, and all-inclusive indulgence. The reviews show a strong majority appreciate the quality of the food and the friendliness of the crew, which adds a sense of hospitality that makes the experience more than just a boat ride.

The organized stops for swimming and photo opportunities mean you get enough variety to feel like you’ve seen the coastline from a different perspective. Plus, the easy logistics and hotel pickup make it convenient, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of navigating on your own.

Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Right for You?

If you’re looking for a fun, social cruise packed with beautiful scenery, swimming, and good food, this trip from Protaras hits the mark. The friendly crew, excellent value, and stunning coastal views make it a popular choice — especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a lively atmosphere.

However, if your idea of a perfect day is more tranquil and private, or if avoiding crowds is a priority, it might be worth considering whether the potential for overcrowding and limited shade could impact your experience.

In the end, this cruise offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and socializing — a good way to make the most of your time on Cyprus’s gorgeous waters. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, many reviewers say it’s a day they remember fondly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy swimming and sightseeing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available from select hotels or a central meeting point in Protaras, making it convenient for travelers.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers buffet lunch, unlimited drinks (open bar), pickup and drop-off, and swim stops. Free WiFi is also available onboard.

Can I buy drinks on the boat?
Yes, unlimited drinks are included as part of the open bar, with a variety of cocktails, wines, and soft drinks.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is suitable for families. However, always check with the operator if you have specific concerns about children.

What should I bring?
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towels, and perhaps a camera for capturing the scenery.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to favorable weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Is the boat crowded?
During peak times, some reviews mention overcrowding, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially in hot weather.

What are the main highlights of the itinerary?
Expect scenic stops at Green Bay Beach, Konnos Bay, Cape Greco’s Blue Lagoon, and the coastline of Famagusta, with swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities.

Can I expect good food and drinks?
Yes, many guests rave about the buffet lunch and the wide selection of cocktails and beverages, making for a generous and tasty experience.

In the end, this catamaran cruise is a lively, scenic, and well-organized way to enjoy Cyprus’s coast, perfect for those who want a mix of adventure and social fun in a beautiful setting.