Experience the Cyprus Coast with Captain Marko’s Blue Lagoon & Turtle Cruise
If you’re visiting Ayia Napa and craving a relaxing, sun-filled day on the water, Captain Marko’s Blue Lagoon & Turtle Cruise is a solid pick. Priced at just over $34 per person, this 4.5-hour tour takes you along Cyprus’ stunning southeastern coast, with highlights including the famous Blue Lagoon and Konnos Bay—prime spots for snorkeling and swimming. Led by friendly crew, the trip offers both adventure in the water and scenic vistas worth capturing.
What really makes this cruise stand out is how accessible and well-organized it is. We particularly appreciate the comfortable top deck with about 40 sunbathing mattresses, perfect for those who prefer to dry off or soak up the sun without getting wet. The two scheduled hour-long stops are thoughtfully timed to maximize your swimming and snorkeling opportunities, with equipment provided to make jumping into the water easy. Plus, the chance of spotting sea turtles and dolphins adds a touch of magic to the trip.
One potential consideration is the lack of included lunch—if you’re hungry after all the swimming, you’ll need to pay extra for on-board food. Also, the boat departs promptly at 10 am, so arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot on the deck, especially during busy days.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balance of scenic cruising, water fun, and the chance to see local wildlife in a relaxed setting. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy being on the water will find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Beautiful coastal stops at Blue Lagoon and Konnos Bay for snorkeling and swimming.
- Inexpensive but value-packed day, with friendly crew and scenic views.
- Opportunity to see turtles and dolphins, depending on the season.
- Sunbathing on the top deck makes for a relaxing experience even if you don’t swim.
- Efficient itinerary with two hour-long water stops and sightseeing along Cape Greco.
- Optional lunch available for an extra fee, but not included in the base price.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
When we think about what makes this tour appealing, it starts with the stunning natural scenery. The boat departs from Ayia Napa Harbor in the mid-morning, giving you plenty of time to settle in before the adventure begins. The crew is noted for being helpful and friendly, which can turn a good trip into a memorable one. They’re attentive to safety, especially when jumping off the top deck—an activity many travelers enjoy for the thrill of a splash in the turquoise waters of Konnos Bay.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Blue Lagoon
The journey kicks off with a scenic cruise along the coast of Cape Greco, heading toward the famous Blue Lagoon. You’ll arrive around 9:45 am, giving you roughly an hour to snorkel and swim in waters renowned for their clarity and vibrant blue color. The snorkeling equipment is available to borrow, making it easy for even first-timers to dip below the surface and see the underwater world teeming with local fish.
As one reviewer pointed out, “Swam with a turtle and saw 2 others from the boat,” which highlights how lucky you can be with wildlife sightings here. The waters at Blue Lagoon are calm and inviting, perfect for families or anyone seeking a peaceful swim. It’s worth noting that many come just for the scenery and water activities—and they’re not disappointed.
Stop 2: Konnos Bay
After reboarding, the boat continues along the coast to Konnos Bay, another hour-long water stop. The waters here are equally inviting, with a chance to jump off the boat’s top deck, snorkel among fish, and possibly spot more turtles or even dolphins, depending on the season. The reviews echo the fun of this stop, with many mentioning how swimming with turtles was a highlight—something that adds an unforgettable touch to your day.
The scenic nature of Konnos Bay also makes it an excellent spot for photos, with dramatic cliffs and lush greenery framing the turquoise waters. The area is part of a protected zone governed by the NATURA 2000 EU directive, helping to preserve its natural beauty and wildlife.
Scenic Highlights and Landmarks
Throughout the cruise, you’ll sail past notable sites like Cape Greco Lighthouse, a centuries-old structure with panoramic views—perfect for a quick photo. The boat also passes Lovers’ Bridge, a naturally formed rock arch, along with the Virgin Mary Shrine and the Pirates Cave—fascinating geological formations that add context to the area’s history and legend.
The Crew and Atmosphere
Reviewers praise the friendly and attentive crew, noting how they make everyone feel welcome and safe, especially when jumping from the top deck. The boat itself is described as clean and well-maintained, with plenty of space for relaxing and socializing. Some mention the fun competitions and the overall lively but relaxed vibe onboard, making it a great choice for both families and couples.
Food and Extras
While lunch is not included, many travelers opt to pay the small extra fee for a meal on board, which has been described as delicious—comparable to restaurant quality with chicken, wedges, salad, and a tasty sweet chili sauce. Drinks are available for purchase, so you can stay refreshed during the cruise.
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Considerations and Tips
A common piece of advice from travelers is to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good spot, especially during peak days. Because the trip departs promptly at 10 am, being punctual is important to avoid missing out on the best seats and to start your day smoothly.
A minor downside is that not everyone was happy about policies on bringing water bottles onboard—some found staff attitudes a little rude about it, despite no clear rules banning personal drinks. It’s a reminder to check what’s permitted before you arrive.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This cruise is perfect if you’re after a relaxed, scenic day on the water with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. It suits families with children, couples looking for a romantic yet fun outing, or solo travelers wanting a memorable seaside experience. If wildlife sightings like turtles or dolphins are a priority, this tour offers good odds, especially in the right season.
It works well for those on a budget too, given the moderate price and the all-in-one experience of coastline views, water activities, and the chance to unwind on deck.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
In our view, Captain Marko’s Blue Lagoon & Turtle Cruise offers a great value for money, combining scenic beauty, wildlife watching, and water fun in a single trip. The friendly crew, well-organized stops, and comfortable sunbathing decks help make it a worthwhile experience. The chance to swim with turtles—something many travelers highlight as unforgettable—is a real bonus that elevates this tour above a simple boat ride.
This trip is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor water activities, scenic cruising, and relaxed exploration. If you’re after a lively party atmosphere with lots of drinking, this might not be the right choice, but if your goal is to enjoy nature, scenery, and some good old-fashioned swimming, you’ll find plenty to love here.
FAQ
What is the duration of this cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, with two hour-long stops for swimming and snorkeling.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is available to borrow during the stops, making it easy to explore underwater without bringing your own gear.
Are lunch and drinks included?
No, lunch is optional and available for an extra fee, but drinks can be purchased onboard. The base price covers the cruise and snorkeling.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone case. Arrive early to secure a good spot on deck.
Is there a chance to see wildlife?
Yes, many trips report sightings of turtles, and sometimes dolphins depending on the season. The opportunity to swim with turtles is a highlight for many.
What is the boat like?
The boat is described as clean, comfortable, and spacious, with plenty of sunbathing mattresses and good views from the deck.
Can children join?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention families having a fun and safe experience, with activities suitable for children.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How early should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure at 10 am to get a good spot and settle in comfortably.
In the end, Captain Marko’s Blue Lagoon & Turtle Cruise offers a gentle mix of scenic cruising, wildlife encounters, and water-based fun that suits a wide range of travelers. For a day that combines natural beauty with a dash of adventure, it’s a memorable way to experience Cyprus’ stunning coast.