Protaras: Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise with Swim Stops

Protaras: Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise with Swim Stops – A Detailed Review

Imagine spending a relaxing afternoon on a boat cruising along Cyprus’s stunning coastline, stopping for a swim in crystal-clear waters, and learning about intriguing local history. That’s exactly what the Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise offers, departing from Protaras and taking you through some of the most picturesque spots in the Cape Greco area. For about 3.5 hours, you’ll enjoy panoramic views, refreshing swims, and the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat — all with the friendly guidance of knowledgeable crew members.

What we love about this tour is how flexible and personalized the experience feels. You can choose to simply relax on the boat, snorkel at different swim stops like the famous Blue Lagoon, or learn about the island’s divided past by visiting the ghost town of Varosha. The second highlight is the intimate setting of the recently refurbished St Georgios boat, which offers comfort, good views, and a lively bar service — including your first drink free.

A potential consideration? The boat ride involves about 15 steps to board, and the toilets are only accessible via stairs. Plus, the itinerary can shift depending on weather conditions, so don’t be surprised if plans change slightly on the day. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic excursion with a mix of history, nature, and fun, this cruise is a strong choice for families, couples, or anyone wanting a taste of the local coast without fuss.

If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates authentic, scenic experiences with some educational content thrown in, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good if you’re keen on snorkeling or meeting wildlife like turtles, or if you simply want a memorable way to enjoy Cyprus’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible experience: Choose to relax or actively snorkel at 3 swim stops, including the Blue Lagoon.
• Cultural insight: Learn about the history of Varosha and Cyprus’s divided past from knowledgeable guides.
• Comfortable boat: Recently refurbished, with panoramic views and a friendly bar serving drinks and snacks.
• Scenic highlights: See Agioi Anargyri Church, Lovers Bridge, and Sancta Maria Shrine — perfect for Instagram moments.
• Wildlife opportunity: Visit Turtle Bay, hoping to see turtles in their natural environment (not guaranteed).
• Connectivity: Free WiFi onboard lets you share your photos and memories instantly.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins at the end of the pier in Protaras, with the boat St Georgios ready to sail. We recommend arriving by 10:45 to ensure a smooth start. The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity, especially if paired with a relaxed lunch or an afternoon exploring the coast.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Departure and Coastal Views – As we cast off, the crew guides us along the coastline, offering stunning views of the shoreline, fig trees, and local landmarks. We loved the way the boat’s design allows all passengers to enjoy the scenery with excellent panoramic windows and open decks.

2. Varosha Stop – Just after leaving Protaras, we pass Famagusta to learn about the ghost town of Varosha. Here, guides share the story of how the area was divided in 1974, a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s complex history. It’s a quick but meaningful stop that adds depth to your day.

3. Scenic Landmarks – From the boat, you’ll see Agioi Anargyri Church, the iconic Lovers Bridge, and the Sancta Maria Shrine. These spots are not only beautiful but also perfect for photos, especially on Instagram. We appreciated how the guides point out these special sights, adding context without overwhelming.

4. Blue Lagoon & Swim Stops – The main event: mooring near the Blue Lagoon for a dip in its famously clear waters. You’ll have plenty of time to snorkel, explore, or simply relax in the tranquil environment. The water here is cool, inviting, and ideal for a refreshing break.

5. Turtle Bay – On the return journey, the boat stops at Turtle Bay, a hopeful spot to see sea turtles in the wild. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the chance to observe these graceful creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight for many. One reviewer specifically noted, “We hope you will experience the unforgettable thrill of seeing turtles in their natural environment.”

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Onboard Amenities and Service

The recently refurbished St Georgios offers a comfortable setting with free WiFi, so you can upload photos or read guide info while sailing. The onboard bar is open throughout, with drinks and snacks available for purchase. The first drink — be it wine, beer, soda, or juice — is included in the ticket price, which adds to the overall value.

Practical Details

• Pricing: The tour costs for the cruise are designed to offer good value for a scenic, half-day outing. Considering the inclusions — free WiFi, a free drink, and knowledgeable guides — it’s a fair deal for a memorable experience.
• Transfers: You can opt for a package that includes transportation from local resorts, making the whole process more convenient. However, once the transfer bus is full, booking without transfers might be your only option — so plan accordingly.
• Accessibility & Limitations: Managing about 15 steps to board might be a challenge for some, and the toilets are only accessible via stairs. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but most able-bodied travelers will find it manageable.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the friendly guides and stunning scenery. One traveler described the cruise as “very pleasant,” highlighting the relaxed pace and beautiful views. Others appreciate the informative commentary that makes the experience more meaningful, especially regarding the history of Varosha.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for those seeking a leisurely, scenic day on the water with a dash of local history. It’s particularly suited for families, couples, and small groups wanting a flexible experience — whether that’s lounging on deck or snorkeling in turquoise waters. If you’re interested in wildlife, the Turtle Bay stop is a chance to see turtles in their environment, adding a special touch.

It’s not meant for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for an all-day adventure. Instead, it’s perfect if you want a relaxed, well-organized cruise with authentic Cyprus scenery and stories woven into your afternoon.

Final Thoughts

The Protaras Waterworld Turtle Cove Cruise offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty, light adventure, and cultural insight. The recently renovated boat, combined with a knowledgeable crew, creates a welcoming atmosphere where you can genuinely unwind. The three swim stops, especially at the Blue Lagoon, promise a refreshing break amid stunning surroundings, making this a highlight for anyone visiting the area.

The inclusion of free WiFi and a free drink adds a touch of value that many travelers will appreciate, especially when sharing their pictures and stories. The storytelling about Varosha adds an educational layer that makes the cruise more than just a boat ride — it’s a small window into Cyprus’s layered past.

While it does have some logistical considerations, such as steps to board and potential itinerary shifts, these are minor compared to the overall relaxed and picturesque experience. This tour is particularly suited for those who love scenic coastal sights, enjoy snorkeling or wildlife spotting, and want a flexible, enjoyable afternoon on the water.

In all, if you’re in Protaras and want to experience the island’s natural beauty and a bit of its history in one go, this cruise has plenty to offer for a fair price. It’s a straightforward, authentic way to enjoy Cyprus’s coastline with the gentle thrill of hoping to see turtles and the chance to sample the local scenery from a comfortable boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Is transportation included?
You can choose a package with transfers from local resorts, or book without and make your own way to the pier. The transfers are available until the bus fills up.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, cash or credit card, and some water. The onboard bar sells drinks and snacks, but you might want to have cash handy.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families are welcome, but note that managing the steps onto the boat might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I guarantee seeing turtles?
No, sightings at Turtle Bay are not guaranteed but the chance is good, and many travelers find it a memorable highlight.

What languages are spoken onboard?
The spoken languages are English, Greek, and Arabic. Other languages can be accessed via the cruise app in written form.

Are there any restrictions?
Drones are not allowed, and touching marine life is forbidden to protect the animals. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary might change depending on sea conditions, but the crew will do their best to ensure you still get a worthwhile experience.

Whether you’re after scenic views, a little adventure in the water, or a glimpse into Cyprus’s history, this cruise offers a balanced, friendly, and memorable way to explore the coast — all with the comfort of a local operator who knows how to keep things relaxed and engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here: