San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras

A relaxing day on the Mediterranean with stunning coastal views, a visit to the ghost town of Famagusta, and refreshing swims — that’s what the San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise promises. Starting from Protaras or Ayia Napa, this 5-hour boat trip on a traditional schooner offers a blend of sightseeing, swimming, and good food, all in a comfortable, friendly setting. It’s a balanced way to enjoy Cyprus’s beautiful coastline without the packed itinerary of larger tours.

What we love most? First, the opportunity to view the eerie and fascinating ghost town of Famagusta from the water, a perspective that’s both powerful and poignant. Second, the ample swim stops in Derynia Bay and the Blue Lagoon, perfect for cooling off and exploring the crystal waters. A potential consideration? Since the cruise involves multiple stops, some travelers might find it a little rushed if they want longer in each location.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic day at sea, mixed with light adventure and cultural intrigue. It suits travelers who appreciate comfort, good food, and engaging guides, especially those who value authentic experiences over overly commercial excursions.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal views of the eastern coast of Cyprus.
• Unique perspective of Famagusta’s ghost town from the water.
• Multiple swim stops in Derynia Bay and Blue Lagoon.
• Delicious buffet lunch and open bar included in the price.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics smooth.
• Small group feel with personalized service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise

When choosing a boat trip in Cyprus, the San Antonio cruise offers a classic, well-rounded experience. The traditional schooner itself exudes charm, with plenty of shaded areas to relax while enjoying the breeze. The boat can accommodate a relatively small group, often feeling more like a private charter, which is a big plus for intimacy and personalized service.

Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

The day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Protaras or Ayia Napa — a hassle-free start. Collections are scheduled between 7:55AM and 8:45AM, so you’ll want to set your alarm a bit early. Once aboard, the friendly crew welcomes you and sets a relaxed tone — expect to be offered drinks from the complimentary open bar throughout the trip.

The first major highlight is a cruise towards Famagusta to see the ghost town of Varosha. From the water, the abandoned buildings and deserted streets tell a haunting story of the town’s turbulent history. A few reviews mention how Nadiia appreciated Angela’s informative guidance, which added depth to the experience. Viewing from the sea gives a different perspective from the usual tourist spots, and many find it a moving sight.

Next, the boat heads to Derynia Bay for a swim stop. Here, the waters are clear and inviting, perfect for diving in with your snorkeling gear if you have it. The reviews praise the plenty of shade aboard, which is crucial for staying comfortable in Cyprus’s summer heat — one traveler even called it “a boon in 41°C temperatures.”

Afterward, the boat continues along the coast, passing Fig Tree Bay, one of the most stunning beaches in the area, and then reaches the Cape Greco area and Blue Lagoon. This turquoise stretch is often the highlight for photographers and swimmers alike. The crystal-clear waters and scenic backdrop are truly striking. Another swim stop allows for more exploration and relaxing in the serene waters.

Food and Drink

A buffet lunch is included, featuring seasonal fresh fruit and dessert, satisfying even the heartiest appetites after swimming. The open bar keeps drinks flowing, from soft drinks to alcohol, making it easy to unwind. Several travelers, like Ákos, note the great food and service — “all the drinks and food are great,” he says, highlighting how well the catering complements the day.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour’s duration of five hours balances sightseeing and relaxation, making it suitable for those with limited time but wanting a taste of the sea. You’ll want to bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen, as well as snorkeling gear if you plan to explore underwater. The crew welcomes your own equipment, which adds flexibility.

Transportation is streamlined with hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the hassle of finding meeting points. The collection process begins early, so plan for a quick morning.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the friendly, attentive crew. For example, Nadiia’s review highlights Angela’s engaging commentary and the “incredible impressions” from the visits. Peter appreciated the small group size, which made the experience feel more like a “private charter,” enhancing the overall comfort and enjoyment.

Many reviews also emphasize the quality of the food and drinks, making the trip feel like a true treat rather than just sightseeing. The relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere are common themes, appealing to travelers seeking a laid-back but memorable day.

Considerations

While the stops are well-paced for most, some might find the brief visits too quick if they’re eager to spend more time in each area. The tour’s main focus on scenery, swimming, and good food might not suit those looking for in-depth cultural tours or lengthy exploration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is particularly well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed day on the water with scenic views. It appeals to those interested in small-group intimacy, good food, and a mix of sightseeing and swimming. History buffs will appreciate the view of Famagusta’s ghost town from the water, while beach lovers will enjoy the swim stops in clean, inviting waters.

Travelers who value friendly guides and well-organized logistics will find this trip a great fit. However, if your idea of a perfect day involves longer stays in each location or more adventurous snorkeling, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This cruise offers a balanced combination of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and relaxed fun. The small-group setting and friendly crew make it more personal than larger tours, while the included lunch and drinks add value to the experience. It’s a fantastic way to see Cyprus’s coast from a different vantage point, with enough time for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying good company.

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and culturally interesting day at sea, this cruise could be just the ticket. It’s especially perfect for those who want a hassle-free day, with convenient hotel pickup and a relaxed pace that allows you to take in the surroundings without feeling rushed.

For travelers seeking an authentic, well-reviewed experience that combines stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and delicious food, this cruise hits most of the right notes. Be prepared to enjoy the sun, sea, and stories — and leave with some beautiful memories of Cyprus’s coast.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from all major hotels in Ayia Napa and Protaras, with collection times starting at 7:55AM and ending at 8:45AM.

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, offering enough time for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying the meal and drinks.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if you plan to explore underwater.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the group size small?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a small-group feel, often with just a handful of guests, which enhances comfort and personalized attention.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a buffet lunch, and an open bar, making it good value for a half-day adventure.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable with boat trips, swimming, and sitting for a few hours, this experience suits families quite well.

In sum, the San Antonio Crystal Sea Cruise combines scenic beauty, engaging sights, and friendly service into a memorable day on Cyprus’s coast. Whether you’re after a relaxing escape, cultural insights, or just a fun swim in the blue waters, this trip checks many boxes. It’s a well-reviewed, balanced choice for travelers who want authenticity and comfort in one package.

You can check availability for your dates here: