Protaras & Ayia Napa: Turtle Cruise, Sea Caves & Swim Stops

Summary

Chill-out cruise in Protaras with sea turtles, caves, bays and local stories

You’ll drift along Cyprus’ southeast coast past sea caves, chapels perched on cliffs, and quiet bays only locals seem to know. Swim with turtles at Turtle Bay, share lunch on deck with new friends, and hear stories from your local crew as Protaras slips by in sunlight. It’s a day that feels both effortless and memorable.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that white chapel on the cliff? That’s Agioi Anargyroi,” our captain called out over the music as we drifted just offshore. I was still trying to get my bearings — Protaras looks totally different from the water, all those beaches I’d only seen crowded from land suddenly felt peaceful. The sea smelled faintly of salt and sunscreen, and you could hear laughter echoing off the rocks near Fig Tree Bay. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed this fast — maybe it was the gentle sway of the boat or maybe just knowing someone else was steering for once.

We cruised past the Famagusta Viewpoint, and honestly, seeing Varosha’s empty buildings in the distance hit me harder than I thought it would. Our guide explained a bit about Cyprus’ divided history — not in a heavy way, just enough to make you think while you’re sipping your drink and watching waves roll by. Later we stopped at Turtle Bay for a swim (snorkel gear was waiting on deck), and I actually spotted a turtle gliding under the surface — felt like winning some secret lottery. The water here is so clear you can see every ripple of sand below.

Lunch was simple but fresh — grilled chicken, salad, bread — nothing fancy but it tasted better with wet hair and sun-warmed skin. Someone tried to pronounce “Konnos” properly; Li laughed when I tried to say it in Greek (I probably butchered it). There’s something about eating together on deck that makes strangers feel like friends for an afternoon. After swimming at Blue Lagoon and watching kids dare each other to jump from the side of the boat, we passed Lovers’ Bridge archway — couples waving from above while we floated beneath. Didn’t expect that little moment to stick with me but it does.

The Medusa Chill-Out Cruise is easygoing — not rushed or packed with commentary. Just enough stories from the crew about Cyclops Cave or why St. Nicholas Church is painted blue-and-white (apparently for good luck). You can sit up front with your feet dangling over turquoise water or hang back by the music if you want shade. Four hours went by faster than expected; I still think about that view back toward Ayia Napa as we headed home, salt drying on my arms and everyone quieter than before.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 4-hour coastal cruise and swim stops

• Pass Famagusta Viewpoint and Varosha
• Pass Fig Tree Bay beach
• Pass Agioi Anargyroi Church cliff chapel
• Stop to swim and snorkel at Blue Lagoon
• Stop to snorkel near sea turtles
• Pass Cyclops Cave in Konnos Bay
• Pass hidden cave near Cape Greco
• Pass scenic beach in protected cove
• Pass natural stone arch Lovers’ Bridge
• Pass British-built eastern lighthouse
• Pass Protaras Pier and beach
• Pass Sunrise Beach and Fig Tree Bay
• Pass Protaras pier viewpoint
• Pass Polyxenia Beach
• Pass Pernera Beach
• Pass Kalamies Beach and St. Nicholas Church
• Pass Golden Coast Harbour marina
• Pass Sirena Bay and Serena Beach Bar
• Pass Vrysoudi Beach sheltered bay
• Pass Tulum Beach Bar
• Pass Marlita Bay sandy beach

Top questions

How long is the Medusa Chill-Out Cruise?

The cruise lasts either 4 hours or 3 hours depending on your chosen option.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Protaras cruise?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is included except for fins.

Are there swim stops during the cruise?

Yes, there are two swim stops including one at Turtle Bay where you may spot sea turtles.

Is lunch included in this Protaras & Ayia Napa cruise?

An optional lunch is available onboard during the tour.

Is this cruise suitable for families with children?

Yes, it’s suitable for all ages including infants and children; specialized infant seats are available.

Does the tour include pickup or transportation?

The tour includes coastal sightseeing from Golden Coast Harbour but does not mention hotel pickup specifically.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible and suitable for guests with limited mobility.

What landmarks do you see during this cruise?

You’ll pass Agioi Anargyroi Church, Fig Tree Bay, Cyclops Cave, Lovers’ Bridge archway, St. Nicholas Church and more along Protaras & Ayia Napa coastline.

What’s included

Your day includes a laid-back coastal sightseeing cruise from Golden Coast Harbour with an English-speaking local crew guiding you past iconic beaches and sea caves around Protaras & Ayia Napa. WiFi is available onboard along with use of snorkelling equipment (except fins), two swim stops including Turtle Bay where turtles are often seen, music for atmosphere, restroom facilities onboard, plus an optional fresh lunch served right on deck if you want it before heading back ashore.