Protaras Blue Lagoon Cruise & Turtle Bay Swim with Bar

Summary

Blue Lagoon cruise from Protaras with swimming stops turtle spotting and coastal views

You’ll sail along Cyprus’ coast from Protaras on a small-group cruise with stops at Blue Lagoon for swimming and Turtle Bay for possible turtle sightings. Expect stories from your local guide about Famagusta’s past, plus drinks onboard and time for snorkeling or just soaking up sun. It’s relaxed, scenic, sometimes surprising — with moments you’ll probably remember longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Coastal cruise with swim stops

• Depart from Protaras
• Sail to Famagusta border viewpoint
• View ghost town of Varosha
• Cruise past Fig Tree Bay
• See Agioi Anargyroi Church and cave
• Pass Lovers Bridge and Sancta Maria Shrine
• Swim at Blue Lagoon
• Stop at Turtle Bay to spot turtles
• Return to Protaras

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Blue Lagoon cruise from Protaras?

Optional transfers from selected local resorts are available when booking.

Are drinks included on board?

Your first cocktail or beer is included; additional drinks can be purchased at the bar.

Can I snorkel during this day trip?

Yes, use of snorkelling equipment is included during swim stops like Blue Lagoon.

Will we see turtles on this cruise?

You may spot turtles at Turtle Bay during the stop there, but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

How long does the cruise last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes multiple stops along Cyprus’ coastline between Protaras and Cape Greco before returning.

Is WiFi available on board?

Yes, free WiFi is available throughout the cruise.

Are children allowed on this tour?

This is an adults-only cruise; travelers must be 18 or older for alcoholic beverages.

What should I bring with me?

No outside food or drinks allowed; bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, ID if you look under 16.

What’s included

Your day includes one free cocktail or beer on board St Georgios I (with more available at the bar), use of snorkelling equipment during swim stops at places like Blue Lagoon and Turtle Bay, onboard WiFi to share photos instantly if you want to show off mid-cruise, plus life jackets if needed. Optional transfers from select local resorts can be arranged for a smoother start and finish to your trip.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed on the St Georgios I was the way sunlight bounced off the deck — almost blinding, but in a good way. The air smelled like sunscreen and sea salt, and there was this low hum of people settling in. Our guide, Andreas (who everyone seemed to know), pointed out Famagusta’s old skyline as we sailed past — you could just make out the empty hotels through binoculars. He told us about 1974, not like a history lesson but more like he’d lived it. I remember thinking how strange it felt to be so close to a place that’s basically frozen in time.

We drifted by Fig Tree Bay (the water really is that clear), then hugged the coastline past these jagged caves and arches. Cape Greco looked wild — all wind and bright blue shallows. At Agioi Anargyroi Church, Andreas slowed the boat so we could lean over and touch the rocks; I nearly dropped my phone trying to get a photo. There was this moment when everyone went quiet, just listening to the water slap against stone — kind of peaceful, honestly.

When we finally anchored at the Blue Lagoon, people scattered for swims or just dangled their feet off the side. Someone handed me my free beer (cold enough to sweat in my hand) and I tried snorkeling for maybe three minutes before giving up — not graceful, but fun anyway. On the way back we stopped at Turtle Bay; someone shouted “there!” and sure enough, a turtle popped up right near the bow. Felt lucky to catch that little flash of shell before it disappeared again.

I still think about that view back toward Protaras as we cruised home — sunburned shoulders, hair stiff with salt. Not everything went perfectly (I forgot my towel), but honestly that made it feel even more real.