From Protaras: Catamaran Cruise to Blue Lagoon

Blue water, warm sun, and a full bar afloat. This 4 to 5 hour cruise on the Mediterraneo III packs Cape Greco, the Blue Lagoon, Varosha, lunch, and several swim stops into one easy outing. I especially like the clear route through Cyprus’s eastern coast and the fact that lunch and an open bar are included. The main drawback is that the boat can feel busy at peak times, and loud music may make conversation difficult.

You get hotel pickup from Ayia Napa or Protaras, a friendly English-speaking host, and plenty of time in the water. The front loungers go quickly, so arrive early if you want one. Also bring a mask if you care about seeing fish and the seabed, since snorkeling gear may not always be available for everyone.

Key points at a glance

• Varosha from the sea: See the fenced-off ghost town near Famagusta from the water, an unusual and sobering part of the route.
• Three possible swim stops: The program usually includes stops near Derynia Bay, Turtle Bay, the Blue Lagoon, or other sheltered areas, depending on sea conditions.
• Lunch and drinks included: Expect a buffet meal, fruit, dessert, water, cocktails, beer, and nonalcoholic drinks.
• A large catamaran: Mediterraneo III offers sunbathing space, loungers, fresh-water showers, and easy access to the sea.
• Good value at $69: The price covers transfers, the cruise, host, lunch, open bar, and several hours on the coast.
• Weather controls the day: The exact route, number of swim stops, and timing can change with wind and sea conditions.

From Protaras toward Varosha and Derynia Bay

Pickup begins around 3:00 PM in the main season, with September and October collections starting around 2:00 PM. Pickup is available from major hotels in Ayia Napa and Protaras, or from an assigned meeting point.

There is one important exception: pickup is not available from Cavo Maris Hotel or accommodations within walking distance of Green Bay. If you are staying there, check the meeting point before booking. That small detail matters because the tour is sold as a pickup experience, but not every nearby hotel receives door-to-door service.

The transfer itself can vary. One departure used an open-topped double-decker bus, which offered nice views but was not ideal in intense heat. Another passenger reported a poor-quality return coach, while most transport comments praised the punctual pickup. I would treat the transfer as practical rather than part of the main attraction.

Once aboard Mediterraneo III, the boat heads east toward Famagusta. The first major sight is Varosha, the abandoned resort district on the northern side of Famagusta Bay. From the sea, you can see the outline of a once-famous holiday area that has remained closed for decades.

This is not a stop where you go ashore. You view Varosha from the boat, so the experience is visual rather than a full historical visit. Still, it adds something different to a cruise built around swimming and cocktails. You get a glimpse of Cyprus’s divided past before the day turns back toward beaches and clear water.

The route then reaches Derynia Bay for a swim stop. The exact order can change, but this early pause gives you a chance to get into the water before the boat follows the coast toward Cape Greco.

Fig Tree Bay and the eastern coastline

As the catamaran turns along the coast, you pass Fig Tree Bay, one of the best-known beaches near Protaras. From the water, the view gives you a useful sense of how the resort coast fits together. You see the pale shore, low headlands, and busy swimming areas from a different angle than you would from land.

This part of the cruise is more about scenery than explanation. The English-speaking host provides company and basic guidance, but this is not a history-heavy sightseeing tour. If you want a long narrated account of every cove, choose a specialist boat tour. If you want a relaxed day with attractive views and time to swim, the balance works well.

The catamaran is large enough to offer different ways to spend the crossing. You can sit on a front lounger, find a shaded place, watch the coast from the upper level, or stay near the bar. The front area is the prized spot, and early boarding helps. It is not a reserved premium section, so the most comfortable places may be gone quickly.

Space depends on the date. Several departures had plenty of room, while one account found the catamaran slightly too full. The boat can carry a substantial group, so do not expect a private sailing trip. You are booking a social cruise with room to move, not a quiet charter.

Music adds to the atmosphere. Many people enjoy the playlist, but the volume has occasionally made conversation hard. Families and couples who want a calm lunch should keep that in mind. The mood is generally relaxed rather than a wild party boat, yet it is not silent sailing.

Cape Greco, Sea Caves, and the Blue Lagoon

The scenic high point is Cape Greco. The catamaran passes the famous sea caves and the rocky coast around the national park area before reaching the Blue Lagoon.

From the boat, the Cape Greco coastline is at its best when viewed from the sea. The rocks, openings in the cliffs, and clean water create the postcard part of the route. You can take photographs from the deck, but keep your phone secure because the boat moves, the wind can rise, and the swim stops involve wet hands.

The Blue Lagoon is the main swimming attraction. The water is usually the kind of clear Mediterranean blue that makes you want to get in before the anchor is fully settled. You can use the steps or other easy access points from the catamaran, then swim around the boat rather than walking onto a beach.

That difference is worth understanding. This is a boat-based swimming experience, not a beach day. You will not be dropped onto sand with an hour to set up an umbrella. The reward is access to water that may be hard to reach from land, along with views of the coast while you swim.

The number of swim stops varies in the available descriptions. Two stops are common, while some departures offer three or even four. Derynia Bay, Turtle Bay, and the Blue Lagoon may all feature, but the captain changes the plan according to weather, boat traffic, and sea conditions.

Safety can also limit how far you swim. One account noted that people were asked to stay close to the boat because of other vessels, which meant no swimming right up to the caves or rocks. That is sensible, but it may disappoint you if your main goal is to explore the shoreline or search for fish.

Turtles are sometimes seen, especially around Turtle Bay, but no sighting is guaranteed. Some people have also seen dolphins. The crew does not need to feed animals to attract them, which is a positive approach for anyone who cares about marine life. Bring realistic expectations: this is a chance to watch wildlife, not a wildlife guarantee.

What lunch and the open bar are really worth

At $69 per person, the included food and drinks make a substantial difference. A buffet commonly includes chicken, rice, salads, bread, mezze, seasonal fruit, and dessert. The food is not fine dining, but it is filling and better than the bare-bones lunch found on many low-cost cruises.

The meal suits a mixed group because there are several side dishes rather than one fixed plate. Vegetarian diners should find useful choices, and the crew has helped people with dietary needs identify suitable food. If you have a serious allergy or strict dietary requirement, raise it before boarding rather than relying on guesswork at the buffet.

The open bar includes water, soft drinks, beer, cocktails, and other drinks. The cocktail selection receives especially strong praise, and the bar team may prepare a drink that is not printed on the menu. Nonalcoholic choices are also available, so the value is not limited to people who drink alcohol.

The bar is one of the reasons this cruise works well for a group with different priorities. One person can swim, another can sit with a drink, and someone else can eat fruit in the shade. You are not paying separately every time you want water or a simple cocktail.

The word open bar still needs sensible interpretation. It does not turn the boat into an unlimited party venue, and responsible drinking matters when you are in the sun and sea. Pace yourself, drink water, and remember that swimming after too much alcohol is a poor plan.

The crew, comfort, and onboard details

The crew receives the strongest praise across the experience. They are described as friendly, attentive, cheerful, and willing to help. One crew member even searched underwater for a passenger’s lost glasses, while another helped a person with limited mobility return to the coach.

Those examples suggest a practical level of care rather than scripted hospitality. The crew keeps the boat clean, serves food and drinks, helps with swim access, and provides a fresh-water shower for rinsing off salt. The shower is especially useful if you have long hair or plan to stay comfortable during the return transfer.

Depending on the departure, you may find life jackets, floats, paddle boards, canoes, goggles, or snorkels available. Do not count on every item being available every time. The safest plan is to bring your own mask if underwater views matter to you, along with a towel and dry clothes.

The catamaran offers a mix of sun and shade, though exact seating depends on how full the boat is. The front loungers are popular for a reason, but they are exposed to the sun. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and strong sunscreen. A windbreaker can also be useful if the return crossing feels cooler than expected.

The boat has an easygoing atmosphere. It suits couples, families, solo passengers, and groups of friends. A solo passenger was made to feel included, which is useful if you are booking alone and do not want an awkward day on a large boat.

Price, timing, and who gets the best value

The $69 price is strong for what is included. You receive hotel or meeting-point pickup, a 4 to 5 hour cruise, an English-speaking host, lunch, an open bar, several swimming opportunities, and access to one of Cyprus’s most attractive coastal areas.

Compare that with paying separately for transport, a meal, drinks, and a boat ride, and the package becomes easy to justify. The value is especially good if you plan to have several drinks and make full use of the swim stops. If you do not drink alcohol and prefer a small boat, the price may look less compelling, though lunch, transfers, and scenery still carry weight.

The cruise suits you best if you want a simple half-day plan with variety. You get sightseeing, swimming, food, drinks, music, and a little local context without arranging several separate activities.

It is less suitable if you want a quiet sailing lesson, a private boat, serious snorkeling, or a long visit onshore. You also need to accept that the route is controlled by the sea. Wind and waves can change the program, and the captain may skip a stop or alter the order.

The experience is also better for people comfortable with a group setting. Even a spacious catamaran can feel busy in August. If you want the front lounger, board promptly and claim your place. If you prefer shade or a quieter corner, look around before settling near the music.

What to bring for a better day

Pack the basics: swimwear, towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Wear something easy to move in because you may go from the seating area to the swim platform several times.

Bring a snorkeling mask if you have one. You are allowed to bring your own equipment, and this avoids disappointment if the available gear is limited or if you want a better fit.

Keep valuables to a minimum. A waterproof phone pouch is useful for photographs from the deck and swim stops. Do not assume every item left near the swimming area will stay dry.

If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking your usual precautions before departure. The tour involves several hours at sea, and conditions can change. The itinerary may also be altered by weather and sea conditions, so keep your plans afterward flexible.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. That gives you some flexibility while watching the forecast, though you should still check the final pickup details for your hotel.

Should you book the Mediterraneo III cruise?

I would book this cruise if you want good-value coastal sightseeing with swimming, lunch, and drinks already covered. The best parts are the Blue Lagoon, Cape Greco views, friendly crew, generous drink service, and the ease of being collected from your hotel.

I would skip it if you want a private, quiet, or highly focused snorkeling trip. The group may be large, music can be loud, and swimming near the rocks may be restricted for safety.

For most people staying in Protaras or Ayia Napa, this is a sensible way to spend half a day. Arrive early for a better seat, bring your own mask, protect yourself from the sun, and treat turtle or dolphin sightings as a bonus rather than a promise.

FAQ

How long is the Protaras catamaran cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including the coastal sailing, sightseeing, swimming stops, lunch, and drinks.

What places does the cruise visit?

The route heads toward Famagusta to view Varosha, continues past Derynia Bay and Fig Tree Bay, and then travels along the Cape Greco coast toward the sea caves and Blue Lagoon.

Are lunch and drinks included?

Yes. Lunch and an open bar are included. Drinks include alcoholic and nonalcoholic options, such as cocktails, beer, and water. Seasonal fruit and dessert are also provided.

How many swimming stops are included?

The number can vary with weather and sea conditions. The cruise commonly includes two or three stops, and some departures have offered up to four.

Is hotel pickup available?

Pickup is available from major hotels in Ayia Napa and Protaras, or from assigned meeting points. Pickup is not available from Cavo Maris Hotel or accommodations within walking distance of Green Bay.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. You may also bring your own snorkeling equipment.

Can the itinerary change?

Yes. The route and program can change because of weather, sea conditions, and boating conditions near the coast.