Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras

Aboard the Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras, travelers experience a vibrant day of sailing along Cyprus’s east coast. This 5-hour full-day tour offers unlimited drinks from an open bar, a buffet lunch, and multiple swimming and snorkeling stops at notable locations like Green Bay Beach and Konnos Bay. Priced at $75.47 per person, the trip is a well-balanced mix of relaxation, scenic views, and fun activities, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy the sea and sunshine in a lively, friendly atmosphere.

The tour departs from East Coast Cruises in Famagusta at 9:00 am, with pickup options from select hotels or a central meeting point in Protaras. It’s designed to cater to most travelers, with free WiFi onboard and a maximum group size of 100 participants. While the trip offers many highlights, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention crowded conditions or variations in stop destinations, so planning accordingly can ensure a smooth experience.

Key Points

• Full-day catamaran cruise lasting approximately 5 hours from Protaras
• Unlimited drinks served from an open bar throughout the trip
• Buffet lunch and seasonal fruit included on the boat
• Swim and snorkel stops at popular spots like Green Bay Beach and Blue Lagoon
• Pickup and drop-off from designated hotels or central meeting points in Protaras
• Most reviews rate this experience 4.3 to 5 stars, highlighting friendly crew, good food, and beautiful scenery

The Launch Point at East Coast Cruises in Famagusta

The tour begins at East Coast Cruises in Famagusta, a well-organized meeting point with clear directions. The 9:00 am departure ensures plenty of daytime for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing onboard. Travelers can choose to be picked up from their hotel in Protaras or meet at the designated location. This flexibility helps accommodate different plans and hotel locations.

The pickup service is a valued feature, though some reviews mention issues with pick-up accuracy — so confirming your details beforehand is advisable. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward for most participants.

The Catamaran: Comfort and Cleanliness

The catamaran itself is noted to be really clean and beautifully maintained, providing a comfortable space to enjoy the trip. The crew is praised for their friendly, helpful attitude and professionalism, often making guests feel well looked after. The seating arrangements can be busy, especially on sunny days, so arriving early might improve chances of finding a shaded spot.

Many travelers appreciate the good quality onboard facilities, including free WiFi which keeps everyone connected during the journey. The large capacity means more people, which can lead to crowded conditions, but the staff work to ensure everyone gets a chance to enjoy the swim stops and refreshments.

Scenic Stops at Green Bay Beach and Blue Lagoon

The itinerary features a swimming stop at Green Bay Beach and a visit to the Blue Lagoon near Cape Greco. These locations are celebrated for their crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings. Guests can take a dip, snorkel, or simply enjoy soaking up the sun on the deck.

Some reviews mention that the Blue Lagoon is a highlight, with lovely water perfect for swimming and photo opportunities. However, a few travelers express disappointment if the boat does not visit all the planned locations, such as Famagusta or Konnos Bay, with some feeling the trip veers off course without prior notice.

Food and Drinks: Buffet and Open Bar

Onboard, a buffet lunch offers varied options, complemented by seasonal fruit and beverages. Guests frequently praise the delicious food and generous selection of cocktails and drinks. The open bar is unlimited, allowing everyone to sip from a variety of cocktails, beers, and soft drinks, making the experience more festive.

The food and drink offerings contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere, with many noting that the lunch is plentiful and tasty. The staff diligently serve drinks and keep the bar well-stocked, adding to the relaxed vibe of the cruise.

Swimming and Snorkeling: Multiple Opportunities

The three swim stops are often highlighted as the best part of the trip. They provide chances to cool off and explore the ocean, with some reviews mentioning paddleboards and swim aids being available. The water clarity at spots like Konnos Bay and Blue Lagoon enhances the snorkeling experience.

While some reviews mention crowding or lack of shade during peak hours, the overall fun and refreshing nature of these breaks makes them a key feature. Guests are encouraged to bring sun protection and snorkeling gear if they prefer to explore underwater.

The Crew: Experienced and Friendly Guides

The crew and captain are frequently praised for their attentiveness, friendly attitude, and helpfulness. Many reviews specifically mention crew members like Gail and others by name, appreciating their professionalism and warm service.

Guests feel confident asking questions about the local wildlife and ecosystem, as the guides are described as knowledgeable and willing to share information. This contributes to a relaxed, engaging atmosphere during the cruise.

Overall Pacing and Group Experience

The itinerary is generally well-paced, with enough swimming breaks, lunch, and sightseeing to fill the 5-hour span comfortably. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, with a maximum group size of 100.

However, some reviews note that overcrowding can be an issue, especially if the boat is full or during peak season. It’s advisable to arrive early or book in advance to secure a preferred spot and avoid uncomfortable conditions.

Notable Positives from Guest Reviews

Many guests highlight the friendly, funny crew, delicious food, and brilliant drinks as standout features. The scenery from the boat, especially during sunny weather, creates perfect photo moments. The swimming stops are consistently described as amazing and refreshing.

A few travelers mention the easy booking process and smooth coordination from start to finish. Repeat bookings demonstrate high satisfaction and suggest that this cruise is a dependable choice for visitors wanting a relaxing, fun day at sea.

Considerations and Limitations

Some reviews point out crowded conditions and lack of shade, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather or with large groups onboard. Not all stops may be visited as planned, which can cause disappointment if expectations aren’t managed beforehand.

Travelers should also be aware of weather dependence — the tour is canceled or rescheduled if conditions are favorable or poor, with options for full refunds or alternative dates.

Final Thoughts on the Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise

The Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day at sea with scenic views, delicious food, and fun swim stops. Its friendly crew, clean vessel, and value for money make it a popular choice, especially for families and groups seeking a lively yet relaxing experience.

While crowding and limited shade are points to consider, the overall positive reviews and repeat bookings speak to its reliability and quality. This tour suits those who appreciate good food, drinks, and beautiful coastline views in a friendly, social setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are available from designated hotels or a central meeting point in Protaras.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a buffet lunch, unlimited drinks from the open bar, swimming stops, and free WiFi onboard.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions are not detailed. Sun protection and comfortable attire are recommended.

What are the main stops?
The key stops include Green Bay Beach and the Blue Lagoon near Cape Greco, with options to visit other locations depending on weather and schedule.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the boat crowded?
Many reviews mention crowded conditions during peak times, so arriving early may help secure a better spot.

What is the quality of the food?
Guests regularly praise the delicious buffet lunch and variety of cocktails and drinks.

Are the swim stops suitable for snorkeling?
Yes, the clear waters and swimming opportunities make snorkeling a popular activity during the stops.

What should I bring on the trip?
Sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and snorkeling gear if desired are recommended. The boat provides paddleboards and swim aids during stops.

This Catamaran Crystal Sea Cruise from Protaras combines scenic sailing, delicious food, and fun swimming stops, making it a reliable and enjoyable way to spend a day exploring Cyprus’s east coast.