Protaras is a popular resort town on the east coast of Cyprus. It is also one of the best places to join a boat trip around the spectacular Cape Greco peninsula. Blue Lagoon cruises are among the most popular excursions here. They offer scenic coastal views, and the chance to swim with sea turtles.
If you’re planning a boat trip, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, including pirate ships, luxury catamarans, and glass-bottom boats.
In this article, I’ll review the Napa King, one of the most popular glass-bottom boat cruises in Protaras. The tour takes you along the stunning Cape Greco coastline with swimming stops at the Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove, as well as views of the famous ghost town of Varosha.
I’ll share my experience, what the trip is really like, whether it’s worth the price, what you’ll see along the way. I have also added photography tips, and everything you should know before booking.
• Families and first-time visitors to Protaras
• Travellers who want swimming stops without spending the whole day on a boat
• Those looking for a shorter half-day cruise Not ideal if: • Looking for a luxury catamaran experience
• Expecting guaranteed turtle sightings
• Disliking larger boats during peak summer months
I joined this cruise in May and tested it myself. Great value for exploring Cape Greco, swimming in the Blue Lagoon, and still having time for Protaras or Ayia Napa. Check Availability & Prices
My Experience on the Protaras Blue Lagoon Boat Trip
I took the Protaras Blue Lagoon boat trip in mid-May 2025. There are two departure times available. One leaves before lunchtime at 11:00 AM and another one at 2:00 PM. During the peak summer months, especially July and August, there is also a third option – the Protaras sunset cruise departing at 5:00 PM.
I booked the trip through GetYourGuide and chose the 11:00 AM departure. This left my afternoon and evening free to explore Cape Greco and walk back to Ayia Napa.
Booking the Tour
After booking the experience, I received a confirmation email with cancellation details, and a short overview of the trip.
The information provided before the trip was clear and helped me know what to expect before arriving at the harbour.
Getting to Protaras Pier
On the day of the cruise, I arrived at Protaras Pier on time using public transport. Bus 101 runs directly from Nissi Avenue in Ayia Napa to Protaras Vrisi Beach, and the journey takes around 30 minutes.
Finding the boat was easy thanks to the large Coca-Cola sign on the vessel. This was actually one of the reasons why I chose the Napa King cruise. I knew it would be easy to recognise at the harbour. Another reason was the number of positive reviews on GetYourGuide.
Boarding the Boat
The boarding process was well organised. I simply showed my booking confirmation to the crew before getting on board.
There were not many passengers on the day of my visit. Most of them were families with children (including some with small babies, although mainly older children) and groups of friends. However, the atmosphere may be completely different during the peak summer season when Protaras becomes much busier.
The Atmosphere on Board
The atmosphere on the boat was relaxed and peaceful. Music was playing before departure, but it stopped once the captain started introducing the trip.
Throughout the cruise, the captain shared interesting facts about the locations and sights along the route.
The Napa King felt more like a sightseeing cruise than a party boat, making it a good choice for travellers who want to enjoy the scenery, swim, and take photos.
Swimming Stops
The boat stopped twice for swimming, and each stop lasted approximately 30 minutes.
Most passengers who decided to swim were younger visitors who jumped into the water from the diving platform, while others used the swimming platform at the back of the boat.
For those who were not confident swimmers or were travelling with small children, there was also a life ring attached to a long rope, allowing them to stay safely close to the boat.
The water was incredibly clear, and the swimming stops were definitely among the highlights of the trip.
The Crew and Onboard Service
Besides the captain, the crew consisted mostly of young staff members who looked after passengers and kept an eye on everyone during the swimming stops.
They were very friendly and helpful. One of the crew members even surprised me by speaking some Slovak. I later found out that he had moved to Cyprus from Sri Lanka to study Maritime Studies, which was an interesting example of how international the island’s maritime community is.
After the second swimming stop, fresh fruit was offered to passengers. You could also purchase additional drinks and snacks on board at reasonable prices.
Wildlife Encounters: Are You Guaranteed to See Turtles?
One of the main attractions of this cruise is Turtle Cove, where visitors often hope to spot sea turtles and other marine life. Unfortunately, I wasn’t lucky enough to see any turtles, fish, or other sea animals during my trip.
However, wildlife encounters are always unpredictable, and I have experienced something similar during other nature-focused visits in Cyprus. I explored several interesting wildlife locations, including the Akrotiri Salt Lake, Larnaca Salt Lake, and the coastline near the ancient ruins of Salamis, where some visitors have even spotted local wildlife.
Despite visiting several places known for their natural surroundings, my own animal encounters in Cyprus were quite limited. The only truly unexpected “wildlife” moment I had was a rather unfriendly little dog chasing me while I was walking back from Foinikas village.
Because of this, I would treat turtle sightings as a lucky bonus rather than the main reason to book this cruise. The real highlights of the Napa King trip are the beautiful coastline, turquoise water, swimming stops, and the chance to see Cape Greco from a different perspective.
Final Thoughts on the Experience
For me, the Protaras Blue Lagoon boat trip was mainly about experiencing the coastline from the sea and capturing the incredible colours of the water through photography.
The glass-bottom windows were available, but they were not the main attraction for most passengers. With an average sea depth of around 6 metres, I found the views above the water much more impressive than looking through the glass.
The trip started with a short cruise towards Famagusta. However, the boat did not sail very close to the coastline, so the view of Varosha remained quite distant. I had previously visited Famagusta from land and was hoping to see the abandoned city from the sea, so this was the only part of the experience that was slightly different from my expectations.
Overall, I really enjoyed the cruise and would recommend it to anyone visiting Protaras for the first time – including solo travellers, not only families or groups of friends.
Cyprus is one of the world's largest maritime hubs, with one of the biggest ship management industries in Europe. The island attracts students and professionals from around the world who come to study and work in the maritime sector.
If sailing inspires you, Cyprus is also home to internationally recognised RYA sailing schools and several universities offering Maritime Studies.
Route & Stops
The Napa King cruise follows a scenic route along the east coast of Cyprus, combining coastal landmarks, dramatic cliffs, and swimming stops in some of the island’s most beautiful waters.
The itinerary may change slightly depending on sea conditions. Main highlights include a sea view of Famagusta, the Cape Greco area, sea caves, Kamara tou Koraka natural bridge, and swimming stops at the Blue Lagoon and Turtle Cove.
Famagusta and Varosha View from the Sea
One of the first highlights of the cruise is the view towards Famagusta from the sea. The boat approaches the area for a photo stop, giving passengers the chance to see the coastline and the famous abandoned district of Varosha from a distance.
Keep in mind that this is only a viewpoint from the water – the boat does not sail directly around the ghost town. If you want to explore Famagusta and Varosha in more detail, you will need a separate land trip.
Cape Greco, Sea Caves and Coastal Views
As the cruise continues along the coast, you will pass some of the most beautiful natural landmarks in the Cape Greco area. Dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and the famous Kamara tou Koraka natural bridge.
This part of the journey is especially enjoyable for photographers, as the view from the sea offers a completely different perspective compared to exploring the area on foot.
Turtle Cove and Blue Lagoon Swimming Stops
The main highlight of the trip is the swimming stop in waters around Cape Greco. This area is known for its turquoise colour and is a popular spot for snorkelling and possible sea turtle sightings.
Passengers have free time to swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the scenery before continuing to the next stop. Although turtle sightings are not guaranteed, the clear water and beautiful surroundings make this one of the most memorable parts of the cruise.
Boat Facilities: Is the Napa King Comfortable?
The Napa King is a spacious 32-metre glass-bottom boat designed for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing during the cruise. It offers plenty of space for passengers to move around and choose different seating areas depending on their preferences.
Outdoor Seating and Sun Deck
Most passengers spent the majority of the cruise on the upper deck, where there were plenty of seats available and the best views of the coastline. This is also the ideal place for photography, as you have an unobstructed view of the sea and surrounding landscapes.
The only downside is that the upper deck offers limited protection from the sun.
Air-Conditioned Interior and Toilets
For those who prefer to escape the heat, the boat also has an enclosed air-conditioned interior area. I personally spent most of my time outside, so I did not use this section. It can be a useful option during the warmer summer months.
The boat also has toilets available for passengers during the cruise.
Glass-Bottom Viewing Area
One of the features of the Napa King is the glass-bottom viewing area, allowing passengers to look underwater without getting into the sea. There are also several aquariums with freshwater fish onboard.
While it is an interesting addition, I found the main attraction of the trip to be the incredible scenery above the water rather than the underwater viewing area. The turquoise sea, cliffs, and coastline views were much more impressive.
Swimming Platforms and Boat Layout
The boat has a diving platform at the back, which was popular with stronger swimmers who wanted to jump directly into the sea.
There is also a swimming platform where passengers can enter the water more easily. The front and side areas of the boat provide additional space to relax and enjoy the views while cruising along the Cape Greco coastline.
Protaras Sunset Cruise Option
The Napa King also offers a summer sunset Blue Lagoon cruise for a more romantic experience and softer light.
The sunset cruise follows a similar route to the daytime trip. Views of the Cape Greco coastline, a swimming stop near the turtle area, and time to enjoy the Blue Lagoon while waiting for the sun to go down.
What sets them apart is the timing and atmosphere. Instead of experiencing the bright turquoise colours of the sea under the midday sun, you get golden-hour views and a more relaxed evening setting.
What Is Included in the Sunset Cruise?
The Protaras sunset cruise option usually departs from Protaras Pier at around 5:00 PM on selected days during the summer months. It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it around 30 minutes longer than the daytime cruise.
Compared to the regular Blue Lagoon trip, the sunset version includes additional extras such as:
- pizza buffet
- champagne
- fresh fruit
On the return journey, enjoy champagne during sunset, followed by pizza and fruit served onboard.
Day Cruise vs Sunset Cruise: Which One Should You Choose?
The daytime Napa King cruise is a better option if your priority is:
- seeing the bright turquoise colour of the Blue Lagoon
- taking clear landscape photos
- having more sunlight for swimming and snorkelling
- combining the cruise with other activities afterwards
The sunset cruise may be a better choice if you prefer:
- a more romantic experience
- cooler temperatures during summer
- an evening activity with food and drinks included
- watching the coastline during golden hour
Pros & Cons
Like any travel experience, this boat trip comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Pros
• Beautiful coastal views
The biggest highlight of the cruise is seeing the Cape Greco coastline from the sea. The cliffs, caves, and turquoise water look completely different compared to exploring the area from land.
• Great swimming stops
The two swimming breaks give you enough time to cool down, jump into the sea, and enjoy the clear Mediterranean water.
• Good option for different types of travellers
The cruise works well for families, couples, groups of friends, and solo travellers who want an easy way to explore the coastline.
• Spacious boat with different areas to relax
The Napa King offers plenty of space, outdoor seating, an indoor air-conditioned area, and facilities onboard.
Cons
• Turtle sightings are not guaranteed
Although Turtle Cove is known for sea turtle sightings, wildlife encounters depend on luck and conditions on the day.
• The boat does not get very close to Famagusta
The view of Varosha is interesting, but it is only from a distance rather than a close-up experience.
• Limited shade on the upper deck
Most passengers prefer staying outside for the views, but during summer the sun can be intense.
Who Should Book This Tour?
The Napa King Blue Lagoon cruise is a good choice if you want to:
- see the Cape Greco coastline from the sea and don’t want to hike and walk around
- swim in clear Mediterranean water
- enjoy a relaxed sightseeing cruise
- take photos and videos of Cyprus’ coastline
- experience a boat trip without spending a full day at sea
It is especially suitable for first-time visitors to Protaras, families, and couples, and solo travellers looking for an easy half-day activity.
However, if you are looking for a luxury catamaran experience, a small-group trip, or a party atmosphere, there may be better options available.
If you have ever felt the pressure of needing a travel companion just to make a booking, don't worry. There is no need to create a fictional partner, invent a last-minute cancellation story, or explain that your imaginary travel buddy suddenly had a work trip abroad. 😄
Curious about this funny travel trend? Read my article about the fake travel husband.
Photography Tips
The Napa King cruise is a great experience for photographers and anyone who enjoys creating travel content.
While the boat is cruising, it is actually a great opportunity to record videos. For photography, it can be more challenging because the boat is constantly moving, especially when using longer focal lengths. Try to take multiple shots and focus on moments when the boat slows down or stops.
The upper deck offers the best views, especially when approaching cliffs, caves, and swimming locations. For the clearest perspective, head to the front or side areas of the boat, where fewer passengers are likely to block your view.
Don’t forget to capture the journey itself. Along with the coastline and waves, keep an eye out for boat details and people enjoying the experience.
What to Pack
For a comfortable day on the boat, I recommend bringing:
- sunscreen and a hat (especially during summer)
- swimsuit and towel
- sunglasses
- waterproof phone pouch or GoPro for swimming stops
- snorkeling mask if you have your own
- water bottle
If you plan to take photos, a camera strap or a secure way to carry your camera is useful, as the boat can move quite a lot while sailing.
Use the interactive map below to compare hotels, apartments, and holiday rentals that match your budget and travel style. 👇 Find accommodation near Protaras Pier
Prices & Booking
The Napa King Blue Lagoon boat trip is one of the more affordable ways to explore the Cape Greco coastline by boat. When I booked my trip, the price was around €20 per person, making it a budget-friendly option compared to longer or more luxurious cruises.
The standard daytime cruise departs from Protaras Pier twice a day. Usually at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, and lasts around 2.5 hours.
The meeting point is at Protaras Pier next to Evalena Hotel. I recommend arriving a little earlier, especially during the busy summer months, as the harbour area can get crowded.
Booking Tips
I booked my ticket through GetYourGuide, which made the process simple. The main advantages of booking online are:
- instant confirmation
- clear information before the trip
- flexible cancellation options (depending on the booking conditions)
- guaranteed place on the boat during busy periods
If you are visiting Cyprus in July or August, booking in advance is a good idea, especially if you want a specific departure time. Some other options where to book the tour include Expedia.
Alternatives
Napa King is a good affordable glass-bottom option, but Protaras offers several other boat trip alternatives.
Luxury Catamaran Cruises
If you prefer more space, a smaller group, and a more relaxed atmosphere, a catamaran cruise may be a better choice. These trips are usually longer and focus more on relaxation, food, and onboard comfort rather than sightseeing only.
Smaller Turtle and Blue Lagoon Cruises
Smaller boats can offer a more intimate experience and may spend more time at swimming or snorkelling locations. They can be a good option if your priority is being closer to the water rather than travelling on a larger sightseeing boat.
Sunset Cruises
Sunset cruises offer couples a more romantic atmosphere with evening views, drinks, and food options.
Overall, the Napa King remains a good value option if you want to see the highlights of Cape Greco without spending a full day or a large amount of money.
Cyprus Ferry Routes for Longer Trips
If you want to go beyond a short boat trip around Protaras and explore another country, Cyprus also has ferry connections to destinations such as Greece and Turkey, with some routes extending to other parts of the Eastern Mediterranean. These longer journeys are a completely different type of experience and can be a great option if you want to combine Cyprus with another destination. More information in this article: Cyprus Ferry Routes: Greece, Turkey, Lebanon & More.
Final Verdict
The Napa King Blue Lagoon trip is a good option for an affordable and easy way to explore Cape Greco by sea.
The biggest highlights are the stunning turquoise waters, swimming stops, and the chance to see famous landmarks from a different perspective. A spacious boat, friendly crew, and relaxed atmosphere also make it a comfortable choice for a wide range of travellers.
However, keep in mind that this is a sightseeing cruise rather than a luxury sailing experience. Sea turtle sightings are not guaranteed, and the Famagusta viewpoint is from a distance rather than a close visit.
The Blue Lagoon and Cape Greco are only part of what this area has to offer. If you want to explore more places beyond beaches and nightlife, check my guide to 11 Unexpected Things to Do in Ayia Napa (Beyond Beaches & Nightlife).
FAQ
The daytime Napa King cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including sightseeing and swimming stops.
Sea turtle sightings are possible, especially around Turtle Cove, but they are not guaranteed. Wildlife depends on the day, sea conditions, and luck.
Yes, the boat has underwater viewing windows and aquariums onboard. However, the main attraction of the trip is the coastline and swimming stops rather than the glass-bottom experience.
The boat departs from Protaras Pier, next to Evalena Hotel. The harbour is easily accessible by public transport from nearby areas such as Ayia Napa.
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a waterproof phone pouch if you want to take photos during the swimming stops. A snorkelling mask can also be useful if you enjoy exploring underwater.
Yes. The cruise is suitable for solo travellers, couples, families, and groups. It is a relaxed sightseeing experience rather than a party boat.
The boat offers a sea view of Famagusta and Varosha, but it does not stop there. If you want to explore the abandoned city, you need a separate land visit.
The daytime cruise is better for seeing the bright turquoise colour of the Blue Lagoon and taking coastal photos. The sunset cruise offers a more romantic atmosphere with evening views and additional extras such as pizza and champagne.
Sources & Further Reading
Sources: