A slide into the sea makes Cyprus history feel real. On the St Georgios II yacht, you mix coastline cruising with big swim stops, a huge inflatable slide, and a guide-led look at Varosha. I love how the crew keeps the mood fun while still explaining what you’re actually seeing, and I love the onboard BBQ-style lunch that’s way better than you’d expect for a day boat.

One thing to plan around: boarding is not zero-effort. You’ll manage about 15 steps to get on board, and the toilets are reached via stairs, so it’s not a good match if you have mobility concerns.

Key points to know before you go

• Massive inflatable slide that gets everyone cheering (and you’ll want photos)
• Varosha photo stop + short guided tour about the events of 1974 and the Cyprus divide
• Cape Greco sights along the way, including Lovers Bridge and the Sancta Maria Shrine
• Blue Lagoon + Green Bay swimming with snorkeling time and marine-life viewing
• Friendly, energetic crew where owner Panayiotis and chef Ahman help set the tone
• Real value around $47, with lunch and a free drink plus time on the water

St Georgios II in Protaras: a luxury yacht built around one big moment

This cruise starts with a boat that feels like it’s trying to spoil you. The St Georgios II is a modern, comfortable yacht with multiple ways to hang out: a relax deck for the panoramic views, and a lounge area if you want a break from sun or prefer a bit more comfort. Up front, there’s a captains table area where people naturally drift toward the best views and photo angles.

Then there’s the main event: a huge inflatable slide that literally sits right there for the water entry. If you like water days, this is the kind of onboard feature that turns a normal “go swim somewhere” trip into a full-on memory-maker. Do note that the slide is intense enough to make you laugh and think, but it’s handled with a safety-first vibe from the crew.

The onboard setup also makes it easy to split your day. You can be outside for sailing views, then switch to the lounge when you want shade or to cool down. It’s a good balance for mixed groups, including families.

Varosha and the 1974 Cyprus divide: what you learn on the way to the coast

One of the most meaningful parts of this experience is that it doesn’t just show you pretty water. You leave Protaras heading toward the Famagusta District and you make time for a look at Varosha, a ghost town that’s tightly tied to the history dividing Cyprus.

You get a photo stop first, then you also get a short guided tour focused on what happened back in 1974. The format is not a museum-hour lecture. It’s more like a clear orientation from the guide as you’re in the area, which makes the story easier to process without feeling overwhelmed.

A key detail: you’re not seeing it from a distance only for a single quick look. There are enough minutes to take photos and understand what the guide is pointing out. It helps you connect the history to the reality of the coastline and towns you’re cruising past—especially if you’re the kind of traveler who likes to understand why a place looks the way it does.

Cape Greco icons between photo stops: Fig Tree Bay and the Lovers Bridge angle

After Varosha, the trip shifts back to a “move with the scenery” rhythm. You hug the coastline and pass by Fig Tree Bay, then head into the Cape Greco National Park area.

This is where the cruise becomes a string of practical photo moments. You get views of Agioi Anargyri Church, Lovers Bridge, and the Sancta Maria Shrine. Even if you’re not trying to be an Instagram machine, these names matter because they’re easy landmarks to anchor the day.

Why I like this part of the route: you’re not stuck sitting still. You’re sailing past these points, so you experience them in motion with the sea setting everything off. It’s also a nice “breather” after Varosha, because you get to switch from history-focused listening to open-air sightseeing and snapping pictures from the deck.

If you’re prone to getting seasick, the itinerary is still centered on a smooth cruise experience, but you should keep in mind the operator can adjust the plan based on sea conditions.

Blue Lagoon and Ayia Napa: swim, snorkel, and that BBQ lunch moment

The day’s biggest water time lands at the Blue Lagoon area near Ayia Napa. This is where you moor and you get a serious break—swimming, snorkeling time, and marine-life viewing. The water is the main character here, and you’ll see why this part of Cyprus is so popular for boat trips.

You also get the lunch here, and this is one of the most praised parts of the whole experience. The traditional Cypriot spread includes baked chicken, homemade chipped potatoes, Cyprus cous cous, salad, bread, and tzatziki. There’s also a vegetarian option (a vegetarian patty), and for kids you can request chicken nuggets ahead at the boat.

A practical tip: lunch is not just a snack. It’s a full meal served onboard during the swim stop window, so plan your timing like you’re doing half a day at the beach. Get your swim in, dry off, then eat before heading back out—especially if you’re the type who hates eating while still salty and sandy.

Snorkeling gear and the deposit

If you want snorkeling gear, you can use it with a 20 EUR cash deposit, refunded when you return the set safely. Bring the cash if you think you’ll use it, because it’s one of those small “don’t forget” details that can change your plan.

Drinks onboard

A bar stays open throughout the cruise, with drinks and snacks available for purchase. You also get one complimentary drink of your choice—beer, wine, soda, or juice. That’s a nice touch because it covers the first round and lets you focus on swimming instead of calculating costs immediately.

One more thing: you’ll share tables and seating with other people, so I recommend arriving and settling early when you get the chance. Seating can get competitive on boats when groups show up together with extra bags.

Green Bay plus Turtle Bay: marine life time without the pressure

After Blue Lagoon, the itinerary keeps giving you water time. Next comes Green Bay, another swim and snorkeling stop with marine-life viewing. This is the kind of stop where you’ll want to be ready to move quickly: get in, check out what you can see, then enjoy the calm before you have to rinse off and transition back to the boat rhythm.

Then, on the way back toward Protaras, the crew makes a pop-in at Turtle Bay. The goal is to spot turtles in their natural environment. Here’s the honest part: turtle sightings are not guaranteed. But when you’re on a boat with planned marine-life viewing stops, you’re not just hoping—you’re actually being taken to the right water areas at the right times.

Also, follow the rules onboard. You won’t want to touch marine life, and you’ll want to keep things respectful so the crew can keep everyone safe and the sea stays healthy.

Life jackets and float support

If you’re not confident in open water, you’ll be glad to know there are life jackets available for free. Pool noodles are also provided (helpful for kids and relaxed swimmers). You’ll feel more comfortable jumping in when the right safety gear is there.

Crew energy, the captains table, and why Panayiotis and Ahman matter

On many boat tours, the crew is simply “there.” On this one, the crew feels like part of the show. A lot of people point out how friendly and professional the staff are, with humor that makes the ride feel lighter. It’s not silly for the sake of it; it’s the kind of attitude that keeps the day moving without tension.

You’ll also hear names. The owner Panayiotis is welcoming and helps set the tone from the start. And chef Ahman is repeatedly praised for turning lunch into something people actually look forward to. That matters because food is often the weak link in day cruises. Here, it’s part of the reason the trip gets such high marks.

Then there’s the “center of attention” spot: the captains table area. Even if you prefer shade, this is where people want to be because it puts you near the front action and gives you a better sense of the ride. If you like watching the approach to bays and landmarks, stake out your spot early.

Toilets and onboard stairs

You do need to plan for boat realities. Boarding takes effort with those 15 steps, and the toilets are accessible by stairs. If that’s a hassle for you, the cruise might feel more like work than relaxation.

Price and value around $47: what you’re actually getting

At about $47 per person, this cruise feels like strong value because you’re paying for a full five-hour day of multiple components:

• A luxury yacht ride with decks and lounge space
• A guide-led history segment connected to Varosha and the Cyprus divide
• Several coastal sightseeing moments with real named landmarks
• Two main swim/snorkel stops (Blue Lagoon and Green Bay)
• A third turtle-focused stop (Turtle Bay) with sightings not guaranteed
• A traditional Cypriot onboard lunch with options for vegetarians and kids
• A complimentary drink and access to a bar for additional drinks
• Free WiFi for sharing photos

Extra costs are mainly drinks beyond your free drink and the snorkel gear deposit if you use it. If you’re the kind of traveler who wants a day with activities (history + swimming + slide) without spending extra money at multiple separate stops, the structure here is efficient.

In plain terms: you’re not just buying “time on a boat.” You’re buying a packaged day that already includes the things people usually pay for separately.

Getting to the pier and planning your timing from Protaras and Ayia Napa

You can join from the water level, but first you need to get to the meeting spot. The boat is located at the end of Protaras Pier. If you’re using landmarks, you can spot the boats from near Evelena Hotel.

If you choose hotel transfers, pickup works from selected areas: Ayia Napa, Protaras, Pernera, and Kapparis. Transfers use centralised pickup points, and you may walk 2 to 7 minutes from your hotel to the pickup point. Pickup can happen 20 to 60 minutes before departure depending on your location.

A small heads-up for your schedule: you should be at the pickup point about 5 minutes early, and you might need to wait if the bus is running late (up to 15 minutes). Once the driver arrives, they won’t wait much longer than about 5 minutes after the pickup time.

If the transfer shuttle reaches capacity, the transfer option may be removed and you’ll need to join at the pier instead. So if you’re traveling in peak season and you hate last-minute surprises, you’ll feel safer planning for pier access as a backup.

Who should book this cruise, and who should skip it

This is a great match if you want:

• A family-friendly day on the water with a big inflatable slide
• History context about Varosha and the 1974 Cyprus divide, without a long, exhausting museum day
• Two swim stops plus another turtle-focused chance
• A crew that keeps things friendly and moving
• Lunch and a free drink already built into the price

It may not fit if:

• You have mobility impairments, since boarding and toilets involve stairs
• You don’t handle boat logistics well (about 15 steps to board is a lot if you’re dealing with sore knees or limited balance)
• You hate sharing space on a boat, especially if you’re traveling with multiple people and bigger bags

Should you book the Protaras Luxury Yacht Cruise with slide, BBQ lunch, and Varosha?

Yes, if your ideal day in Cyprus includes swimming time plus a real activity onboard. The huge slide is the kind of feature that makes this feel more like an experience than a sightseeing transfer, and the combination of Varosha history with Cape Greco coastal icons is a strong mix.

I’d especially book it if you care about value: you’re paying one price for a guided day, lunch, a free drink, WiFi, and multiple water stops. If turtles appear, it’s a bonus; if they don’t, you still get enough sea time to call the day worth it.

But if stairs are a dealbreaker for you, or you’re expecting the most relaxed, no-effort boarding possible, you should look for a different style of tour. For everyone else, this is one of the most practical ways to pack a memorable Protaras day into about five hours.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point for the cruise?

The boat meets at the end of Protaras Pier. If you’re near Evelena Hotel, you can see the boats from there.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup is included only if you select the transfer option. Pickup is offered from Ayia Napa, Protaras, Pernera, and Kapparis using centralised pickup points.

How early should I be ready for pickup?

Depending on where you’re picked up, pickup can be 20 to 60 minutes before departure. Plan to arrive at the pickup point 5 minutes early, and you may wait up to 15 minutes if the bus is running late.

What’s included in the price?

Included are the cruise, a guide, lunch, free WiFi, and one complimentary drink. If you choose transfers, hotel pickup and drop-off are also included.

What does the lunch include?

Lunch is a traditional Cypriot meal: baked chicken, homemade chipped potatoes, Cyprus cous cous, salad, bread, and tzatziki. Vegetarian guests can request a vegetarian patty, and kids can request chicken nuggets.

Are drinks included besides the free drink?

You get one complimentary drink of your choice (beer, wine, soda, or juice). The bar stays open, and you can purchase additional drinks and snacks onboard.

Do I need cash for snorkeling?

Yes. If you want to use snorkeling gear, there’s a 20 EUR cash deposit that is refunded when the set is returned safely.

Are turtles guaranteed on this cruise?

No. The crew may stop at Turtle Bay and the goal is to see turtles, but sightings are not guaranteed.

What swim stops should I expect?

You’ll have swimming/snorkeling time at the Blue Lagoon area near Ayia Napa and also at Green Bay. Turtle Bay is a separate turtle-focused stop.

Is the cruise accessible for people with mobility issues?

No. It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments because boarding involves about 15 steps, and toilets are accessed by stairs.