Latsi: Blue Lagoon Boat Trips with Traditional BBQ

Cyprus does boats well, but this one feels special because it gives you real time in the Blue Lagoon instead of a quick dip. The ride moves you along the Akamas coast, with anchor stops that make photos easy, and a deck setup that turns a swim break into a whole mini-day at sea. I also like that it is low-stress: you cruise, you swim, you eat, you cruise back.

My favorite part is the 2-hour Blue Lagoon stop for swimming and snorkeling, plus plenty of chances to jump, climb, and cool off. Second, I really like the mix of comfort and fun, including a waterslide on the boat and a traditional BBQ lunch cooked for you during the swim window.

One drawback to plan around: drinks are not included, and if you are a vegetarian you may find limited options since the BBQ is mainly meat. Also, if you are not a confident swimmer, you will want to think carefully about the water access at the stop.

Key highlights to expect

• 2 hours anchored at the Blue Lagoon in Akamas Peninsula for swimming and snorkeling
• Inflatable water slide from the boat deck for an easy, safe-feeling thrill
• Traditional BBQ lunch cooked on board while you are in the water
• Stops along the coast, including Baths of Aphrodite, St. George Island, Manolis Bay, and Blaji Bay
• On board amenities include lifejackets and time to relax on the upper deck
• Bring your own snorkel mask and snorkel, because they are not supplied

Why the Akamas Blue Lagoon time matters more than you think

The Blue Lagoon in Akamas Peninsula is famous for a reason, but the real value here is how long you get to enjoy it. A lot of boat trips in Cyprus feel like a transportation plan with a swim break. This one flips that. When you anchor, you have time to settle in, swim at your pace, and even do some snorkeling without feeling rushed.

That time also changes the feel of the water. Early on, you are excited, then you slow down and start noticing things like how clear the shallows look near the boat, and how the swim feels calmer once everyone has found a comfortable rhythm. If you want photos too, that extra window helps you catch different light, not just one awkward 10-minute stop.

Getting to Latchi Harbour and finding Demetris Chara

You meet at Latchi Harbour and look for the boat named Demetris Chara. This area is easy to reach by car, and I recommend arriving with a little buffer so you can park, walk over, and get your bearings fast.

Plan to bring:

• Sunglasses
• Towel
• Cash (handy for things like small purchases on board)

Also, note what is not allowed: fishing. So if you are thinking of casting lines or bringing gear, skip that and focus on swimming, snorkeling, and lounging.

If you are heading out with kids, the boat has lifejackets for both adults and children, which takes some mental load off. Still, use common sense around water, and keep an eye on anyone who is hesitant to get in.

The coastal cruise: Aphrodite’s Baths to the edge of Akamas

You do not just go point A to point B. Along the way, you pass or stop near a string of named spots: Baths of Aphrodite, St. George Island, Manolis Bay, Blaji Bay, and then the main event at the Blue Lagoon.

Here is how to use these stops without getting stuck chasing landmarks. Think of them as scenery markers. You can use them to:

• Get a quick photo set while the light is good
• Learn the general shape of the coastline so the lagoon stop feels more meaningful when you finally drop anchor
• Keep momentum during the cruise portion, so the day does not drag between swim moments

Some days you might just be taking in the coastline from the deck, other days you might spot clear water patches and rocky edges that look like natural photo backdrops. Either way, it is a nice change from tours that only feel like a transfer.

The 2-hour Blue Lagoon swim window, slide, and snorkeling tips

This is the heart of the trip: a 2-hour stop at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling. When you anchor, you should be ready to get in right away. Bring your comfort level with water into the equation. One small consideration: the stop is great, but access is from the boat, so if you are not comfortable with boat-in water entry, take it slow.

The fun factor is built in. The boat has an inflatable water slide that you can use directly from the deck. You can also jump or climb off the boat in other ways. That gives you options depending on how brave you feel that day.

For snorkeling, here is what you should know to avoid disappointment:

• Snorkel masks and snorkels are not supplied
• If you want to snorkel, bring your own gear and keep it accessible

Also, bring sun protection. Multiple people recommend sun cream, and for good reason. You are out on deck, you are in the water, and you are still in the sun long enough to feel it.

If you are thinking about photos, consider choosing the afternoon sailing when the sun is less fierce and the light on the return trip can look more dramatic. You will still get your swim time either way, but the comfort factor can be better later in the day.

BBQ lunch on deck: what’s included and how it fits the day

The best kind of boat meal is the one that does not break your rhythm. This BBQ is cooked on board while you are already enjoying the water time, so you get the feeling of a beach day turned up a notch.

What you can expect on the plate:

• BBQ meat options like chicken and pork
• Side items such as salads, plus rice, potatoes, breads, and other extras
• There are also reports of yogurt and cous cous style sides

Important for food planning: if you are vegetarian, you may not get a true meat-free alternative. One person did not have a vegetarian swap, but still found the salad and sides enjoyable. If you are vegetarian, go in with the right expectation: treat the meal as sides plus what is offered, not a fully vegetarian BBQ.

One small detail I like is how the day stays structured. You swim, you eat, you cool off again. You are not forced into a long dry break. It keeps everyone relaxed, and the boat crew handles the flow smoothly.

Drinks, cocktails, and the real cost of a salty sea day

The tour includes the boat tour and the BBQ lunch, but drinks are not included. That is normal for this kind of excursion, but it affects your total spend.

On board, you can buy drinks like coffee, sodas, snacks, and cocktails. People reported cocktails around €5, and that the bar selection feels reasonably priced for a boat setting. There are also mentions of wine.

If you are budget-minded, do this simple math before you go:

• Decide how many drinks you actually want
• Check if you prefer one cocktail or a few soft drinks
• Bring cash in case you find it easier on deck

Tip: upper deck seating can make drink breaks feel like part of the sightseeing. You see the coastline while you sip, not just standing in line.

Comfort, safety, and the little things that make a difference

The boat is described as clean and well-maintained, and that matters a lot when everyone comes back wet. One clear positive is that the crew handles cleaning quickly after lunch and swimming, which keeps the trip feeling tidy instead of messy.

On safety, lifejackets are available, including for children. The boat is described as clean, safe, and well equipped, which is exactly what you want when you are anchored in open water and people are moving around decks.

Seat choice helps. I like the idea of grabbing space on the top deck for the relaxing part of the day, then moving down only if you need something practical like shade or easier access to the water area.

Who this tour is best for, and who should reconsider

This trip is a strong fit if you want:

• A swim-focused half day with real swim time
• A BBQ lunch included in the ticket
• A fun element like the slide without needing special skills
• An active day that still feels organized

It is especially good for teens and families who enjoy water play and want a day that does not feel like a long lecture about coastlines.

On the other hand, it is not suitable for wheelchair users, so you will need a different option if mobility access is important for you.

Also, if you are an extremely cautious swimmer, take a close look at your comfort level with boat entry. A few people mention bringing extra float options if needed, and that is worth considering for anyone who wants extra confidence.

Value check: does $41 make sense for what you get?

For $41 per person, you are buying 4 hours of sea time, a boat ride along Akamas coastal points, 2 hours anchored at the Blue Lagoon, and a BBQ lunch cooked on board.

The value comes from the balance:

• You get more water time than short stop tours.
• You get food included, not just a snack.
• You get deck fun with the slide, plus optional jumping.

Drinks are extra, but that is true for most boat trips. If you keep your drink spending under control, the included lunch makes a meaningful difference.

If you are comparing to larger, less intimate trips, this one leans toward a better-feeling day, mostly because the swim window is longer and the boat experience feels organized.

Should you book the Latsi Blue Lagoon BBQ boat trip?

Yes, if your priority is time in the Blue Lagoon plus an included BBQ lunch, this is an easy yes. The 2-hour swim window, the slide, and the solid on-board setup make it a practical pick for couples, families, and anyone who wants a classic Cyprus swim day without a rushed feeling.

Think twice if you:

• Need wheelchair accessibility (it is not suitable)
• Require a full vegetarian BBQ alternative (meat-focused menu is the default)
• Want the total price to include drinks automatically (drinks cost extra)

If you pack smart and bring your snorkel gear, you will get a day that feels like more than a tour stop, it feels like a mini escape on the Akamas coast.

FAQ

Where is the meeting point?

Meet at Latchi Harbour, and find the Demetris Chara boat.

How long is the trip, and how much time is spent at the Blue Lagoon?

The total duration is 4 hours, with about 2 hours at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling.

Is BBQ lunch included?

Yes. The tour includes the BBQ lunch (and the boat tour).

Are drinks included in the price?

No. Drinks are not included, though items like cocktails, soft drinks, coffee, and snacks are available to buy.

Should I bring my own snorkeling mask and snorkel?

Yes. Snorkeling gear is not supplied, so bring your own mask and snorkel if you plan to snorkel.

What should I bring?

Bring sunglasses and a towel. Cash can be useful for purchases on board.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

No. The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.