The Best Boat Rentals in Limassol

Expect short private cruises to start around €200–€400 per hour for smaller motorboats, with many half-day options in the €600–€1,200 range. Full-day charters on mid-size motor yachts and sailing catamarans typically run €1,200–€3,000, while luxury yachts can be €3,000–€8,000+ per day depending on size, season, and route. Most advertised rates include a professional skipper, standard safety gear, drinking water or soft drinks, and fuel for a local itinerary; longer routes, premium beverages, catering, extra fuel, or hotel transfers are usually add‑ons. Booking early for peak months (June–September) gives you the best choice and pricing.

You’ll find a broad mix, from nimble center‑console and RIB day boats to cruising sailboats, comfortable sailing catamarans for groups, sportfishing boats, and a range of motor yachts up to superyacht size. If you want deck space and stability for swimming and celebrations, look at catamarans and flybridge yachts; for a classic Mediterranean sail, consider monohull sailboats; and for fast coastal hops, choose a sporty motor cruiser or RIB.

Most visitors choose captained trips because they’re effortless: the skipper handles navigation, moorings, and local spots while you relax. Self‑operated (“bareboat” or self‑drive) is possible if you have the right qualifications. For sailing or motor yachts, charter companies typically require proof of competence such as an ICC, RYA, IYT, ASA, or equivalent. For smaller powered craft, Cyprus regulations require an appropriate operator’s license or recognized proof of competence; some operators may also ask for a brief skills check. If you don’t hold a recognized license, book with a captain to keep things smooth and fully insured.

The main departure points are Limassol Marina in the city center and St. Raphael Marina to the east in Pareklisia. Many sightseeing and day-cruise boats also board at the Old Port next to the marina, especially during summer. Depending on your plan, your captain may suggest nearby pick‑ups or returns, but Limassol Marina and St. Raphael are the standard meeting points with easy parking, cafes, and waterfront facilities.

Typical routes showcase Limassol’s skyline, the Molos promenade, and the contrast between the long sandy stretch of Lady’s Mile Beach and the wild Akrotiri Peninsula. Westbound itineraries often continue to Kourion Bay and the dramatic white cliffs around Cape Aspro near Pissouri, with clear swim stops along the way. Eastbound, you can skim the coast past the ancient city of Amathus—where the remains of a sunken harbor and a marine protected area lie close to shore—and sheltered coves ideal for swimming and snorkeling. In warm months you may spot dolphins offshore; in winter, flamingos gather at Akrotiri Salt Lake just inland from the coast.

For captained charters, no license is required for guests. For self‑operated rentals, you’ll need recognized proof of competence. Bareboat sailing or motor yachts commonly require an ICC or national equivalent (such as RYA, IYT, or ASA credentials). Operating powered craft without a skipper also requires an appropriate operator’s license or verified competence under Cyprus rules. Requirements vary by vessel and insurer, so upload your certificates with your inquiry and confirm what’s accepted before you book.

Yes—private charters here are family‑friendly. Licensed boats carry life jackets for every passenger, and most can provide child and infant sizes on request; ask your captain to have the right sizes ready. Boats also carry standard safety equipment and monitor local marine forecasts. For families with young children, consider a larger, shaded boat or a catamaran for extra stability, and plan earlier departures when seas are typically calmer.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks and drinks, and many include water and soft drinks. Several offer catering, birthday cakes, or set menus with advance notice. To keep decks pristine, some crews limit red wine or glass on the exterior areas; cans, reusable bottles, and non‑staining beverages are the easiest option. If you have a must‑have menu, share it when you inquire so the crew can stock coolers and tableware or arrange catering.

Some skippers welcome small, well‑behaved dogs on private trips with advance approval, while others prefer pet‑free decks. If your pet is joining, bring a towel, fresh water bowl, waste bags, and consider protective booties to avoid scratches on teak. Hot summer decks can get warm for paws, so shade, hydration, and shorter midday outings are best.

Captains keep a close eye on the local marine forecast and prevailing westerly sea breeze. Summer mornings are usually the smoothest, with afternoon winds common; winter brings the chance of passing fronts. If conditions are unsafe or uncomfortable, your captain will propose a safer route, a different start time, a new date, or a weather cancellation per the booking policy. Check your charter’s cut‑off times for free rescheduling, and tell the crew if anyone is motion‑sensitive so they can time the day and choose sheltered swim spots.

Absolutely. Boats here regularly host milestone birthdays, proposals, team outings, and hen or stag gatherings. Tell the captain your headcount, ideal vibe, and music preferences, and they’ll match you to a boat with the right capacity, shaded lounging, a good sound system, and safe swim access. You can pre‑arrange decorations, desserts, and a photo‑friendly route, then end back at Limassol Marina or the Old Port for dinner along the waterfront.

Peak boating runs May through October, with the warmest seas from June to October and the busiest weeks in July and August. Spring and late autumn offer great value with fewer crowds and pleasant conditions. Locally, waterfront festivities can affect parking and demand: Limassol Carnival (late February to early March), the Kataklysmos “Flood Festival” around early June, the Limassol Boat Show in late May, and the Limassol Wine Festival in late summer or early autumn. If you’re coordinating around U.S. holiday windows like Memorial Day, July 4, or Labor Day, note that they’re not public holidays in Cyprus but still coincide with prime Mediterranean season, so popular boats book out well in advance. Weekdays and morning departures are your best bet for smoother seas and easier logistics.

For a relaxed half‑day, cruise to Lady’s Mile for clear, shallow water and continue along the Akrotiri Peninsula. Full‑day westbound trips often add Kourion Bay and the white cliffs of Cape Aspro near Pissouri for memorable swimming and photos. Eastbound, you can skirt the coast past Amathus and anchor off sandy coves with good snorkeling. Captains tailor routes to the day’s wind and your group’s pace, balancing scenic cruising with swim time.

Yes. In summer, playful dolphins are sometimes spotted offshore, and turtles are occasional visitors near rocky shallows. In winter, thousands of flamingos feed at Akrotiri Salt Lake just inland from Lady’s Mile—while you won’t boat on the lake, a coastal cruise pairs nicely with a quick land visit before or after. History fans can ask about viewing the coastline near the ancient city of Amathus, where the remains of a submerged harbor and an artificial reef create rich marine life close to shore. As always, skippers keep respectful distances from wildlife and choose anchorages that protect the habitat.