The Best Boat Rentals in Protaras

Expect small self-drive motorboats to start around $250–$350 for a few hours and about $400–$700 for a full day, with fuel sometimes charged separately. Captained half‑day cruises on mid‑size motorboats or catamarans commonly run $800–$1,500 depending on size and season, while large or premium yachts for private groups can range from about $3,000 to $5,000+ for a full day. Shared sightseeing cruises are the most budget‑friendly, typically €10–€45 per person for 2–4.5 hours. Standard inclusions are safety gear, a short safety briefing, and mooring fees; many tours add swim stops, light snacks or a drink, and snorkeling masks, while private charters may include a skipper and an ice box. Always check the specific listing for what’s included and whether fuel, VAT, and gratuities are extra.

You’ll find an easy mix of no‑license small motorboats for coastal exploring, RIBs and center‑consoles for quicker hops, sailing yachts and catamarans for relaxed cruising, motor yachts for private groups, and glass‑bottom or traditional wooden boats for shared sightseeing. Listings typically note capacity, amenities such as shaded areas and ladders, and whether a skipper is included or optional.

Cyprus requires a high‑speed small‑vessel operator’s license to drive most fast motorboats, but there’s an exception for temporary visitors: tourists staying under 30 days can operate a hired high‑speed small vessel after signing the owner’s declaration and completing a safety briefing. That’s why you’ll see many “no‑license required” self‑drive boats in Protaras, restricted to designated coastal areas. If you prefer a stress‑free day or want a larger boat, book a captained charter instead.

The two most common departure points are Protaras Pier (the central jetty by the main resort strip) and Golden Coast Harbour/Paralimni Marina next to Agios Nikolaos (St. Nicholas) Chapel in Pernera. Some operators also use hotel jetties seasonally. Plan to arrive 15–30 minutes early for boarding and safety briefings, and allow extra time in peak summer when parking and traffic are busier.

Typical routes showcase Cape Greco National Park with its famous sea caves, the natural rock arch called Lovers’ Bridge (Kamara tou Koraka), and the sapphire shallows of the Blue Lagoon near Konnos Bay. You’ll often stop at Turtle Cove for a swim and occasional turtle sightings, cruise past Fig Tree Bay and Green Bay, and, on some trips, view the “ghost town” of Famagusta from offshore where permitted.

Yes—most cruises are family‑friendly and welcome children, with child‑size life jackets available; crew typically provides a safety briefing before departure and many boats carry floats and snorkeling masks for swim stops. A few sailings are adults‑only by design, so check the trip type. Strollers are often stored shoreside or onboard by crew rather than used on deck due to space and stairs.

Policies vary by boat. Shared cruises usually have a bar and snacks on board and may not allow outside food or drink. Private charters are more flexible—many let you bring your own drinks, birthday cake, or snacks, and some can arrange a BBQ or catering with advance notice. Confirm BYO rules and cooler/ice availability in your booking details.

Several private charters are pet‑friendly with prior approval, especially for small, well‑behaved dogs; bring a towel, water bowl, and keep pets leashed when boarding. Group sightseeing boats are less likely to accept pets due to space and safety rules. Always ask the owner or skipper before booking to avoid surprises.

Boating runs most of the year here, with May through October offering warm, dry, and generally calm conditions; summer afternoons can bring a light onshore breeze. Captains may adjust routes or reschedule for safety if seas are choppy, especially on windier days. Many tours offer free cancellation until 24 hours before departure, and weather cancellations are typically refunded or moved—check your listing’s policy for exact cutoffs.

Pick a captained charter when you want a turnkey day—ideal for celebrations, larger groups, or if you’d like a local expert to handle navigation, moorings, and swim‑stop timing around caves and coves. Choose a self‑drive boat if you want maximum flexibility at a lower price point for a small group, are comfortable with basic seamanship after the safety briefing, and plan to stay close to shore within the allowed operating area.

Absolutely. Many boats here are set up for private groups and special occasions, offering music systems for your playlist, swim stops in Blue Lagoon, and optional extras like decorations, fruit platters, BBQ, or a champagne toast. Group cruisers typically carry about 25–40 guests, while yachts and catamarans suit smaller private parties. Share your plan and headcount when booking so the crew can tailor the day.

The prime boating season is May through October, with the sea at its warmest in August and excellent swimming from June through September; spring and late autumn are quieter with mild weather and cooler water. Early June can be extra lively around the Kataklysmos (Flood) Festival, and mid‑August around the August 15 holiday is peak. For smoother seas and fewer crowds, book weekday mornings; sunsets are stunning but popular, so reserve ahead—especially in late June through August. U.S. holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day don’t affect local schedules, but European school holidays do, so plan accordingly.

Yes. Most half‑day cruises from Protaras Pier or Golden Coast Harbour include swim stops at the Blue Lagoon by Cape Greco and at Turtle Cove when conditions allow. Turtles are wild, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but summer months offer your best chance. Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, a hat, and a dry bag; snorkeling masks and life jackets are commonly provided on board.