Places You Can Visit With Northern Cyprus Boat Tours
Top Destinations to Explore on Northern Cyprus Boat Tours
Northern Cyprus, with its beautiful coastline, turquoise waters, and hidden coves, offers a fantastic setting for boat tours that allow visitors to explore areas not easily accessible by land. From scenic beaches to historic landmarks and natural wonders, Northern Cyprus boat tours provide a unique perspective on the island’s beauty. Here’s a guide to some of the top destinations you can experience on a Northern Cyprus boat tour.
1. Kyrenia (Girne) Coastline
The Kyrenia coastline is one of the most popular routes for boat tours in Northern Cyprus. Starting from Kyrenia Harbor, boats cruise along the picturesque coast, revealing hidden coves, rocky cliffs, and ancient ruins. Kyrenia tours often stop at secluded spots for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- Highlights: The clear blue waters around Kyrenia are perfect for snorkeling, and many boat tours offer equipment. You can also enjoy scenic views of Kyrenia Castle from the sea, giving a fresh perspective on this historic landmark.
- Experience: Choose from a variety of cruises, including sunset tours that offer a romantic view of the sun setting over the Mediterranean.
2. Alagadi Turtle Beach
Located east of Kyrenia, Alagadi Beach is known for its sea turtle nesting sites. This spot is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, especially during the nesting season (June to August) when green and loggerhead turtles lay their eggs. Boat tours to Alagadi Beach often focus on eco-tourism, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural habitat without disturbing the turtles.
- Highlights: Alagadi Beach’s conservation efforts are renowned, and boat tour operators often collaborate with local conservation groups to offer guided turtle-watching experiences.
- Experience: Some boat tours offer night excursions to observe hatchlings under the guidance of experts, an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers.
3. Escape Beach and Mare Monte Beach
Escape Beach and Mare Monte Beach are popular stops on boat tours for those looking to relax by the water. Both beaches are located west of Kyrenia and are famous for their crystal-clear waters and beautiful sandy shores.
- Highlights: Escape Beach has a lively atmosphere with beach bars, while Mare Monte Beach offers a more secluded experience, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Experience: Many tours offer stops at both beaches, where you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and beach games. Escape Beach is also ideal for water sports, such as jet skiing and paddleboarding.
4. Cape Kormakitis
Cape Kormakitis, situated on the northwestern tip of Cyprus, is a beautiful and remote area accessible primarily by boat. Known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged landscape, and tranquil waters, it’s an ideal destination for adventurers seeking untouched natural beauty.
- Highlights: The area’s cliffs and clear waters make it perfect for snorkeling, and you might spot various marine life, including colorful fish and small sea turtles.
- Experience: Boat tours to Cape Kormakitis often include time for snorkeling and swimming, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the clear, secluded waters.
5. Famagusta Bay
For those interested in both history and beautiful beaches, Famagusta Bay offers an ideal mix. Some boat tours from Kyrenia take visitors along the coast towards Famagusta, passing by the famous ghost town of Varosha and the ancient ruins of Salamis.
- Highlights: The abandoned city of Varosha is a hauntingly beautiful sight, frozen in time since 1974. Although you can’t enter Varosha from the sea, you’ll get views of the deserted buildings from the boat.
- Experience: Longer tours might include stops at historical sites near Famagusta, such as the Salamis ruins, giving travelers a taste of ancient Cyprus from both land and sea.
6. Karpas Peninsula
The Karpas Peninsula, known as the “panhandle” of Cyprus, is a pristine region with stunning beaches and wild nature. Boat tours to the Karpas Peninsula are ideal for those seeking a serene, natural escape.
- Highlights: Golden Beach, one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches on the island, is often a stop on these tours. The waters are crystal-clear, and the beach’s golden sands are perfect for relaxing.
- Experience: The Karpas Peninsula is also home to wild donkeys, and boat tours might allow you to spot them along the coastline. Some tours include snorkeling stops, as the waters here are incredibly clear.
7. Aphrodite’s Beach
Named after the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite’s Beach is located near Kyrenia and offers a peaceful setting with beautiful views. Boat tours to this beach are popular for their tranquil atmosphere, scenic views, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
- Highlights: The beach is secluded and surrounded by lush scenery, ideal for a quiet day by the water.
- Experience: Many boat tours include a BBQ lunch or Cypriot mezze on board, adding a culinary experience to the visit. The combination of scenic surroundings and local flavors makes this a relaxing day trip.
8. Akdeniz Beach and Natural Reserve
Akdeniz Beach is part of a protected nature reserve and is known for its unique ecosystem. Boat tours to this area offer visitors the chance to explore the region’s natural beauty and see its diverse wildlife.
- Highlights: This beach is protected to conserve the local flora and fauna, making it a prime spot for eco-tourism. Its untouched surroundings and peaceful vibe are ideal for nature lovers.
- Experience: Some eco-friendly boat tours include guided discussions about local marine life and the importance of conservation efforts in Northern Cyprus, enhancing the educational aspect of the trip.
9. Blue Lagoon (Cape Greco)
Although Cape Greco is located in the south, certain boat tours offer trips to this beautiful spot, often departing from Famagusta or nearby ports. The Blue Lagoon is famous for its incredibly clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Highlights: The lagoon’s crystal-clear water allows for excellent visibility, making it a top snorkeling destination. The surrounding cliffs and caves add to the magical feel of this spot.
- Experience: Snorkeling gear is usually provided, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater world, which includes colorful fish and unique rock formations.
10. Kyrenia to Lazaretta Island
Lazaretta Island is a small, uninhabited island off the coast of Kyrenia, ideal for a quick getaway from the mainland. It is a secluded area where boat tour groups often stop for snorkeling, diving, and swimming.
- Highlights: The island’s underwater caves and clear waters make it popular with divers. The island itself is rugged and unspoiled, adding to its charm.
- Experience: Many boat tours offer diving excursions to Lazaretta Island, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration. Snorkeling and diving are the main activities, as the surrounding reefs attract diverse marine life.
11. Cape Apostolos Andreas Monastery
Located at the tip of the Karpas Peninsula, the Cape Apostolos Andreas Monastery is a significant religious site with beautiful sea views. While most people access it by road, some boat tours venture this far, offering a unique approach to the site.
- Highlights: The monastery has been an important pilgrimage site for Greek Orthodox Christians. The surrounding area is beautiful, with views of both the sea and the remote landscapes of the Karpas.
- Experience: A boat tour to this monastery is typically part of an extended Karpas Peninsula tour, providing a blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty.
Tips for Northern Cyprus Boat Tours
- Duration: Boat tours range from half-day to full-day trips, depending on the route and stops.
- Season: The best time for boat tours is between April and October, as the sea is calmer and the weather is warm.
- What to Bring: Pack sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a camera. Many boat tours provide snorkeling gear, but you can bring your own if preferred.
- Dining Options: Many boat tours offer meals on board, including local mezze or BBQ, which adds to the experience. It’s a good idea to confirm food arrangements before booking.
- Tour Type: Choose between private charters for a more personalized experience and group tours, which are more social and budget-friendly.
With its stunning coastline, historical landmarks, and unique marine environment, Northern Cyprus offers diverse options for boat tours, providing a memorable way to explore the island’s natural and cultural wonders.
