Exploring the Stunning Akamas Peninsula National Park by Boat

Cyprus is a small but stunning Mediterranean island nation known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters. One of the most picturesque areas of the island is the Akamas Peninsula National Park, located in the westernmost part of Cyprus. With its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and stunning views, it is the perfect place to explore by boat.

Boating in Akamas Peninsula National Park

My family and I decided to spend a day exploring the Akamas Peninsula National Park by boat, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip to Cyprus. We chose to hire a small private boat for the day with Mahimos Boat Rentals, and our Airbnb host, Xenios, was kind enough to help us book the tour and even come along with us.

Us on our private boat at Latchi Boat Harbor

We met our boat guides in the morning at the Latchi boat harbor, and we were greeted with smiles and enthusiasm. They gave us a brief safety talk before we set off, bouncing over the waves as we made our way along the coastline. The weather was perfect, with the sun shining down on us and the sea sparkling with shades of turquoise and deep blue.

Setting sail with a beautiful view of the horizon

As we made our way around the Akamas Peninsula, we were struck by the beauty of the surrounding islands and coastline. The boat allowed us to get up close and personal with the scenery, and we were constantly snapping photos of the incredible views.

We got to see the surrounding islands up close!

I, Don, even got the opportunity to take the wheel of the boat for a few minutes, which was a lot of fun. 

Don taking the wheel of the boat!

Our first stop of the day was a secret cove, and it was an absolute highlight of the trip. Our guides docked the boat near a cliff where the cove lay hidden beneath, and we had the option of entering the cave in two ways – either by swimming or by jumping off the cliff and paddling over to it.

Our first stop, a secret cove!

Our guides docking the boat in front of the island

My wife, Edith, rode an inflatable tube while I pulled her to the cove with a rope, and our children, Nathan and Bethany, followed along in the water.

Nathan and Bethany swimming to catch up to us

Once we reached the cave, we were struck by its beauty. The water was crystal clear and shimmering in the sunlight, and we swam around for a bit before resting on a shallow area nearby.

The interior of the secret cove

We swam inside the cove for a bit, and it was a lot of fun!

The kids had an absolute blast diving into the water, and Nathan and I even gathered the courage to jump off the high cliff and into the water. It was a moment that we will all remember for years to come.

Don and Nathan cliff diving into the water!

We spent a good chunk of time in the secret cove, taking in the beauty of our surroundings and enjoying the cool water. Eventually, we got back on the boat to rest and enjoy some sandwiches and refreshments.

As we continued our boat ride, we had the opportunity to ride an inflatable watercraft, which was an adrenaline rush and a lot of fun. We took turns holding on for dear life as the boat pulled us along the waves, and we couldn’t stop laughing.

Nathan holding on for dear life!

Us enjoying the cool water of Akamas Peninsula National Park

All in all, it was an incredible day spent exploring the Akamas Peninsula National Park by boat. We spent the afternoon enjoying the ocean, taking in the stunning scenery, and making memories that will last a lifetime. It was a day filled with adventure, laughter, and plenty of sunshine, and we feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it together as a family.

We had a lot of fun riding the inflatable raft! Such an adrenaline-pumping ride.

The sunset during our boat trip, as we were heading back to the harbor

If you ever find yourself in Cyprus, I highly recommend exploring the Akamas Peninsula National Park by boat – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.