Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonísi & Keri Caves Cruise

Exploring Zakynthos by boat offers a fascinating mix of wildlife encounters, scenic caves, and relaxing swimming spots. This 3.5-hour cruise promises an eco-friendly way to see the island’s highlights, especially if you’re eager to spot loggerhead turtles in their natural environment and explore some of the most beautiful coastal caves.

What makes this tour appealing? We love the opportunity to see sea turtles close-up, thanks to the glass-bottom vessel that offers a glimpse into the waters below. The swimming stops at Marathonísi Island and Keri Caves are perfect for relaxing, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the incredible scenery. Plus, the well-organized pickup and drop-off add a layer of convenience to a busy holiday schedule.

One potential downside? The actual glass-bottom boat is more subtle than some might expect—it’s equipped with small viewing windows rather than a fully transparent hull, which could be a slight letdown for those expecting more extensive underwater views.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife spotting, scenic exploration, and leisure swimming—perfect if you’re short on time but still want an authentic look at Zakynthos’ natural beauty.

Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: Excellent chances to spot loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Stops: Visit Marathonísi Island and Keri Caves, both offering unique photo opportunities.
• Eco-Friendly: The vessel is designed to minimize environmental impact.
• Inclusive & Convenient: Hotel transfers and a friendly guide enhance the experience.
• Short & Sweet: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a compact yet memorable adventure.
• Mixed Reviews on Views: While many loved the experience, some found the glass-bottom feature modest.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zakynthos Turtle Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This tour kicks off from Ag Sostis port, near the Cameo Bridge, where you’ll meet your guide and board a spacious, certified boat. The duration is roughly 3.5 hours, making it a manageable option if you’re squeezing in activities between other plans.

The first major highlight is turtle spotting. As the boat glides over the waters of Laganas Bay, keep your eyes peeled for the distinctive shape of the Caretta caretta, or loggerhead turtle. Several reviews mention the thrill of spotting these graceful creatures in the wild—some guests even witnessed hatchlings making their way to the sea, a rare and touching moment. One reviewer shared that the crew, including Captain Dennis, did a fantastic job making everyone feel comfortable and informed about the turtles and the local environment.

Next, the boat heads to Marathonísi Island, known as “Turtle Island” because of its shape and reputation as a nesting site for turtles. Here, you’ll have time for a swim in the turquoise waters or relax on the untouched sandy beach. The island’s natural setting makes it a peaceful spot to unwind and take pictures. Reviewers note that the beach is crowded at times, especially if you visit later in the day, so arriving early might give a more relaxed experience.

Finally, the tour stops at the Keri Caves, a true highlight for lovers of geology and dramatic scenery. The caves have been carved by the sea over centuries, creating impressive rock formations. Visitors report that swimming inside the caves provides some of the most memorable moments of the trip. The water here is described as crystal clear, and many guests appreciate the chance to snorkel and explore the caves up close.

The Boat & Comfort

The vessel itself is described as smaller than some other boats, which actually offers a benefit—more opportunities for sightings and fewer crowds during swimming stops. Several reviews praise its spaciousness and safety, noting that it’s suitable for wildlife conservation and certified to meet safety standards.

While the glass-bottom feature is functional, some guests mention it’s more of a small window system rather than a fully transparent hull. If you’re expecting a cruise with extensive underwater views, it might not fully meet those expectations, but it still provides interesting glimpses into the sea life beneath.

The Experience & Guides

The guides and crew are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Guests often mention Captain Dennis by name, highlighting his professionalism and positive attitude. One reviewer appreciated the helpful crew that went out of their way to make the trip enjoyable and comfortable.

The narration about the local environment, turtles, and caves adds an educational touch. Some guests felt the guides could improve with more detailed explanations about the island’s history and ecology, but overall, the crew received warm feedback.

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The Price & Value

Considering the included pickup, drop-off, and boat tour, many reviewers find this experience good value for money. The tour offers a shorter time frame compared to full-day excursions, making it a budget-friendly option without sacrificing the main highlights.

The cost covers transportation from several key areas like Laganas, Kalamaki, and Argassi, which is a nice touch, as it removes the hassle of booking separate transfers. However, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks, especially if you plan to spend longer at the stops.

Critical Insights from Reviews

• Many guests appreciated the small group size, which allowed for more personalized attention and better chances to see turtles.
• Some reviewers wished for more detailed commentary about the island and its wildlife, indicating that a bit more narration could elevate the experience.
• The swimming stops are generally praised, though the crowded beaches at Marathonísi can sometimes detract from the tranquility.
• A few guests noted that the glass-bottom windows are minimal, so if underwater viewing is your main goal, you might want to consider other options.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early at the meeting point to secure a good spot and avoid last-minute rushes.
• Bring essentials like a hat, towel, camera, and snacks—there’s no food or drinks provided.
• Wear comfortable swimwear and bring waterproof sunscreen.
• If you’re concerned about crowds, opt for the earliest cruise.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a compact, relaxed way to experience Zakynthos’ marine life and coastline. It’s especially suited for those eager to see turtles in their natural environment and enjoy a scenic boat ride with the convenience of hotel transfers.

If you’re short on time or prefer a smaller group experience, this tour offers a personalized feel. For those interested in geology, wildlife, and underwater scenery, the stops at Keri Caves and Marathonísi Island are a big plus.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The cruise departs at 12:00 or 15:00 daily, so check availability for specific times during your booking.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from key areas like Laganas, Kalamaki, Ag Sostis, and others.

Can I see turtles during the tour?
Yes, turtle sightings are the main highlight. Many guests have seen loggerhead turtles, often in their natural habitat.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a short but memorable adventure.

Is the boat safe and comfortable?
Yes, the boats are spacious, safe, and certified for wildlife-friendly excursions.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, towel, camera, and snacks. Food and drinks are not included.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and children should be supervised, especially during swimming.

Can I swim at all stops?
Yes, swimming is allowed at Marathonísi Island and Keri Caves, which many guests find relaxing and fun.

Is the glass-bottom feature worth it?
It provides some views of underwater life, but it’s more of a small window system than a fully transparent hull.

What is the cancelation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Zakynthos turtle cruise balances wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and leisure, making it a solid choice for many travelers. The opportunity to see turtles in the wild is genuinely special, and the stops at Marathonísi Island and Keri Caves add variety and adventure. The inclusion of hotel transfers and a friendly crew make it convenient and enjoyable.

While the glass-bottom windows are modest, they still offer a glimpse beneath the waves. The short duration means you get a taste of Zakynthos’ coast without committing to a full day, a big plus if you’re on a tight schedule.

This tour offers great value and a chance to create lasting memories of your Zakynthos trip — especially if you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply love scenic boat rides. Just arrive early, bring your camera, and prepare for a fun, relaxed exploration of Greece’s stunning marine environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: