Agios Sostis is a charming spot in Zakynthos that offers more than just a beautiful beach. It’s a fantastic base for exploring the sea, caves, and wildlife that make this part of Greece so special. Whether you’re after a quick boat trip to see loggerhead turtles or a personalized private adventure, you’ll find options that suit different interests and budgets. We especially like the Zakynthos Marine Park tours for their combination of wildlife viewing and scenic stops, and the private boat trips that let you go at your own pace—perfect for travelers who want something tailored. And for those arriving by cruise, the 4×4 jeep tour offers a deep dive into the island’s hidden corners.
Before we jump into the details, here’s a quick overview: This list covers a diverse range of options including speedboat tours, private boat excursions, guided land tours, jeep adventures, and even self-driving rentals. Each offers a distinct way to see Zakynthos or Mykonos, combining natural beauty with local insights.
1. Zakynthos: Laganas Bay, Myzithres & Turtles Speedboat Tour
This 3.5-hour speedboat tour takes you around the Zakynthos Marine Park, which is one of the top spots for turtle sightings in the Mediterranean. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see loggerhead sea turtles and enjoy three swim stops in the Ionian Sea, giving you plenty of time to relax and snorkel. The trip covers Myzithres Beach, known for its striking rock formations, and the Kerri Caves, which are perfect for exploring in a small, luxury boat.
The reviews highlight its fantastic value and knowledgeable guides, with many travelers mentioning the breathtaking caves and turtle sightings. The tour is perfect for those who want an active, scenic, and wildlife-focused experience in a small group setting. The main drawback is the somewhat delayed pickup, but overall, it offers a memorable day on the water.
Bottom Line: A lively, well-reviewed option for wildlife lovers and those wanting a mix of sightseeing and swimming in a compact timeframe.
2. Zakynthos: Turtle Island and Caves Private Boat Trip
This private 3-hour boat trip offers a personalized experience exploring Zakynthos’ most iconic sights. For around $333, your group will enjoy spotting Caretta Caretta turtles, marveling at the Mizithres Rocks, and visiting Turtle Island—a formation that resembles a turtle. What sets this tour apart is the flexibility: your captain Angelo tailors the itinerary and takes you to Keri Caves for swimming and snorkeling.
Guests often rave about Angelo’s skill and friendliness, with several reviews emphasizing how close they got to wildlife and the caves. This tour is ideal for couples or small groups wanting exclusive attention and the ability to explore at their own pace. It’s a great choice if privacy and personalized service matter most.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, flexible day on the water with opportunities to see turtles and explore caves intimately.
3. Zakynthos: Guided Boat Tour to Turtle Island with Swimming
This 3-hour guided tour is a good balance of guided insight and freedom to snorkel in the Marine Park. Starting from Agios Sostis Harbor, you’ll visit Turtle Island and the Keri Caves, with a strong focus on wildlife and scenic views. The trip’s highlight is the chance to see Caretta Caretta turtles, with some reviewers mentioning spotting multiple turtles, which makes it especially appealing for those eager to witness this ocean icon.
The guide’s local knowledge shines, making it a more educational trip. The tour’s size is small, ensuring a personal experience. The only potential downside is that some might prefer longer or more remote stops, but the well-paced itinerary offers great value for a short trip.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended choice for wildlife enthusiasts who want a guided, intimate adventure to see turtles and caves.
4. Zakynthos: Private Speedboat Rental – No Licence required
For travelers who want control over their day, this self-driven speedboat rental allows exploration of the south coast of Zakynthos. With three options and full safety instructions, you can choose your adventure—from hidden caves to secluded beaches—at your own pace. The full insurance and full tank of fuel ease worries, and the experience is perfect for those comfortable with boating or eager to learn.
The reviews praise the thrill of navigating the waters and discovering coves away from crowds. It’s ideal for confident boaters or groups seeking independence. A potential downside is that it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with operating a boat, as there’s no guide.
Bottom Line: Best for independent travelers or groups wanting a flexible, fun, and private day on the sea.
5. Mykonos: Guided Highlights Tour
This 4-hour luxury van tour takes you around Mykonos’ most photogenic spots, from the Windmills to Little Venice. The professional driver ensures a comfortable, private experience, with scenic stops like the Armenistis Lighthouse and the village of Ano Mera. The itinerary covers top highlights, making it ideal if you want a quick but rundown of the island’s most famous sights.
The reviews commend the flexibility of the driver and the quality of the vehicle, which is equipped with air conditioning and Wi-Fi. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of driving themselves. The main limit is the relatively short duration, so it’s better suited for a broad overview rather than deep exploration.
Bottom Line: An efficient way to tick off the major sights of Mykonos in a single afternoon with comfort and style.
6. Mykonos: Myths, Gods & Ancient Stories Jeep Tour adventure!
This 4-hour Jeep tour is unique because it combines history, mythology, and adventure. You’ll visit hidden spots and learn about myths and legends from local storytellers while exploring off-road paths to beaches like Fokos or Agrari. The tour also stops at Ano Mera’s monastery and scenic viewpoints.
Rated near-perfect, this tour is favored for its engaging storytelling and scenic drives. It appeals to travelers interested in cultural tales and rugged landscapes, offering an authentic glimpse into Mykonos beyond the typical tourist routes. The only consideration is the physicality of off-road driving, which may not suit those with mobility issues.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers eager to combine storytelling with outdoor exploration and off-road adventure.
7. 4 hours Private Mykonos Island tour by Luxury Minibus
This luxury minibus tour lets you explore Mykonos’ less touristy side in comfort. You visit sites like Ano Mera, Armenistis Lighthouse, and some of the quieter beaches like Kalafati. The VIP lounge and air conditioning make the experience feel exclusive, while the knowledgeable driver shares local stories.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, private experience with personalized attention. The reviews highlight how comfortable and punctual the service is, making it a good choice for those with limited time who still want a quality overview of the island.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a private, comfortable tour with a focus on authentic and scenic locations.
8. Turtle Cruise, Turtle Island, Turtle spot, Keri Caves, 2 swim
This 3.6-star boat trip offers a half-day adventure for turtle lovers and cave explorers. The Captain Dennis is noted for his skill and friendliness, making the experience memorable. It guarantees turtle sightings and includes swimming stops at Keri Caves and Turtle Island.
It’s a good choice for families or travelers who want a relaxed pace and the chance to see turtles close up. The main limitation is the mixed reviews, with some noting the trip can get quite hot and the duration somewhat short. Still, the overall experience is a fun, wildlife-focused outing.
Bottom Line: An approachable, friendly option for families wanting a reliable turtle and cave trip.
9. Turtle Cruise from 9 am or 12 noon or 3 pm for 3 hours
This budget-friendly 3-hour trip departs at different times, offering flexible scheduling. It guarantees turtle sightings during the summer and includes stops at Keri Caves and Turtle Island where you can swim and enjoy a picnic in the boat’s cantine.
The reviews are mixed, but most appreciate the value and the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat. It’s best suited for travelers on a budget or those with tight schedules who still want a chance to spot turtles and explore caves.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective option for wildlife lovers who want a quick, reliable trip with flexible timing.
10. Mykonos: Private 4×4 Jeep Island Adventure from Cruise Port
This 4-hour private 4×4 tour is designed for cruise passengers eager to see Mykonos’ hidden beaches and mountain villages. Your local guide takes you off-road to remote beaches like Agios Sostis and Merchia. The flexible itinerary includes stops at scenic viewpoints and cultural landmarks like the monastery of Panagia Tourliani.
The reviews highlight how this tour provides a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially suited for visitors seeking a more authentic, less crowded side of Mykonos, with the convenience of hotel pickup.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise travelers wanting a private, off-the-beaten-path experience with local insights.
11. Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour with Captain
This tailor-made boat tour spans 3 to 5 hours, depending on your preferences. Led by an experienced captain, it visits Marathonisi, Keri Caves, and Agalas Caves, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax. The private setting allows customization based on your interests.
Reviews praise the professional skipper and the chance to see Caretta caretta turtles. It’s perfect for small groups wanting an intimate, flexible day on the water, with the option to extend or shorten the trip.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a custom, private boat experience with wildlife and cave exploration.
12. Zakynthos: Turtle Island and Keri Caves Half-Day Tour
This 5-hour glass-bottom boat tour is value-packed, focusing on turtle sightings and swimming stops at Turtle Island and Keri Caves. The glass-bottom feature allows you to peek beneath the waves without getting wet, appealing for families or less confident swimmers.
The reviews cite the stunning coastal scenery and wildlife spotting as highlights. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the key sights without the need for long narratives.
Bottom Line: A practical, visual-focused tour perfect for families and those who enjoy scenic boat rides.
13. Mykonos: Private 4WD Tour with Hotel Pickup
This 4-hour private 4WD tour gives you a customizable itinerary around Mykonos. It includes scenic beaches, cultural sites, and mountain villages, with the flexibility to choose where to stop. The personalized guide helps you uncover spots like the lighthouse of Armenistis and traditional villages away from crowds.
Ideal for travelers wanting a tailored experience that combines scenery and culture, especially if you prefer private transport. The reviews praise the comfortable vehicle and local knowledge of the guide, making it suitable for small groups or families.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private option for exploring Mykonos at your own pace with insider tips.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among these experiences, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If wildlife viewing and caves are your priority, the Zakynthos Marine Park tours (see options here) offer excellent value and reviews. Want a private, customizable day? The private boat trips (like this one) or private boat with captain (check it out) suit small groups seeking flexibility.
For land-based sightseeing, the luxury van tour (Mykonos Highlights) and jeep adventures (Mykonos myths tour) cater to those wanting cultural insights and off-road fun. If you’re on a tight schedule, consider the shorter trips like the half-day Turtle Island tours for a snapshot of the marine life and scenery.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, as these popular trips fill up quickly. Check availability in advance and pick the option that best fits your travel style—whether that’s a guided land tour, a self-driven boat, or a private adventure.
Final Thoughts
Agios Sostis and the surrounding Zakynthos area offer a wealth of thrilling ways to explore the sea, caves, and wildlife. From the lively Zakynthos Marine Park speedboat tour to the intimate private boat trips tailored for wildlife lovers, there’s something for all. For cruise travelers, the 4×4 jeep tours provide a perfect way to see the island’s hidden corners without hassle.
If your priority is wildlife encounters and scenic boat rides, the guided tours or private boat experiences will serve you well. For a more active, independent day, renting a no-license speedboat grants ultimate freedom. Whichever you choose, book early to secure your spot and make sure your adventure in Greece is unforgettable.