Agios Sostis may be small, but it offers some of the most scenic and memorable boat tours in Zakynthos. This charming harbor is a perfect starting point for exploring the island’s stunning coastlines, sea caves, and, of course, the famous Caretta Caretta turtles. Many travelers are drawn here because of the variety of options—from intimate private boat trips to guided group tours—each offering its own flavor of adventure. I personally love the private trips because they allow you to customize your experience, and there’s nothing quite like cruising along the turquoise waters with only your group on board.
One of our favorite options is the Zakynthos: Turtle Island and Caves Private Boat Trip. With its high rating of 4.9/5 from 127 reviews, this tour promises a personalized experience that combines wildlife spotting, snorkeling, and visits to the island’s most iconic caves. If you prefer a guided experience, the Zakynthos: Guided Boat Tour to Turtle Island with Swimming also gets rave reviews for its intimate nature and expert guidance. For those on a budget or seeking flexible timing, there are multiple shorter tours, though they may have fewer stops or fewer personalized touches. Whether you want to see turtles in their natural habitat or explore caves on a comfortable boat, Agios Sostis has a tour for you.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of the top-rated boat experiences available in Agios Sostis, helping you decide which adventure best suits your style and interests.
1. Zakynthos: Turtle Island and Caves Private Boat Trip
At number one, this private boat trip offers an exclusive way to explore Zakynthos’ coastlines and marine life. The trip lasts about 3 hours and costs approximately $333 for a group of up to two people, making it a premium but very personalized experience. The captain will take you to the Marathonisi Island, often called Turtle Island because of its shape resembling a Caretta Caretta turtle, and the nearby Keri Caves. A major highlight is the chance to spot turtles in their natural environment—something that makes this tour stand out.
What sets this experience apart is the flexibility. You can stop for swimming, snorkeling, and photo opportunities at your own pace, which is a real plus for travelers who want to tailor their day. The reviews are glowing, with many mentioning the skill and friendliness of Captain Angelo, who goes out of his way to ensure guests see turtles and explore caves comfortably. The tour also includes stops at Mizithres Rocks, a striking formation of turquoise waters and cliffs that photograph beautifully.
Bottom line: If you value privacy and a customized experience, this private trip delivers. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want to explore the coast with expert guidance and plenty of time for swimming and wildlife viewing.
2. Zakynthos: Guided Boat Tour to Turtle Island with Swimming
Coming in at number two is a guided tour that emphasizes personalized attention and expert commentary. This 3-hour trip is rated 4.9/5 from 26 reviews and costs about $316 per group of up to one person. It’s ideal for travelers who want a more structured experience with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the marine park, the turtles, and the caves.
The itinerary includes a photo stop at Agios Sostis Harbor, a boat cruise with swimming and snorkeling around the Keri Caves, and a longer visit to Turtle Island, where spotting a turtle is a highlight. The guide’s local expertise means you’ll get to see marine life more closely, and the boat cruise brings you into the heart of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos. Reviewers love the water clarity and the ability to see turtles up close, describing it as a “trip of a lifetime.”
This tour offers a good balance of guided insight and free time to swim or take photos, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate added context to their natural encounters. It also tends to have fewer reviews but consistently excellent ratings.
Bottom line: For those who want a guided experience with the chance to learn about the park’s wildlife, this tour is a top choice, especially for solo travelers or small groups eager for a personalized touch.
3. Turtle Cruise, Turtle Island, Turtle spot, Keri Caves, 2swim
This shared boat trip offers a shorter, more budget-friendly option for turtle lovers. Rated 3.6/5 from 5 reviews, it costs around $46 per person and lasts about 3 hours. Departing from Kalamaki or Taxi Rand, it promises guaranteed turtle spotting—a big draw for nature enthusiasts.
The highlights include a visit to Keri Caves, where you can swim and explore the sea arches, along with stops at Turtle Island for swimming and relaxing. The tour also features a lunch and drinks service on the boat, which makes it a convenient all-in-one option. Reviewers mention having a skilled captain who makes the experience fun and safe, but some note the limited time at each stop compared to private tours.
While it may lack the exclusivity of a private trip, it’s well suited for travelers on a tighter budget or those new to boat excursions who want to maximize their chances of seeing turtles without sacrificing the chance to explore caves and coastline.
Bottom line: This is a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind sharing the boat and want to see turtles, caves, and scenic coastlines in a shorter timeframe.
4. Turtle Cruise from 9 am or 12 noon or 3 pm for 3 hours
For travelers seeking flexibility, this 3-hour cruise departs at different times of day—9 am, noon, or 3 pm—and offers a straightforward, no-frills experience. Priced affordably at $46 per person, it is suitable for those who prefer to schedule around their day.
The tour includes stops at Keri Caves with swimming, a visit to Marathonissi (Turtle Island), and the opportunity to snorkel and explore at your own pace. It guarantees turtle spotting during the summer season but emphasizes the scenic coast, caves, and cliffs. The itinerary also includes lunch and drinks at a cantine boat, making it convenient for a half-day outing.
The reviews note that the tour is a good value but sometimes less personalized, with some guests wishing for a longer or more in-depth experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a flexible schedule and a quick, enjoyable boat trip without extra frills.
Bottom line: If you prefer a simple, scheduled trip with guaranteed cave visits and the chance to see turtles, this affordable option works well, especially if you’re short on time.
5. Mykonos: Private 4×4 Jeep Island Adventure from Cruise Port
Switching gears to a different island, number five offers a 4-hour private Jeep tour of Mykonos, perfect for travelers looking to see the island’s less-traveled spots. Rated 4.6/5, this experience is tailored for those who want to escape the crowds and explore authentic villages and beaches.
Your guide will take you to hidden beaches like Agios Sostis and remote spots like Merchia and Agrari beaches. The tour includes stops at the Armenistis Lighthouse and Ano Mera, a traditional village. The flexible itinerary allows for photo stops, guided tours, and free time to relax.
This experience is especially attractive for cruise passengers wanting a personalized tour away from the bustling tourist areas, with the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. It’s a bit more expensive but offers a deep dive into Mykonos’s authentic side, with the chance to learn about local traditions and enjoy quiet beaches.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers seeking a private, off-road exploration of Mykonos’s quieter corners, especially if you enjoy scenic drives and cultural stops.
6. Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour with Captain
Our final pick is a private 3 to 5-hour boat tour along Zakynthos’s southwestern coast. Rated 4.9/5, this customizable trip is suited for travelers who want to explore at their own pace with a knowledgeable captain.
Highlights include visits to Marathonisi Island, Keri Caves, the Mizithres Rocks, and the Agalas Caves—off the typical tourist route. The tour offers a high degree of flexibility, letting you choose the exact stops and activities you prefer. It’s ideal for groups or couples seeking a personalized, intimate experience with plenty of time for swimming and photography.
Guests appreciate the expert guidance and the chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters in peace. It’s a great choice for travelers who prioritize privacy and a tailored itinerary over a set schedule.
Bottom line: If you want a highly customizable, private boat trip with expert guidance, this tour provides excellent value and flexibility.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Agios Sostis
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, schedule, and what you most want to experience. If privacy and customization top your list, the Zakynthos Private Boat Tour or the Private 4×4 Jeep in Mykonos fit well. For wildlife lovers chasing turtles, the guided Turtle Island tour offers a perfect balance of insight and adventure. Budget travelers might prefer the shorter, more affordable trips like the Turtle Cruise or the Turtle Cruise from 9 am or 12 noon.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and tour type. Think about your fitness level and comfort with swimming—most tours include snorkeling and swimming, which can be refreshing but also demanding.
Final Thoughts
Agios Sostis and Zakynthos are packed with options for boat lovers. The private trips deliver personalized service and flexibility, perfect for couples or small groups. Guided tours like the guided boat to Turtle Island offer a more educational experience with insider knowledge. Budget-friendly options still let you enjoy the stunning coastline, caves, and turtles if you select the right tour.
No matter which you pick, these trips promise memorable moments—whether spotting a turtle, exploring a sea cave, or capturing a sunset from the water. To ensure the best experience, book your tour early, especially during the busy summer months. With these options, you’re set for a sea adventure that will be hard to forget.