Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting Cruise with Glass-Bottom Boat - The Itinerary Breakdown

We Rank Zakynthos’s 14 Top Tours & Experiences

Discover the top 14 tours and experiences in Zakynthos, from boat trips to horse riding, helping you choose the perfect adventure for your trip.

Zakynthos is a paradise for those who love a good adventure, spectacular scenery, and a touch of the unusual. There’s something about cruising past the iconic Shipwreck of Navagio, exploring the Blue Caves, or spotting Caretta Caretta turtles that makes this island special. We’re particularly fond of the Porto Vromi: Shipwreck, Local Caves, White Beach with 3 stops trip, which combines the classic sights with multiple swimming stops — perfect for a day of sun and sea.

Whether you prefer cruising, kayaking, or horseback riding, Zakynthos offers a variety of ways to experience its stunning coastlines and hidden corners. Below is a selection of the best tours and experiences, each with its own unique appeal.

1. Porto Vromi: Shipwreck, Local Caves, White Beach with 3 stops

Porto Vromi: Shipwreck, Blue Caves, White Beach w/ 3 stops

This 3-5 hour cruise takes you to three of Zakynthos’s most iconic spots. Starting with photos at Navagio Beach, you’ll then explore the Blue Caves and visit White Beach. The trip includes 3 swimming stops, allowing plenty of time to float in the turquoise waters below towering cliffs.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic coastline cruising with multiple opportunities to swim. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day with stunning views and photo ops of the shipwreck, as well as the Blue Caves. With a solid 4.4/5 rating from nearly 1,880 reviews, this tour offers great value for just $35 per person.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, relaxed boat day with plenty of swim stops and classic views.

2. Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting Cruise with Glass-Bottom Boat

Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting Cruise with Glass-Bottom Boat

This 3-hour trip is a favorite among eco-minded travelers. It features a glass-bottom boat that brings you close to the Caretta Caretta turtles in their natural habitat. You’ll explore the Keri caves, pass under the natural Arches, and enjoy a swim at Marathonisi Island, known for its turtle nesting.

What makes this tour special is the chance to see turtles up close while riding an eco-friendly vessel. Many reviews mention how amazing it was to capture photos and videos of turtles in crystal-clear waters. It’s suited for families and wildlife enthusiasts, especially since people love the opportunity to swim in pristine waters with the gentle giants.

Bottom Line: Best for wildlife lovers and those wanting a close encounter with Zakynthos’s famous turtles in a shorter time.

3. Zakynthos: Shipwreck Beach, Viewpoint, Blue Caves Day Tour

Zakynthos: Shipwreck Beach, Viewpoint, Blue Caves Day Tour

A full-day adventure, this 8-hour tour covers the Shipwreck Beach, Blue Caves, and more. It includes panoramic views from Bochali Hill, exploration of Therianos Farm, and a boat ride into the Blue Caves.

This trip offers a rundown of Zakynthos’s top sights, combining land and sea. Guests rave about the flexible itinerary, and the inclusion of a visit to a local farm adds a cultural touch. At around $60, the value is high considering the length and variety.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into the island’s highlights with cultural touches and scenic boat rides.

4. Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonisi & Keri Caves Cruise

Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonísi & Keri Caves Cruise

This 3.5-hour trip offers a relaxed approach to turtle watching, with opportunities to swim at Marathonisi Island and explore the Keri Caves. The focus is on eco-friendly practices, with many reviews praising the friendly crew and good boat size that enhances turtle sightings.

What makes it stand out is the combination of turtle sightings and leisurely swims, making it ideal for families or those wanting a shorter, wildlife-focused experience. The 5/5 reviews reflect strong satisfaction with the friendly guides and stunning scenery.

Bottom Line: Great for nature lovers seeking a shorter, eco-conscious adventure with plenty of swimming.

5. From Porto Vromi: Shipwreck Beach Private Boat Cruise

From Porto Vromi: Shipwreck Beach Private Boat Cruise

For those who prefer exclusivity, this 2-hour private cruise is a luxurious way to see Zakynthos. You’ll explore hidden caves, Poseidon’s carved face, and visit the famous Shipwreck all in an intimate setting.

Costing $295 per group (up to 10 people), this tour offers personalized service and a flexible itinerary. Guests rave about the private experience, with many mentioning how it’s perfect for special occasions or just escaping the crowds.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a luxurious, private experience on Zakynthos’s coast.

6. Zakynthos: Turtles, Marathonisi & Keri Caves Speedboat Tour

Zakynthos: Turtles, Marathonisi & Keri Caves Speedboat Tour

This 2.5-hour speedboat tour gets you close to turtles and into the Keri caves with an adrenaline rush. The small boat size allows for a more intimate experience, with the chance to swim at two stops.

The tour is praised for its enthusiastic guides and stunning scenery, making it ideal for travelers who want a quick, action-packed day. Many reviews highlight the opportunity to see turtles and the beautiful coastlines.

Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers and those with limited time who still want multiple stops.

7. Zakynthos: Keri Lake Romantic Sunset & Myzithres Viewpoint

Zakynthos: Keri Lake Romantic Sunset & Myzithres Viewpoint

This 4-hour tour combines romantic sunset views with a walk along Keri Lake and the famous Myzithres viewpoint. It’s designed for those wanting a more relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of romance.

Guests love the panoramic sunset views and the small-group atmosphere, making it perfect for couples or travelers seeking a peaceful evening. The tour includes cocktail stops and photo opportunities.

Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or those looking for a scenic, relaxed evening experience.

8. Zakynthos: Private Shipwreck & Blue Caves Tour by Land & Sea

Zakynthos: Private Shipwreck & Blue Caves Tour by Land & Sea

This 7-8 hour private tour offers a luxurious blend of land and sea exploration. You’ll travel comfortably in a Mercedes Viano minibus, then hop on a boat to see Navagio, Blue Caves, and hidden beaches.

Guests praise the personalized attention and exclusive access to sights. It’s perfect for travelers who dislike large groups but want to see as much as possible in style.

Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a luxury, private experience with flexible scheduling and detailed sightseeing.

9. Zakynthos Blue Caves and Navagio bay

Zakynthos Blue Caves and Navagio bay

A quick yet spectacular boat trip, this 2.5-hour tour takes you deep into the Blue Caves and past Navagio Beach for photos. It’s a good choice if your time is limited but you want stunning scenery.

Reviewers appreciate the expert navigation and the beautiful shades of blue. It’s best suited for travelers who want a snappy, photo-focused experience.

Bottom Line: Great for a short, scenic tour that hits the highlights.

10. Zakynthos: Yotomu Horse Riding and Swimming Experience

Zakynthos: Yotomu Horse Riding and Swimming Experience

This 1-3 hour tour offers a unique way to experience Zakynthos: on horseback. Ride through pine forests and quiet beaches, then swim with the horses in the Ionian Sea.

Rated 4.7/5, it’s perfect for couples or families who want an active, memorable experience without needing special riding skills. The guides are attentive, and the scenery is peaceful and natural.

Bottom Line: Best for those looking for a fun, active day in nature with a touch of adventure.

11. Zakynthos: Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves Boat Tour

Zakynthos: Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves Boat Tour

This 3.5-hour tour covers multiple highlights, including Xigia Beach, Navagio and Blue Caves. It’s a great way to see a variety of coastlines in a shorter time.

Guests love the diverse stops and crystal-clear waters. The tour is suitable for travelers wanting a multi-stop boat experience with enough time for swimming and photos.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a compact, scenic tour with variety.

12. Laganas Zakynthos: Marathonissi, Keri Caves and Turtles Spotting

Laganas Zakynthos: Marathonissi, Keri Caves and Turtles Spotting

Starting directly from Laganas beach, this 3-hour tour offers turtle sightings and visits to Marathonissi Island. The boats are limited in size, offering a more personal experience.

Reviewers mention the good opportunity to see turtles and beautiful caves, making it a solid choice for those based in Laganas. It’s especially good for travelers wanting a local, accessible option.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers staying in Laganas seeking a local, small-group tour.

13. Zakynthos West Coast Tour and Navagio Bay

This 2.5-hour boat trip explores the west coast’s hidden coves and sea caves, including stops at Navagio Bay and the Face of Poseidon. It’s a compact, scenic outing.

Guests comment on the beautiful waters and easygoing pace, suitable for those wanting quick access to the coast’s best features.

Bottom Line: Ideal for a short, scenic ride with multiple photo opportunities.

14. Private Tour of Navagio Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves

Private Tour of Navagio Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves

For a luxurious, private experience, this 5-hour tour offers personalized transport and a guided boat trip. You’ll visit Navagio, Blue Caves, and hidden beaches in style.

Rated 5/5 from 10 reviews, it caters to travelers who prefer private, relaxed outings with all the details taken care of.

Bottom Line: Best for those who want exclusivity and comfort on Zakynthos’s most famous sights.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting a tour in Zakynthos, consider what excites you most: the iconic Shipwreck, turtle sightings, or scenic boat rides? For a full day that combines cultural sights and boat trips, the Zakynthos: Shipwreck Beach, Viewpoint, Blue Caves Day Tour is excellent. If you’re focused on wildlife, the Turtle Spotting Cruise and Keri Caves Speedboat Tour are hard to beat.

For luxury and privacy, the Private Boat Cruise and Private Land & Sea Tour give you a more personalized experience. Budget travelers might prefer shorter trips like the Blue Caves and Navagio Bay or the Laganas-based Marathonissi and Turtles.

Final Thoughts

Zakynthos offers a wide range of tours suitable for different interests and schedules. Whether you want to spend hours exploring caves and wrecks, enjoy a quick wildlife encounter, or indulge in a private luxury cruise, there’s an experience waiting for you. Two standout options are the full-day Shipwreck & Blue Caves for its variety and immersion, and the private boat tour for a more exclusive experience.

For those on a tight schedule, shorter trips still pack a punch with stunning views and memorable moments. No matter your choice, booking early ensures you’ll secure a spot in these popular tours, especially during peak season. Happy exploring — Zakynthos’s spectacular coastline won’t disappoint.