Cruise to Turtles Island and Caves With a Glass Bottom Boat

Exploring the stunning Turtle Island and its mesmerizing caves is a must-do activity for visitors to Zakynthos. Setting out on a glass-bottom boat cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness the natural habitat of loggerhead turtles while immersing oneself in the vibrant marine life below. With a friendly crew and a lively atmosphere, this half-day excursion promises to be an unforgettable adventure. What awaits those who decide to set sail on this captivating journey?

Key Points

• Half-day excursion to Marathonisi (Turtle Island) in Zakynthos, Greece, offering opportunities to spot loggerhead turtles and engage in activities like swimming and snorkeling.
• Glass-bottom boat design allows observation of vibrant marine life, including turtles, and provides scenic views of the island’s limestone caves.
• Comfortable seating, ample shade, and refreshments available on board to enhance the cruise experience.
• Pickup services from accommodations can be arranged for an additional fee to ensure a seamless start to the excursion.
• Mixed feedback from previous guests, with praise for friendly crew and turtle sightings, but concerns over cancellations, delays, and communication issues.

Overview of the Cruise Experience

Travelers embark on a glass-bottom boat for a half-day excursion to Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, off the coast of Zakynthos, Greece.

The tour offers the chance to spot loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat, go swimming, and snorkel. The atmosphere is party-like, with multiple boats and floating food trucks creating a lively experience.

Scenic views of the island and its caves are highlights of the cruise. Though the experience caters to a larger group, it provides an opportunity to observe wildlife and enjoy the coastal landscape of the Ionian Sea.

Highlights of the Turtle Island Excursion

The glass-bottom boat glides across the turquoise waters, offering passengers an unimpeded view of the vibrant marine life below.

As the boat reaches Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, guests eagerly watch for the elusive loggerhead turtles. Snorkeling allows them to get up close with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.

The rugged limestone caves provide a scenic backdrop, and swimmers can explore the crystal-clear coves.

While the event has a lively, party-like atmosphere with multiple boats and floating food trucks, the focus remains on the opportunity to witness the turtles in their sanctuary.

Boat Features and Amenities

The glass-bottom boat offers travelers an up-close look at the vibrant marine life below. This boat is outfitted with transparent panels that allow passengers to peer into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Turtle Island.

Guests can spot loggerhead turtles and a variety of colorful fish swimming just beneath the vessel. The boat also features comfortable seating and ample shade to protect guests from the sun.

Refreshments and snacks are available for purchase, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable excursion. With a maximum capacity of 85 travelers, the glass-bottom boat provides an intimate and immersive experience.

Pickup and Transportation Options

How do guests get to the meeting point for the cruise?

Guests have two options to reach the departure location at the Agios Sostis Port in Zakynthos. They can either meet the tour at the direct meeting point or arrange a pickup from their accommodations for an additional fee starting at 5 euros per person.

For pickup arrangements, guests can contact the tour organizer, Mr. Andreas, via phone or WhatsApp.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 85 travelers, so it’s best to coordinate pickup details in advance to ensure a seamless start to the cruise experience.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Feedback from previous guests offers a mixed perspective on the Cruise to Turtles Island and Caves experience.

While many praised the friendly crew and opportunities to see turtles, others reported disappointments:

1. Cancellations without prior notice left some travelers inconvenienced.
2. Delays in pickup and lack of communication frustrated guests.
3. A few visitors expressed dissatisfaction with not seeing turtles or having negative beach experiences.

Accessibility and Health Considerations

Accessibility and health considerations are important factors to keep in mind when booking the Cruise to Turtles Island and Caves. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during the boat ride. Plus, guests with serious medical conditions are not allowed to participate.

Accessibility	Health Restrictions
Not wheelchair accessible	No serious medical conditions allowed
Infants must sit on laps	–
–	–

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for those with health concerns.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

The cancellation policy for the Cruise to Turtles Island and Caves tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This policy provides guests with flexibility and peace of mind when planning their trip.

Some key details to consider:

1. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
2. Rescheduling is permitted, subject to availability.
3. No-shows or failure to cancel will result in the full charge being applied.
4. Refunds are processed within 5-7 business days after the requested cancellation.

This transparent cancellation policy ensures a smooth and worry-free experience for all guests.

Pricing and Booking Information

The Cruise to Turtles Island and Caves tour starts from $267.33 per person, offering a lowest price guarantee.

Booking the half-day excursion is easy, with pickup available from accommodations for an additional $5 per person each way.

The tour can accommodate up to 85 travelers, with air-conditioned vehicles and boat tickets included.

Guests can contact the tour provider, Mr. Andreas, via phone or WhatsApp to arrange pickup.

The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

Guests can bring their own snorkeling gear for the tour. However, snorkeling equipment is also provided as part of the tour package, so bringing personal gear is optional.

How Deep Is the Water Around Turtle Island?

The water around Turtle Island generally ranges from shallow to moderate depths, making it suitable for both swimming and snorkeling. The exact depths can vary depending on the specific location and tidal conditions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is a half-day excursion, as stated in the overview. Extending the duration would require booking a separate or customized tour package, which is not offered as part of this specific activity.

Can I Purchase Additional Food/Drinks on the Boat?

Yes, passengers can purchase additional food and drinks on the boat. The tour features floating food trucks that offer a selection of refreshments and snacks throughout the excursion.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Activity?

There are no age restrictions for this activity. Infants are allowed but must sit on laps. Guests of all ages can participate in the cruise to Marathonisi (Turtle Island) aboard the glass-bottom boat.

Final Words

Embark on an unforgettable cruise to Turtle Island and its stunning caves aboard a glass-bottom boat. Observe loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat while enjoying vibrant marine life. Experience the thrill of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, complemented by scenic views of rugged limestone caves. With a friendly crew and a lively atmosphere, this adventure promises both relaxation and excitement as you explore the beauty of Zakynthos.