Laganas Zakynthos: Marathonissi, Keri Caves and Turtles Spotting

Introduction

Taking a boat trip around Zakynthos’ coast is often considered a must-do, especially if you’re eager to see the famous Caretta Caretta turtles and explore the stunning caves. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, many travelers have shared their experiences, giving us a clear picture of what it offers.

What draws many to this 3-hour excursion? It’s the chance to spot turtles in their natural habitat, glide through breathtaking caves like the Keri Caves, and relax on deserted beaches — all from a comfortably sized boat. Plus, the price tag of around $29 per person makes it an accessible way to tick off some of Zakynthos’ top sights. However, some reviews mention that the boat ride can feel lengthy and that turtle sightings may be hit-or-miss.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a short, scenic escape from crowded beaches, enjoy gentle boat rides, and are open to a mix of wildlife viewing, sightseeing, and swimming. If your focus is solely on guaranteed turtle encounters, you might want to manage expectations, but if you love exploring caves and soaking up the views, this trip offers solid value.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures comfort and better viewing opportunities
• Multiple stops provide varied sights, from caves to beaches to turtle watching
• Affordable price point offers good value for a 3-hour trip
• Limited turtle sightings mean you might not see as many turtles as hoped, but the chance remains
• Comfortable boats with shaded seating and a glass bottom enhance the experience
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic boat trip with a mix of wildlife and cave exploration

What to Expect from the Tour

This boat tour starts directly from Laganas beach, with the first stop being the most anticipated — turtle spotting. Many reviewers mention the excitement of catching a glimpse of a Caretta Caretta turtle in the wild. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many are lucky enough to see at least one, often swimming near the boat or relaxing at the dock. The boat is described as small and cozy, typically accommodating up to 25 guests, which makes for a more intimate experience compared to larger, crowded tours.

The boat itself features shaded seating, a rear sundeck, and a glass-bottom section — perfect for observing underwater life without getting wet. The crew, often praised for their professionalism and kindness, include guides who share snippets of information about the caves and the local marine environment. Expect to be on the water for around 2.5 hours, which keeps the experience brisk yet relaxed.

Turtle Spotting in Laganas Bay

The first stop, just about 10 minutes into the sail, is dedicated to finding and observing Caretta Caretta turtles. Many reviews mention that the guides make a genuine effort to locate these creatures, with some guests reporting they did manage to see a turtle or two. The experience is partly about witnessing these animals in their natural habitat, which is quite special. However, some reviews note that turtle sightings can be rare—one reviewer said they only saw one turtle hanging out at the boat dock, not swimming freely.

Marathonissi (Turtle Island) and Its Caves

Next, the tour takes travelers to Marathonissi, colloquially known as Turtle Island. Here, you’ll enjoy about 50 minutes of free time on a beautiful sandy beach — perfect for swimming, relaxing, or taking photos of the surrounding turquoise waters. The island is mostly uninhabited, adding to its charm. Reviewers describe the water as “crystal clear” with “incredible colours,” making it ideal for snorkeling and wading.

Following this, there’s a quick visit inside the Marathonissi sea cave — a highlight for many, as the boat enters a natural cavern with impressive formations perfect for photos. Expect about 20 minutes here, with reviews noting it’s a lovely spot for capturing the surreal blue water and cave interiors.

Exploring the Keri Caves

After the island, the boat sails along Capo Marathià, providing scenic views of the Keri Caves. These caves are accessible only by sea, making them a unique highlight of the trip. They are described as a series of small, large, and swim-through caves, with some entrances just big enough for swimming or small boats. Many reviews mention the beauty of the caves and the photographs taken here, though some comment on the area being crowded with tour boats, especially during peak season.

Oasis Bay and Final Relaxation

The last stop is Oasis Bay, a deserted, tranquil spot where you can swim in pristine waters and enjoy some downtime. The reviews suggest that this is a peaceful location, perfect for unwinding after the sightseeing stops. The water here is often described as “beautiful” and “uncontaminated,” making it a relaxing end to the trip. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for swimming and soaking up the sun.

The Practicalities

Duration, Group Size, and Comfort

This tour lasts approximately 3 hours, a length that works well for those wanting a quick yet comprehensive experience. The boats are limited to around 25 guests, which many reviews highlight as a plus — smaller groups mean more space and better chances to see wildlife. The boat features shaded seating and a rear sundeck, making it comfortable regardless of sun exposure.

Pricing and Value

At about $28.91 per person, this trip is quite budget-friendly, especially given the variety of stops and the chance to see turtles and caves. Many reviews echo that the value is good, especially when combined with the opportunity to relax, swim, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Booking and Meeting Point

The tour departs from Laganas main street, just 20 meters on the left from the main cross street, making it easy to find. Bookings tend to be made 12 days in advance on average, which suggests good availability if planned ahead. The tour is operated by YOTOMU, with a mobile ticket system making things straightforward.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While many guests praised the professionalism of the guides, some reviews pointed out inconsistencies or issues. For instance, a few travelers mentioned that the caves and turtle sightings could be underwhelming if you’re unlucky. One reviewer noted that the last beach, Marathonissi, can be overcrowded and less peaceful than expected, especially during peak season when multiple boats crowd the small island.

Other comments reflected on the length of the boat ride being a bit long, with some feeling that the areas visited weren’t as engaging as hoped. Yet, many appreciated the small boat size, the friendly crew, and the beautiful scenery.

A few guests experienced logistical issues, like a tour cancellation or difficulty in communication. However, the tour operator states that cancellations due to weather are free and that they respond promptly via WhatsApp.

The Sum Up

This Zakynthos boat trip offers a solid mix of wildlife viewing, cave exploration, and beautiful beaches, all within a compact 3-hour window. Its small-group setting and comfortable boat amenities make it suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed yet scenic adventure. While turtle sightings are not guaranteed, the chance to see these creatures in their natural environment adds a special touch.

The stops at Marathonissi, Keri Caves, and Oasis Bay provide a well-rounded experience, especially if you love swimming, photography, and coastline scenery. The affordability combined with the intimate boat size and friendly crew makes it a compelling choice for anyone on a budget or short on time.

Ideal for those who enjoy a gentle boat ride, appreciate natural beauty, and are open to some unpredictability regarding wildlife sightings. If you’re after a quick taste of Zakynthos’ stunning coastline with the possibility of a turtle sighting, this tour hits the mark. For wildlife enthusiasts and casual travelers alike, it’s a tour that balances fun, scenery, and relaxation.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The entire trip lasts about 3 hours, giving enough time to visit multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs directly from Laganas beach, specifically from the main street, just 20 meters on the left.

How many people can join the tour?
The boats are small, typically seating up to 25 guests, which helps maintain a comfortable and intimate atmosphere.

What can I expect to see during the trip?
You’ll have a chance to spot Caretta Caretta turtles, explore the Marathonissi caves, enjoy swimming at Oasis Bay, and marvel at the Keri caves.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the duration and gentle boat ride make it suitable for families, especially since the boat has shaded areas and a glass bottom for viewing underwater life.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and your camera are recommended. Some reviewers mention that there might be knee-deep water when boarding, so water shoes could be handy.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather conditions. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This boat trip around Zakynthos balances scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to your island itinerary. Just remember, sightings can vary, but the experience of being out on the water, exploring caves, and relaxing on deserted beaches is genuinely worth it.