Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour to the south of the island

Exploring Zakynthos by private boat sounds like a fantastic way to see the island’s natural beauty without the crowds. This specific tour, offered by Razis Tours, takes you to the south of Zakynthos, focusing on the stunning area around Marathonisi Island, also known as Turtle Island. It’s designed for small groups—up to five people—making it ideal for couples, families, or friends who want a personalized experience.

What makes this trip special? First, the chance to spot loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat in the marine park. Second, the opportunity to swim twice—once at Marathonisi beach and again in the caves—allowing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the water. Third, exploring hidden caves that only a small private boat can access offers a sense of adventure and discovery.

That said, it’s a relatively short tour—just two hours—so if you’re hoping for a full day or multiple stops, this might feel a bit limited. Also, since food and drinks aren’t included, you’ll want to bring your own supplies.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a focused, intimate, and flexible experience that showcases the unspoiled south of Zakynthos, especially if you love swimming, wildlife, and exploring caves.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience for up to five guests
• Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and cave exploration
• Opportunity to see loggerhead turtles in the marine park
• Two main stops: Marathonisi beach and caves
• Flexible timing with check availability options
• No food or drinks included, so bring your own

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zakynthos Private Boat Tour

How the Experience Unfolds

Starting from Razis Tours, your private boat awaits, captained by an English and Greek-speaking skipper. The entire trip is tailored for small groups, which means you won’t be part of a large, noisy crowd—just your crew and your captain. The tour lasts around two hours, but that’s enough to cover some of the most captivating sights in the south of Zakynthos.

The journey begins with a cruise through the marine park, which is a designated protected area for loggerhead turtles (Caretta-Caretta). This is a highlight for many, as spotting these majestic creatures in their natural environment adds a special touch to the trip. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way our guide pointed out the turtles, which made the experience even more memorable.”

Spotting Turtles in Their Natural Habitat

The marine park is a key feature of this tour. You’ll be on the lookout for turtles swimming gracefully in the clear waters. Since the tour is private, your captain can spend extra time if you’re lucky or want to linger in the area. This personalized approach is appreciated by travelers who want an authentic wildlife encounter, rather than a rushed group outing.

A common sentiment from past guests is that the turtle spotting was “surprisingly easy,” and many noted that guides shared interesting facts about the loggerhead turtles, including their nesting habits and conservation efforts. If you’re into wildlife and nature, this part of the tour alone is worth the price.

Visiting Marathonisi Island – Turtle Island

Next, the boat heads to Marathonisi, famously called Turtle Island due to its role as a nesting site for turtles. Here, you’ll have about 15 to 30 minutes to enjoy a swim on the island’s beach, which is a chance to cool off in the crystal-clear waters. The water is described as inviting, and the shallow shores make it perfect for families with children or less confident swimmers.

Reviewers mention that the water at Marathonisi is “perfect for snorkelling and relaxing,” and some appreciated that the boat’s captain might help out with gear or tips for observing marine life. The island itself has a natural charm, with rocky edges and lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat away from more crowded beaches.

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Exploring the Caves

The second swimming stop is at the Caves of Marathonisi, a highlight for lovers of geology and scenery. These caves are accessible only by small boats, and the tour usually includes a guided visit. Expect to see impressive rock formations and perhaps get some photos of the rugged coastline. The caves are great for snorkeling, and some guests noted that the water here was even clearer than at the beach.

This stop usually lasts about 15 to 30 minutes, giving enough time to explore, take pictures, and enjoy a second swim. Past reviews emphasize the fantastic experience of swimming inside or near the caves, with one guest noting, “The caves felt like a secret world, and swimming inside was surreal.”

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts approximately 2 hours; check availability for specific start times.
• Cost & Value: At $282 for a group of up to 5, it’s a good value for a private experience, especially considering the personalized attention and exclusive access to caves and marine life.
• What to Bring: Hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen. You’ll want waterproof gear for your phone or camera, as the water and sea spray are unavoidable.
• Not Included: Food and drinks, so plan to bring your own snacks, especially if you’re planning to extend your day.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, wheelchair users, or non-swimmers. Seasickness is also a possibility, so prepare accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests often point out that the boat captain makes the trip extra enjoyable, with some mentioning their guide’s friendly attitude and knowledge. One reviewer noted, “Our captain was fantastic—friendly, informative, and great at spotting turtles.” Others appreciated the flexibility of the stops, allowing for more swimming or photos as desired.

The tour’s short duration can be a plus for those with limited time, but if you’re craving a full day of exploring, this might feel a little rushed. Still, most found that two hours was enough to see the highlights and enjoy some quality swimming.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat tour is perfect for couples or small groups who want an exclusive, relaxed experience. If your priority is seeing turtles, enjoying swimming in pristine waters, and exploring caves without the fuss of large tour groups, this is an excellent choice. It also suits families with children who can handle short boat rides and swimming segments.

However, if you prefer a longer, more comprehensive day with multiple stops, you might want to look for a tour that offers more extensive itineraries. Likewise, if you’re not comfortable around water or seasickness is a concern, consider your personal comfort level before booking.

Final Thoughts

This Zakynthos private boat tour offers a well-balanced blend of wildlife viewing, scenic exploration, and swimming in clear waters. Its small-group setup makes it a flexible and intimate way to see some of the island’s most beautiful south coast sights—especially if you’re keen on spotting turtles and enjoying secluded caves. The price reflects the personalized experience, making it a good value for those seeking quality over quantity.

Overall, if you want a tailored, peaceful outing with plenty of opportunities for relaxing swims and wildlife encounters, this tour will serve you well. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate nature, want to avoid the crowds, and value a flexible schedule.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is designed for small groups and includes swimming stops, children should be comfortable with boat rides and swimming. It’s best for families with children who can handle short boat trips and are non-swimmers, as the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Waterproof gear for your phone or camera is recommended since you’ll be in and around water.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring your own snacks and beverages.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with specific start times available based on availability.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for everyone?
No, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, wheelchair users, or non-swimmers.

To sum it up, this private boat tour is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Zakynthos’ southern coast in a relaxed, personalized way. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, snorkelers, and those seeking a peaceful escape to explore caves and beaches away from the crowds. Just pack your essentials, prepare for a short but memorable adventure, and enjoy your day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: