Zakynthos: Turtle Island, Cameo and Keri Caves + Transport

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This 1-day tour costs a set fee with hotel pickup included, making it convenient for visitors.
• Main Highlights: Expect turtle spotting, visits to Keri Caves, a stop at Turtle Island (Marathonisi) for swimming or snorkeling, and a scenic pass by Cameo Island.
• Boat Experience: A small glass-bottom boat offers views of marine life and coastline formations, with a 20-minute swim stop near a cave entrance.
• Included Transport: After the boat trip, an air-conditioned minibus takes you back to your accommodation, ensuring smooth logistics.
• Tour Limitations: Some reviews mention communication issues, crowds at the caves, and no facilities on the boat, which are helpful to keep in mind.
• Best for: Those keen on wildlife spotting, scenic coastline, and short, active outings with minimal walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Zakynthos: Turtle Island, Cameo and Keri Caves + Transport

This full-day tour from Smile Tours Zakynthos offers a compact way to see some of the most iconic sights along the southwestern coast of Zakynthos. Priced with hotel pickup and transport included, it appeals to visitors looking for a convenient, guided experience focusing on marine life and coastal scenery.

The tour features a small glass-bottom boat, which enhances the experience by providing marine views and the chance to spot Caretta Caretta turtles in the wild. The boat heads toward Marathonisi, also called Turtle Island, shaped like a turtle, and covered in lush greenery. The swim stop here lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time for snorkeling or relaxing on the protected beach.

The Keri Caves are another key highlight, where white sand beaches, rock arches, limestone cliffs, and verdant hills create a dramatic backdrop. Visitors can expect a 20-minute swim near the entrance of a large cave, offering a chance to cool off and admire the coastal geology.

From the Old Port to the Iconic Cameo Island Bridge

The journey begins with a hotel pickup, which in most cases is included in the tour price. Travelers are transferred in an air-conditioned mini bus to the port of Agios Sostis, located on Zakynthos’ serene southern coast. Here, the small glass-bottom boat awaits, ready to take you on the adventure along the coast.

As the boat departs, the guide points out Cameo Island, famous for its quaint bridge connecting to the mainland. Passing by this enchanting island offers ample opportunities for photo stops and enjoying the view. The whole route emphasizes beautiful scenery and coastal charm.

Spotting Caretta Caretta Turtles in Their Natural Habitat

A major draw of this tour is turtle spotting. The boat sails toward Marathonisi, an island known for being a marine sanctuary. Here, endangered loggerhead turtles are often seen, swimming close to the surface—a true highlight for wildlife enthusiasts.

The boat’s glass bottom helps guests observe marine life without getting wet. The turtle stop is carefully timed; visitors have roughly an hour to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the beach while watching for turtles.

Exploring the Majestic Keri Caves and Coastline

The boat then ventures to the Keri Caves, a series of limestone formations carved over time by the sea. These caves are famous for their stunning arches and white cliffs that plunge into the sparkling waters. Mariners and sightseers appreciate the dramatic landscape, and the tour allows a brief swim at the cave entrance.

Along the way, the coastline reveals white sand beaches and towering limestone cliffs, making it a perfect spot for photography. The scenic cruise offers impressive views of Zakynthos’ diverse coastline.

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Swim Stop at Mizithres Beach and Cave

One of the tour’s noteworthy moments is a swim stop at Mizithres Beach, famous for its smooth, rounded rocks and clear waters. This optional stop lasts around 20 minutes, giving guests the opportunity to cool off and enjoy the calm sea.

The beach’s unique rock formations make it a popular photo spot and a peaceful retreat from the boat ride.

The Experience and Practicalities

The tour is designed for ease and convenience: hotel pickup, transport to and from the port, a small boat for intimacy, and guided commentary. It offers a blend of wildlife viewing, coastal scenery, and beach relaxation in just one day.

Participants should bring sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, towels, sandals, and sunscreen. The tour includes a 1-day activity, with live English-speaking guides, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers beautiful views and a variety of stops, some reviews point out communication gaps and crowding at the caves. A few mention no onboard facilities such as toilets, which may be inconvenient during the nearly 4.5-hour total experience.

Plus, transfers out of Tsilivi can be arranged for an additional small fee, providing extra flexibility for travelers staying outside the main pick-up zone.

Comparing Similar Experiences on Zakynthos

This tour is one among several options, including private boat trips or longer excursions to the same spots. The glass-bottom boat experience and short swim stops make it ideal for those seeking a quick yet rundown of Zakynthos’ coast and marine life.

Other tours might focus more on sunsets, private cruises, or longer durations, but this option emphasizes ease, accessibility, and highlights like turtles and Keri Caves.

Final Thoughts on the Zakynthos Turtle and Caves Tour

The Zakynthos Turtle Island, Keri Caves, and Cameo Island tour offers a compact, scenic, and family-friendly way to explore some of the island’s most famous sights. Its small boat provides an intimate view, while the wildlife and coastline are genuinely captivating.

However, potential participants should be aware of communication issues and crowding at popular spots like the caves. The lack of facilities on the boat is another point to consider, especially for those sensitive to comfort and convenience.

This tour is best suited for visitors eager to see turtles, enjoy coastal scenery, and experience Zakynthos’ marine environment without a lengthy or overly complex itinerary. Its ease of booking and inclusion of transport make it a reliable option to add to your island adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and transfer to the port, with pickups in Zakynthos and arrangements for out-of-resort locations for an extra fee.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire activity lasts about 4.5 hours, including the boat ride, swimming stops, and transfer back to your accommodation.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sandals, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the stops and on the boat.

Are there facilities on the boat?
The tour does not mention toilet facilities on the boat, so plan accordingly. Some reviews suggest this could be a drawback during the trip.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The key highlights are turtle spotting at Marathonisi, visits to Keri Caves, a swim stop at Mizithres Beach, and passing Cameo Island with its iconic bridge.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if plans change.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby