Zakynthos: Marathonisi, Cameo Island and Keri Caves Tour

Explore the stunning island of Zakynthos with the Marathonisi, Cameo Island, and Keri Caves Tour from Dali Tours Zakynthos. Priced at $63 per person and lasting about 5 hours, this trip offers a well-rounded experience of the island’s most iconic sights. Highlights include crystal-clear waters, caretta caretta turtle sightings, and visits to beautiful caves and beaches. The tour begins with a pickup from a central location and takes you across diverse landscapes, giving a good balance of sightseeing, water activities, and cultural tastings.

While the glass-bottom boat ride offers the chance to spot turtles without disturbing them, the tour’s pace can feel a little busy, especially during the multiple stops. It’s best suited for those eager to see Zakynthos’s highlights in a single day, particularly families or travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, scenic views, and local food.

Key Points

• Duration: About 5 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability
• Price: $63 per person, includes boat tickets, museum visit, and tastings
• Highlights: Swim in crystal waters, visit Cameo Island, and see Caretta Caretta turtles through a glass-bottom boat
• Activities: Exploring caves, snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on Marathonisi Island’s white sands
• Cultural Touch: Free olive oil tasting at the Aristeon Olive Oil Museum
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users

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Starting Point and Transportation Details

This Zakynthos tour departs from Laganas and nearby locations, with pickup options from Argassi, Lithakia, Kipseli, Vanato, Kalamaki, Zakinthos, Ano Vasilikos, and Planos. The pickup process is straightforward, with the tour vehicle clearly marked as “Dali Tours”. For accommodations outside a 10-kilometer radius, an additional €25 fee applies, covering pickup and drop-off.

The transportation includes air-conditioned vans that deliver guests comfortably to the port of Agios Sostis and between stops throughout the day. The itinerary is designed for smooth transitions, with some stops lasting around 30 minutes, giving enough time for photos, brief explorations, or a quick swim.

Visiting Cameo Island and Its Scenic Bridge

The tour’s first notable stop is Cameo Island, famous for its fairytale-like landscape and iconic bridge. Guests are encouraged to take photos on the bridge and enjoy a quick swim in the surrounding waters. Entry to Cameo Island requires a small €5 fee, which is optional but can enhance the experience.

This spot is particularly praised for its beautiful views and unique setting. The shallow waters make it ideal for a quick dip, and the scenic backdrop provides perfect photo opportunities. The island’s small size means the visit is brief, but it sets the tone for the day’s scenic highlights.

Exploring the Marine Park and Turtle Spotting

Next, guests board a glass-bottom boat for a one-hour cruise through the National Marine Park of Zakynthos. This part of the tour offers the chance to spot Caretta Caretta turtles in their natural habitat. The glass floor panels allow for up-close views of these gentle creatures underwater, without disturbing their environment.

The boat ride also showcases stunning coastline scenery, including white beaches, rock formations, and cliffs. The boat captain’s knowledge helps identify marine life and explain the importance of conservation efforts. The experience is relaxing, with ample opportunity for photo-taking and turtle viewing.

Swim and Snorkel at Marathonisi Island

A highlight of the tour is the hour-long stop at Marathonisi Island, sometimes called Turtle Island due to its role as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles. The white sandy beach is ideal for laying on the sand or snorkeling in the warm, clear waters.

Guests can relax or explore the island’s protected marine park environment. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for snorkelers eager to see marine life up close. This stop is often praised for its beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere, although some reviews note that the duration might feel limited.

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Discovering the Keri Caves and Coastal Cliffs

The journey continues along the Keri Caves, carved by tides and wind into striking limestone formations. The boat glides through the caves and rock arches, including the famous Kamara arch.

Guests have the chance to stop for a 20-minute swim just outside the entrance to a large cave. The white beaches, rock formations, and cliffs that descend into the sea create a dramatic landscape. The white limestone cliffs and forested hills are particularly photo-worthy, making this part of the tour a favorite for scenery lovers.

Cultural Experience at the Olive Oil Museum

After the natural sights, the tour moves to Lithakia for a visit to the Aristeon Olive Oil Press Museum. This 30-minute guided tour explores olive oil production on the island, highlighting its history and traditional methods.

Guests are invited to taste free samples of local olives and extra virgin olive oils flavored with lemon, orange, and garlic. The museum offers a chance to connect with the island’s culinary heritage and enjoy regional flavors in a relaxed setting. The tasting is complemented by the opportunity to learn from local experts about the significance of olive oil in Greek culture.

Practical Info and Tour Logistics

This tour is designed for easy participation. It includes pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and maps for navigation. The boat tickets are included, but visitors should note that entry to Cameo Island costs an additional €5 if they choose to visit.

Guests should bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and cash for snacks or souvenirs at the stops. Towels and snorkeling gear are not provided, so packing your own enhances the experience. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to the nature of some sites and water-based activities.

Pricing and Value for Money

At $63 per person, this tour offers access to multiple highlights without the need for separate bookings. The price covers boat tickets, a museum visit, and olive oil tastings, providing good value considering the variety of experiences. Some reviewers note that the boat seating can be cramped when full, and organizing the multiple stops requires patience.

The caves, beaches, and turtle sightings are the core attractions that make this tour worthwhile. While food and drinks are not included, the floating snack stalls on Marathonisi provide options for refreshment.

Who Will Enjoy This Zakynthos Tour Most

This 5-hour adventure suits travelers seeking a mixed experience of nature, scenery, and culture. It is especially ideal for families, couples, or anyone wanting to see the island’s top sights without multiple separate excursions. The scenic boat rides, crystal waters, and turtle spotting appeal to those who love outdoor activities.

However, the tour’s pace might feel a bit rushed for some, especially if visitors wish to spend more time on each stop. The lack of wheelchair accessibility and water contact at certain points should be considered for travelers with specific needs.

Final Thoughts on the Zakynthos Tour

The Zakynthos: Marathonisi, Cameo Island, and Keri Caves Tour offers diverse sights and activities packed into 5 hours. The combination of scenic boat rides, natural caves, and cultural tastings makes it a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the island’s highlights.

While the cramped boat seating and busy schedule might be limitations for some, the opportunity to see turtles, swim in crystal waters, and enjoy Greek olive oil makes this tour a value-packed option. The friendly guides and beautiful scenery keep the experience engaging, especially for those eager to explore Zakynthos’s natural beauty in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children should be comfortable with water activities and boat rides.

Are snorkeling equipment and towels provided?
No, snorkeling gear and towels are not included. It’s recommended to bring your own.

How long are the boat rides?
The boat cruise through the marine park lasts about an hour, with additional boat segments to caves and beaches.

What is the minimum age for participating?
The tour is appropriate for most ages, but not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I see turtles on this tour?
Yes, the glass-bottom boat provides good chances to spot Caretta Caretta turtles without disturbing them, especially during the cruise in the marine park.

Is the entry to Cameo Island included?
No, entry costs €5 per person if you wish to visit the island itself.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, towels, cash, and a camera.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are floating stalls and optional visits to local eateries.

How is the weather situation handled?
The tour operates rain or shine, but cancellations are possible in bad weather, with options for full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour flexible with timing?
Yes, starting times vary, and the tour can be adjusted for cruise ship schedules or specific pickup locations.

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