Zakynthos Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves Boat Tour

Discover the stunning scenery of Zakynthos on the Zakynthos Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck, and Blue Caves Boat Tour. Priced at $51.77 per person, this approximately 3-hour excursion offers an efficient way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights. With a small group of 20 seats, the tour balances intimacy with memorable sightseeing, making it ideal for visitors seeking a compact, well-organized adventure. The tour departs from Alykes and includes all fees and taxes, ensuring no hidden costs. While it does not include lunch, it provides ample opportunities to swim, take photos, and marvel at Zakynthos’ natural beauty.

The tour’s popularity is reflected in its high rating of 5.0 out of 5, based on a recent review. Travelers appreciate the smooth booking process, the attentive captain, and the overall customer experience. The short duration makes this tour perfect for those with limited time or looking for a quick yet comprehensive sightseeing experience. The only notable consideration is that there is no swimming permitted at Navagio Beach itself, but other stops more than compensate with swimming opportunities.

Key Points

• Efficient 3-hour tour covering Navagio Bay, Blue Caves, and Xigia Beach
• Price of $51.77 per person with all fees included
• Small group size with a maximum of 20 participants
• Swim at three different locations, including Blue Caves and Xigia Beach
• Departure from Alykes, with pickup at Porto Paradiso restaurant beach bar
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

The Tour Starts at Alykes with an Iconic Photo Stop at Navagio Shipwreck Bay

The tour begins at the Porto Paradiso restaurant beach bar in Alykes, where guests board the 20-seat speedboat. After a quick safety briefing, the vessel heads directly to the famous Navagio Shipwreck Bay, renowned as the most photographed beach in Greece. The 20-minute stop allows ample time for photos and sightseeing, but swimming is not permitted in Navagio Bay to preserve its pristine condition.

This stop offers a chance to appreciate the wreck’s mysterious allure and the dramatic cliffs framing the cove. While no swimming is allowed here, the spectacular views and the chance to capture stunning images make it a highlight of the trip. Visitors often find the viewing platform perfect for snapping memorable photos of one of Greece’s most recognizable beaches.

Exploring the Blue Caves with a Chance to Swim

Next, the boat moves toward the Blue Caves, a series of naturally carved sea caves famous for their brilliant blue waters. The 30-minute break at this location includes photo opportunities, sightseeing, and a swimming stop. The waters inside the caves are known for their vivid color, created by sunlight reflecting off the white limestone beneath.

Swimmers can enjoy a 30-minute window to cool off in the calm, turquoise waters or simply admire the caves’ striking formations from the boat. The admission tickets are included, making this stop both convenient and visually impressive. The Blue Caves often provide spectacular backdrops for photos, with the unique light playing off the water and cave walls.

Xigia Beach: Sulphur Waters and Natural Beauty

The final swimming stop is at Xigia Beach, a distinctive stretch of coast famed for its sulphur-rich waters and a cave that influences the beach’s color and smell. The 40-minute stop here combines sightseeing, photo opportunities, and a swim in the warm, mineral-laden waters.

This beach’s unique features make it a standout spot in Zakynthos. The cave’s presence gives the sea a particular hue and aroma, adding to the experience’s authenticity. Visitors can enjoy the third swim of the tour, taking advantage of the calm waters and the scenic surroundings before returning to Alykes.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour starts at the Porto Paradiso restaurant beach bar in Alykes, a location accessible via public transportation. The small group size, limited to 19 travelers, enhances the experience, allowing for a more personalized atmosphere. The end point is the same as the departure point, simplifying logistics.

The mobile ticket offers convenience, and the tour requires confirmation at booking. Most travelers can participate, and weather conditions are a factor—poor weather may lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling options.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers all fees and taxes, with no additional costs for the stops or admissions. However, lunch is not included, so visitors should plan accordingly. The admission tickets for Navagio, Blue Caves, and Xigia Beach are part of the tour. The duration of approximately 3 hours makes this a great option for travelers wanting a quick but rich sightseeing experience.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

This tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. In case of bad weather, the activity may be canceled for a different date or a full refund, ensuring peace of mind for travelers.

The Guide and Customer Experience

Based on reviews, the customer experience is highly praised, with comments highlighting the faultless booking process, the attentive captain, and overall smooth operation. The guide’s professionalism helps travelers enjoy the trip without worry, while the short duration keeps the experience lively and engaging.

Comparing with Similar Tours

This 3-hour boat tour offers a condensed yet comprehensive experience compared to longer full-day options. It is ideal for visitors short on time but eager to see Zakynthos’ most famous sights. For those interested in a more extensive exploration, there are additional tours covering marine parks, turtle spotting, and other caves, but this tour hits the highlights efficiently.

Final Thoughts on the Zakynthos Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck, and Blue Caves Tour

This tour delivers great value for money with its competitive price and included admissions. It’s particularly suited to travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Zakynthos’ most photogenic spots. The inclusion of three stops for swimming and the small group size create an enjoyable and manageable experience.

While it doesn’t include lunch and swimming isn’t allowed at Navagio itself, the Blue Caves and Xigia Beach more than compensate with their beauty and opportunities to relax in the water. The positive review rating and praise for the customer experience reinforce its reputation as a well-organized, satisfying choice for exploring Zakynthos by sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a quick yet comprehensive way to see key sights.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from and returns to the Porto Paradiso restaurant beach bar in Alykes.

Are there swimming opportunities?
Yes, there are swimming stops at Blue Caves, Xigia Beach, and a brief stop at Navagio Bay for sightseeing, though swimming isn’t allowed in Navagio Bay.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 19 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but weather conditions may affect availability. Good mobility is recommended for swimming stops.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with options for a full refund or rescheduling in case of bad weather.