Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Experience the Best of Zakynthos with a Private Boat Tour in Laganas
For those seeking a flexible and personalized way to explore Zakynthos, the Laganas private boat rental offers a unique opportunity. Priced at $63 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this tour starts from Agios Sostis harbor and takes you across the stunning waters of Laganas Bay. You can choose to drive the boat yourself or enjoy the ride under the guidance of a skipper, making it suitable for both adventurous spirits and those preferring a more relaxed experience.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on customization and access to some of the most iconic natural sites of Zakynthos. Travelers can expect visits to Turtle Island (Marathonisi), Keri Caves, and Mizithres Rocks, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling inside 150 caves of Keri and to spot the Caretta-Caretta turtle in its natural environment. While the experience offers remarkable scenery and wildlife viewing, it’s good to know that reviews highlight some organizational issues, so prepare for a tour that can be unpredictable in execution.
This private boat experience caters best to those craving a tailored adventure with a small group, providing snorkeling gear, underwater photos, snacks, refreshments, and life vests included. It’s an excellent choice for families, couples, or friends wanting a more intimate and flexible day on the water.
Key Points
- Flexible experience with options to be your own captain or have a skipper.
- Visit iconic spots like Turtle Island, Keri Caves, and Mizithres Rocks.
- Includes snorkeling equipment, underwater photos, snacks, and refreshments.
- Duration of around 3 hours, starting from Agios Sostis harbor.
- Private group setting with a maximum of 7 people on the boat.
- Mixed reviews highlight some organizational shortcomings and small boat size.
Starting Point and Trip Duration
The tour departs from Agios Sostis harbor, with pickup options available at five locations including Laganas, Zakinthos, Kalamaki, Argassi, and Planos. The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, with check availability for specific starting times. The pre-visit pickup is straightforward: travelers are advised to wait 30 minutes in the hotel lobby before the scheduled pickup.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Keri
Customizable Boat Experience: Captain or Self-Drive
One of the most notable features is the choice between two options: being the captain yourself or having a dedicated skipper. The self-drive option includes an instruction lesson—a brief, hands-on introduction to boat handling. Conversely, the skipper-led tour allows you to relax and enjoy the sights while a professional guides you through the stops. This flexibility suits both thrill-seekers and those preferring a relaxed cruise.
Highlights: Turtle Island, Keri Caves, and Mizithres Rocks
The main attractions include Turtle Island (Marathonisi), known for turtle nesting and its turtle-shaped shape. Visitors can tour the islet, swim, and take photos during the one-hour stop. Keri Caves are another major stop, where snorkeling inside the caves offers a chance to see the crystal-clear waters and a variety of marine life. The Mizithres Rocks provide breathtaking views and photo opportunities with their distinctive shape and turquoise waters.
Snorkeling and Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
Snorkeling is a key part of this tour, with gear provided for exploring inside the caves of Keri and swimming around Mizithres Rocks. The waters are notably clear, giving excellent visibility for underwater photography and marine observation. Spotting the Caretta-Caretta turtle in its natural habitat is a highlight, with the bay’s designated nesting grounds providing a rare chance to see this species in the wild.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Stops and Itinerary Breakdown
The itinerary involves multiple stops: after a 20-minute transfer by van, the boat departs for Marathonisi, where a guided tour and swimming last about an hour. Next, the boat pauses at Keri, offering photo opportunities, visits, and swimming for nearly an hour. The tour then moves to Mizithres, with a break, photo session, and snorkeling lasting about an hour. The journey wraps up with another 20-minute boat ride back to the start point, with drop-off at five locations.
Logistics and Accessibility
This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs. Transportation and life vests are included, simplifying logistics. Travelers are advised to bring swimwear, a change of clothes, flip-flops, and beachwear for comfort during stops and water activities.
Price and Value for Money
At $63 per person, this private boat trip offers a cost-effective way to explore Zakynthos’s coastline intimately. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, underwater photos, snacks, and refreshments adds to the value, especially for those interested in wildlife and scenic photography. However, reviews indicate that the organizational issues and small boat size may impact overall satisfaction, so it’s wise to set expectations accordingly.
Potential Drawbacks & Critical Points
Some reviews highlight significant frustrations, particularly regarding long waits for boat instructions and poor organization. One review reports that the instructor’s lesson felt more like a test, and the crew’s attitude was disrespectful. Another mentions lack of food on board, a small boat that was overcrowded, and high prices at tourist stops. These points suggest that this experience may require patience and a flexible attitude.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This private boat rental is ideal for adventurous groups, families, or couples looking for a personalized water adventure in Zakynthos. The option to drive the boat adds excitement, but organizational shortcomings mean travelers should be prepared for potential delays or inconvenience. If wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and scenic stops are top priorities, this tour delivers a memorable experience, despite some logistical issues.
Final Thoughts on the Zakynthos Private Boat Tour
This private boat experience in Laganas offers a flexible, intimate way to explore some of Zakynthos’s most famous sights. The combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and snorkeling makes it a compelling choice, especially with the option to captain yourself. However, mixed reviews about organization and small boat size are important considerations.
Travelers who value personalized adventure and don’t mind some unpredictability will find this tour a worthwhile investment. For a more smooth and well-organized experience, researching other options might be advisable, but for those eager to take control of their water journey, this tour can still deliver memorable moments.
Ready to Book?
Laganas: Private boat rental with or without captain
“Very bad experience ! The Organisation was horrible. First of all we had to wait one and a half hours to get our driving instruction for a private …”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose to drive the boat myself?
Yes, the tour includes an option to be your own captain with an instruction lesson provided before setting out.
What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Marathonisi (Turtle Island), Keri Caves, and Mizithres Rocks, with opportunities for snorkeling and swimming at each.
How long does the tour last?
The trip duration is approximately 3 hours, starting from Agios Sostis harbor.
Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear and underwater photos are included in the price.
What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, flip-flops, and beachwear for water activities and comfort.
Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
Are snacks and refreshments included?
Yes, snacks and drinks are provided during the trip.
What is the main drawback highlighted in reviews?
Some reviews mention organizational issues, small boat size, and poor treatment by staff.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Who is the tour provider?
The experience is provided by ZANTE MARE P.C..
This private boat tour in Zakynthos offers a personalized water adventure with scenic stops, wildlife viewing, and snorkeling. While organizational issues are noted, the flexibility and access to iconic sites make it a good choice for adventurous travelers seeking a tailored day on the water.
You can check availability for your dates here:
