Zakynthos Small Boat Tour to Keri Mizithres and Marathonisi

Key Points

• Duration and Price: The tour lasts approximately 5 hours 30 minutes and costs $107.58 per person.
• Popular Stops: Pass by the Keri Caves and Marathonisi (Turtle Island), with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for Caretta-Caretta turtles, which are often seen swimming alongside the boats.
• Included Features: Pickup service, air-conditioned transfer, a guided tour in English and French, and a traditional lunch near the harbor.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• No Drinks Included: Guests should bring their own refreshments, as drinks are not included or available at the port.

The Zakynthos Small Boat Tour to Keri Mizithres and Marathonisi offers an engaging way to explore the island’s coastline, caves, and beaches in about five and a half hours. Priced at $107.58 per person, this tour includes pickup from your accommodation or a nearby meeting point, a comfortable air-conditioned bus transfer, and a guided boat trip led by experienced guides speaking English and French.

This tour is ideal for those looking to experience Zakynthos’ natural beauty with a relaxed pace and the chance to spot turtles in their natural habitat. The small group size of 12 ensures personalized attention, making it a perfect choice for travelers who prefer a more intimate, less crowded outing.

One notable aspect is the absence of drinks and restroom facilities at the port or on the boat, so packing refreshments is recommended. Also, the tour includes a lunch at a traditional tavern near the harbor, offering local dishes that add a taste of authentic Greek cuisine to the day.

From the Keri Caves to Marathonisi: Highlights of the Boat Route

The itinerary of this tour focuses on two main stops: passing by the Keri Caves during the three-hour cruise and seeing Marathonisi (Turtle Island) during the 2.5-hour cruise segment.

The Keri Caves are a major attraction, with their impressive rock formations and crystal-clear waters making for excellent photo opportunities. The guides often share insights about the caves’ geology and history, adding an educational touch to this scenic cruise.

The Marathonisi stop is a highlight, famous as Turtle Island, where the calm beaches and turquoise waters create a perfect setting for swimming and snorkeling. Many describe this part of the tour as magical, with opportunities to relax in paradisiacal surroundings and possibly catch a glimpse of the Caretta-Caretta turtles swimming nearby.

Snorkeling and Swimming in the Ionian Sea

One of the main pleasures of this tour is bathing in the Ionian Sea. The boat makes stops for swimming and snorkeling, giving guests a chance to refresh and experience the vibrant marine life. The clear waters and protected coves provide a safe environment for both novice and experienced swimmers.

Guests should be aware that restroom facilities are not available aboard the boat or at the port, so planning ahead with water and snacks is advisable. The caves and beaches visited are known for their spectacular scenery, and many reviews mention taking beautiful photos during this part of the trip.

The Experience of the Guides and Crew

The guides on this tour are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. They provide explanations in English and French, making the experience accessible to a diverse group of travelers.

The captain is often highlighted for their skillful navigation, especially when entering the Keri Caves or stopping at beautiful beaches. Several reviews mention the captain’s willingness to explore, such as entering the caves and stopping at scenic spots for swimming or sightseeing.

Lunch at a Traditional Taverna Near the Harbor

After the boat trip, guests are treated to a lunch at a local tavern near the harbor. The meal features local dishes, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic Greek flavors after a day on the water. Many reviews describe the food as delicious, complementing the overall positive experience of the tour.

While drinks are not included, the lunch provides a satisfying conclusion to the excursion, with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Timing, and Group Size

The tour starts at 10:00 am, with pickup options available from accommodations or the closest meeting point. The maximum group size of 12 ensures that the experience remains intimate and personalized.

Guests should be prepared for no restroom facilities at the port or on the boat and should bring water and snacks if desired, as these are not available for purchase at the port.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Zakynthos

This small-group boat trip offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and relaxation. The passage by the caves and beaches combined with opportunities to spot turtles makes it a memorable experience for nature lovers.

The professional guides and delicious local lunch contribute to the tour’s high ratings and glowing reviews. With a 5.0-star rating from 11 reviews, it clearly appeals to travelers seeking a personalized, scenic, and educational day on Zakynthos.

Considerations and Limitations

The main limitations include the absence of drinks and restroom facilities, so guests should plan accordingly. The tour’s duration might feel rushed for those wanting an extended beach day, but the pacing allows for good sightseeing and swimming opportunities within the time frame.

The cost of $107.58 is reasonable considering the inclusions, especially the guided boat trip, lunch, and transfer. For those wanting a comprehensive and well-organized outing that highlights the island’s natural beauty, this tour offers great value.

Zakynthos Small Boat Tour: Final Thoughts

The Zakynthos Small Boat Tour to Keri Mizithres and Marathonisi combines scenic cruising, wildlife viewing, and local cuisine into a well-rounded half-day experience. Its small group size and expert guides create a comfortable atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking a more personalized tour.

While it does require some planning for refreshments and restroom stops, the stunning scenery, opportunity to spot turtles, and delicious lunch make this tour a solid choice for adventurous travelers wanting to explore Zakynthos’ coastline intimately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your accommodation or a nearby meeting point, and air-conditioned transfer to the port of Agios Sostis.

How long is the boat trip?
The total boat cruise lasts approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, with about 3 hours passing the Keri Caves and 2.5 hours near Marathonisi.

Can I see turtles during the tour?
Many trips feature sightings of Caretta-Caretta turtles swimming alongside the boats, especially when passing near Turtle Island.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests should bring water, snacks, and any personal refreshments, as drinks are not included or available at the port. There are no restroom facilities at the port or on the boat.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat cruise, guided commentary in English and French, lunch at a local tavern, and transportation.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but sea sickness may be a consideration. The tour involves bathing and snorkeling, so a basic level of mobility and comfort with water activities is recommended.