Introduction to the Full Day Boat Rental Experience in Tsilivi
Imagine spending a laid-back day cruising along the stunning coastline of Zakynthos, Greece, on your own private boat. That’s precisely what BLU Boat Rentals offers with their full-day boat rental package, billed as approximately 8 hours of freedom on the sea. Costing around $300.67 per group, this experience is designed for up to six people, making it a fantastic choice for families, friends, or couples eager to carve out their own island adventure. It’s a highly popular option, with bookings averaging about 30 days in advance, and the reviews all point to a near-perfect rating of 5.0 out of 5 from 28 delighted travelers.
Two things I love about this offering are the personalized guidance from licensed captains who have an extensive knowledge of Zakynthos and the well-equipped, brand-new boats. You’ll appreciate the thorough briefing on how to operate and navigate the boat, which ensures even first-timers can feel confident about steering through the Ionian Sea. Plus, the flexibility to choose where to go—thanks to GPS navigation, sea maps, and a GPS tracker—means your day can be tailored entirely to your preferences, whether that’s exploring sea caves, spotting turtles, or simply relaxing on secluded beaches.
One potential consideration is that skipper services aren’t included, so you’ll need to be comfortable driving the boat yourself or arrange for someone in your group to do so. Also, fuel costs are not included and will be a surcharge, so budgeting a bit extra for that is wise. Nonetheless, with a good weather window, this experience promises to be a genuine highlight of any trip to Zakynthos.
Key Points
- Self-Drive Freedom: You get to pilot your own boat after a thorough safety and operational briefing.
- Comprehensive Equipment: Boats come with GPS, Bluetooth stereo, coolers, life jackets, anchors, and sun covers, ensuring comfort and safety on the water.
- Expert Guidance: The guides are knowledgeable and take their time explaining everything, making even novices feel confident.
- Flexible Itinerary: You decide where to go within the marked zones, making each trip unique and personalized.
- Highly Rated: Nearly all reviews praise the helpful staff and the stunning scenery, promising an enjoyable experience.
- Good Value: At just over $300 for a full day, it offers a memorable, private way to explore Zakynthos’s famed beaches, caves, and sea life.
The Experience: What to Expect

When you arrive at BLU Boat Rentals in Planos, you’ll encounter a professional, friendly team ready to set you free on the water. The staff’s emphasis is on safety and clarity—they take time to explain how the boat operates and even show you how to drive it. This detailed instruction is crucial; reviews mention how helpful it was to have guides like Alexandrios, who patiently answered all questions and helped plan the day’s route.
Once familiarized with the boat, you’ll set off with a marked map and GPS navigation tools, including sea maps and trackers. The boats are new and well-maintained, with features designed for comfort and safety. Bluetooth sound systems and USB chargers mean you can keep the vibe upbeat and powered up during your cruise. The coolbox with ice is perfect for keeping snacks and drinks chilled, adding to the laid-back, effortless feel of the day.
A key part of this experience is the flexibility to explore. According to reviews, travelers primarily head south to explore beaches, caves, and even look out for sea turtles. Some mention how easy the boat was to drive—reviews note even first-timers found it surprisingly straightforward, provided they listened carefully during the briefing.
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The Route and Highlights
Your day might include trips to iconic spots like the Blue Caves or Marathonisi Island, but the real perk is creating your own itinerary. You can anchor in calm bays, snorkel, or simply relax on the boat. One guest shared that they used their entire gas reserve exploring as far as possible, which highlights the boat’s range and the freedom you get.
One important tip from reviews: check the weather conditions before heading out, especially if you plan to go south or north. Wind can influence your route and safety, as one reviewer mentioned getting stuck due to unexpected north winds.
The Authentic Feel
What makes this experience stand out is the sense of independence. Instead of a guided tour sticking to set spots, you’re the captain of your day. Multiple reviews mention how much they enjoyed being the skipper, choosing where to pause, and how they loved searching for sea turtles—a memorable highlight often cited by returning visitors.
Who Will Love This?
This is ideal for travelers seeking a customized, flexible day on the water. It’s particularly well-suited for confident swimmers or boat drivers who want autonomy, but novices are also welcomed thanks to the detailed instructions. Families, groups of friends, or couples wanting a memorable shared adventure will find this a real treat.
Practical Details and Considerations

The experience typically runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, aligning with the warm Greek sun and calm seas. The company offers free transfers within Tsilivi, which simplifies logistics. Beware of the extra costs for fuel and transfers outside Tsilivi, which are not included in the base price. Planning your route to include the most compelling sights within the allocated time is advisable.
Booking about a month ahead is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and group size. Since the operation is weather-dependent, a flexible cancellation policy ensures you can reschedule or get a full refund if conditions turn unfavorable.
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Who Should Consider This?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers who enjoy a bit of independence and want to craft their own day of exploration. It’s also well-suited for groups seeking privacy and a unique way to enjoy Zakynthos’s coast, caves, and wildlife. Keep in mind, you need to be comfortable with driving or willing to learn; those less confident on a boat might prefer guided tours with set itineraries.
The Sum Up

A full-day boat rental with BLU Boat Rentals offers a blend of independence, safety, and spectacular scenery that’s hard to beat in Zakynthos. The well-maintained boats, expert guidance, and flexible routes make it a fantastic way to see the island from a new perspective. Prices are fair for the value of a private adventure in some of Greece’s most beautiful waters.
This experience shines brightest for those who want control over their day, enjoy being behind the wheel, and love discovering hidden beaches and caves at their own pace. It’s a superb way to make the most of your time on the island, especially if you’re comfortable navigating a boat with some guidance.
If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic, and flexible aquatic adventure—where you set the course and captivate your own perfect day—this full-day boat rental is certainly worth considering.
FAQ

Is transportation included to the meeting point?
Yes, free transfer within the Tsilivi area is offered, making it easier to start your adventure without additional hassle.
How many people can fit on the boat?
The boats accommodate up to six people comfortably, making it ideal for small groups or families.
Do I need prior boating experience?
Not necessarily. The staff provides a comprehensive explanation on how to operate the boat, making it accessible even for beginners, provided you listen carefully.
Are guides or skippers provided?
No, you are responsible for driving the boat. However, the staff is helpful and takes the time to teach you the basics.
What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, hats, water, and snacks. The boats have USB chargers and Bluetooth sound, but it’s wise to keep essentials handy.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions are poor, your booking can be rescheduled or fully refunded.
In sum, this boat rental experience offers a fine balance of freedom, safety, and stunning scenery, making it a standout choice for independent explorers eager to see Zakynthos from the water.
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Zakynthos
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- Zakynthos: Boat Cruise to Navagio with Swim Stops
- Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonísi & Keri Caves Cruise
- Zakynthos: Cruise to Navagio Shipwreck with swimming stops
- Zakynthos: Turtle Island & Keri Caves Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
- Exploration Sunset Cruise A Magical Day in Laganas Bay
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