Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonísi & Keri Caves Cruise

Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonísi & Keri Caves Cruise

A trip to Zakynthos isn’t complete without experiencing its stunning waters and the chance to see the legendary loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat. This 3-hour eco-friendly cruise on a glass-bottom vessel promises a gentle adventure—perfect for those wanting to combine wildlife encounters, beautiful scenery, and a taste of authentic Greek coastal life in a manageable half-day outing.

Two things I especially like about this cruise are the opportunity to see sea turtles up close in the wild and the stunning stops at Marathonísi Island and Keri Caves. Watching these gentle creatures glide beneath the boat is something that sticks with you long after the trip ends. Plus, the stops at the caves and island offer a chance to swim in clear waters and relax on beaches that look like they were made for postcards.

One thing worth considering is the limited time at each stop, especially at Marathonísi Island, where the swim can get crowded. If you’re hoping for a more secluded experience or more time in the caves, you might want to look into private options or longer tours. Still, for the price, it offers a good balance of wildlife spotting and scenic stops.

Key points / Takeaways

Eco-friendly glass-bottom boat offers a good view of the water life without disturbing the environment.
Turtle spotting is a highlight, with chances to see loggerhead turtles in their natural setting—an authentic encounter.
Stops at Marathonísi Island allow for swimming, relaxing, and a peek at the nesting beaches for turtles.
Keri Caves are a breathtaking natural wonder with opportunities to explore sea caves and admire impressive rock formations.
Included transportation makes this a hassle-free option from several popular areas like Laganas and Kalamaki.
Guided commentary helps you understand the significance of each site, making it more meaningful—especially with guides like Captain Dennis, who’s praised for making the trip enjoyable.
Worth the cost considering the combination of wildlife, scenic stops, and convenience—many reviews mention it as excellent value for money.
Some reviews note the boat isn’t large, which can make the experience feel more intimate and increase chances of spotting turtles.
Weather and timing can affect turtle sightings; early tours might have fewer crowds and better wildlife encounters.
Remember to bring essentials like a hat, towel, camera, and snacks, since food isn’t included and the stops are brief.

The Itinerary – A Closer Look

Starting Point and Timing:
The cruise departs from Ag Sostis port near Cameo Bridge, marked by large yellow flags and a boat with the logo Zante Sun Travel. The trip usually begins around noon or early afternoon, with options at 15:00 or 18:00, depending on availability. Arriving 20 minutes early ensures you’re ready to board without rushing—this is especially helpful during peak season when the port gets busy.

Turtle Spotting:
The main draw for many travelers, this cruise offers a chance to see Caretta caretta turtles in the wild, an encounter that’s both humbling and exciting. The guides, like Captain Dennis, are praised for their friendly and informative approach, making the experience more engaging. The water is often calm enough for good viewing, especially from the glass-bottom sections, although some reviews note that actual turtle sightings can vary—sometimes only a few are spotted.

Marathonísi Island:
Known as “Turtle Island” due to its shape and nesting site for turtles, Marathonísi offers a perfect blend of nature and relaxation. You’ll get time to swim in the turquoise waters—many reviews mention how the water here is especially clear and inviting. The beach, called Golden Beach, is untouched and perfect for unwinding. One review specifically noted that it’s a “slice of paradise,” although the limited stop time means you’ll want to maximize your splash time.

Keri Caves:
The highlight for many is the visit to the spectacular Keri Caves—a series of sea caves carved by the erosive power of the waves. You can swim through the blue waters, explore the caves, and marvel at the natural rock formations. One reviewer described it as a “hidden wonder,” emphasizing the beauty of the scenery and the opportunity to take photos of the reflections dancing on the water. The boat can enter some caves, providing a sense of adventure and discovery.

Return and Flexibility:
After the stops, the boat heads back to Laganas Bay, typically around 15:00 or 18:00. Many reviews appreciated the smooth, scenic return journey, often mentioning how the trip leaves you with indelible memories of Zakynthos’ natural beauty.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

Included:
– The glass-bottom boat, allowing for marine life watching without disturbing the environment.
– Hotel pickup and drop-off from major resorts like Laganas, Kalamaki, and Argassi—making the logistics straightforward.
– Transportation to and from the port included in the price, eliminating hassle.

Not Included:
– Food and drinks, so bring your own snacks or plan to buy at stops. Many reviewers found the water and scenic stops more than enough to satisfy their appetite for adventure.

Practical Tips:
– Wear a hat and bring a towel; the sun can be intense.
– Use a waterproof camera or phone case for photos.
– Pack some snacks, especially if you’re sensitive to long waits or want to extend your swim.
– Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially if you want a good spot on the boat or better chances of seeing turtles.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a balance of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and convenience. It’s great for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace. If you’re enamored by the idea of spotting sea turtles in their natural environment and want an easy way to cover key sites without the fuss of renting a boat yourself, this tour delivers good value.

Those who prefer more private or longer excursions might find the short stops a little rushed. But for most, the combination of guided commentary, scenic stops, and the chance to see turtles makes this a worthwhile outing—an authentic slice of Zakynthos’ natural charm.

The Sum Up

This Zakynthos turtle spotting cruise offers a well-rounded, affordable way to experience some of the island’s most beloved sights. You’ll enjoy a relaxed boat ride, the thrill of spotting loggerhead turtles, and the chance to swim at stunning locations like Marathonísi and Keri Caves. The guides, especially those like Captain Dennis, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the trip informative and fun.

While the stops are relatively brief, the experience is authentic and well-organized. It’s a fantastic option for those who want a taste of Zakynthos’ marine life and spectacular scenery without the hassle of arranging transportation or private tours. If you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone eager to enjoy Greece’s iconic coast, this cruise should be on your list.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts about 3.5 hours, typically starting around noon or early afternoon, with options at 15:00 or 18:00 depending on availability.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Ag Sostis port near Cameo Bridge, marked with large yellow flags and a boat with the Zante Sun Travel logo.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from many major resorts like Laganas, Kalamaki, Argassi, and nearby areas.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, towel, camera, and snacks, as food and drinks are not included. Sunscreen is also recommended.

Can I see turtles on every trip?
While turtle sightings are possible and often occur, they depend on the day’s conditions and wildlife activity. Some reviews mention seeing only a few, but the experience remains worthwhile.

Is the boat safe and environmentally friendly?
Yes, all boats are spacious, safe, and certified for wildlife protection, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Are the stops long enough?
Most travelers find the stops at Marathonísi and Keri Caves enjoyable, though some note that time is limited—especially at the island for swimming.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy the short boat trip and swimming stops, though very young children should be supervised, especially in the water.

What’s the price and is it good value?
Prices are reasonable considering the inclusion of transportation, guided commentary, and scenic stops—many reviewers praise it as good value for money.

In the end, this cruise offers an authentic, scenic, and wildlife-focused glimpse of Zakynthos for those who want to experience its marine life and natural beauty without overextending their day.