Zante Private Cruise Turtle Island, Keri Caves & Mizithres

Exploring the coast of Zakynthos on a private boat cruise offers an intimate, flexible way to experience the island’s best sights. This 7-hour journey takes you around Marine Park, where you might spot Caretta Sea Turtles, and allows you to visit remote beaches and caves that are often off-limits to larger groups or self-driven boats. With a professional skipper at the helm and a tailored itinerary, it’s a luxurious yet accessible way to see some of the most picture-perfect parts of Greece’s Ionian Sea.

Two things I find particularly appealing about this experience are the customization it offers — you’re the one deciding where to spend your time, and the quality of the boat itself: a sleek Italian pleasure craft with plenty of comfort. I also appreciate how the reviews highlight guides like James and Mario, whose local knowledge makes the trip both informative and fun. However, a possible consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or very large groups, as it’s designed for a private experience up to five people.

One potential drawback worth noting is the cost—at $632 for a group of five, it might seem steep compared to shared tours, but the exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility generally justify the price. If you’re traveling with a small group or a couple craving a personalized day on the water, this experience offers excellent value. That said, food and drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring your own or plan to buy something ashore afterward.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Tailor-made experience: You choose the stops and timing, making the day fit your interests and pace.
• Luxury and comfort: The Marinello Eden 18 boat boasts a large sun deck, shower, canopy, and lounging areas—ideal for relaxing in style.
• Wildlife sightings: Spot Caretta Sea Turtles early in the cruise, often within the first few minutes.
• Accessible remote spots: Visit caves, beaches, and hidden spots that are unreachable by self-driven speedboats or larger vessels.
• Skipper expertise: Knowledgeable guides like James and Mario make the experience richer with insights and local tips.
• All-inclusive fuel and equipment: Snorkeling gear, water, and cooling boxes are provided, so you’re set for water fun.

Introduction to a Tailor-Made Sea Journey

Choosing a private boat cruise like this transforms how you see Zakynthos. Instead of rushing through crowded tours, you get to enjoy a personalized, relaxed day on the water. It’s a seven-hour experience, which is enough time to see multiple sights but still leave plenty of room for spontaneous swims or lingering at your favorite spots. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy the idea of controlling your own adventure, with a professional skipper handling navigation and safety.

From the moment I read about the boat—a sleek Italian pleasure craft with a 100-horsepower engine—I knew comfort and style were priorities. The boat’s ample sun deck and shaded areas mean you can catch rays or stay cool, depending on your mood. Plus, snorkeling gear, water, and cool boxes mean you’re equipped for a day of fun and relaxation. The trip begins from Kavos Harbour, a convenient location just minutes from Tsilivi and Tragaki, making it straightforward to access.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The flexibility is the tour’s biggest draw. Unlike fixed-schedule group trips, you can pick what time of day suits you best. Whether you prefer a morning start or an afternoon cruise, your experience is entirely your call. The reviews rave about guides like James and Mario, whose local expertise makes the trip not just scenic but also engaging. One reviewer describes Mario as an “amazing skipper,” highlighting the personal attention and ease of swimming wherever you like along the route.

Another standout feature is the ability to go further than self-driven speedboats can. This means exploring deeper into Marine Park, visiting the far-off Piscines Beach—famous for its stunning shades of blue—and navigating caves and beaches that only private boats can access. These hidden spots make the journey special, especially for those craving authentic, less crowded experiences.

The Itinerary: A Day of Stunning Sights

Marine Park and Turtle Spotting

You’ll start by cruising through the Marine Park, a sanctuary for the Caretta Sea Turtles. The chance to see these gentle creatures early in the trip is a highlight, as one reviewer noted “seeing a turtle in the first 10 minutes was a brilliant start.” Your skipper will likely take you to the best spots for wildlife viewing, often using local knowledge to maximize your chances.

Marathonisi – The Turtle Island

Next, a stop at Marathonisi, also called Turtle Island, offers opportunities to swim and explore. It’s a protected wetland home to nesting turtles, and the calm waters make it perfect for relaxing or snorkeling. The boat’s snorkeling equipment is easy to access, and guides are happy to show you where the fish and sea life are at their best.

Keri Caves and Mizithres Beach

The Keri Caves are a major highlight—crafted over centuries by nature’s forces, these caves provide a dramatic backdrop for photos and exploration. You’ll have time to paddle around and appreciate their unique shapes. Just a short cruise away is the newly formed Mizithres Beach, renowned for its surreal, twin-rock formations and the nickname “the new Shipwreck.” The shallow sands and beautiful blue waters make it a perfect swimming spot, with many visitors describing it as a photographer’s paradise.

Eros Cave & Piscines Beach

Further up the coast, your skipper might take you into the Eros Cave, where the play of light and water creates a magical atmosphere. Then, a swim at Piscines Beach—often called the “hidden jewel”—is a must. One review simply states, “You might find yourself wanting to stay there forever,” as the stillness and clarity of the waters are mesmerizing.

The Value in the Details

For $632, this private experience offers far more than just a boat ride. You’re paying for comfort, flexibility, and access to remote and beautiful spots that are impossible to reach otherwise. The inclusion of snorkel gear, water, and the captain’s expertise makes the experience feel seamless and well-organized. If you love the idea of a tailored day on the water, this is a compelling choice.

Who Is This Best For?

This tour is ideal for small groups, couples, or families who value privacy and personalization. If you’re looking for a relaxing day with the freedom to decide how long to stay at each stop, this cruise delivers. It’s less suited for larger groups or those with mobility limitations, given the boat’s size and the tour’s private nature.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely appreciate the balance of luxury, flexibility, and authenticity this private cruise offers. The guides’ local knowledge, especially their ability to take you to hidden gems like Piscines Beach or the caves, adds a special touch that many standard tours can’t match. The opportunity to customize the trip means you’re not just another passenger — you’re the captain of your day.

While the price may seem high, the combination of comfort, exclusivity, and access to otherwise unreachable spots makes it a good value for travelers seeking a memorable, personalized experience. It’s particularly suited for those who want to relax without feeling rushed and enjoy the scenery at their own pace.

• What is included in the tour? You’ll have turtle spotting, swimming stops, snorkeling equipment, a captain, fuel, sun deck, tent, shower, and water in cool boxes.

• Are food and drinks included? No, you’ll need to bring your own food and drinks or purchase them separately.

• Where does the tour start and end? It begins on the right side of Kavos Harbour Psarou and ends back at the same meeting point.

• Is this experience suitable for large groups? No, it’s designed for private groups up to five people, making it more intimate.

• Can I choose the time of day for the cruise? Yes, you can select a start time that suits your schedule, offering flexibility.

• What if the weather is bad? The provider can reschedule or refund in case of bad weather conditions.

• Is it accessible for wheelchair users? No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

• Are pets allowed? No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

• What about weight restrictions? The tour isn’t suitable for people over 275 lbs (125 kg).

• How much does it cost? The price is $632 per group, up to five people, offering a private and personalized experience.

This private cruise around Zakynthos provides an elegant way to see some of Greece’s most beautiful coastal spots while enjoying the comfort and flexibility that makes for an unforgettable day on the water.