Discover Zakynthos by Sea: The Private Speedboat Tour to Shipwreck Beach & Blue Caves
If you’re after a day of discovering Zakynthos’s most iconic sights from a perspective that few get to enjoy, this private speedboat tour from Alykes is a fantastic choice. At around $597 for up to five people, it offers a personalized and flexible way to see the famous Shipwreck Beach, explore the Blue Caves, and relax at secluded coves. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape that combines adventure, scenery, and a bit of exclusivity.
What we love about this experience are the tailored itinerary—you’re not stuck on a crowded boat with strangers—and the knowledgeable guides who reveal the island’s hidden gems and share local insights. The carefully curated stops at private beaches and coves mean you’ll have a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters away from the crowds, which is increasingly difficult on the busiest days.
One small consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable if you have mobility issues, are a non-swimmer, or are prone to motion sickness, as it’s entirely water-based and involves some bouncing around on the sea. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure and want an authentic, intimate experience with nature’s splendor.
If you’re looking to indulge in a luxurious yet authentic way to explore Zakynthos, this tour will appeal most to those who value local expertise, privacy, and unique scenic spots that bigger group tours might overlook.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Private group trips ensure privacy and flexibility.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable skippers make the trip informative and engaging.
- Unique Access: Explore hidden caves and secluded beaches not accessible by land.
- Swim & Snorkel: Equipment provided for enjoying the clear waters.
- Comfort & Convenience: Snacks, drinks, water shower, music, and shade included.
- Weather Flexibility: Tour may be canceled if weather conditions aren’t suitable, with a full refund.
Planning more time in Alykes? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Why This Private Speedboat Tour Stands Out
Exploring Zakynthos by sea offers a perspective that even the most scenic land-based excursions can’t match. We loved the way this tour combines stunning natural sights with the comfort of a private experience. The private aspect means none of the rushing, crowded boat chatter typical of larger tours—just your group, your pace, your adventure.
The itinerary is carefully planned to maximize the experience. You’ll start by cruising along the coast to the Blue Caves, a series of striking rock formations with vibrant blue waters that seem almost surreal. The guides are experts at revealing the caves’ secrets and pointing out details that might go unnoticed. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Peter and Leo make the trip memorable, sharing stories and local insights that deepen your appreciation of this stunning landscape.
Next, the highlight is the Shipwreck Beach, known locally as Navagio. Unlike land-based visits, this tour allows you to approach the beach by sea, giving you spectacular views of the rusted shipwreck resting on the white sands. Reviewers like Chloe appreciated that it was “exactly as described and more,” emphasizing how the guide made the experience special.
Throughout the trip, you’ll have opportunities to stop at private beaches and coves—places that larger tours often overlook. These spots are perfect for swimming, relaxing, or just soaking in the scenery away from crowds. Sabrina noted, “The trip was very exclusive,” and the experience felt more intimate and relaxing than a typical boat cruise.
The amenities onboard—snacks, beverages, snorkel gear, music, USB port, and water showers—add to the comfort and fun, making the journey smooth and enjoyable. The use of two engines ensures safety and stability, which is vital when exploring open waters.
The Itinerary: A Deep Dive
Starting Point: You’ll meet at the port in Tragaki Kavo Psarou, with easy parking nearby. The meeting process is straightforward: walk around to the left side of the harbor where your boat, Serene Private Cruises, will be waiting. This easy-to-locate start makes organizing your morning stress-free.
Exploring the Blue Caves: The tour kicks off with a cruise along the coast to the famous Blue Caves. These caves are known for their intense blue waters that reflect sunlight through narrow openings, creating a photograph-worthy scene. The guides’ local knowledge makes all the difference—they’ll point out the best angles and hidden spots that big group tours often miss.
Shipwreck Beach: After the caves, your boat will head to the iconic Shipwreck Beach, where you get dramatic views of the wreck from the sea. Many reviews, like Chloe’s, mention how spectacular this sight is—more than just a photograph, it’s a storybook setting. From the boat, you get to appreciate the scale of the wreck and the dramatic cliffs surrounding it.
Private Beached Stops: The latter part of the tour involves stopping at secluded coves and beaches. These are carefully chosen to avoid crowds, giving you plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or simply relax. Sabrina emphasized how “very exclusive” the experience was, making it feel like a true escape.
Return & Reflection: The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with plenty of stunning photos and memories. Many travelers comment on how the guides’ stories and local tips made the trip even more enriching.
What Makes This Tour a Great Choice
The personalized nature of this private tour is a huge plus—no need to share space with strangers or stick to a rigid schedule. For travelers who value privacy, flexibility, and authentic access to the island’s hidden corners, this experience hits the mark.
The focus on quality over quantity—just five or fewer guests—means you’re treated to a more relaxed pace. The guides’ local knowledge and discretion ensure your trip is both informative and respectful of your privacy.
On top of that, the amenities onboard elevate the experience—snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and water showers make the trip comfortable, allowing you to focus on soaking in the scenery. The inclusion of all charges and taxes simplifies the booking process, so you won’t face unexpected costs.
While the price might seem high at first glance, it’s important to consider the value of a private experience—the ability to customize stops, avoid crowds, and enjoy an intimate adventure. For small groups or families, this trip offers a compelling combination of exclusivity and local insight.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Experience?
This tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or families looking for a personalized day on the water. It’s perfect if you appreciate expert guides who explain local sights and are keen to explore hidden beaches and caves. If you prefer quiet, private spaces over crowded boat trips, this is your best bet.
However, it may not suit non-swimmers, those with mobility issues, or travelers with motion sickness, as the experience involves boat travel that can be bouncy. Also, if you’re traveling with someone over 70 or with back problems, you might want to look for a more accessible option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure that leaves the rest of your day free.
What is included in the price?
You’ll receive snacks and beverages, a fresh water shower, snorkeling equipment, a cool box, music, a USB port, a sun canopy, life jackets, and all charges and taxes.
Are there any things I should bring?
Just a towel. Remember, towels aren’t included, and you’ll want something to dry off after swimming.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the trip is not recommended for people over 70, wheelchair users, non-swimmers, those with back problems, or motion sickness. If your kids are good swimmers and enjoy boat trips, they might love it.
What happens in bad weather?
The tour can be canceled due to bad weather conditions, and you will receive a full refund—flexibility built into the booking.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.
Where do I meet the boat?
At port Tragaki Kavo Psarou, walk around to the left side of the harbor and look for Serene Private Cruises.
Will I get to swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Swimming and snorkeling are included, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities in notably crystal-clear waters at private beaches and the caves.
Is this a shared or private experience?
This is a private group experience, tailored for your party, ensuring privacy and flexibility.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?
If you’re seeking a luxurious, customizable, and informative way to see Zakynthos’s highlights, this private speedboat tour offers incredible value. The chance to explore hidden beaches and caves with guides who know the island inside out makes it stand out from larger, more commercial options. It’s especially suited for travelers who prioritize personal space, expert insights, and the ability to avoid crowds.
On the other hand, if you’re traveling on a tight budget, prefer a larger group, or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. The price reflects the personalized, exclusive nature of the experience, which many reviewers say is well worth it. Expect a relaxing, scenic, and memorable day that leaves you with stunning photos and stories to tell.
To sum it up, this tour is a top-notch choice for those wanting an authentic and intimate look at Zakynthos’s most famous sights—experienced from a boat that feels more like a private yacht than a tour vessel. It delivers on the promise of stunning views, local expertise, and a peaceful escape from the crowds.
You can check availability for your dates here: