Zakynthos: Cruise to Navagio Shipwreck with swimming stops

Exploring Zakynthos by Boat: A Balanced Look at the Navagio Shipwreck Cruise

If you’re headed to Zakynthos, a trip to see the famous Navagio Shipwreck is almost a must. This 7-hour boat cruise takes you along the island’s rugged coast, with stops at the Blue Caves and Kremmidi, where you can enjoy swimming in some of Greece’s clearest waters. Led by friendly guides (we hear the onboard staff are very nice), this tour offers a great way to see the highlights of the island from the water, with enough time for swimming, picture-taking, and relaxing.

What we particularly love about this cruise is how accessible the Blue Caves are—swimming through these brilliantly-colored caverns is a highlight, and the onboard bar makes it easy to grab a drink while admiring the scenery. Plus, the chance to see the Navagio Shipwreck up close and capture photos of this iconic site is a real treat. On the downside, the shipwreck beach may not always be open for swimming, so if that’s your main goal, it’s worth double-checking beforehand. This tour is ideally suited for travelers who want a straightforward, scenic day on the water with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The tour offers spectacular views of Zakynthos’ coast, Blue Caves, and the iconic shipwreck.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: Opportunities to swim in turquoise waters at Blue Caves and Kremmidi or Makri Gialo.
• Authentic Greek Waters: Clear, colorful waters perfect for swimming and spotting marine life.
• Relaxed Pace: 7 hours includes enough time to enjoy each stop without rushing.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Depart from Zakynthos Town’s main port, with a recognizable boat, Ikaros Palace.
• Value for Money: Includes a bar onboard, with food and drinks available for purchase, and multiple scenic and swimming stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zakynthos Boat Cruise Experience

Starting Out: Setting Sail from Zakynthos Town

Your day begins at the main port of Zakynthos Town, where you’ll find the boat Ikaros Palace waiting for you. It’s advisable to arrive about 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in. The boat itself looks quite substantial, suited for larger groups, and offers plenty of deck space for relaxing or taking photos.

The tour lasts about 7 hours, with a flexible schedule depending on the day’s conditions. The crew speaks English, so communication about safety instructions or questions shouldn’t be an issue, and the trip is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers.

The Scenic Voyage: Blue Caves First

The first major stop is the Blue Caves, a series of sea caves famous for their azure-colored walls and waters. The experience here involves swimming through the caves—a favorite among many travelers, as you get to glide through the brilliantly-colored water and see the caves’ natural formations up close.

What’s especially appealing about this part of the tour is the ability to explore underwater, with the chance to spot colorful fish and aquatic plants. We loved the way the guide described the caves’ formations—bright, almost surreal, and incredibly picturesque. Some reviewers, like Carlos, mention how “met some great people and enjoyed the beautiful blue water,” emphasizing how fun and social this part can be.

The Highlight: Navagio Shipwreck Beach

After the caves, the boat heads toward the famous Navagio Shipwreck. This iconic beach is perhaps Greece’s most photographed spot, with the wrecked ship resting on white sand surrounded by towering cliffs. Here, you’ll have a chance to take photos, marvel at the rugged landscape, and admire the wreck from the boat.

Please note that, according to reviews, swimming at Navagio Beach isn’t always possible due to restrictions—“it was not possible to swim at shipwreck beach due to it not being opened for swimming by the government,” one traveler notes. Still, seeing the wreck from the water and capturing photos from the boat is a memorable experience.

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Additional Stops: Kremmidi or Makri Gialo

On the way back, the boat makes another swimming stop at either Kremmidi or Makri Gialo. These spots boast stunning blue waters and are perfect for a dip, especially if you want to escape the crowds. Expect about 45 minutes here to swim, relax, and take in the scenery. Reviewers like Steph appreciated the “lots of time for swimming” and enjoyed “swimming through many caves,” making these stops a highlight.

Onboard Comfort and Amenities

While food isn’t included, the onboard bar provides drinks and snacks for purchase—refreshing after a swim. The prices are accessible, and many travelers mention that the staff is very friendly. We liked the relaxed atmosphere where you can sit back, sip a drink, and watch the landscape drift by.

The Return and Final Views

The cruise ends back at the port around 3:00 PM, leaving plenty of time for the rest of your day. The last leg offers scenic views and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights, with many travelers sharing how “the views and sea are obviously wonderful,” as Lorelai expressed.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your essentials: sunglasses, towel, swimwear, sunscreen, camera, and beachwear. Be prepared for a day in the sun.
• Arrive early: to check in and get comfortable before departure.
• Consider the weather: boat trips depend on calm seas; if the weather is rough, the schedule might be affected.
• Swimming considerations: if swimming at Navagio Beach is a priority, check beforehand if it’s open for swimming.
• Booking flexibility: with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book confidently and cancel if your plans change.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is well-suited for families, couples, solo travelers, and groups who appreciate scenic views and a relaxed day on the water. If you’re looking for photo opportunities, impressive scenery, and multiple swimming stops, this tour delivers. It’s especially valued by those who enjoy social atmospheres, as many reviews mention meeting friendly people onboard. However, if accessibility or having a guide is a priority, note that guide services aren’t included, but staff are friendly and helpful.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Zakynthos boat tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, fun swimming, and the chance to see one of Greece’s most famous landmarks. It’s a good value considering the length and the stops, especially with the onboard bar and the variety of spots visited. The stunning Blue Caves and Navagio Shipwreck are real highlights, and most travelers leave with plenty of photos and memories.

While the limitations at Navagio Beach might disappoint some, the overall experience remains rewarding. For travelers seeking a full-day water adventure, with opportunities to relax and explore, this boat cruise hits the mark. It’s especially perfect if you’re keen on seeing the coast from the water and enjoy swimming in clear, beautiful waters.

FAQ

Is the boat cruise suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and beachwear for comfort and convenience.

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, including swimming stops and sightseeing.

Where do I meet the boat?
At the main port of Zakynthos Town, at the boat Ikaros Palace, roughly 30 minutes before departure.

Is food included in the price?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase onboard; there is a bar with accessible prices.

Will I see the shipwreck from the boat?
Yes, you’ll get a good view of Navagio Shipwreck from the water and have time for photos, though swimming may not always be permitted.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The Blue Caves, Navagio Shipwreck, and the swimming stops at Kremmidi or Makri Gialo are the main highlights.

What is the group size like?
While not specified, the boat looks sizable, accommodating multiple groups comfortably, fostering a social but relaxed atmosphere.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this boat cruise offers a practical, scenic, and enjoyable way to explore Zakynthos from the water. It’s ideal for those wanting a full day of swimming, sightseeing, and capturing the island’s iconic landmarks without the fuss of multiple bookings or complicated logistics. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, this experience provides a beautiful slice of Greek coastal life—with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and photograph some of Greece’s most famous sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: