Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonísi & Keri Caves Cruise

When you think of Zakynthos, images of turquoise waters, dramatic sea caves, and gentle loggerhead turtles probably come to mind. This 3.5-hour eco-friendly cruise offers an intimate peek into that world, starting from Laganas Bay. The tour is operated by Zante Sun Travel, with a focus on wildlife encounters and stunning scenery. It’s priced reasonably, especially considering the included hotel transfers and the chance to see some of Greece’s most iconic sights from the water.

What makes this experience special? First, the glass-bottom vessel gives a peek beneath the surface, adding a layer of excitement to the turtle spotting. Second, the stops—Marathonisi Island and Keri Caves—offer nature-filled swimming opportunities in crystal-clear waters, along with views that photographs can’t quite do justice. These aspects make the cruise appealing to travelers who love both wildlife and scenic, active outings.

A potential consideration? The actual “glass-bottom” feature is somewhat modest—some reviews mention it’s just a few small windows rather than a full view of the seabed. Also, the trip is not suited for wheelchair users, and the focus on wildlife means sightings of turtles are not guaranteed. Still, for those eager to enjoy a mix of relaxation, adventure, and nature, this cruise hits the right notes.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, families, and those wanting a manageable, half-day outing. If you’re eager to learn about sea turtles or explore Zakynthos’ famous caves and beaches without a long and crowded boat ride, you’ll find this experience worth the price and effort.

Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: Excellent chance to spot loggerhead turtles in their natural environment.
• Scenic Stops: Includes swimming at Marathonísi Island and exploring Keri Caves.
• Boat Experience: Glass-bottom vessel enhances the view of underwater life.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel transfers included for many popular Zakynthos locations.
• Time-Efficient: A compact 3.5-hour trip that covers multiple highlights.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the views and guides, some note limited turtle sightings or the modest glass-bottom feature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Zakynthos Turtle and Caves Cruise

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Your adventure begins in Laganas Bay, an area known for its lively nightlife but also as a prime spot for turtle encounters. The meeting point is near the Ag Sostis port, right by the yellow flags—easy to spot if you’re familiar with the area. Expect to arrive about 20 minutes early to settle in and meet your guide, whose enthusiasm and knowledge can significantly enhance the experience.

Once aboard, the vessel’s glass-bottom design allows you to glimpse marine life beneath you—though some reviews suggest it’s more of a novelty than a full underwater view. Still, it adds excitement and helps you locate turtles without disturbing them.

The first highlight is turtle spotting. The waters around Zakynthos are one of the best places in the Mediterranean for observing Caretta caretta turtles in the wild. Many reviewers have shared stories of successful sightings, describing the moment as “humbling” and “magical.” That said, it’s nature, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. The crew is attentive, scanning the water and sharing facts about the turtles’ habits.

Next, the boat cruises towards Marathonísi Island, often called “Turtle Island” because of its shape and reputation as a nesting site. Here, you’ll stop for a swim—an opportunity to jump into the turquoise waters and relax on the untouched, sandy beaches. Many travelers love this break for its stunning scenery and the chance to snorkel among fish and explore the underwater world.

The final major stop is Keri Caves, a hidden gem carved into limestone by the sea over millennia. The vessel enters some of the caves, offering close-up views of impressive rock formations and the chance to swim through clear blue waters. Several reviews describe these caves as “breathtaking,” with the reflections and natural light creating a scene that photos only partially capture.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cruise covers transportation, hotel pick-up and drop-off—a huge plus for convenience—covering popular spots like Laganas, Kalamaki, Agios Sostis, and others. The boat itself is described as spacious and safe, ideal for families or small groups.

Food and drinks are not included, so bringing water, snacks, or even a light picnic is advisable, especially during the swimming stops. Remember to bring a hat, towel, camera, and perhaps some snacks. Pets and large luggage are not allowed on the boat, so plan accordingly.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides. One praised Captain Dennis for making the trip enjoyable with his jokes and positive attitude. Others appreciated the less crowded boat, which allowed for better viewing and more personal attention. The opportunity to see a baby turtle hatch and head into the ocean is mentioned as a highlight by some.

On the flip side, some reviews point out that the “glass-bottom” feature isn’t as extensive as they expected—more of a few small windows rather than a panoramic view. Also, sightings of turtles can be hit or miss, depending on the day and season. One reviewer noted they saw only two turtles during their trip but still enjoyed the caves and swimming.

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Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

For the cost—often less than €50 per person—the tour offers a well-rounded experience. The inclusion of hotel transfers, combined with the opportunity to see wildlife and explore scenic caves, makes it quite good value. If you’re short on time but still want to experience Zakynthos’ natural beauty and wildlife, this cruise packs a lot into a manageable half-day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate wildlife, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. It’s particularly suited for those keen on seeing turtles in the wild, swimming in turquoise waters, and visiting iconic caves without the crowds or long boat rides. It’s also a great choice if you prefer a smaller, more intimate boat rather than large touristy vessels.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Arrive early to find your meeting point easily and get a good seat.
• Bring your own snacks and water, especially since food isn’t included.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen—the sun can be intense on the water.
• Book in advance to secure your preferred time slot, especially in peak season.
• Capture the moments with a waterproof camera or phone, especially during the swim stops.
• Remember, turtle sightings are not guaranteed, but the scenic stops and caves make the trip worthwhile regardless.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The trip lasts approximately 3.5 hours, covering turtle spotting, swimming at Marathonísi Island, and visiting Keri Caves.

What is included in the price?
Your tour includes the glass-bottom boat, hotel pick-up and drop-off from several key locations, and the guided experience. Food and drinks are not included.

Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, the boat is spacious and safe for families. However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I see turtles on every trip?
While many travelers do see turtles, sightings depend on the day’s conditions. It’s a natural activity, so sighting cannot be guaranteed.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, towel, camera, and water or snacks. Sunscreen is recommended, as is swimwear for the stops.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meet at Ag Sostis port near the cameo bridge, marked by large yellow flags, and look for the yellow glass-bottom boat with the Zante Sun logo.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets and large luggage aren’t allowed. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Yes, it is described as an eco-friendly experience, with a focus on wildlife preservation and responsible tourism.

This Zakynthos cruise offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and active fun in a manageable time frame. The chance to see loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat is a highlight, but even if sightings are few, the stops at Marathonísi and Keri Caves provide memorable moments and photo-worthy scenery. The tour’s affordability, coupled with hotel transfers, makes it appealing to travelers who want a hassle-free, authentic experience without a full-day commitment.

Perfect for those who love outdoor adventures, wildlife, and stunning coastal landscapes, this cruise will leave you with plenty of stories—and maybe a few turtle sightings—to treasure.

Note: Always check current availability and weather conditions before booking, and consider that the experience is as much about enjoying the sea and scenery as it is about wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here: