Zakynthos: Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves Boat Tour

Zakynthos: Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck, and Blue Caves Boat Tour
Nestled on Greece’s Ionian Sea, Zakynthos offers some of the most iconic sights in the country — from the famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach to captivating Blue Caves and the unique Xigia Beach with its sulfur-rich waters. This 3.5-hour boat tour, departing from Alykes or Alykanas, is a fantastic way to see the island’s highlights in a single trip. For about €50 to €70 per person, you get a well-organized experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and photo opportunities, all led by friendly, knowledgeable guides (the reviews praise the helpful commentary).

We love how this tour offers a genuine escape into Zakynthos’ natural beauty, with several swimming stops at unspoiled bays — perfect for cooling off and soaking up the scenery. The thrill of passing inside the Blue Caves on a small boat is an adventure that many travelers remember long after they leave the island. Plus, the visit to Xigia Beach provides a chance to relax in waters that are both visually stunning and chemically interesting due to their sulfur content.

One potential drawback could be the limited duration of each stop — 20 to 30 minutes might feel rushed if you’re eager to linger longer at every site. Also, since the tour is quite popular, early booking is recommended to secure your preferred time slot. This experience best suits travelers who appreciate natural scenery, enjoy boat trips, and want a balanced mix of sightseeing and swimming.

Key Points

• Iconic sights like Navagio Shipwreck Beach are featured with ample time for photos
• Swimming stops at Blue Caves, Xigia Beach, and other unspoiled bays allow for relaxing dips in turquoise waters
• Inside the Blue Caves provides a unique, close-up view of Zakynthos’ dramatic coastline
• Expert guides offer helpful commentary, enriching the experience with insights about each location
• Flexible booking options and a short 3.5-hour duration make this a convenient and value-packed outing
• Limited group size ensures a more intimate experience, but early reservation is wise

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Zakynthos Boat Tour

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This boat tour is designed to showcase some of Zakynthos’ most photogenic and intriguing spots, all within a manageable half-day adventure. Starting at Alykes or Alykanas, you’ll meet your captain and crew at the designated pier, ready to set sail on a vessel like the GOLDEN, which is praised for its comfort and stability.

The tour begins with a sightseeing cruise that lasts about 30 minutes, giving you a gentle introduction to the coastline. This initial leg is perfect for snapping some photos of the rugged cliffs and lush greenery that line Zakynthos’ shores. Once you arrive at Navagio Shipwreck Beach, you’ll have about 20 minutes to soak in the view, take photos, and appreciate the shipwreck’s dramatic setting. Described as the “most famous beach in Greece,” it’s a sight that’s well worth the visit.

Stops and Swimming Opportunities

The next phase of the tour includes two or three swimming stops in less crowded, naturally beautiful bays. The first swim often occurs in a secluded bay that offers wild, pristine waters. Depending on the weather, Porto Sellinas Bay might be the alternative, both providing calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and relaxing.

One of the highlights — and a favorite among travelers — is passing inside the Blue Caves, a surreal experience that allows you to see the caves’ vivid blue reflections from close quarters. Here, you’ll get about 30 minutes for photos, exploration, and a refreshing dip in the water. As one reviewer put it, the boat’s ability to access inside the caves “was a unique boat experience,” adding an element of adventure.

The final swimming stop takes place at Xigia Beach, known for its sulfur-rich waters and the cave that colors the sea with unusual hues. The waters at Xigia are not only visually striking but are also said to have therapeutic qualities, making this stop both fun and beneficial. Expect about 30 minutes here to swim, snap photos, and relax.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

On the way back, a short sightseeing cruise allows you to enjoy the coast from a different perspective, often with additional commentary from the crew. The entire trip ends back at the Alykes pier, just in time for a leisurely afternoon or more exploring.

More Great Tours Nearby

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their helpful commentary — “helpful commentary” and “smooth captain” are common sentiments. Many mention how close the boat gets to attractions, making the experience feel intimate and immersive. One review notes, “Sailed close to the most popular attractions with helpful commentary,” which adds depth to the sightseeing.

The value of the tour is also highlighted: “This is a beautiful experience you should have on Zakynthos,” despite the relatively modest price. The swimming stops in unspoiled bays are often described as “wild” and “picturesque,” perfect for those who enjoy natural beauty away from crowded beaches.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 3.5 hours, with a start time typically at 9:30 am (additional departure at 13:30 from June 10)
• Price: Around €50-€70 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the sights and activities included
• Who it’s for: Those who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and photography. Not suitable for travelers prone to seasickness or with back problems
• What to bring: Hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen — gear that makes swimming and sun protection easy
• Limitations: No hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan transportation accordingly; the tour doesn’t include food or drinks

Why This Tour Is a Good Deal

Compared to other options, the value here lies in the combination of multiple stops, inside-the-caves experience, and guided commentary. For the price, you’re getting a well-rounded taste of Zakynthos’ natural wonders without the hassle of organizing separate trips. The small group size (book early for limited seats) enhances the experience, allowing for a more personal touch.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Zakynthos’ most iconic sights without spending a whole day. It suits those who enjoy photography and swimming, and who appreciate authentic natural beauty rather than commercialized beaches. It’s especially good for first-time visitors who want a rundown of the island’s coastline.

Keep in mind, if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or a longer stay at each site, you might find the 20–30 minute stops a bit brief. But for a quick, scenic, and memorable experience, this boat trip hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a convenient half-day activity perfect for combining with other explorations on Zakynthos.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Alykes pier, specifically from the Alykes Peer. The meeting point is accessible by local buses, and there’s a picture in the gallery to help locate it.

What are the main sights visited on the tour?
You’ll see the famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach, Blue Caves (including passing inside), and Xigia Beach with its sulfur waters. There are also stops at unspoiled bays for swimming.

Is swimming included?
Yes, there are 2-3 swimming stops at different bays, allowing you to enjoy the clear waters and relax on the boat.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s wise to bring your own snacks and water, especially during the summer heat.

Is it suitable for everyone?
It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or those prone to seasickness. The boat is stable, but the open sea can sometimes be a bit bouncy.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

To sum it up, this boat tour offers a fantastic way to glimpse the best of Zakynthos’ coastline with minimal fuss. It combines iconic sights like Navagio with the thrill of exploring Blue Caves and the therapeutic waters of Xigia. It provides excellent value, especially for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to experience the island’s natural beauty. Expect friendly guides, stunning views, and a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

If you love scenic boat rides, swimming in crystal waters, and snapping memorable photos, this tour is a smart choice. Just remember to book early, wear your sunscreen, and bring your camera — you’ll leave with plenty of stories and snapshots to treasure.

You can check availability for your dates here: