Cruise to turtle’s island and caves with a glass bottom boat

Experience the beauty of Zakynthos with a 3-hour cruise to Turtle Island and caves, offered at around $289 per person. The tour departs from Laganas and takes you on a boat ride with a glass-bottom feature, so you can peek beneath the waves and spot loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat. Alongside wildlife viewing, you’ll get to swim and snorkel near Marathonisi (Turtle Island) and explore the stunning Keri Caves.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to see sea turtles up close and enjoy the crystal-clear waters that surround the island. The crew’s knowledge about the wildlife adds an educational layer to the adventure. Also, the scenic Keri Caves with their white rocks and inviting turquoise waters make for memorable photo opportunities.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the atmosphere can get quite lively—some reviews mention a party-like vibe with boats and floating food trucks, which might not suit travelers seeking a more tranquil experience.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a mix of wildlife spotting, a bit of snorkeling, and stunning coastal scenery, especially if you’re okay with the possibility of larger crowds and a lively environment. It suits families, casual travelers, and anyone eager to explore Zakynthos’ marine world without needing a full-day commitment.

Key Points

• Wildlife spotting: The main highlight is the chance to see loggerhead turtles, which many travelers find exciting and memorable.
• Scenic stops: The tour includes a swim and snorkel at Marathonisi and a visit to the Keri Caves, both of which offer striking views.
• Group size and atmosphere: Expect a lively scene with up to 85 travelers, and some reviews mention a party-like vibe, which is great for socializing but less so for tranquility.
• Guides and crew: Many reviewers praise knowledgeable staff, especially the guides’ friendliness and expertise.
• Value for money: With activities like snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and sightseeing, coupled with pickup and mobile tickets, it offers a good overall experience.
• Potential downsides: Weather and luck can affect turtle sightings, and some reviews report delays or overbooking issues.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Duration
The tour begins on an unnamed road near Laganas, a popular tourist hub. The total activity lasts about three hours, making it a perfect half-day outing. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation—most travelers appreciate the convenience—and returned to the meeting point, which adds to the hassle-free aspect of the trip.

The Itinerary Breakdown
The adventure kicks off with about 30 minutes at Laganas Beach, where the crew scans the shallow waters for loggerhead turtles (“Caretta Caretta”). Many reviews highlight this part as a personal favorite, with Zoe_H noting, “The staff were all very friendly and very knowledgeable about turtles and the islands we visited.” The crew’s effort to spot turtles adds a layer of anticipation—everyone hopes to catch that perfect sighting of a turtle surfacing for air.

Next, you head to Marathonisi or Turtle Island, where you’re free to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the golden sands. The waters here are described as clear, turquoise, and inviting. Many reviews, such as Jenni_L’s, mention how the scenery combined with the water’s cleanliness creates a “big blue” feeling, inviting you to unwind in nature. The one-hour stop allows ample time to explore underwater life or soak up the sun.

The Keri Caves are the third stop, lasting about 20 minutes. This is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike, with luminous white rocks contrasted against the blue sea. The caves’ dramatic cliffs and clear water provide a dramatic backdrop, with many saying it’s an unforgettable sight. For example, the comment about “white rocks on the sides and the light brown sand on the bottom” paints a vibrant picture of this natural spectacle.

Atmosphere and Crowd
Reviews consistently mention that the tour can feel quite lively—boats, floating food trucks, and a party atmosphere dominate the scene. This makes it perfect if you’re looking for a social, upbeat outing. However, if you prefer peace and quiet, it might be a bit overwhelming. A few travelers, like Connie_B, expressed disappointment that the tour was overbooked or that the beach was “the worst in the island,” pointing to the crowded nature of the environment.

Wildlife and Snorkeling
Spotting turtles depends heavily on weather conditions and water clarity. Zoe_H and Ian_D both mention seeing large turtles, with one even noting that the crew “waited patiently for each side of the boat to see the turtle pop up,” making these moments truly special. Conversely, Connie_B’s experience highlights that some days, the turtles might be elusive, and the tour may be canceled or less rewarding.

The Guides and Crew
Many reviews praise the staff’s friendliness and knowledge. Zoe_H comments that the speaker was “very knowledgeable,” and Alain_M appreciates the crew’s friendliness and the personalized service, including WhatsApp communication about the trip timing. The captain’s skill at getting close to the caves and wildlife makes a big difference in the overall enjoyment of the trip.

Value for Money
At roughly $289 per person, this is a mid-range tour. Considering that it includes snorkeling at two stops, wildlife viewing, and scenic caves—plus pickup and mobile tickets—it offers solid value, especially for those seeking an active, outdoor experience. Some reviews mention that the smaller group size (up to 85 people) enhances the experience, avoiding the feeling of being just another face on a crowded tour.

Possible Downsides
Weather plays a role: poor conditions can lead to tour cancellations or limited sightings. A few travelers experienced delays—up to three hours—without communication, which can be frustrating. Also, some reviews mention overbooking, leading to disappointment or not getting the glass-bottom boat initially promised.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy a lively, social environment with a focus on nature and scenic beauty. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to see sea turtles in the wild, you’ll appreciate the crew’s efforts and the natural setting. It’s also ideal if you like a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling without committing to a full day.

However, if you prefer serene, peaceful surroundings, or are sensitive to crowds, this might not be your ideal activity. The lively atmosphere and potential for overbooking mean it’s better suited for those who’re flexible and ready for an energetic, fun-filled outing.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup service from your accommodation, making it a convenient way to start your adventure.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, offering a quick yet comprehensive experience of the area’s highlights.

Can I see turtles during this trip?
While many reviewers have reported seeing large loggerhead turtles, sightings depend on factors like weather and water clarity. Sometimes, sightings may be limited or weather-dependent.

What’s the environment like during the stops?
Expect lively scenes with boats, floating food trucks, and groups of travelers. It’s a social atmosphere that many enjoy, though it might feel crowded if you prefer quiet.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling at Turtle Island is part of the itinerary, giving you a chance to see underwater life close-up in the clear waters.

What should I be aware of regarding delays or cancellations?
Some travelers experienced delays or overbooking issues, and weather can impact the tour. It’s advisable to be flexible and stay in contact with the operator if possible.

Final Thoughts

This cruise to Turtle Island and caves offers a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience that captures the spirit of Zakynthos’ marine environment. The combination of turtle sightings, snorkeling, and stunning caves makes it an appealing choice for travelers looking to enjoy natural beauty and a bit of adventure in a social setting.

For those who value knowledgeable guides and a well-organized trip, the reviews highlight the crew’s friendliness and expertise as standout features. The experience is most rewarding on days with clear waters and good weather—when the turtles and underwater scenery truly shine.

On the flip side, if you’re after complete tranquility or avoiding crowded spots, this tour might feel a bit too bustling. Still, for a memorable half-day adventure that balances sightseeing, wildlife, and fun, it’s a solid option.

In the end, whether you’re eager to spot turtles, explore caves, or just bask in the sunshine with new friends, this tour provides a good snapshot of what Zakynthos’ coast has to offer—packed with natural beauty, lively energy, and friendly operators willing to share their knowledge and passion.