Tsilivi: Full Day Boat rental to Shipwreck & Blue Caves

This experience made our article of Greece’s 15 Best Full-Day Tours.

Tsilivi: Full Day Boat Rental to Shipwreck & Blue Caves — An Authentic Zakynthos Adventure

If you’re craving a day of freedom on the water, this full-day private boat rental in Tsilivi offers a chance to explore Zakynthos’s stunning coastline at your own pace. For $311 per group up to six people, you get a self-guided experience without the need for a license, making it ideal for groups looking for an active, flexible day on the Ionian Sea.

What we love about this experience is how it makes visiting famous sights like the Shipwreck Cove and Blue Caves both accessible and personal. Plus, the inclusion of a GPS navigation system means you’re not just drifting aimlessly—you’ll be exploring with confidence. And with the freedom to create your own itinerary, you can stop off at small coves or sulfur springs that aren’t crowded with travelers.

A potential drawback is that the fuel costs and optional skippers are not included**, which might add to your overall expense if you’re not comfortable navigating yourself. This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits comfortable with a bit of self-reliance and who want an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s a fantastic choice for groups craving flexibility, privacy, and a dash of spontaneity in their Greek holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Self-guided freedom: No license needed, GPS included for easy navigation.
• Ideal for groups: Up to six people can enjoy the whole day together.
• Multiple stops: From Shipwreck to Blue Caves, sulfur springs at Xigia, and personal coves.
• All-day rental: 9 am to 5 pm, giving ample time to relax and explore.
• Extras included: Life jackets, music, USB charger, portable shower, and a coolbox.
• Cost considerations: Fuel and optional skippers are not included, so budget accordingly.

Exploring Zakynthos on Your Own Terms

This boat rental experience in Tsilivi is as much about the freedom to customize your day as it is about seeing top sights. Starting early, you’ll cruise towards the famous Shipwreck Cove, one of the most recognizable landmarks of Zakynthos. We loved how the early morning light gave the cove a magical glow, and the view of the wreck against the steep cliff backdrop is spectacular.

You can swim into the cove’s crystal waters, feeling like you’re discovering a secret spot. One reviewer described it as “stunning,” with the view “beyond what pictures can capture.” The boat’s GPS ensures you won’t get lost and allows you to chart your own course along the coastline.

On the return trip, you’ll pass the Blue Caves, a must-see for their vivid colors and dramatic rock formations. Here, you can choose any of the smaller caves for a swim—an experience described as “magical” and “something we’ll never forget.” With the boat being yours for the day, you’re free to drop anchor whenever something catches your eye.

Further south, the route might take you past Xigia Beach, famous for its sulfur springs, which are reputed for their soothing properties. Many travelers find the shallow waters here perfect for a relaxed swim. You might also decide to visit Pelagaki Cove or Alykes, or discover your own secluded hideaway along the coast.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The full-day rental runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. The rental includes a GPS system with sea maps, a tracker for safety, and lifejackets—important safety features that make navigating easier for beginners. The boat options include 40hp or 60hp engines, suitable for a small group and capable of covering the distances comfortably.

Additional comforts include a music player with USB charger, a coolbox with ice, and a portable shower—nice touches for a day on the water. The free transfer within Tsilivi makes the start easy to coordinate.

However, fuel is not included, so you should budget for this depending on how much you plan to travel. If you’re inexperienced with boats, hiring a skipper may be an option, though it will increase your overall cost.

The Experience in Action: Authentic, Flexible, and Fun

From the reviews, it’s clear travelers find this trip stunning in its simplicity and freedom. One noted, “We loved the way we could choose our own stops and swim at any coves we liked.” This kind of flexibility is the main lure here—no rushing to meet a group’s schedule, only your own pace and interests.

Another reviewer appreciated the easy-to-use GPS system, saying, “It made navigation straightforward, even for beginners.” The boat’s power (up to 60hp) ensures you can comfortably reach the highlights without worry, and the private group setting keeps the experience intimate and relaxed.

The ability to customize your route is especially appealing for those who want to avoid crowded tourist spots or discover hidden beaches. Many travelers pointed out that “you can make your own plan, and that’s what makes it special,” and “we found coves along the coast that weren’t crowded at all.”

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The Itinerary and Highlights in Detail

Starting from Tsilivi early in the morning, your journey begins with a scenic cruise eastward across the island. As you approach the Shipwreck Cove, you will appreciate the rugged cliffs and the dramatic setting of the famous wreck that has become an icon of Zakynthos. The waters here are crystal clear and perfect for a quick swim or a photo opportunity. Given the reviews describing it as “beyond pictures,” it’s well worth the effort to see it at sunrise or early morning when it’s less crowded.

Next, you’ll head toward the Blue Caves, which are about an hour’s cruise away. The contrast of deep blue waters and striking rock formations makes this stop unforgettable. You can anchor near the caves and swim into the smaller passages, where the water’s transparency and the light effects create a surreal experience.

Along the way, you might want to visit Xigia Beach—famous for its sulfur springs, which many find soothing. The shallow waters here are perfect for relaxing after swimming in the caves. This stop is optional, but many guests appreciate the chance to unwind in this natural setting.

Finally, you can choose your own route back, passing by Pelagaki Cove and Alykes, or exploring smaller coves along the coast. The flexibility allows you to tailor your day based on your mood and energy levels.

Practical Details and Tips for the Trip

Timing is flexible, but starting early helps avoid the crowds at Shipwreck and Blue Caves. We suggest packing passport or ID, beachwear, and snacks. Remember, high-heeled shoes, baby strollers, alcohol, and explosive substances are not permitted for safety reasons.

The price point of $311 covers the boat rental for up to six people, which makes it quite good value considering the exclusive nature of the experience. When you factor in the cost of a shared tour with a skipper, this private option often turns out to be more economical and far more flexible.

The no license requirement is a big plus for most travelers—no need to worry about complicated paperwork, just a bit of confidence and a sense of adventure. The language support in English and Greek means communication is straightforward, and the friendly staff are there to assist if needed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, friends, or couples looking for a personalized day on the water. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate independent exploration and want to avoid crowded boat tours. If you’re comfortable with self-driving small boats and want a flexible schedule, you’ll love the ability to craft your own adventure.

However, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those with back problems or drivers under 18. If you’re unsure about handling a boat, hiring a skipper might be worth considering, even if it’s an extra cost.

The Sum Up: Why This Experience Is a Great Choice

This private boat rental in Tsilivi offers a rare chance to explore Zakynthos’s highlights on your own terms. You’ll enjoy stunning views that few other tours can match, thanks to the flexibility to stop where you want and swim in your own private coves. The all-day duration allows for a relaxed, unhurried pace—perfect for soaking in the scenery or discovering secret spots.

For travelers who value independence and want a personalized experience without the hassle of group tours, this is an excellent option. It combines value, adventure, and authenticity, making it a memorable part of any Zakynthos trip.

If you’re eager to set your own course, enjoy the thrill of being your own captain, and love the idea of a day filled with swimming and stunning scenery, this boat rental is well worth considering.

FAQ

Do I need a license to rent this boat? No, you don’t need a license. The boat includes GPS navigation and is suitable for those without boating experience, as long as you’re comfortable with basic navigation.

How many people can fit on the boat? Up to six people can comfortably fit, making it ideal for small groups or families wanting a private day on the water.

What’s included in the rental? The rental includes the boat with a 40hp or 60hp engine, GPS navigation system, GPS tracker, lifejackets, music player with USB charger, coolbox with ice, portable shower, and free transfer within Tsilivi.

Are there additional costs? Yes, fuel is not included, so expect to pay for the fuel used during your trip. Optional skippers also cost extra if you prefer someone else to handle the boat.

What should I bring? Pack your passport or ID, beachwear, sun protection, snacks, and any personal items. Remember, high heels, baby strollers, alcohol, and explosive substances are not allowed onboard.

Is this trip suitable for children or non-swimmers? It’s best for swimmers, as swimming is a key part of the experience. It’s not recommended for those with back problems or non-swimmers.

How flexible are the stop options? Very flexible. You can choose to swim at the Shipwreck, Blue Caves, sulfur springs, or other coves along the coast, making each trip unique.

What if I want a skipper? Skippers are available at an additional cost, which can provide peace of mind if you’re inexperienced or prefer not to navigate.

This private boat trip in Tsilivi offers an excellent way to enjoy Zakynthos’s top sights without the crowds or rigid schedules. With its emphasis on freedom, authentic experiences, and breathtaking scenery, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking adventure and independence on their Greek holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: