Bochali offers a prime starting point for exploring Zakynthos, especially if you’re looking for tours that combine scenic views, authentic experiences, and personalized touches. Its central location means many tours depart nearby, giving travelers the chance to experience Zakynthos’s highlights without the crowds. Among the options, we particularly like the semi-private boat trips around the Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves, offering intimate groups and a chance to swim in crystal waters. The private land tours are perfect if you prefer a tailored experience, with knowledgeable guides showing you the island’s best viewpoints and hidden spots. Overall, Bochali is a hub for travelers who want both adventure and comfort, especially with options that keep groups small for a more personal experience.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we review three standout tours in Bochali, each with its own appeal. From the semi-private shipwreck and Blue Caves tour that balances scenery with small-group intimacy, to the private land tour that offers personalized sightseeing, and a longer, more exclusive Shipwreck by boat experience. Each provides a different way to explore Zakynthos, catering to varying interests and budgets. Now, let’s look at what makes each of these tours unique.
1. Zakynthos: Semi Private Shipwreck & Blue Caves Max 10 guests
At number one, the Zakynthos: Semi Private Shipwreck & Blue Caves Max 10 guests offers a well-rounded experience of the island’s most famous sights in a small-group setting. This 8-hour tour combines land and sea highlights, including a visit to the Shipwreck Viewpoint, a boat ride to Shipwreck Beach, and exploring the Blue Caves with plenty of time for swimming. The boat itself is smaller, limiting the number of participants to 10, ensuring a more relaxed atmosphere and personalized service.
The tour’s itinerary is carefully crafted to maximize both sightseeing and leisure. You’ll start with a photo stop at Bochali, enjoy a scenic drive, then head to the Navagio Viewpoint for stunning photos of the Shipwreck. The boat cruise through the Blue Caves is a highlight, with clear waters perfect for swimming. The visit to Xigia Beach offers a natural spa experience, providing relaxation in mineral-rich waters. Reviewers praise the tour for its well-organized itinerary, the knowledgeable guide Costas, and the balance of activities. Many mention that the small group makes it easier to chat and take photos, creating a more authentic experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want an intimate, comprehensive day with expert guidance and the chance to swim in beautiful spots. It balances scenery, culture, and relaxation beautifully.
2. Explore Zakynthos: Private Tour & Optional Boat Adventure
The Explore Zakynthos: Private Tour & Optional Boat Adventure is perfect if you want a fully customizable experience. For around $68 per group (up to 4 people), this 1-hour private tour offers flexibility to focus on what interests you most. You can choose to add a boat trip to caves and Shipwreck Beach, or stick with a land-based visit to the island’s most iconic sites. This tour is suitable for travelers who prefer to design their own day, with a private vehicle and guide at your disposal.
What makes this tour stand out is the ability to select your stops from over 60 pickup locations, including Keri, Argassi, and Alykes. The guide will tailor the itinerary, taking you to landmarks like the Xigia Beach, Cameo Beach, or the village of Kalliteros—whatever suits your mood. The short duration makes it a good choice if your schedule is tight or if you want a quick, personalized overview of Zakynthos. The reviews highlight the expert guidance and flexibility, with many appreciating the chance to skip the typical tour groups.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a personalized, quick introduction to Zakynthos’s highlights, especially if you want to choose specific spots or combine sightseeing with a private vehicle.
3. Zakynthos Shipwreck by boat
The Zakynthos Shipwreck by boat offers a more traditional boat tour focused on the Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves, priced at $113 per person. This 4-hour cruise provides exclusive access to less crowded spots, with smaller, comfortable boats designed for a smooth ride. The tour includes visits to the Shipwreck, Blue Caves, and free time in Zakinthos town for exploring or relaxing.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on smaller group sizes and more intimate access, allowing you to see parts of the coast that larger vessels can’t reach. The itinerary includes a bus transfer, then a boat ride where you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the famous Shipwreck, often described as breathtaking. Reviewers comment on the high comfort level of the boats and the opportunity to see hidden spots that aren’t available on larger tours. It’s a great option if you value a relaxed pace and personalized service.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a shorter, more exclusive boat experience that emphasizes comfort and access to less crowded areas.
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your budget, interest in customization, and preferred pace. If small-group intimacy and a full-day experience appeal to you, the semi-private tour is a fantastic choice. For a tailored, private experience that fits into a shorter timeframe, the private land tour offers flexibility. If your focus is on a short, comfortable boat trip emphasizing exclusive access, the Shipwreck by boat is best.
Remember, booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure spots on these popular experiences. Think about your fitness level—the boat tours involve some walking and swimming, while the land tours include walking around viewpoints and villages.
Final thoughts
Bochali is a great launching point for exploring Zakynthos’s stunning sights. Whether you want a small-group day tour, a customized private experience, or a short, intimate boat cruise, options abound. For those who seek a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, the semi-private boat tour ranks high. If privacy and tailor-made experiences are your priority, the private land tour will serve you well. And if you’re after a quick, exclusive boat journey, the Shipwreck boat tour won’t disappoint.
No matter which you choose, booking early and planning ahead will ensure you make the most of your time on this beautiful island. Each option promises memorable moments—so pick the one that best matches your interests, pace, and budget. Happy exploring!
