Zakynthos : island half circle boat tour

Zakynthos: Island Half Circle Boat Tour — an adventure that promises to unveil some of the most inaccessible and stunning parts of this Greek island. For $152 per person, you get to spend 7 hours exploring Zakynthos’s coastlines, caves, and beaches, all while comfortably seated in a semi-private group of up to 9 guests. Guided by knowledgeable captains, you’ll visit spots like Navagio Beach, the Blue Caves, Keri Caves, and Mizitres, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and turtle spotting.

What we love about this tour is the personalized experience it offers through small groups, making it easier to customize stops based on weather and your interests. The safety features of the R.I.B. boats, combined with the inclusion of snacks and refreshments, make it both relaxing and fun. One potential consideration is the size of the boat, which is a bit smaller, but reviews suggest it’s still more than enough for a comfortable adventure. If you’re after an authentic, hands-on day on the water that feels exclusive rather than crowded, this tour is a great choice for families, couples, or small groups looking to see Zakynthos beyond the usual tourist spots.

This experience made our article of The Top 15 Keri Boat Tours & Cruises.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 9 people ensures a more intimate, flexible trip.
• Variety of Stops: From Navagio Beach to caves and secluded bays, there’s a good mix of sights.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Plenty of opportunities to enjoy the clear waters and marine life.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides who speak multiple languages and share interesting insights.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops and locations are adaptable based on weather and group preferences.
• Value-Added Inclusions: Snacks, refreshments, photos, and hotel transfers included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins from either Alykanas or Laganas port, with the option for hotel pickup if requested. It lasts around 7 hours, so you’ll want to plan for a full day of adventure. The starting times vary, so checking availability in advance is recommended. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering a chance to relax and soak in the views from your comfortable R.I.B. (Rigid Inflatable Boat), either a 7-meter or 8.2-meter model, equipped with shade, iceboxes, and snorkeling gear.

The Itinerary Breakdown

What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You’ll visit some of Zakynthos’ most iconic yet hard-to-reach spots, like Navagio Bay (Shipwreck Beach), famed for its rusted wreck nestled on a sandy cove accessible only by boat, and the Blue Caves, where sunlight creates shimmering blue reflections in the water.

Other stops include Selinas, a series of scenic coves, Xigia, known for sulfur springs and healing waters, and Keri Caves, with their impressive rock formations and ideal snorkeling spots. The Mizitres area, with its secluded beaches, offers some of the best swimming opportunities. The tour can also include a visit to Marathonissi (Turtle Island), where you might catch a glimpse of Caretta-Caretta turtles, making it an exciting highlight for wildlife lovers.

What You’ll Do

Expect to spend significant time swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. The guides are attentive and will set up spots for the best underwater photo opportunities, so you can capture the stunning marine scenery. You might even be able to dive from rocks or swim inside caves, which is a real treat for those comfortable with water.

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The Guides and Their Value

Based on reviews, guides are entertaining and knowledgeable, with some guides speaking multiple languages including English, Hungarian, Greek, and German. Cecilia, one reviewer, appreciated how the guide was able to translate everything into English, ensuring everyone felt included. Giahan raved about the skipper’s entertaining nature and great knowledge, adding a layer of enjoyment to the experience.

Safety and Comfort

The boats are described as extremely safe, with sunshades to shield you from the sun, iceboxes for refreshments, and snorkel equipment. The reviews emphasize the friendly attitude of the crew, making you feel well cared for as you explore the coast.

Food and Extras

Included in the price are small snacks and refreshments, perfect for recharging between swims. The tour also takes underwater and regular photos and videos, which are shared afterward—a nice bonus to remember your day by.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

The tour provider reserves the right to change stops or timings depending on weather conditions, underscoring the importance of being flexible and trusting the crew to ensure safety and the best experience.

What the Reviews Say

Cecilia pointed out that Zakynthos is difficult to explore without a boat due to the inaccessibility of many caves and ravines from land. She appreciated the friendly guides and included amenities like snacks and a hotel pickup, calling the experience “highly recommended.” Giahan’s glowing review highlights that “the skipper was entertaining and had great knowledge,” making it a must-do for visitors.

These reviews reinforce that beyond the beautiful scenery, the guides’ professionalism and friendliness make a difference. The small boat size was noted as a minor drawback in terms of space, but overall, they felt comfortable and well looked after.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking an intimate, personalized day on the water. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate wildlife spotting, like turtles and dolphins, or want to explore caves and inaccessible beaches. Families and small groups will enjoy the relaxed pace and the ability to customize stops. If you’re looking for professional guides who speak multiple languages and a smooth, enjoyable outing without the hassle of organizing transport or boats yourself, this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up

This Zakynthos island boat tour offers a unique, hands-on way to see some of Greece’s most stunning, inaccessible natural sights. The small group size and friendly guides create a relaxed, personalized atmosphere, making it a great option for those who want to avoid crowded tours. The inclusion of amenities like snacks, refreshments, and photos adds value, especially considering the boat’s safety and comfort features.

While the boat’s size might feel a little snug for some, the experience more than compensates with its diverse stops and knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re after wildlife spotting, caving adventures, or just a day of swimming in beautiful waters, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s ideal for travelers who cherish authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences in Zakynthos, especially those who want a flexible, well-organized outing with a friendly crew.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without rushing.

Where does the tour start?
You can begin either from Alykanas or Laganas port, with the option for hotel pickup if requested.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transfer, snacks, refreshments, snorkel masks, a guide, a professional captain, RIB boats, and sunshade.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Yes, there are several swimming and snorkeling stops at beautiful spots like Mizitres and Keri Caves, with equipment provided.

Are there any restrictions on what to bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and beachwear. Note that baby strollers, alcohol, drugs, and boots are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the focus on swimming and wildlife suggests it’s suitable for families with children comfortable in water. Always check with the provider if in doubt.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour provider reserves the right to change stop locations and timing depending on weather conditions, prioritizing safety.

How many people are in each group?
Tours are semi-private with a maximum of 9 guests, creating a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours.

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

This boat tour is a well-rounded, value-rich way to see Zakynthos from a different perspective—close to nature, full of adventure, and led by guides who make sure you feel cared for. Perfect for those who want a mix of wildlife, caves, and stunning views in a relaxed, small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: