Zakynthos: Shipwreck Beach & Blue Caves Land and Sea Tour
Location: Western Greece, Greece
Country: Greece
Price: $50 per person
Supplier: ZANTE MARE P.C.
Similar Experiences: See other Zakynthos tours here
A Quick Look at What You Can Expect
If you’re craving a day out on the water with a dash of adventure and some of Zakynthos’ most iconic sights, this Shipwreck Beach & Blue Caves tour hits the sweet spot. For just $50, you’re looking at around 3 hours of boat cruising, with multiple swim stops, photo opportunities at some of the island’s best-known landmarks, and a visit to the Oldest Olive Tree in Exo Chora village.
What we really like about this tour is how it combines visual treats with some history and local charm. The close-up views of Shipwreck Beach are a highlight — you get to see the famous wreck from the boat, which makes for great photos. The Blue Caves are another standout, with their vibrant water hues and the chance to venture inside the caves for a closer look. Plus, the swim stops at Sfogio Beach, White Beach, and Porto Steniti give plenty of time to cool off and enjoy the Ionian Sea’s clarity.
A minor consideration: the long swim stops and the boat approach to the beaches do require some comfort with water activities, so this tour might not be ideal for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness. But if you’re comfortable on boats and love beach time, this experience offers a fantastic value.
This tour suits travelers who want an affordable, active day on the water with plenty of opportunities to capture stunning views and enjoy the natural beauty of Zakynthos.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Affordable price: Just $50 per person for a comprehensive 3-hour tour.
- Multiple swim stops: Long breaks at some of Zakynthos’ most beautiful beaches.
- Iconic sights: Close-up views of Shipwreck Beach and inside the Blue Caves.
- Historical touch: Visit the Oldest Olive Tree in Exo Chora village.
- Photo opportunities: Scenic viewpoints like the Shipwreck Viewpoint and Poseidon’s Face.
- Family-friendly: Suitable if you’re comfortable with swimming and boat rides.
Planning more time in Exo Chora? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Experience and Itinerary: A Deep Dive
When you sign up for this tour, the first thing you’ll notice is the convenient pickup, which helps avoid the hassle of finding your way to the marina. Once you’re collected, the journey begins with a photo stop at the Shipwreck Viewpoint. From here, you get a bird’s-eye view of the wrecked ship on the beach — a classic shot that truly captures Zakynthos’ rugged beauty. Many reviews mention how “the view from above is worth the early start”, setting a perfect tone for the day.
Boarding the boat at Porto Vromi Maries, you’ll immediately feel the thrill of being on the water. The boat itself is a comfortable vessel, designed for sightseeing rather than speed, allowing you to take in the scenery and prepare for close encounters with the coast’s highlights.
Shipwreck Beach and Its Closeness to the Water
The Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) is the star of the show. Thanks to the boat’s approach, you’ll get as close as possible — many reviewers mention how “the boat gets right up to the wreck, providing excellent photo ops”. You can often see visitors trying to snap that perfect shot of the rusted ship against the white sand, framed by towering cliffs. But remember, the crew won’t land here, so if you’re eager to walk on the beach, you’ll need a different excursion. Still, the view from the water is impressive and worth the trip.
Exploring the Blue Caves
Next, your boat navigates toward the Blue Caves — a series of sea caves famous for their brilliant water colors. The boat enters the caves, allowing for better views and photos than just passing by. The swirling blues and reflections make these caves a highlight, and many travelers say “entering the caves was like stepping into a natural aquarium”.
More Great Tours NearbySwim Stops and Beach Breaks
One of the best parts of this tour is the chance to swim in clear, calm waters. Stops at Sfogio Beach, White Beach, and Porto Steniti are long enough for a swim, lounging, or just soaking in the sun. These beaches are less crowded than Shipwreck Beach and offer a peaceful break. Many reviews mention how “the water was so clear I could see the bottom even at some depth”, and how these stops give you time to relax and enjoy the Ionian Sea.
Poseidon’s Face: A Photo Gem
On the way back, you’ll make a quick stop at Poseidons Face, a rock formation that resembles the face of the Greek god Poseidon. It’s a fun photo opportunity and adds a mythic touch to your day. People often comment on how “the rocks look like a giant’s face, and it’s perfect for a quick picture”.
The Oldest Olive Tree in Exo Chora
Adding a touch of history, the tour makes a brief visit to Exo Chora village to see the Oldest Olive Tree. It’s a quiet, charming spot where you can learn a little about local agriculture and history. Many guests appreciate this peaceful stop as a meaningful contrast to the lively sea excursions.
What’s the Value?
At just $50, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a cost-effective way to see some of Zakynthos’ most photographed sights without the expense of private charters or full-day tours. The 3-hour duration strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy several stops but short enough to keep it relaxed.
The included transportation, multiple swimming opportunities, and close-up views make this a practical, enjoyable choice. Plus, the photo stops enhance the experience for anyone wanting memorable images, while the visit to the olive tree offers a touch of local culture.
However, food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own water, snacks, or a packed lunch is wise. The tour is also not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, so consider your comfort level before booking.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re after a cost-effective, scenic boat trip with plenty of opportunities to swim and photograph, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends who enjoy water-based activities and want to see Zakynthos’ most famous sights up close.
This experience is ideal if you’re looking to maximize your sightseeing in a short time and don’t mind the boat approach to beaches rather than landings. It also suits travelers who value authentic photo opportunities and a taste of local culture without overloading their day.
In The Sum Up
This Zakynthos boat tour balances spectacular scenery and laid-back fun at an accessible price. The chance to see the Shipwreck Beach from the water, explore the Blue Caves, and enjoy multiple swim stops makes it a worthwhile choice for most visitors. The added visit to the Old Olive Tree gives a nice touch of local flavor, rounding out a well-rounded day.
For those who love capturing stunning views, this trip delivers in spades. Travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure with plenty of photo ops and a taste of Zakynthos’ natural beauty will find this tour a real gem.
While it’s not suited for everyone—particularly non-swimmers or those uncomfortable on boats—it offers great value for the price. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or want a memorable day out with friends, this tour provides an authentic glimpse of Zakynthos’ stunning coastline.
FAQ
Is transportation to the tour starting point included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from specific stops, making it easy to start your day hassle-free.
How long is the boat trip?
The boat cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, providing ample time to visit multiple sites and enjoy swim stops.
What sights will I see?
You’ll visit Shipwreck Beach, explore the Blue Caves, and see Poseidons Face. You’ll also have a chance to visit the Oldest Olive Tree in Exo Chora village.
Are there opportunities for swimming?
Yes, there are long swim stops at Sfogio Beach, White Beach, and Porto Steniti, ideal for relaxing in the clear waters.
Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s best suited for those comfortable with water activities; non-swimmers may find it challenging, especially during swim stops.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and water. Snacks are not included, so consider packing some if desired.
Are the caves accessible for entering?
Yes, the boat enters the Blue Caves, allowing for better photos and views inside the caves.
Can I get close to Shipwreck Beach?
The boat approaches as close as possible, but landing on the beach requires a different tour. Expect great photo opportunities from the water.
Is there any cultural or historical site involved?
Yes, a brief visit to the Oldest Olive Tree in Exo Chora adds a touch of local history and tranquility.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning.
This tour offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, fun swim stops, and cultural touches, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting to see the best of Zakynthos without overdoing it. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, the views, and experiences delivered here will likely leave you with plenty of great memories.
You can check availability for your dates here: