Zakynthos: Turtles, Marathonisi & Keri Caves Speedboat Tour
Hightlight
-
English-Speaking
-
Group-Friendly
-
Reservations
-
Wheelchair Access
History
Zakynthos, known as Zante, is the southernmost of the Ionian Islands and home to the National Marine Park established in 1999 to protect endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). These ancient mariners have nested on the island’s southern beaches for millennia, with Marathonisi Island serving as a key breeding site.
The dramatic Keri Caves and Mizithres rock formations were sculpted by centuries of erosion from the Ionian Sea. The 1633 earthquake reshaped the coastline, creating the iconic Cameo Islet linked by a wooden bridge. Local captains have navigated these waters for generations, preserving eco-friendly traditions.
Highlights
- Eco-friendly speedboat cruise through Zakynthos National Marine Park
- Close-up turtle spotting in their natural habitat
- Explore hidden Keri Caves and pass under natural arches
- Swim stops at private ‘Oasis’ beach and turtle-shaped Marathonisi
- Photo stop at picturesque Cameo Islet
Full Description
Kick off your adventure with pickup from your accommodation and a short transfer to Agios Sostis Harbor. Board a sleek semi-yacht speedboat and glide into the turquoise waters of the National Marine Park, where loggerhead turtles glide gracefully beneath the surface.
Race along the southwestern coast to the mesmerizing Keri Caves, where your captain maneuvers inside cavernous openings for stunning photos. Feel the thrill as you speed through the towering “Kamares” arches before anchoring at the secluded ‘Oasis’ private beach for your first swim in crystal-clear waters.
Conclude at Marathonisi, the uninhabited turtle-shaped island. Swim among gentle currents, relax on the golden sand, or snorkel near turtle nesting areas (from a respectful distance). Return via Cameo Islet for a quick photo stop before docking back at the harbor.
Why Choose This Experience?
This compact 3-hour tour delivers maximum adventure with minimal time commitment, ideal for cruise passengers or families. Experienced local captains prioritize safety and sustainability while sharing insider knowledge about marine life and island geology.
Unlike larger boat tours, the small speedboat allows access to hidden caves and private swim spots inaccessible to bigger vessels. Every detail—from turtle-safe approaches to biodegradable sunscreen guidelines—ensures an ethical, unforgettable encounter with Zakynthos’ natural wonders.
What’s Included
- 2.5–3 hour eco-friendly speedboat cruise
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (or nearest accessible point)
- Experienced English/Greek-speaking captain and crew
- Turtle spotting with safe-distance guidelines
- Entry into Keri Caves and under “Kamares” arches
- Swim stops at private ‘Oasis’ beach and Marathonisi Island
- Photo stop at Cameo Islet
- Life jackets and safety briefing
- Bottled water on board
- Marine park conservation fee
- Snorkeling masks (limited availability)
Itinerary
- Pickup from accommodation (location depends on selected option)
- Transfer to Agios Sostis Harbor (20 minutes)
- Board speedboat at ZANTE MARE flag point
- Cruise to Keri Caves with arch passage (40 minutes)
- First swim stop at private ‘Oasis’ beach (30 minutes)
- Explore Marathonisi Island & turtle area (50 minutes)
- Photo stop at Cameo Islet (30 minutes)
- Return to Agios Sostis Harbor
- Drop-off at accommodation or 2 central locations
Pricing
From $18 per person
Meeting Point
Departure from Agios Sostis Harbor (look for ZANTE MARE flags). Pickup included from your accommodation or nearest accessible point. Drop-off at accommodation or 2 locations: Zakinthos Town, Laganas Marine Park Explore with VIP Speedboat.
How to get there
- Complimentary pickup from most southern resorts (Laganas, Kalamaki, Tsilivi, Alykes)
- 20-minute air-conditioned transfer to Agios Sostis Harbor
- Look for ZANTE MARE flags at the dock
- Return transfer included to original pickup area
Good to Know
What to bring
- Hat or cap
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Waterproof camera or phone case
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Bottle of water
- Light cover-up or rash guard
- Seasickness medication (if prone)
Know before you go
- Use only biodegradable sunscreen to protect turtle hatchlings
- Maintain 10-meter distance from turtles (strictly enforced)
- No flash photography near marine life
- Itinerary may adjust due to weather or park regulations
- Small groups (max 12–15 passengers) for intimate experience
- Not suitable for pregnant women or those with back issues
Reviews
- The captain was outstanding—expertly navigated tight caves and shared deep knowledge about turtle conservation. The speedboat thrill combined with serene swims made this an unforgettable morning.
- Perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Swimming inside the glowing blue caves felt magical, and seeing turtles up close was a bucket-list moment. Highly recommend for families.
- Weather shortened one stop, but the crew adapted seamlessly and still delivered an incredible experience. The private beach swim and Marathonisi views were highlights.
Maps
Video
FAQ's
Is hotel pickup available island-wide?
Pickup is included from most southern and central resorts including Laganas, Kalamaki, Tsilivi, Argassi, Alykes, and Zakynthos Town. Northern areas like Shipwreck Beach hotels may require self-transfer to Laganas meeting point. Exact pickup time is confirmed via WhatsApp or email 24 hours prior. Vehicles are air-conditioned minibuses with professional drivers. If your accommodation is in a pedestrian zone, you’ll be collected from the nearest vehicle-accessible point (usually 2–5 minutes walk). No extra charges apply. For cruise passengers, port pickup can be arranged with advance notice. The system covers 95% of tourist accommodations.
What happens if we don’t see turtles?
Turtle sightings are highly likely (95% success rate in season) but not guaranteed as they are wild animals. Captains use years of local knowledge and real-time spotting techniques to maximize encounters. If no turtles appear, you still enjoy the full cave tour, two swim stops, and Cameo Islet. Refunds are not provided for natural wildlife behavior. The marine park’s conservation rules ensure ethical viewing. Many guests report seeing 3–10 turtles per trip. Alternative marine life like flying fish or monk seals may appear. The experience remains exceptional regardless.
Are the cave entries safe in a speedboat?
Yes—captains are licensed with 10+ years navigating Keri Caves and only enter safe, spacious caverns. The speedboat’s shallow draft allows precise maneuvering inside glowing blue chambers. Life jackets are mandatory during cave segments. Entries are weather-dependent; high swells may limit access, but alternative routes are used. Children must be supervised. The “Kamares” arch passage is done at safe speeds with clear announcements. All boats undergo daily safety checks. This thrill is a highlight for adventure seekers.
Can non-swimmers join the tour?
Absolutely—life jackets are provided and mandatory for all passengers during water activities. The ‘Oasis’ private beach has shallow, calm waters ideal for wading. Marathonisi offers sandy shores with gradual depth. Non-swimmers can relax on deck or float near the boat with crew supervision. Snorkeling is optional. The captain demonstrates safe water entry/exit. Families with infants often participate comfortably. However, basic mobility is required for boarding. The tour is wheelchair-accessible up to the harbor dock.
Is the tour suitable for young children?
Yes—children of all ages are welcome with adult supervision. Infant life jackets (0–15 kg) are available on request. The speedboat has shaded seating and smooth rides between stops. Swim times are structured with shallow entry points. However, the tour involves boat motion; parents should assess seasickness risk. No child discounts, but the experience is highly educational about marine conservation. Strollers can be stored on the transfer bus. Crew assists with boarding. Many families call it their trip highlight.
