Zakynthos: Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves Land and Sea Tour
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Reservations
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Transport Access
History
Zakynthos, the “Flower of the Levant,” has been inhabited since Mycenaean times, with the iconic Navagio Shipwreck dating to 1980 when the smuggler vessel Panagiotis ran aground during a storm. The island’s northern coast, sculpted by millennia of erosion, hides the luminous Blue Caves, where sunlight refracts through seawater to create electric hues.
The 2,000-year-old olive tree in Exo Chora stands as a living relic of Venetian rule, while Xigia’s sulfur springs have drawn wellness seekers since antiquity. The National Marine Park protects nesting loggerhead turtles, continuing a conservation legacy begun in 1999.
Highlights
- Panoramic photos at world-famous Navagio Shipwreck from land and sea
- Swim in the neon-blue waters of the Blue Caves
- Relax at Xigia natural sulfur spa and White Beach
- Visit the ancient 2,000-year-old olive tree in Exo Chora
- Scenic stops at Bochali Viewpoint and Makris Gialos
Full Description
Start your day with pickup from your accommodation and ascend to Bochali Hill for sweeping views over Zakynthos Town and the Ionian Sea. Continue north to Xigia Beach, a natural spa where sulfur-rich springs mix with seawater—perfect for a therapeutic 30-minute swim.
Pause at the pebble cove of Makris Gialos before boarding a speedboat for the iconic Navagio Shipwreck. Capture the ship’s rusting hull from water level, then cruise into the glowing Blue Caves for a surreal swim. Anchor at pristine White Beach for sunbathing and snorkeling in 50 shades of turquoise.
Return to shore for lunch (at own expense), then visit the ancient olive tree in Exo Chora. Conclude with a final photo stop at Navagio Viewpoint before a relaxing minibus ride back to your hotel.
Why Choose This Experience?
This full-day combo tour seamlessly blends land and sea, eliminating the hassle of renting cars or boats. Small groups and expert local guides ensure personalized attention and insider stories about Zakynthos’ myths and maritime history.
From therapeutic sulfur swims to adrenaline-pumping speedboat rides, the itinerary balances relaxation, adventure, and culture. Optional upgrades include professional photos and snorkeling gear, making it ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking a comprehensive island experience.
What’s Included
- Door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off (45 locations island-wide)
- Air-conditioned modern minibus transportation
- Professional English-speaking local guide
- 2-hour speedboat cruise to Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves
- Swimming stops at Xigia, Blue Caves, and White Beach
- Photo stops at Bochali, Makris Gialos, and Navagio Viewpoint
- Visit to 2,000-year-old olive tree in Exo Chora
- Bottled water on board
- Liability insurance
- Optional: local product tasting, swimming noodles, snorkeling gear
- Optional (private/semi-private): ground & aerial photography, Polaroid prints
Itinerary
- Pickup from 45 locations across Zakynthos (7:30–10:30 am)
- Bochali Viewpoint (10 minutes)
- Xigia Sulfur Beach swim (30 minutes)
- Makris Gialos Beach photo stop
- Speedboat boarding at northern port
- Navagio Shipwreck Beach (sea-level photo stop, 30 minutes)
- Blue Caves swim (30 minutes)
- White Beach visit & swim (30 minutes)
- Maravelia Cave & Poseidon’s Face (20 minutes total)
- Return to port & lunch break (1 hour)
- Navagio Viewpoint (40 minutes)
- 2,000-year-old olive tree in Exo Chora (10 minutes)
- Drop-off at original pickup point
Pricing
From $35 per person
Meeting Point
Pickup from your accommodation entrance or designated point. 45 locations including: Zakynthos Town (Strada Marina, 8:30/10:30 am), Laganas (8:00/10:00 am), Kalamaki, Argassi, Tsilivi, Alykes, Vasilikos, and more. Exact time confirmed via email/WhatsApp.
How to get there
- Complimentary air-conditioned minibus pickup from 45 locations
- Northern resorts (Alykes/Alykanas) depart earliest (7:30 am)
- Central/southern areas (Laganas/Kalamaki) 8:00–8:20 am
- Return transfer included to same point
- Port/airport pickup available on request
Good to Know
What to bring
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Swimwear & quick-dry towel
- Hat & sunglasses
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Snorkeling mask (or rent on board)
- Light jacket for boat wind
- Cash for lunch & souvenirs
- Waterproof phone case
Know before you go
- Boat portion is weather-dependent; captain adjusts for safety
- Land itinerary (viewpoints, olive tree) runs in all conditions
- No alcohol/drugs allowed on tour
- Toilets available at all major stops
- Extra €7.5/person may apply for remote areas (>10 km from Zakynthos Town)
- Bring motion sickness meds if prone
Reviews
- An epic full-day adventure with jaw-dropping views at every turn. The guide was hilarious, knowledgeable, and kept the energy high from sunrise to sunset.
- Perfect mix of land and sea—loved the sulfur swim and Blue Caves glow. Lunch stop was authentic, and the ancient olive tree felt magical.
- Our guide made the trip unforgettable—fun facts, perfect timing, and ensured everyone got Instagram-worthy shots. Highly recommend!
Maps
Video
FAQ's
Is the Shipwreck Beach visit guaranteed in all weather?
The land-based Navagio Viewpoint visit is guaranteed and operates in all weather conditions, offering dramatic aerial photos even on cloudy days. The sea portion (speedboat to Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves) is weather-dependent for safety. In high winds or rough seas, the captain may substitute with alternative coastal caves or extend time at Xigia/White Beach. Full refunds are not issued for weather adjustments, but rescheduling is offered if available. Past guests praise the flexibility—land highlights alone are worth the trip.
Are there age or mobility restrictions?
No strict age limits—infants to seniors join daily. However, speedboat boarding requires stepping over a small gap and climbing 3–4 steps; assistance is provided. Wheelchair users can participate up to the harbor but may need help transferring. Children under 12 must wear life jackets (provided). The minibus has high steps; drivers assist with folding wheelchairs. Xigia and White Beach have pebble entry—water shoes recommended. Those with back issues should consult a doctor before booking.
Is lunch included in the price?
Lunch is not included but scheduled for 1 hour at a traditional taverna near the northern port. Options range from €10–15 for fresh fish, Greek salad, or moussaka. Vegetarian/gluten-free available. The guide recommends local specialties and helps with orders. Bottled water is provided throughout; bring cash as some venues don’t accept cards. Alternatively, pack a picnic if preferred.
Can we swim at Navagio Shipwreck Beach?
Swimming directly at Navagio Beach is not included due to strong currents, shallow draft restrictions, and marine park rules. However, you enjoy a 30-minute sea-level photo stop with the wreck as backdrop. Swimming occurs at safer, designated spots: Xigia (sulfur spa), Blue Caves (glowing waters), and White Beach (calm bay). All offer crystal-clear Ionian Sea access. Snorkeling near the wreck is prohibited to protect the site.
What if I’m staying in a remote area?
Pickup covers 45 locations, but accommodations over 10 km from Zakynthos Town (e.g., northernmost villages) may incur a €7.5/person surcharge each way, depending on group size. This is confirmed at booking. Airport/port pickup is free. If your hotel isn’t listed, you’ll be assigned the closest point (usually 5–10 minutes walk). Confirmation email includes exact time and driver contact. The system ensures no one is left behind.
