Zakynthos: Marathonisi, Cameo Island and Keri Caves Tour

Zakynthos, a captivating Greek island, offers visitors a chance to enjoy its natural wonders. The Marathonisi, Cameo Island, and Keri Caves Tour provides a unique opportunity to explore these remarkable destinations. From the iconic ‘Turtle Island‘ to the picturesque Cameo Island and the stunning Keri Caves, this comprehensive excursion promises an unforgettable experience. With a tasting at an olive oil press and the convenience of luxury transportation, this tour caters to those seeking to uncover Zakynthos’ rich cultural heritage. What hidden gems await as you embark on this captivating journey?

Key Points

• This 5-hour tour explores Marathonisi Island, Cameo Island, and the Keri Caves in Zakynthos, providing a comprehensive experience of the island’s top attractions.
• The tour includes a boat ride to Marathonisi Island, known as ‘Turtle Island,’ offering the opportunity to observe endangered loggerhead sea turtles in their natural habitat.
• Visitors can explore the picturesque Cameo Island, admire its 18th-century Venetian-inspired villa, and enjoy the island’s rich history and natural beauty.
• The tour includes a glass-bottom boat ride to the Keri Caves, allowing visitors to observe the underwater rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, as well as the vibrant marine life.
• The tour provides luxury Mercedes-Benz transportation, a boat ticket to Marathonisi Island, and access to towels, sunscreen, and snorkeling equipment, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Overview of the Tour

This 5-hour tour provides visitors an opportunity to explore some of Zakynthos’ top attractions, including the picturesque Marathonisi Island, the scenic Cameo Island, and the breathtaking Keri Caves.

Guests can choose between a morning or afternoon departure time and will travel in a luxury Mercedes-Benz.

The tour includes a boat ticket to Marathonisi Island, where travelers can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and spot local wildlife.

Visitors will also get to explore Cameo Island and the Keri Caves via a glass-bottom boat.

Along the way, they’ll stop at an olive oil press for a tasting and have access to towels, sunscreen, and snorkeling equipment.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 23 travelers.

Attractions on the Itinerary

The tour begins with a boat ride to Marathonisi Island, also known as ‘Turtle Island‘ due to its population of endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Visitors can explore the island’s serene beaches and lush vegetation, while keeping an eye out for the majestic turtles that call this place home.

From there, the tour moves on to Cameo Island, a picturesque destination known for its striking marble arch formation. Guests can stroll along the island’s scenic trails and admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding turquoise waters.

The final stop on the itinerary is the Keri Caves, where a glass-bottom boat provides a unique opportunity to observe the caves’ captivating geological formations and diverse marine life.

Boat Ride to Marathonisi Island

The tour begins with a boat ride whisking visitors away to the serene Marathonisi Island, also known as ‘Turtle Island‘ due to its population of endangered loggerhead sea turtles.

The glass-bottom boat provides a unique opportunity to observe the turtles and other marine life in their natural habitat. Visitors can disembark on the island and explore its picturesque beaches and caves, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters.

The boat trip also includes a stop at the nearby Cameo Island, where travelers can admire the historical architecture and natural beauty of this picturesque location.

Throughout the journey, the tour guide shares fascinating information about the islands’ ecology and cultural significance.

Exploration of Cameo Island

After exploring the serene Marathonisi Island, visitors then venture to the captivating Cameo Island, where they can admire its historical architecture and natural beauty.

This gem of an island offers a unique experience, with its:

• Elegant 18th-century villa, a stunning example of Venetian-inspired architecture
• Picturesque coves and beaches, perfect for swimming and relaxation
• Opportunities to spot local wildlife, including the elusive loggerhead sea turtle

Visitors can wander the island’s pathways, take in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the island’s rich history and tranquil ambiance. With its blend of cultural significance and natural splendor, Cameo Island is a must-visit destination for those exploring the wonders of Zakynthos.

Visit to Aristeon Olive Oil Press

Visitors on the tour also get to experience a visit to the Aristeon Olive Oil Press, where they can enjoy a free olive oil tasting and learn about the traditional olive oil production process.

The family-owned olive oil press has been in operation for generations, using time-honored techniques to extract the finest quality olive oil. Guests are guided through the facility, observing the various stages of production and learning about the history and cultural significance of olive oil in the region.

The tasting offers a chance to sample the rich, flavorful olive oil, providing insight into the care and attention that goes into crafting this essential Mediterranean ingredient.

Glass-bottom Boat to Keri Caves

The glass-bottom boat takes visitors on a journey to explore the captivating Keri Caves, allowing them to marvel at the stunning underwater rock formations and glimpse the diverse marine life thriving within this natural wonder. As the boat glides across the crystal-clear waters, passengers can peer through the transparent panels and witness the mesmerizing beauty of this subterranean landscape.

The Keri Caves boast a rich array of stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing the intricate geological processes that have shaped this remarkable environment over centuries.

Vibrant schools of fish and other marine creatures can be spotted darting through the underwater caverns, providing a glimpse into the vibrant ecosystem that calls these caves home.

The glass-bottom boat experience offers a unique and immersive way for visitors to connect with the natural wonders of Zakynthos, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the island’s remarkable geological and ecological treasures.

Pickup and Transportation Details

The tour package includes convenient pickup service for guests, with a complimentary transfer within 10 kilometers of the office location.

Those staying further afield, between 10 to 20 kilometers, can opt for a small additional charge of €25 per booking. Guests should be ready for pickup 30 minutes before the scheduled tour time.

The tour van prominently displays the Dali Tours logo, making it easy to identify. Cruise ship passengers are picked up directly from the cruise terminal, ensuring a smooth start to the day’s adventure.

The reliable Mercedes-Benz transportation provides a comfortable and secure journey to the tour’s stunning destinations along the Zakynthos coastline.

Important Tour Information

Guests receive confirmation of their booking at the time of purchase.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted. Infants must sit on laps, though infant seats are available.

There are no restrooms on the boat or Marathonisi Island, so participants should use facilities before boarding.

Floating canteens on Marathonisi Island provide snacks and refreshments.

Visitors should wear swimsuits under their clothing, as there will be opportunities for water-based activities at the tour sites.

The maximum group size is 23 travelers.

Bottled water and full insurance are included. Towels, sunscreen, and snorkeling equipment are provided.

There’s an extra charge of €25 per booking if the hotel is more than 10-20km from the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows travelers to bring their own food and drinks, but there are also floating canteens on Marathonisi Island that offer snacks and refreshments. Travelers can choose to purchase items on-site or bring their own.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The standard tour is a half-day experience, providing transportation, boat tickets, and access to the key attractions in Zakynthos. Extending the tour would require booking a separate, longer excursion.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?

There is no specific discount for booking the tour in advance. However, booking early can help ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons. The standard tour price applies whether booked in advance or closer to the tour date.

Can I Request a Specific Pickup Location Outside the Designated Area?

While the tour provider offers free pickup service within 10km of their office, they can accommodate requests for pickup locations outside this area for an additional charge of €25 per booking. Guests should inquire about this option when making their reservation.

What Happens if I Miss the Scheduled Pickup Time?

If the customer misses the scheduled pickup time, they may need to make their own way to the tour’s meeting point. The tour company typically cannot wait or make additional stops, so the customer would be responsible for joining the group at the next location.

Recap

The Zakynthos: Marathonisi, Cameo Island and Keri Caves Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to discover the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

From the tranquil Marathonisi Island to the picturesque Cameo Island, and the captivating Keri Caves, this comprehensive excursion offers a well-rounded and immersive experience.

With luxury transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a range of amenities, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Zakynthos.