Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonísi & Keri Caves Cruise

Zakynthos, the idyllic Greek island, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike. The island’s crystal-clear waters and rugged limestone landscapes set the stage for an unforgettable eco-friendly boat tour, where visitors can embark on a journey to witness the majestic loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat. As the glass-bottom boat glides across the tranquil waters, the tour promises breathtaking views of the renowned Marathonisi Island and the captivating Keri Caves. With the opportunity to swim in the pristine coves and capture stunning photographs, this excursion offers a truly immersive experience that seamlessly blends exploration, relaxation, and a chance to connect with the island’s remarkable marine life.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Zakynthos.

Key Points

• The 3-hour eco-friendly glass-bottom boat tour offers opportunities to spot loggerhead turtles, swim at Marathonisi Island, and explore Keri Caves.
• The cruise provides a chance to observe protected loggerhead turtles (Caretta Caretta) in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation.
• Guests can swim at the turtle nesting site of Marathonisi Island and enjoy the scenic natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the island.
• The cruise includes a relaxing swim stop at the Keri Caves, where guests can float in the crystal-clear waters and admire the towering limestone formations.
• The tour is suitable for all ages and skill levels, with complimentary food and drinks provided, and free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity, titled ‘Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting, Marathonisi & Keri Caves Cruise,’ offers a 3-hour eco-friendly glass-bottom boat tour that allows visitors to spot loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat.

Priced from $27.12 to $32.67 per person, this tour provides an opportunity to swim at the Marathonisi Island, known for turtle nesting, and explore the Keri Caves with their crystal clear waters.

The tour includes a guide, food, drinks, and optional tips, but isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, pets, or those with large luggage.

Customers can reserve now and pay later, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Highlights of the Experience

Eco-friendly glass-bottom vessels ferry guests on this captivating cruise, allowing them to spot loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat.

The experience offers a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures, known as Caretta Caretta, going about their daily lives.

Guests can take a refreshing swim at the stunning Marathonisi Island, a known turtle nesting site.

The cruise also includes a stop at the breathtaking Keri Caves, where visitors can enjoy the crystal clear waters.

Throughout the journey, guests are encouraged to capture memorable photos and videos of the turtles, making this an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers alike.

Detailed Itinerary

Guests depart from the Gulf of Laganas to embark on this captivating cruise, where they’ll learn about the loggerhead turtles (Caretta Caretta) and their natural habitat.

The tour takes visitors to the stunning Marathonisi Island, known for its turtle nesting grounds, where they can swim and explore the Golden Nesting Beach.

Next, the cruise heads to the breathtaking Keri Caves, offering a chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters and capture unique photos and videos of the turtles.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the turtles’ behavior and conservation efforts, ensuring an enriching and educational experience for all.

• Swim stops at Keri Caves and Marathonisi Island

• Explore the Golden Nesting Beach

• Learn about loggerhead turtles and their habitat

Inclusions and Exclusions

This cruise package includes a glass-bottom boat tour, an informative guide, as well as complimentary food and drinks.

Notably, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, pets, or those with large bags or luggage.

The glass-bottom boat allows passengers to peer into the crystal-clear waters and potentially spot loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat.

During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to swim at the Keri Caves and Marathonisi Island, known for its turtle nesting grounds.

However, the cruise isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility or who need to bring large items.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have shared a range of perspectives on the Zakynthos cruise experience, with an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 620 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the friendly and knowledgeable guides, the fulfilling experience of spotting loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat, and the enjoyment of swimming in the crystal clear waters of Keri Caves and Marathonisi Island.

While some reviewers felt the cruise wasn’t a must-see, the majority still expressed satisfaction with the trip. The opportunity to capture unique photos and videos of the turtles was also a highlight for many.

The Zakynthos cruise offers an engaging eco-friendly adventure for those seeking a glimpse into the lives of these remarkable sea creatures.

• Friendly and knowledgeable guides

• Rewarding turtle sightings and swimming experiences

• Mixed feedback on the cruise’s necessity but overall satisfaction

Turtle Species Spotting

The cruise provides opportunities to spot the iconic loggerhead turtles (Caretta Caretta), which are the primary species found in the waters surrounding Zakynthos. Known for their distinctive reddish-brown shells, these turtles are a protected species and one of the main draws for visitors to the island.

As the glass-bottom boat glides through the clear waters, guests have the chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, swimming and feeding.

The cruise also takes visitors to the Golden Nesting Beach, where loggerhead turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, providing a unique glimpse into their breeding behaviors.

Exploring Marathonisi Island

One of the highlights of the Zakynthos cruise is the opportunity to explore Marathonisi Island, a picturesque islet known for its role as a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles.

Visitors can take a swim stop at the island, where they can observe the turtles in their natural habitat. The tour also includes a visit to the island’s Golden Nesting Beach, where guests can learn about the turtles’ nesting behaviors and conservation efforts.

Plus, the island offers stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and photography.

• Opportunity to observe loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat

• Visit to the island’s Golden Nesting Beach

• Stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere

Relaxing Swim at Keri Caves

The cruise’s tranquil swim stop at the Keri Caves allows visitors to enjoy the region’s crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural scenery.

Sheltered from the open sea, the caves’ tranquil coves offer a serene respite for guests to relax, swim, and capture stunning photographs of the limestone formations.

Floating effortlessly in the cool, inviting waters, travelers can admire the towering cliffs that surround the caves, their intricate patterns and textures sculpted by the elements over centuries.

The opportunity to swim and explore this picturesque natural wonder is a highlight of the Keri Caves experience, providing a peaceful interlude amidst the day’s adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Spot Turtles?

The best time to spot turtles is during the summer months when they come onshore to nest. Loggerhead sea turtles typically lay their eggs between May and August, making this the prime season for turtle sightings.

How Many Turtles Can We Typically Expect to See?

Visitors can typically expect to see several loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) during the peak summer months. The number of sightings can vary depending on factors like weather, time of day, and turtle migration patterns in the area.

Is the Boat Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The boat is suitable for families with young children, as it offers a glass-bottom design that allows for easy viewing and a relaxed, scenic cruise. Children will enjoy spotting turtles and swimming in the crystal clear waters.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour details state that it "includes: food and drinks", suggesting that outside food and beverages are permitted as well.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements to Participate?

There are no age or fitness requirements to participate in this tour. The cruise is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as activities like swimming and snorkeling are optional. Guests can enjoy the sights and activities at their own pace.

Recap

The Zakynthos glass-bottom boat tour offers a unique opportunity to observe the local marine life, including the endangered loggerhead turtles, while also exploring the stunning natural wonders of Marathonisi Island and the Keri Caves.

With complimentary refreshments and ample time for swimming and photography, this eco-friendly excursion provides the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for nature enthusiasts and photography buffs alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: