TURTLE BOAT TOUR

When it comes to exploring Greece’s stunning coastlines and marine life, the Turtle Boat Tour offers a genuinely memorable experience. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on many detailed reviews and its clear itinerary, it seems like a fantastic option for anyone eager to see real wildlife in its natural habitat, combined with some scenic sights and engaging boat time.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on nature and conservation — you get to see the Caretta Caretta turtles up close and learn about them from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the boat’s glass-bottom feature adds a fun element to the experience, giving you a peek beneath the waves.

However, a potential consideration is that the glass-bottom section is quite small, which might limit views for some. Also, the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, or snorkel gear, so if you’re planning to swim or spend more time in the water, you’ll need to bring your own essentials.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who appreciate wildlife, enjoy boat rides, and want a relaxed day exploring Greece’s marine environment without too many frills — especially if you’re traveling with a keen interest in turtles and caves.

Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: The tour centers on spotting Caretta Caretta turtles, with guaranteed sightings and educational guides.
• Scenic Stops: Includes visits to iconic spots like Keri Caves, Kamares Bridge, and the turtle-shaped Marathonisi island.
• Boat Experience: Uses special small glass-bottom boats for a peek at the seabed, adding a layer of fun.
• Flexible Departures: Three departure times (9 am, 12 pm, 3 pm) suit different schedules.
• Limited Inclusions: No food, drinks, or snorkeling gear included—bring your own if you want to swim.
• Parking & Accessibility: Free parking available at the port, but spaces are limited during high season.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Turtle Boat Tour

If you’re someone who loves discovering wildlife in its natural environment, this 3-hour boat trip in Western Greece hits all the right notes. Not only does it focus on Caretta Caretta turtles, one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating marine creatures, but it also offers a well-rounded view of the stunning coastlines and caves that make this part of Greece so special.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at the port in Laganás, with easy access and the convenience of free parking (though, as noted, spaces can fill up during busy times). The departure times are thoughtfully spaced out—giving you flexibility for your day.

The first part of the cruise is aboard special boats with glass bottoms. While the actual viewing area is small, it offers a glimpse of the seabed, which many find intriguing, especially when the water is clear. The guides are said to be knowledgeable and engaging, providing insights into the marine environment and the turtles you might encounter.

The boat then meanders around the National Marine Park, an area protected for its rich biodiversity. This is where the magic happens — the guide’s efforts at turtle spotting seem to be effective, with reviews mentioning guaranteed sightings of these gentle creatures.

The Turtle Sightings

One reviewer, Jennifer from the US, highlights the importance of space between boats to allow turtles to breathe freely. She notes, “We saw a turtle, but it’s quite sad because all of the boats swarm the one turtle.” This points to a common issue in popular wildlife spots: overcrowding. Fortunately, the guide’s efforts to keep a respectful distance seem appreciated and crucial for the animals’ comfort.

Cave Exploration and Swimming Opportunities

Next, you’ll explore the Keri Caves, which are described as enchanting and worth the visit. The tour passes under the “Kamares” bridge, allowing for some great photo opportunities. If you love caves and the idea of swimming in clear waters, this part of the tour is likely to be a highlight.

The last stop at Marathonisi, the turtle-shaped island, is perfect for swimming and relaxing. The Golden Nesting Beach is a favorite for those wanting a fun and laid-back time in the sun. You also get a chance to see the caves from inside, adding a bit of adventure and discovery.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What We Loved

• The focus on wildlife makes this tour stand out. Seeing turtles in their habitat feels authentic, especially with the guides’ efforts to maintain a respectful distance.
• The scenic coastal views and cave explorations add a visual feast, making the trip more than just a wildlife safari.
• The glass-bottom boat gives a unique perspective of the underwater world, even if the viewing area is limited.
• The flexible departure times make it easier to fit into your daily plans, especially if you’re staying in nearby areas.

What Could Be Better

• The small glass-bottom viewing area might disappoint some who expect more extensive underwater views.
• Since food, drinks, and snorkeling gear aren’t included, you’ll need to plan ahead if you want to swim longer or have a snack onboard.
• Parking can be limited during high season, so arriving early or arranging transport might be necessary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those curious about marine life. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy boat trips, caves, and spotting animals in the wild. It’s less ideal for those seeking a luxurious cruise or those wanting an all-inclusive day with food and activities.

The Value of This Tour

At $54 per person, the price reflects a focused, wildlife-centered experience. Since it includes boat transportation and guaranteed turtle sightings, many would find this quite reasonable, especially given the rarity of close-up encounters with Caretta Caretta turtles. However, if you’re after a full-day adventure with food and snorkeling, you might want to look at other options.

The small group size and personalized guide experience seem to be part of what makes this trip special. Plus, the opportunity to capture photos of turtles and caves makes it a memorable outing, whether you’re a photography buff or just want some great holiday snaps.

Final Thoughts

This Turtle Boat Tour offers a unique glimpse into Greece’s marine environment. It’s well-suited for travelers drawn to wildlife, caves, and scenic boat rides. The emphasis on eco-friendly methods and respectful wildlife viewing makes it feel responsible and genuine.

If you’re looking for a relatively short yet enriching adventure that combines nature, caves, and a chance to see turtles in the wild, this trip is a worthwhile choice. Keep in mind the limited amenities onboard and the small viewing area for the glass-bottom boat, but overall, it sounds like a memorable experience.

For those who want to blend wildlife encounters with scenic exploration in a relaxed setting, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just arrive prepared with your camera and sunscreen, and you’re all set for a day of discovery in Greece’s stunning marine park.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What time are the departures?
You can choose from three departure times: 9:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., or 3:00 p.m., offering flexibility for your schedule.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food, drinks, and snorkeling gear are not included, so plan to bring your own if you want to swim longer or have a snack.

Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available at the port, but it can be limited during high season, so arriving early is recommended.

Can I see the turtles easily?
Yes, the tour guarantees turtle sightings, and the guides work to keep a respectful distance to ensure the turtles are not disturbed.

What is the condition of the boat?
The boats are specially designed with glass bottoms for underwater viewing, though the size of the viewing area is small.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children comfortable on boats and interested in wildlife would enjoy it. No specific age restrictions are mentioned.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and confirm your preferred departure time.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure—bright blue waters, playful turtles, and caves to explore—I’d recommend booking ahead. It’s a chance to connect with Greece’s marine life in a respectful and scenic way that’s hard to match.

You can check availability for your dates here: