Zakynthos: Cruises to the blue caves and the shipwreck beach

Exploring Zakynthos by Sea: A Close-Up Look at the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Zakynthos and looking for a way to see its most iconic sights, a cruise to the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach might be just what you need. This experience, run by the long-standing local company Actipis Cruises, offers a compact but memorable 2-hour journey along the island’s coast, with stops for photos, swimming, and soaking up the scenery.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the charm of traditional boats with modern safety features, making it accessible and comfortable. Plus, the fact that Actipis Cruises has been offering excursions since 1988 gives you a sense of trust and local expertise. That said, it’s worth noting that the cruise is relatively short—if you’re after a full day or multiple stops, you might want to explore other options. This tour, however, suits travelers who want a quick, scenic taste of Zakynthos’ highlights, especially if you’re tight on time or want a relaxed introduction to the island by sea.

Key Points

• Efficient and well-organized 2-hour cruise covering top sights
• Stops for swimming and taking photos at the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach
• Traditional glass-bottom boats and speedboats add a special touch
• Friendly and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience
• Flexible options for longer beach stays if weather permits
• Suitable for travelers who value authentic, local-run experiences with great scenery

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Zakynthos Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach Tour

This cruise is designed for those who want to enjoy Zakynthos’ most famous spots without the hassle of planning multiple excursions or long boat rides. Starting from the port of Agios Nikolaos, you’ll hop aboard a modern, safe boat—many with glass bottoms—that allows for a good view of the underwater scene underneath. The boats are a key feature here, blending tradition with safety to make the journey both enjoyable and secure.

The Itinerary: A Short but Sweet Adventure

The cruise lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick escape from the busy island. The route covers three main stops: Shipwreck Beach, the Blue Caves, and Selina Beach, with optional extra time on the beach if weather and schedule allow.

First Stop: Shipwreck Beach

This is the most iconic image of Zakynthos—an abandoned ship resting on a golden beach surrounded by towering cliffs. The guide typically allocates around 20 minutes for photos and relaxation. Since the tour is timed, this is a good chance to snap some memorable shots of the wreck with the cliffs as a dramatic backdrop.

Travelers often comment on how stunning the scene is, with reviews mentioning that “we were the first family to start cruising when the shipwreck happened,” emphasizing the tour’s long-standing presence in the area. If you wish to stay longer on the beach, you can join the next scheduled route, weather permitting.

Second Stop: The Blue Caves

Next, the boat heads to the Blue Caves, where you’ll get to enter the caves and experience the mesmerizing waters. The caves are famous for their vibrant blue hues, which glow in the sunlight filtering through the openings. The guide will stop for a swim and photos in these waters—trust us, the color is even more impressive in person.

Many travelers praise the stunning scenery and the chance to take unique photographs. If you love nature and scenic views, this part of the tour is a definite highlight. The Blue Caves are a must-see for anyone who appreciates natural beauty and enjoys a quick swim in crystal-clear waters.

Final Stop: Selina Beach

The last stop provides another opportunity for a swim before heading back to the port. It’s a quieter spot, offering a relaxed end to a busy morning or afternoon. The tour wraps up with a scenic return trip, giving you a chance to reflect on the sights you’ve seen.

The Boats and the Experience

One of the distinctive features of this tour is the traditional glass-bottom boats and speedboats. The glass bottoms are especially fun—they allow you to see beneath the water without getting wet, adding an extra layer of exploration. Many reviews highlight how these boats make the experience feel more authentic and engaging.

The boats are described as modern and safe, which is great for peace of mind. The seating is comfortable, and the crew is friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing insights about the sights along the way.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a short, scenic trip that hits the high points of Zakynthos’ coastal beauty. It’s perfect if you’re staying nearby or have limited time but still want to see the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach. Because of its straightforward nature, it also suits families or groups looking for an easy, enjoyable activity.

If you’re someone who enjoys authentic local experiences, supporting a family-run business like Actipis Cruises adds to the appeal. Also, the option to stay longer at the beaches if the weather is good offers some flexibility.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Practical Details

• The cruise lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
• It departs from Agios Nikolaos.
• Reservations can be made with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
• You can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still flexible.
• The boats are wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.
• The experience is offered in multiple languages, with some content shown in its original language, which shouldn’t be a problem for most travelers.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the tour’s duration and inclusions suggest good value, especially considering the scenic stops and the personal touch of a long-established local operator. It’s a quick way to tick off two major sights with comfortable and safe transportation, making it appealing for those wanting a hassle-free experience.

Authentic, Scenic, and Friendly: Who Is This Tour For?

In the end, this cruise suits travelers seeking a brief but impactful sea adventure. It’s especially good for those who want to see the highlights without long waits or complicated booking. The friendly guides and safe boats make it a reliable choice, and the scenic stops deliver the visual pay-off you’re looking for.

It’s a good pick for families, couples, or solo adventurers who prioritize comfort, scenery, and a taste of Zakynthos’ natural beauty. If you’re after a longer, more in-depth exploration, this might be a good starting point but not your only activity.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, covering Shipwreck Beach, the Blue Caves, and Selina Beach.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the port of Agios Nikolaos.

Are the boats safe and modern?
Yes, the boats are described as modern and safe, with many featuring glass bottoms for an added view of the water beneath.

Can I stay longer at the Shipwreck Beach?
Yes, if you wish to stay longer on the beach, you can return with the next route, weather permitting.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the tour’s family-run nature and short duration suggest it could work for families, but it’s best to consider your children’s comfort with boat rides and swimming.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any language barrier?
The tour is offered in multiple languages, and some content is shown in its original language, so communication shouldn’t be an issue.

Do I need to bring any special gear?
Typically, for swimming stops, bring your swimsuit and towel. The boats are equipped for safe swimming sessions.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boats are wheelchair accessible.

What makes this tour stand out?
It’s operated by a trusted, long-established family business, with friendly guides, scenic routes, and the unique experience of traditional glass-bottom boats.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a quick, scenic introduction to Zakynthos’ most famous sights, this cruise ticks the boxes. It offers a relaxed pace, friendly local service, and views that will stay with you long after the boat ride ends. While it’s not a full-day adventure, it’s a perfect way to add some sea-based magic to your trip, especially if you’re limited on time or want a stress-free, picturesque outing.

The combination of safety, tradition, and scenic beauty makes this tour a solid choice for those wanting to experience Zakynthos from the water without the fuss. Just remember, it’s a brief snapshot—if you’re craving more time exploring, consider supplementing this with additional tours or time on land.

Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach from the water provide a perspective you won’t forget — a beautiful, natural showcase of this Greek island’s charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: