Zakynthos: Small boat trip to Keri, Mizithres & Marathonisi

Exploring Zakynthos: A Detailed Look at the Small Boat Trip to Keri, Mizithres & Marathonisi

If you’re considering a day on the water in Zakynthos, this boat trip from Agios Sostis promises a mix of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and a taste of local flavors. While it’s not the longest or most luxurious cruise, it offers enough highlights to be worthwhile—especially if you’re into caves, swimming, and the chance to see Caretta-Caretta turtles.

What we really like about this experience is how intimate it feels. With small groups of just 8-10 people, it’s easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without feeling lost in a crowd. Plus, the trip covers some iconic spots like the Keri Caves and Marathonisi island, which are must-sees for anyone visiting the area. That said, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t about luxury or extensive sightseeing—it’s more of a straightforward but charming adventure.

One potential hitch? The boat’s capacity and the hasty driver mentioned in a review suggest that timing and pace might feel a bit rushed or crowded, especially if you value a more leisurely experience. But if you’re after quick hits of beautiful scenery and wildlife, this could be just right. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a guided, well-organized outing without the fuss of a full-day excursion.

This tour is best suited for those who crave scenic views, want to see turtles, and enjoy local food in a relaxed setting. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty, it’s worth considering.

Key Points:

• Small group size enhances intimacy and comfort on the boat.
• The boat trip includes visits to the Keri Caves and Marathonisi, two of Zakynthos’s most photographed spots.
• Wildlife spotting opportunities, especially for Caretta-Caretta turtles, add a special touch.
• Includes a local lunch, giving a taste of Zakynthian cuisine.
• The tour provides transportation and insurance, simplifying logistics.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with motion sickness, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

When we think about a day spent exploring Zakynthos from the water, this tour seems to hit the essentials. Starting from Agios Sostis, the journey begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride to the port. We appreciate this part because it takes the hassle out of logistics and lets you settle into the day’s adventure. The boat itself is small—accommodating just 8-10 people—which feels cozy and allows for a more personal experience.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

The main draw here is the three-hour boat trip that whisks you around some of Zakynthos’s most alluring spots. The first stop is the Keri Caves—a series of impressive limestone formations with striking formations and caves carved by the sea. We loved the way the caves looked from the boat, with their towering walls and hidden pockets perfect for exploring.

Next, the boat takes you to Marathonisi, often called the turtle island. The clear waters surrounding it are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, which you’ll likely enjoy if you’re into aquatic adventures. The chance to spot the Caretta-Caretta turtles adds a memorable element—there’s excitement in keeping an eye out for these majestic creatures as they glide past the boat.

The trip’s pace is generally relaxed, but some reviews mentioned the driver being a bit too hasty, which can make the experience feel a little rushed. The views and wildlife sightings tend to make up for it.

The Waters and Wildlife

The highlight for many is the opportunity to snorkel in the Ionian Sea. The waters are beautifully clear, offering decent visibility for those who want to see the underwater life. The chance of catching sight of a Caretta-Caretta turtle is genuinely special—these turtles are iconic to Zakynthos, and their presence makes the trip more than just sightseeing; it’s a wildlife encounter.

Food and Local Flavor

After the boat ride, you’ll head back to a traditional tavern near the harbor for a local lunch. The dishes are described as delightful, giving you a taste of authentic Zakynthian cuisine. It’s a nice way to relax and review the morning’s adventures, plus it’s included in the price, which is a decent value considering the trip and meal.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers transportation, a small boat, lunch, escort, liability insurance, and local taxes. The only extra expense is drinks, so if you want water or something more refreshing, you’ll need to bring your own.

Practical Tips and Considerations

If you’re someone who gets motion sickness or is pregnant, this tour might not be suitable. The small boat can be a bit lively, especially if the sea is choppy, and there’s no mention of special accommodations for sensitive travelers.

For those traveling with a group of 8-10 people, you even have the option to rent your own boat, which could be a little more private and flexible. Keep in mind that the tour lasts around 7 hours, so be prepared for a full day of activity.

The Reviews: What Others Are Saying

While the overall rating is 3.5 out of 5 based on four reviews, the comments highlight some consistent positives. One reviewer gave a perfect score for the skipper and tour operator, noting the crew’s professionalism and friendliness. The same review mentioned that the driver was a bit hasty, which aligns with the earlier point about pace.

Another reviewer appreciated the stunning views and the chance to see wildlife, making the trip memorable despite some minor criticisms about the speed of the boat or the tight schedule. It’s also worth noting that the tour’s intimate size seems to be a real plus for many.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is a good fit for travelers who want a short, scenic boat ride with opportunities for swimming and wildlife spotting. If you’re after a straightforward day with beautiful views, local food, and a chance to see turtles, this could be a good choice.

However, if your primary goal is a leisurely, unhurried experience or you’re prone to motion sickness, you might want to look for options with larger boats or longer, more relaxed itineraries.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Zakynthos small boat trip to Keri, Mizithres, and Marathonisi offers a taste of the island’s natural beauty and charming local culture in a compact package. It balances scenic highlights with wildlife encounters, giving you a good introduction to the area’s most photogenic spots. The inclusion of a local lunch makes it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free day, especially if you prefer organized tours over DIY adventures.

It’s not the most luxurious or leisurely experience out there, but it’s reliable, well-organized, and offers memorable views—especially if you’re keen to catch sight of Caretta-Caretta turtles or explore the caves. For those who enjoy small-group outings and scenic boat rides, this one deserves a place on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, keep in mind that the boat is small and can be lively. If your kids are comfortable with boat rides and swimming, it can be fun; just ensure they’re not prone to motion sickness.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat trip itself lasts about 3 hours, but the full experience, including transportation and lunch, totals around 7 hours.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation with an air-conditioned vehicle, the small boat ride, lunch with local dishes, an escort, liability insurance, and local taxes.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to bring your own if you want water or other beverages.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear because you’ll be swimming and spending time in the sun.

Is it possible to rent a private boat?
Yes, if you’re part of a group of 8-10 people, you might be able to have your own boat, which could give you more flexibility.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with motion sickness.

How do I know what time the tour starts?
You’ll be contacted by email a few days before your excursion with your exact pick-up time and location.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Most travelers rave about the stunning views of the caves and the chance to see Caretta-Caretta turtles swimming nearby.

Can I expect a lot of time at each stop?
The tour is fairly quick-paced, especially with a hasty driver noted in reviews, so you’ll want to be ready for a brisk schedule.

If you value scenic views, wildlife, and a cozy group atmosphere, this Zakynthos boat trip might be just what you’re after. It’s a straightforward option to enjoy some of the island’s best sights without the fuss of a full-day tour or luxury cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here: