From St.Nikolaos: Boat Cruise to Navagio Beach & Blue Caves

If you’re planning a trip to Zakynthos and considering a boat tour that hits the highlights of the island’s coastline, these cruises are quite popular. They promise a blend of iconic sights like the shipwreck at Navagio Beach and the Blue Caves, all wrapped up in a relatively short, budget-friendly package. From what we’ve seen and heard from travelers, it’s an experience that’s both charming and visually stunning—but not without a few things to keep in mind.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are how intimate and manageable the boat experience feels, especially on the smaller glass-bottom boats, and how breathtaking the scenery is. You’ll get close enough to marvel at the shipwreck and peer into the marine life beneath the Blue Caves, which makes for some truly memorable photos. The price is also quite accessible, making it a good choice if you’re after a straightforward, scenic trip without breaking the bank.

On the flip side, weather can be a real factor—since Navagio Beach is quite remote and relies heavily on calm seas, there’s a chance that poor weather might mean a change of plans or a shorter visit. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or meals, so you’ll need to organize transport and bring your own snacks. This tour feels best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic taste of Zakynthos’s highlights, especially if they enjoy smaller boats and marine scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Highlights: You’ll visit the world-famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves, both of which are must-see spots.
• Small, Intimate Group: The use of a smaller boat makes the experience more personal and allows for better views.
• Weather Sensitivity: The trip depends heavily on good weather; rough seas could limit certain stops.
• Cost-Effective: At around $33.88 per person, it offers a good bang for your buck for the experience you get.
• Includes Swim Stops: You can ask for life vests and swim in the clear waters, especially at the Blue Caves.
• Flexible Booking: You can reserve without paying upfront and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

This boat cruise is a classic day trip that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and a bit of adventure. Starting at the port of St. Nikolaos, you’ll meet your captain and crew—most notably “Takis Karidis”—and set off into the open water. The cruise lasts roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, which is enough time to see the main sights without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Navagio Beach
As the boat approaches Navagio, you’ll understand instantly why this beach is so famous. Surrounded by high marble cliffs, the white sands and the iconic shipwreck make for a stunning picture. The captain will share the story behind the abandoned vessel, adding a layer of intrigue to the experience. Since the beach is remote, access is only by sea, and the views from the boat are often the only way to see it close up unless you’re here for a longer stay.

Review Highlights:
One traveler mentioned, “Making memorable photos while the captain turned the boat for all sides”—which is a great reminder that this stop is more about the scenery than extended lounging. Another review noted that the beach can be crowded, but even then, the experience is worth it because of its uniqueness.

Second Stop: Blue Caves and Marine Life
After exploring Navagio, the boat will head to the Blue Caves—a favorite for their striking electric blue waters and the way sunlight hits the caves, creating phenomenal colors. On a glass-bottom boat, you’ll see fish, corals, and marine life, making it a fun underwater view without even getting wet. If you want, you can request a life vest for swimming, and many do take the opportunity to dip into the cool, clear water.

Reviewer insights:
Multiple reviews highlight the good viewing on the boat and describe swimming at the Blue Caves as “something out of mind.” The caves are relatively small and accessible, so they’re perfect for a quick photo op and some water fun.

The Experience on the Boat

Most guests comment on the comfort and friendliness of the crew. The boats are described as new and comfortable, with options to stay inside or outside, depending on your preference. The small group size creates a more personal atmosphere, which many travelers appreciate.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, the captain might adjust the itinerary if seas are rough or if conditions aren’t ideal for Navagio. Some reviews mention delays or alternative plans, but overall, travelers seem satisfied with the flexibility and professionalism of the crew.

At just under $34 per person, this cruise offers good value—especially considering the stops at Navagio and the Blue Caves, which are highlights of Zakynthos. The price includes the cruise ticket, the experienced captain and crew, and swim stops. However, it does not include hotel pickup, food, or drinks, so plan accordingly.

Many reviews praise the trip for being affordable and well-organized, with some noting that it’s a shorter trip but packed with iconic sights. If you’re someone who prefers a day packed with easily accessible highlights, this tour delivers.

What You’ll Need to Bring

• Swimwear and a towel if you want to swim
• Sunscreen for protection from the sun
• A jacket in case it gets windy
• Be prepared for a weather-dependent experience, so check the forecast before booking

Several reviews reinforce that this is a friendly, well-run tour with knowledgeable guides and crew. One traveler mentioned that despite arriving late, the captain helped organize a plan B—which shows good flexibility and customer care.

Others appreciate the stunning scenery—saying it was “truly amazing,” with “so much fun.” Though, some mention the crowds at Navagio—a reminder that this spot is very popular and can be busy.

A few notes from reviews remind us to be organized with transport to the meeting point, as it’s at a restaurant a few minutes from the harbor, which can be a bit chaotic if you’re not prepared.

This cruise is a great pick for budget-conscious travelers who want to see the must-visit sights without a fuss. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy short, scenic excursions with the chance to swim and take photos. The small boat and personalized feeling make it more cozy than some larger group tours, appealing to travelers who prefer a more intimate experience.

While not ideal for travelers seeking longer beach stays or full-day adventures, it suits anyone eager for a snapshot of Zakynthos’s most famous spots in a manageable timeframe.

This boat cruise from St. Nikolaos offers a solid way to experience two of Zakynthos’s most iconic sights—Navagio Beach and the Blue Caves—without a hefty price tag. The small boat and friendly crew create a comfortable, personal atmosphere, giving you great views and some fun swimming opportunities.

It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind weather-dependent plans and want a short, scenic trip that hits the highlights. The experience is visually stunning, and the stories shared by the crew add a nice touch of local flavor.

If you’re after a cost-effective, well-organized, and photo-worthy adventure, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to bring sun protection and be flexible with the weather—sometimes nature decides how your plans unfold.

Is hotel pickup included? No, you’ll need to meet at the designated restaurant at the port of St. Nikolaos.

How long is the tour? Expect around 2.5 to 3 hours, which is enough to see the main sights without feeling rushed.

Can I swim at the Blue Caves or Navagio Beach? You can swim at the Blue Caves if you request a life vest and the captain allows it. The beach at Navagio is only accessible by boat, so swimming is possible if conditions permit.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a jacket — weather can change quickly, and you’ll want to be comfortable.

Is the trip weather-dependent? Yes, the tour relies heavily on good weather. If seas are rough, the captain might skip Navagio or adjust the itinerary.

Are there options for private trips? Yes, private group options are available for a more personalized experience.

What’s the cost? Around $33.88 per person, which is quite affordable considering the sights you’ll see.

Is this trip suitable for families? While there’s no specific mention of family-friendliness, the short duration and scenic stops make it generally suitable for most travelers, but always check with the operator if you’re traveling with young children.

Ready to enjoy Zakynthos’s famous sights? This cruise offers a glimpse into the island’s beauty that’s hard to beat for the price. Just go prepared, keep an eye on the weather forecast, and enjoy the ride!

You can check availability for your dates here: