Exploring Zakynthos by Speedboat: Turtles, Caves, and Secluded Beaches
If you’re considering a day out on the water in Zakynthos, this speedboat tour covering Laganas, Marathonisi, and the Keri caves might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the reviews and description paint a compelling picture of a fun, nature-focused adventure. It’s a great way to see some of the island’s top sights without the hassle of big tours or crowded boats.
What really caught my eye are the close encounters with sea turtles and the chance to explore stunning caves and islets—each offering fantastic photo ops. Plus, the price point is quite reasonable, making it accessible for many travelers. That said, keep in mind that this is a relatively short experience—around 2.5 hours—and involves boat travel, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or are looking for a very leisurely day.
This tour is well-suited for those who love wildlife, natural beauty, and a bit of adventure. If you’re after a quick but memorable outing that combines wildlife viewing with scenic exploration, this could be a good pick. Just prepare for the sun and bring your camera!
Key Points
- Wildlife encounters with loggerhead turtles and Mediterranean monk seals are a highlight, with experts guiding you safely close to these creatures.
- Caves and geological sights like Cameo Islet and the Keri caves offer dramatic views and photo opportunities.
- The secluded beaches, especially Oasis and Marathonisi, provide spots to relax and swim in calm waters.
- The experience is eco-friendly, aiming to protect the marine environment while offering a fun adventure.
- The price of $24 per person offers good value considering the variety of sights and experiences packed into 2.5 hours.
- The guides and captains are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and caring attitude, making the trip more engaging and informative.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
Planning more time in Keri? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Out and Transportation
The adventure kicks off with a convenient pickup from your hotel or a pre-arranged spot in Zakynthos, taking away the stress of figuring out logistics. You’ll head over to Agios Sostis Harbor, where you’ll board a semi-yacht speedboat. The vessel itself looks to be comfortable enough for a short cruise, and the group sizes tend to keep things intimate enough for personalized attention, according to reviews.
The Marine Park Experience
Once underway, the tour brings you into the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, a protected sanctuary for native species like loggerhead sea turtles and Mediterranean monk seals. This part of the trip feels particularly special because of the chance to observe these animals in their natural habitat. Reviewers consistently mention the expert guides and captains who make the wildlife encounters safe and memorable.
One reviewer shared, “Great informative captain who made the experience amazing! Saw turtle and amazing caves :)” — which nicely sums up how the guides really enhance the trip, sharing insights and ensuring everyone gets a good view.
Caves and Geological Marvels
Next up are the Keri caves, situated on the southwestern coast. These caves, accessible only by boat, are a sight to behold—full of arches and formations carved over centuries. The boat zooms through the Kamares arches at speed, which adds an adrenaline rush to the scenery.
Another highlight is the Cameo Islet, created by an earthquake in 1633. It’s a small but striking formation that makes for a great photo backdrop. The combination of geological history and natural beauty makes this part of the tour particularly interesting for those who appreciate earth sciences or just enjoy a stunning landscape.
More Great Tours NearbySecluded Beach and Swim Stops
The tour includes a swim stop at Oasis Beach, a quiet, private spot perfect for cooling off and relaxing. It’s described as “secluded,” which means you can enjoy some peace away from crowds. The water is warm and inviting, ideal for a quick dip.
Later, the boat heads to Marathonisi, a turtle-shaped island and a well-known nesting site for loggerheads. This becomes the final swim stop of the day. Several reviewers noted how much they appreciated this part: “Swam in the waters or lounged on the beach,” describes a typical experience here.
- Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour South Coast & Swim Stops
- Zakynthos: Private Speedboat Tour to the Shipwreck and swim
- Zakynthos Main Port: Full-Day Cruise by Unique Pirate Ship
- Zakynthos: Romantic Sunset Tour & the Legend of the Dragon
- Zakynthos Gems: Eros Cave, Keri Caves, Mizithres Rocks
- Glass boat cruises to spot turtles
Overall Value and Experience
At $24 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. You’re getting close wildlife encounters, scenic caves, and a swim in beautiful waters—all in just a couple of hours. Reviews mention that the guides and captains are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and caring, which elevates the experience from just a boat ride to a memorable adventure.
Many guests emphasized the value for money: “Worth every penny,” said one reviewer, highlighting the quality of the sights and the friendly guides. This isn’t a luxury cruise, but it’s a well-organized, genuine excursion that delivers on its promises.
Practical Tips
To get the most out of this experience, come prepared: bring sunscreen, hats, water, snacks, and your camera. The tour is relatively short, so packing light makes sense. Also, be aware that it involves close wildlife encounters, so follow guides’ instructions carefully—this ensures safety and helps protect the animals.
The tour is not suitable for people with back problems, so keep that in mind if you have mobility concerns. The duration of 2.5 hours makes it manageable even for those with limited time or stamina.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This outing is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers who want a taste of Zakynthos’ marine life and scenic beauty without committing to a full-day trip. Families with older children who are comfortable on a boat should find it enjoyable, especially given the safe and guided nature of the activity.
If you’re looking for an educational experience with wildlife, or just want a quick way to see the caves and meet some turtles, this tour hits the mark. It’s also an excellent option for travelers on a budget, given the reasonable price and the variety of sights packed in.
Laganas:Turtles, Marathonisi, Keri caves with speedboat
“Great informative captain who made the experience amazing! Saw turtle and amazing caves :)”
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a quick but packed experience.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the eco-friendly turtle sighting cruise, visits to the National Marine Park, close encounters with turtles, exploration of Cameo Islet and caves, and swim stops at secluded beaches and Marathonisi.
Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s best to bring your own snacks and water.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. A waterproof bag for valuables might also be helpful.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it’s generally suitable for those comfortable on a boat and able to follow safety instructions. It’s not recommended for people with back problems.
What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Greek.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.
In the end, this speedboat tour combines wildlife viewing, scenic geology, and a splash of adventure—all at a reasonable price. It’s a solid choice if you want to see Zakynthos’ natural highlights without a long day of travel. Just pack your camera, a sense of adventure, and a desire to spot some turtles in the wild.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Keri
- Zakynthos: Glass Boat Swimming Tour with Turtle Spotting
- Zante Private Boat: Marathonisi, Keri Caves, Mizitres (max5)
- Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting and Keri Caves Boat Tour
- Zakynthos Private Sunset Boat: Keri Caves & Mizithres (max5)
- Laganas: Private boat rental with or without captain
- Zakynthos:Cruise Around the Island&Turtles by Eurosky
More Keri experiences we've covered
- Zakynthos: Glass Boat Swimming Tour with Turtle Spotting
- Zante Private Boat: Marathonisi, Keri Caves, Mizitres (max5)
- Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting and Keri Caves Boat Tour
- Zakynthos Private Sunset Boat: Keri Caves & Mizithres (max5)
- Laganas: Private boat rental with or without captain
- Zakynthos:Cruise Around the Island&Turtles by Eurosky
- Zakynthos: Small boat trip to Keri, Mizithres & Marathonisi
- Zakynthos: Sunset Cruise to Mizithres and Agalas Cave
- Glass boat cruises to spot turtles
- Zakynthos Gems: Eros Cave, Keri Caves, Mizithres Rocks
- Zakynthos: Romantic Sunset Tour & the Legend of the Dragon



