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If you're visiting Agios Sostis, you're in the perfect spot to explore Zakynthos by sea. This small village offers access to some of the most beautiful boat experiences in Greece, with options ranging from intimate private trips to guided tours with plenty of time for swimming and turtle spotting. What we love about these tours is not just the scenery but the chance to see Caretta Caretta turtles in their natural environment or enjoy the spectacular Mizithres rocks from the water. Whether you’re looking for a quick trip or a more personalized adventure, the variety here makes sure there’s something for every traveler.
Among the tours listed below, a few stand out for their unique features. The private boat trips offer flexibility and comfort, perfect if you want a tailored experience. Meanwhile, guided tours provide a more structured day with expert insights, ideal for first-timers eager to learn about the local marine life. For those with a tight schedule or budget, shorter trips and group tours still deliver memorable moments on the water. To help you decide, here’s a detailed look at each of the top boat experiences in Agios Sostis.
1. Zakynthos: Turtle Island and Caves Private Boat Trip
This private boat trip in Zakynthos is a top pick for its personalized approach and excellent reviews, with a 4.9/5 rating from 127 travelers. For around $333 per group up to two people, you get a 3-hour journey along the southwest coast, with the flexibility to tailor your stops. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to spot Caretta Caretta turtles in the wild, snorkel in Keri caves, and explore the Mizithres rocks—a highlight for many.
The itinerary covers significant sights like Marathonisi Island, known as Turtle Island, thanks to its shape resembling a turtle, and the Keri caves, where you can swim and snorkel. The boat is private, so you won’t be sharing the space with strangers, which means more time for swimming, relaxing, and exploring. Reviews praise Captain Angelo for his friendly attitude and ability to make the trip unforgettable, often highlighting the opportunity to snorkel near turtles and explore caves from close quarters.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, intimate experience with expert guidance and a focus on wildlife, this private trip offers excellent value. It’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting a memorable day on the water.
2. Zakynthos: Guided Boat Tour to Turtle Island with Swimming
This guided tour is rated 4.9/5 from 26 reviews, costing about $316 for a group up to one person. It combines the excitement of exploring Turtle Island within the Marine Park, with the advantage of a knowledgeable guide pointing out marine life and interesting sights. Setting sail from Agios Sostis or Kalamaki, this 3-hour trip emphasizes snorkeling and marine life viewing in some of the most pristine waters Zakynthos offers.
What makes this tour distinctive is the guided element—your captain Anna or Angelo provides commentary and insights, making it educational as well as fun. The tour includes stops at Keri Caves, Mizithres Rocks, and the Marine Park, with plenty of time for swimming, exploring caves, and snapping photos. Reviewers mention the water clarity and the chance to see turtles as highlights, with many describing the trip as “breathtaking” and “a lifetime memory.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for solo travelers or couples wanting a guided experience, this tour combines wildlife viewing with informative commentary for an immersive experience on the water.
3. Turtle Cruise from 9 am or 12 noon or 3 pm for 3 hours
Offering a budget-friendly option, this Turtle Cruise costs just $46 per person and lasts 3 hours, with multiple departure times to fit your schedule. It departs from Zakynthos town’s Solomon Square or other central locations. This tour promises guaranteed turtle sightings during the summer, with stops at Keri Caves, Marathonisi, and White Beach, known for its shallow waters.
The trip provides a good overview of the coast, including caves, arches, and rocks, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. A notable feature is the opportunity to enjoy lunch and drinks on the boat at White Beach, making it an all-in-one experience. While reviews are limited, those who’ve taken it appreciate the affordability and the chance to see turtles if visiting during the season.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers on a budget or those who want a straightforward, reliably scheduled trip with decent opportunities for turtle spotting and scenic views.
4. Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour with Captain
At the top end of our list, this private tour offers a customizable 3 to 5-hour adventure along Zakynthos’s coast. For travelers seeking flexibility and exclusivity, it’s a fantastic option. The boat visits Marathonisi Island, known for turtle sightings, as well as Agalas Caves, which are often less crowded, and the Keri Caves for swimming and exploring.
The tour emphasizes personalized service, with the captain showing you hidden caves, secluded beaches, and scenic cliffs that aren’t accessible on larger tours. Reviewers note that this trip is ideal for those who want to tailor their experience, with some trips lasting up to five hours, giving ample time for swimming, snorkeling, and photography. The highlight is the chance to see the Caretta caretta turtles and explore less-touristed caves, making it a favorite for adventurous travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you value a tailored experience, want to explore off the beaten path, and are willing to pay a premium for privacy and flexibility.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Agios Sostis
Choosing the right boat trip depends on your priorities. If you want a personalized, private experience with maximum flexibility, the Zakynthos: Turtle Island and Caves Private Boat Trip is ideal. For those who prefer a guided tour with insightful commentary, the Guided Boat Tour to Turtle Island offers great value.
Travelers on a tight schedule or budget might opt for the Turtle Cruise from 9 am or 12 noon or 3 pm, which still promises turtle sightings and scenic beauty at a lower price. Lastly, if you’re after a luxury, flexible experience, the Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour with Captain offers exclusivity with customizable routes.
Booking early is recommended during peak season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly, especially private options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after an affordable group experience, a guided wildlife tour, or a bespoke private adventure, Agios Sostis offers some of the best boat trips in Zakynthos. The private tours stand out for their flexibility and intimacy, while guided options give you expert insights into the marine environment. Budget travelers will appreciate the shorter, more affordable cruises, but all tours promise the chance to see turtles and explore stunning caves and rocks.
For families, a guided tour with a knowledgeable captain can be both fun and educational, while couples or small groups seeking privacy will find the private boat trips irresistible. No matter your choice, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these incredible experiences in the Ionian Sea. Enjoy your time on the water—these trips truly offer a special way to see Zakynthos.
