Zakynthos: Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves Boat Tour

Exploring Zakynthos by Boat: A Close-Up Look at the Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck, and Blue Caves Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Zakynthos and love the idea of seeing its most iconic sights from the water, this boat tour offers a genuinely memorable experience. We’ve looked into it, and it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to witness the island’s natural beauty without the hassle of trying to do it all independently. The tour’s highlights—like the famous Navagio Shipwreck, the mysterious Blue Caves, and Xigia Beach—are all features that promise stunning scenery and some refreshing swimming stops.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the fact that you get to approach these sights from a boat, which means you’re physically closer to some of the most photogenic spots. Second, the inclusion of multiple swimming stops, meaning you can cool off and enjoy the turquoise waters at different locations. The only real consideration is that it’s a relatively short tour—just 3.5 hours—so if you’re after a more in-depth exploration or a full day on the water, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and swimming with a straightforward, well-organized experience. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer a guided trip rather than organizing their own boat or car rides around the island. Keep in mind, it’s probably not the best fit if you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility issues, as it involves boat rides and some bumpy seas.

Key Points
– Iconic sights in a short time: See Navagio Shipwreck, Blue Caves, and Xigia Beach all in just 3.5 hours.
– Multiple swimming stops: Enjoy crystal waters at different bays, making it a refreshing experience.
– Inside the Blue Caves: Get a rare opportunity to pass inside these famous formations on the boat.
– Knowledgeable guides: Reviewers praise the commentary and professionalism of the crew.
– Limited duration, efficient visit: Ideal for travelers with a tighter schedule.
– No food or drinks included: Be prepared to bring your own essentials for the trip.

What to Expect on the Zakynthos Boat Tour

This tour packs a lot into a relatively short window, making it a practical choice for many travelers. From the start, you’ll meet the captain and crew at the Alykes port, specifically at the Alykes Peer, a spot that’s accessible by local buses and easy to find with the provided photos. The boat, named GOLDEN, is the vessel that will whisk you around the coastline, giving you a chance to take in Zakynthos from a different perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a brief cruise along the coast, giving you a chance to get comfortable on the boat and enjoy your surroundings. After about 30 minutes, you’ll head directly to the star attraction: Navagio Shipwreck Beach. You’ll have around 20 minutes here—enough time for photos, exploring the shipwreck from the boat, and soaking in the dramatic cliffs surrounding the bay. This is the moment most people come to Zakynthos for, so savor the views and take plenty of pictures.

Next, the boat departs from Navagio and makes a stop at a “secret” bay, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to swim, relax, and admire the wild, unspoiled scenery. Based on the weather, the stop could be in Porto Sellinas Bay or another picturesque spot. Travelers report that this part of the trip offers the best swimming conditions, and many note how peaceful and secluded it feels compared to the busier tourist sites.

The highlight of the tour is the Blue Caves. You’ll stop here for around 30 minutes, during which you’ll get to see the caves from the water, take photos, and, most excitingly, pass inside the caves themselves—an experience that many reviews describe as “unique” and “breathtaking.” The caves’ blue hues are especially vivid when the sunlight hits the water just right, and passing through the narrow entrances feels like a special adventure.

Finally, the boat heads toward Xigia Beach, a more unusual destination due to its sulfur-rich waters and caves that give the sea a distinctive color and smell. You’ll stop here for your last swimming session, which also lasts about 30 minutes. This is a top-rated spot for its distinctive waters, and many travelers enjoy the opportunity to float in the warm, sulfur-infused sea.

The Return and Overall Experience

The trip wraps up with a final short cruise back to Alykes port, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day. Reviewers consistently point out the professionalism of the crew and how smoothly the trip runs. The entire experience is designed to maximize sightseeing and swimming while minimizing fatigue or hassle.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The tour lasts around 3.5 hours, which is perfect for those who want a quick yet comprehensive snapshot of Zakynthos’s coastal highlights. It departs daily at 9:30 am, with an additional session at 1:30 pm from June 10th onward, providing flexibility for different schedules. The meeting point is clearly marked and easy to reach, and early booking is recommended since seats are limited.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers the boat trip, all sightseeing stops, and the swimming opportunities. But you’ll need to bring your own essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Food and drinks aren’t included, so consider packing some snacks or buying something before the tour.

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Tips for a Great Experience

• Wear comfortable shoes or flip-flops suitable for walking on the pier.
• Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the stunning scenery.
• Use sunscreen generously—most of the tour is outdoors, with little shade.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to avoid missing the departure.
• Be prepared for some minor boat rocking—if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions.

Who Should Think Twice

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re sensitive to seasickness, as the boat rides can be a bit choppy. It also might not be suitable for travelers with back problems or mobility issues, given the boat’s setting and the nature of the stops.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews highlight how well-organized and enjoyable the trip is. One reviewer praised the “helpful commentary” and the captain’s skill, mentioning how close they sailed to the attractions. Another appreciated that it’s an experience “you should do on Zakynthos,” emphasizing the unique opportunity to see the iconic sights from the water. The small group size and smooth operation are common points of praise.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing, swimming, and comfort, making it a popular choice for those short on time but eager to experience Zakynthos’s natural wonders. The highlights—Navagio Shipwreck, Blue Caves, and Xigia Beach—are all breathtaking, and the stops for swimming add a fun, relaxed element.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, it offers enough time to see the key sights without feeling rushed. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided, straightforward experience that delivers stunning views and memorable moments without the fuss of organizing everything independently.

If you’re after an efficient, well-reviewed tour that covers Zakynthos’s most photogenic and unique spots, this could be just what you need. Just remember to plan for the weather and bring along your essentials, and you’ll have a day full of beautiful sights and refreshing dips.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally fine for older children who are comfortable on boats, but keep in mind the boat ride can be bumpy, and swimming stops depend on weather and water conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Since food and drinks aren’t included, pack some snacks if desired.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including stops for sightseeing and swimming.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included. The meeting point is accessible by local buses, and detailed directions are provided.

What languages are available on the tour?
The guide speaks Greek and English, so expect commentary in these languages.

Will I get to see the Blue Caves from the water?
Absolutely. You will not only see them but also pass inside the caves, which many find to be a highlight.

Is there any shade during the tour?
Most of the trip is outdoors on the boat, so bring sunscreen and a hat for protection.

What if I get seasick?
The tour isn’t recommended for those prone to seasickness. If you’re concerned, consider taking medication beforehand.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
It’s not suitable for people with back problems or mobility issues. Also, pets and smoking are not allowed onboard.

This Zakynthos boat tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s stunning coastlines and iconic sights. Whether you’re in it for the photos, the swimming, or simply the experience of sailing past these natural marvels, it’s a trip that many find worth the time and money.

You can check availability for your dates here: