Zante Private Boat: Marathonisi, Keri Caves, Mizitres (max5)

Exploring Zakynthos by Boat: A Close-Up Look at the Private Tour to Marathonisi, Keri Caves, and Mizithres

If you’re dreaming of exploring Zakynthos from the water, this private boat tour offers a flexible, intimate way to see some of the island’s most iconic spots. With a dedicated skipper and a small group of up to five people, you get a personalized experience that balances stunning scenery with some adventurous swimming and snorkeling. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out—and what you might want to keep in mind.

What We Like Most
First, the chance to see Caretta Caretta turtles in their natural habitat is a real highlight. For nature lovers, spotting these protected creatures is a memorable moment. Second, the small-group, private setup makes everything feel relaxed and tailored to your pace, unlike larger, more crowded boat excursions.

A possible drawback? Since this is a shorter, three-hour tour, you’ll need to keep an eye on the clock if you want to maximize all the stops — especially if you’re eager to spend lots of time swimming or exploring each site.

This experience works well for couples, small groups of friends, or families who enjoy a personalized, scenic adventure with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, take photos, and enjoy the views at your own pace.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with your own skipper, ideal for small groups or couples.
• Turtle spotting at Zakynthos’ Marine Park, making it perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Multiple swim stops at beautiful sites like Marathonisi Island and Mizithres Rocks.
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to your interests and timing preferences.
• Expert local guides knowledgeable about the area and its hidden gems.
• Value for money in a short, well-organized trip packed with highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point at Calypso

Your adventure kicks off at Calypso Boat Rentals & Tours at Keri Harbour. From here, your skipper—who speaks fluent English—welcomes you aboard and sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly outing. The small, private nature of the tour means you won’t be part of a big crowd, and the boat itself is maintained well, offering peace of mind and comfort.

First Stop: Zakynthos Marine Park and Turtle Spotting

Your first destination takes you near Cameo Island, within the National Marine Park of Zakynthos—a protected area where the Caretta Caretta turtles often swim. According to reviews, turtle spotting is quite special, with some guests describing it as a “dream come true to see a turtle swimming nearby.”

While this activity is optional, it’s absolutely worth trying if you’re keen on wildlife and nature. The tour typically spends around 40 minutes here, giving you a good chance to observe these gentle creatures in their natural environment, all while understanding the significance of the marine park.

Second Stop: Marathonisi Turtle Island

Next, your skipper heads to Marathonisi, affectionately called Turtle Island. It’s here that you’ll find the beaches where turtles lay their eggs, making it a protected and ecologically sensitive spot.

Once there, you’ll enjoy a 15 to 30-minute swim stop on Marathonisi Beach, where calm, clear waters invite you to float, snorkel, or simply relax on the sand. The boat will also pass by the caves on your way, giving you a glimpse of the natural beauty of this tiny island.

Guests who have been on this tour mention how “beautiful the caves and snorkel spots” are, and how the experience of swimming among the water’s shimmering blue hues was unforgettable. Keep in mind, the time here is flexible, so you can spend as much or as little as you like enjoying the water.

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Third Stop: Keri Caves

The journey continues along the coast to the Keri Caves, a favorite among visitors. Your skipper will guide you through the series of caves, arches, and intricate rock formations—each one more stunning than the last.

The blue waters here are a photographer’s dream, and the caves themselves are perfect for a 15 to 30-minute swim or snorkel. Advantages mentioned in reviews include the ability to access narrow caves that larger boats just can’t reach, giving you an up-close view of the impressive formations.

This part of the trip is often described as a highlight, with travelers appreciating the guidance of knowledgeable captains who point out interesting features and ensure everyone feels safe.

Final Stop: Mizithres Rocks

Your last stop takes you to the Mizithres Rocks, famous for their dramatic formations that only a boat can reach. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim or snorkel for around 10-30 minutes in the turquoise waters.

Guests rave about the exclusive nature of this stop, as Mizithres is less crowded and offers some of the most breathtaking views on the island. The waters here are calm and crystal-clear, perfect for capturing impressive photos or just floating in the serenity.

Returning to Keri Harbour

After your swim at Mizithres, the boat heads back to the starting point, completing your roughly three-hour adventure. The entire route is designed to pack in some of Zakynthos’ most iconic sights while giving you ample opportunity to relax and enjoy.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Personalized Experience

Unlike larger group cruises, this private tour caters directly to your preferences. You can customize the stops or spend more time swimming if you’re feeling particularly adventurous. As one reviewer put it, “The tour can be personalized, and the duration of swim stops depends on your wishes,” which makes it flexible for different energy levels and interests.

Expert Skippers and Guides

Guests consistently praise the local guides’ knowledge, describing them as friendly, professional, and eager to share their insights. Justin, one of the skippers mentioned in reviews, is highlighted for his excellent guidance and personable manner, making the trip both fun and informative.

Stunning Scenery and Wildlife

The combination of marine life, intricate caves, and dramatic rock formations makes this tour ideal for photography and nature lovers. The experience of seeing turtles in the wild and swimming in crystal waters is frequently cited as a highlight.

Good Value for a Short Tour

With just three hours, this tour offers a compact, don’t-miss experience that’s easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. Considering the personalized attention, the stops at major sights, and the inclusion of snorkeling gear, many travelers feel they get excellent value.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately three hours, with specific start times available based on your booking. It’s best to check availability beforehand, especially during peak season. The flexible itinerary allows the skipper to adjust stops based on weather or your preferences.

Group Size and Cost

Limited to a maximum of five participants, the small group size means a more intimate experience. This can also impact the price, which, when divided among fewer people, often makes for good value considering the personalized service.

What to Bring

To make the most of your trip, bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and water. The tour provides life vests, swimming masks, waterproof phone cases, and all fuel and entry fees—so your main concern is just enjoying yourself.

Accessibility and Suitability

While perfect for those who love water activities, the tour might be less suitable for very young children or guests with mobility issues, given the nature of boat stops and swimming. It’s best suited for those comfortable on boats and in open water.

Honest Review Summary

This private boat tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Zakynthos’ natural beauty. The opportunity to see turtles and explore caves with knowledgeable guides makes it a solid choice for travelers craving a more personal, less commercialized experience. Guests consistently praise the friendly, professional skippers, especially for guiding them into caves and finding wildlife.

The value for money feels justified given the small group size, personalized approach, and the variety of stops packed into just three hours. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the beautiful scenery, safe swimming, and the chance to snorkel in clear waters, making it a memorable part of their trip.

However, keep in mind that the short duration means you’ll need to be efficient with your time if you want to experience everything. If you’re someone who prefers longer, more leisurely days on the water, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those who want a quick, scenic, wildlife-focused adventure, this tour hits the mark.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an intimate, customizable boat experience that combines wildlife encounters with scenic exploration, this tour is a winner. It suits couples or small groups eager to avoid crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Zakynthos up close. Adventure seekers who love snorkeling and swimming will find it especially rewarding.

On the other hand, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer longer, more relaxed excursions, you might find the three-hour format a bit limited. Still, for most travelers wanting a quick but immersive taste of the island’s highlights, this private tour offers a compelling mix of sights, wildlife, and water fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about three hours, with specific start times available. It’s designed to be a half-day adventure with multiple stops.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, the itinerary can be adjusted based on your preferences, especially the length of swim stops and the sites you want to focus on.

Is turtle spotting guaranteed?
While the tour offers the chance to see loggerhead Caretta Caretta turtles, sightings depend on wildlife behavior and can’t be guaranteed. However, many guests do see them in the marine park.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and water. The tour supplies life vests, masks, waterproof phone cases, and includes fuel and entry fees.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for those comfortable on boats and in open water. Very young children or guests with mobility issues might find the stops challenging.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour is weather-dependent. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which gives some flexibility if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

To sum it up, this private boat tour on Zakynthos offers a focused, scenic experience with plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters and water fun. It’s particularly well-suited for small groups who value personalized service and are comfortable with short, activity-packed outings. Whether you’re chasing turtle sightings, exploring caves, or just enjoying the incredible waters, this trip can be a memorable highlight of your Zakynthos adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: