Laganas Zakynthos: Marathonissi, Keri Caves and Turtles Spotting

Travelers heading to Zakynthos often dream of catching a glimpse of the famous Caretta Caretta turtles, exploring beautiful caves, and relaxing on unspoiled beaches. This 3-hour boat tour from Laganas tries to deliver all of that in one compact adventure—highlighting some of the island’s best coastal sights, with a focus on wildlife spotting and scenic stops. With a price tag just under $29, it’s an accessible way to see Zakynthos from the water, but as with all tours, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons to see if it fits your vacation style.

What we love about this experience is how it combines turtle spotting, visits to iconic caves, and a relaxed swim in crystal-clear waters—all aboard a small, comfortable boat with shaded seating. The limited group size (max 26 seats) means you’re less likely to feel like just another face in a crowd, and the glass-bottom feature adds a fun visual element. On the flip side, some reviews point out that the itinerary can sometimes feel a bit rushed, and the chances of actually seeing a turtle aren’t guaranteed. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a quick, scenic overview of Zakynthos’ coastline and willing to accept the element of chance with turtle sightings.

Key Points

• Affordable and Convenient: At around $29, this tour offers good value for a scenic boat ride with multiple stops.
• Wildlife Focus: Turtle spotting is a key feature, with the opportunity to see Caretta Caretta turtles in their natural environment.
• Comfortable Small-Group Experience: Boats with limited passengers, shaded areas, and glass bottoms make for a pleasant, intimate outing.
• Multiple Scenic Stops: Includes Marathonissi Island, Keri Caves, and Oasis Bay, providing varied views and beach time.
• Timed for Relaxation and Exploration: Around 3 hours long, balancing sightseeing, swimming, and wildlife encounters.
• Review Insights: Experiences range from highly positive about views and guides to some disappointment about turtle sightings and tour organization.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The adventure kicks off right from Laganas beach, where you’ll board a small, comfortable boat. This initial departure is straightforward—meet at the end of the main street, just 20 meters on the left—and sets the tone for a relaxed day. The boat’s size (max 26 seats) means you won’t be crammed, and most boats feature shaded seating, a rear sundeck, and a glass bottom, giving you multiple ways to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

Turtle Spotting: The Highlight of the Tour

The main draw for many is the chance to see Caretta Caretta turtles. The tour spends about 10 minutes sailing towards Laganas Bay, where the crew hopes to spot these gentle giants in their natural habitat. In the reviews, some travelers have been fortunate enough to see turtles swim close to the boat, with some even capturing photos. However, as one reviewer bluntly put it, “if you want to see amazing turtles, I would not recommend,” as they only spotted one, hanging out at the dock.

The fact is, wildlife sightings are unpredictable. Some guests are thrilled, citing encounters like “we actually got to see a sea turtle,” and others mention that the turtles are more elusive than anticipated. The guides are praised for their effort and enthusiasm, but it’s worth understanding that this is nature, not a zoo.

Exploring Marathonissi Island and Its Caves

After the turtle search, the boat heads to Marathonissi Island—often called Turtle Island—which is uninhabited and famous for its pristine beaches. You’ll spend about 50 minutes here, giving plenty of time to swim, relax, and snorkel in clear waters. The reviews describe the beach as beautiful and perfect for a dip, though one comment noted that during peak times, it can be crowded with boats and travelers.

Next, you’ll enter the Marathonissi sea cave with the boat, capturing photos of the unique rock formations and clear blue water. This 20-minute stop lets you appreciate the dramatic coastal scenery and take memorable shots. Some travelers felt this was a highlight, describing the caves as “wondrous,” while others wished for more time or a guided explanation of what they were seeing.

Keri Caves and Capo Marathià

The tour then sails along the coast, passing Capo Marathià and the Keri Caves—a series of sea caves accessible only by boat. These caves are a real treat for photographers, with their striking blue waters and interesting rock formations. Reviewers note that some caves are just large enough for swimming, and some entrances are so narrow you might need to swim in.

While some found the caves a bit underwhelming, others enjoyed the sense of adventure entering these hidden spots. The guide’s commentary, or lack thereof, was a mixed bag—some praised the knowledgeable guides, while others wished for more storytelling about the caves’ history or geology.

Oasis Bay: A Silent Escape

The final stop is Oasis Bay, a deserted beach with calm, turquoise waters. Guests can swim, relax, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere—an escape from the crowds often found elsewhere. This leg of the journey is especially popular among families and those wanting a peaceful end to their trip, with some reviews describing it as a “beautiful, uncontaminated sea,” perfect for a quick swim.

What the Tour Misses and Its Limitations

While the tour offers a lovely sampler of Zakynthos’ best coastal spots, some reviews point out the longer boat ride between stops and the occasional crowded beaches, especially Marathonissi. Also, the turtle sightings are hit-or-miss, which can be disappointing for wildlife enthusiasts. Plus, the lack of a guide providing detailed commentary was noted by some travelers, making the trip feel more casual than educational.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The experience is designed to be efficient—lasting around three hours with a start and finish at the same point. The boats are small, with up to 25 guests, which means more space and less noise. Most travelers appreciate the timing, as the tour is short enough for kids or those with limited time but packed enough to feel like a full excursion.

Timing is also flexible; reviews mention that tours are frequently booked about 12 days in advance, and the departure time can vary (originally scheduled for 9 am, moved to noon in some cases). It’s advisable to confirm your booking and check your email for any updates, as some reviews mention confusion over cancellations or schedule changes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Laganas boat tour stands out for its affordable price, small-group feel, and the chance to see the notorious turtles in their habitat. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize scenic views, swimming, and a relaxed pace over highly educational commentary or guaranteed wildlife sightings. The tour’s stops are well-chosen, offering a mix of beach time, cave exploration, and wildlife encounters, making it a well-rounded day on the water.

On the other hand, if your main goal is to see turtles, be prepared for some luck. The caves and beaches are gorgeous, but they can get crowded, especially in peak season. If you’re seeking a more in-depth or guided experience, consider whether this shorter, more casual tour fits your expectations.

Overall, this tour is a solid choice for a quick, scenic, and affordable Zakynthos adventure, particularly if you’re traveling with family, want to enjoy the sea, and are open to the unpredictability of wildlife sightings. The combination of stunning coastal scenery, peaceful swim spots, and the thrill of maybe seeing a turtle makes it worth considering for a memorable day on the island.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts approximately 3 hours, including all stops for swimming, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting.

Is turtle spotting guaranteed?
No, turtle sightings depend on nature. Some travelers see turtles, while others only get to admire them from a distance or at the dock.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers boat transportation, stops at Marathonissi Island, Keri Caves, Oasis Bay, and the Marine Park. No extra charges are noted for the stops, and the boat features shaded areas, a sundeck, and a glass bottom.

Are kids allowed?
Yes, most travelers with children find the trip suitable, especially since it’s only 3 hours long and offers swimming and sightseeing.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transport, making it convenient to reach from different parts of Laganas.

To sum it up, this boat tour from Laganas provides a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic caves, and beach relaxation—perfect for travelers wanting a taste of Zakynthos’ natural beauty without committing to a full-day excursion. While sightings of turtles are not guaranteed, the overall experience offers stunning views, a small-group atmosphere, and the chance to cool off in some of the island’s most picturesque spots. Whether you’re chasing the sight of a turtle or just looking to enjoy a peaceful cruise along the coast, this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your Zakynthos itinerary.