From St.Nikolaos: Boat Cruise to Navagio Beach & Blue Caves

Taking a boat trip from St. Nikolaos to explore Navagio Beach and the Blue Caves is a must-do for anyone visiting the Greek island of Zakynthos. This tour offers a chance to see some of Greece’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing your own boat or navigating local schedules. With a small, glass-bottom boat, you’ll get closer to the action, enjoying a more personal and relaxed vibe rather than crowded larger tours.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery, informative commentary from the captain, and a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. Plus, the accessibility of a cost-effective price point makes it appealing for many travelers. That said, since the tour is weather-dependent, there’s a possibility that the boat may not stop at Navagio Beach if the conditions aren’t ideal, which is worth keeping in mind.

This tour is best suited for those who want a short, scenic escape with a focus on iconic locations, especially if they prefer a more intimate group or a private experience. Active travelers and photography enthusiasts will find plenty to love here, but those with limited mobility or expecting a longer, more leisurely day might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Iconic Sights: View Navagio Beach’s shipwreck and the mesmerizing Blue Caves
• Small Boat Advantage: Enjoy a more personal, less crowded experience
• Swim Opportunities: Optional stops for swimming in crystal waters
• Weather Sensitivity: Itinerary may change depending on weather conditions
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable captains add context and fun
• Value for Money: At approximately $33, this tour offers excellent value considering the sights

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

The adventure begins at the Orizodes Restaurant in St. Nikolaos. While the meeting point is a short drive from the harbor, reviewers note that it involves a quick walk or drive to the boat. The tour provider, Abba Travel Zakynthos, ensures a smooth start by providing clear directions and a friendly welcome from the crew.

Setting Sail: From Land to Sea

Once onboard, you’ll meet your skipper, such as Takis Karidis, who is known for his friendly demeanor and knowledgeable commentary. The boat itself is described as new, comfortable, and with good viewing options, allowing you to sit outside for better views or inside if you prefer shade or protection from the sun.

Navigating to Navagio Beach

The first major stop is the famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach. Approaching the cove, the captain shares the story of the wreck, which has become a symbol of Zakynthos. The boat turns to give everyone a perfect photo opportunity—something many reviewers appreciated, with Sophie mentioning how the captain turned the boat to all sides for selfies and photos.

Because Navagio Beach is remote and weather-dependent, the captain might decide to skip the stop if the weather is bad, as several reviews noted. This is an important consideration: you might find the trip slightly altered, but the overall experience still offers incredible views and memorable moments.

Exploring the Blue Caves

Next, the tour heads to the Blue Caves—an absolute highlight. The glass-bottom boat allows you to glimpse the vibrant marine life beneath the surface, such as fish and corals, which adds an extra layer of wonder. Many travelers, like Marija, rave about swimming in the caves’ waters, describing it as “something out of mind.”

If you’re keen to swim, you can ask the captain for a life vest—many reviews mention enjoying a quick dip, with Kristin describing it as “truly amazing”. Keep in mind, swimming is optional and might depend on weather conditions, which some guests found disappointing if unable to swim during bad weather.

Duration and Pacing

The total tour lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours, which many reviews find just right—not too rushed, but enough time to enjoy each spot. Kristin points out that three hours is “the perfect amount of time,” while others appreciated the “short but sweet” nature of the trip, ideal for those with limited time.

The Overall Experience

Guests consistently mention the friendly crew and captain—notably Andreas and others—who add a personal touch. Several reviewers, like Anthony, appreciated how the crew went out of their way to accommodate late arrivals by organizing alternative trips or helping with logistics.

The boat’s inside/outside configuration, combined with the knowledgeable guides, makes this a more interactive experience. Sophie highlights the friendly boat driver, while Susan appreciated the comfortable, new boat and the good viewing.

What to Expect: Practical Details

Pricing and Value

At around $33.88 per person, this tour offers fantastic value—particularly considering the cost of boat rentals and guides if you were to organize it yourself. The price includes the cruise ticket, the experience of being on a private or shared boat, and the stops at Navagio Beach and Blue Caves, making it a budget-friendly option to see key sights.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour provides the cruise, experienced captain, and swim stop. However, it does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, food, or drinks. Guests should plan for bringing their own essentials like swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a jacket—especially since weather can change quickly at sea.

Meeting Point & Schedule

Meet at Orizodes Restaurant; the exact directions are given by the staff. Make sure to check the scheduled departure times, which vary, so early booking is recommended. The activity ends back at the starting point, making it a convenient half-day adventure.

Weather and Safety

Because the trip is weather-sensitive, be prepared for potential itinerary changes. The captain may choose not to stop at Navagio if conditions are unsafe. Many reviews note that despite such changes, the experience remains memorable, with beautiful views and engaging commentary.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

• “Great excursion to Navagio and the Blue Caves including some swimming time,” says Sophie, emphasizing the friendly crew and enjoyable stops.
• Susan praises the new, comfortable boat with good inside/outside viewing, calling it “more than amazing.”
• Kristin found the 3-hour trip to be “just right” and highlights the fun she had on the boat.
• Anthony mentions how the crew went above and beyond to reschedule when they were late, adding a personal touch.
• Pushpen calls it an “excellent trip,” especially noting the beautiful weather and the astonishing scenery.

The Sum Up

This boat cruise from St. Nikolaos is a superb way to see Zakynthos’s most iconic sights without the hassle of organizing your own trip. The small boat provides a more intimate experience, perfect for photography, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery at your own pace. The expert guides and well-maintained vessel create a comfortable environment to take in the stunning white cliffs, shipwreck, and vibrant marine life.

While weather can impact the itinerary, the flexible nature of the tour—offering both shared and private options—means you’ll still enjoy a memorable day out. It’s especially good for travelers seeking a value-for-money adventure that captures the essence of Zakynthos’s breathtaking coastlines.

This tour suits those who appreciate beautiful views, a relaxed pace, and engaging guides. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of Greece’s coastal beauty.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on weather and the itinerary adjustments.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet at Orizodes Restaurant in St. Nikolaos, where staff provide specific directions. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

Is there a chance I won’t visit Navagio Beach?
Yes, as the tour is weather-dependent, the captain might decide not to stop at Navagio for safety reasons. However, you’ll still visit the Blue Caves and enjoy the cruise.

Can I swim during the tour?
Swimming is optional and usually available at the Blue Caves. You can ask your captain for a life vest if you’d like to take a dip.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, the experienced captain and crew, and the swim stop at Blue Caves. Food and drinks are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable on boats and can wear a life vest; swimming is optional.

Are private groups available?
Yes, you can opt for a private cruise if you prefer a more exclusive experience.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a jacket in case of wind or cooler weather. Avoid bringing alcohol or drugs onboard.

Choosing this boat cruise from St. Nikolaos offers a genuine slice of Greece’s stunning coastline, delivered with friendly service and plenty of picture-perfect moments. Whether you’re after the legendary shipwreck or the mesmerizing Blue Caves, this tour delivers a memorable, authentic experience worth every euro.