Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting Cruise with Glass-Bottom Boat

Getting a glimpse of sea turtles swimming freely in their natural habitat is a highlight many travelers dream of, and this Zakynthos Turtle Spotting Cruise promises just that — along with breathtaking cave views and crystal-clear waters. The tour, run by Best of Zante, is a popular choice, boasting over 1,500 reviews and an impressive 4.4-star rating. It’s designed to combine wildlife encounters with scenic sightseeing, all in a compact 3-hour package.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and well-organized it appears, especially considering the opportunity to see turtles up close without feeling rushed. Plus, the boat itself is eco-friendly and features a glass-bottomed design, so you get to enjoy marine life from above and below the surface.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts about three hours, which is a good length for a relaxed outing but might feel a bit short if you’re eager to spend more time swimming or exploring. Nevertheless, it’s an ideal choice for travelers wanting a quick, rewarding adventure that balances wildlife viewing with gorgeous scenery.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy nature, scenic boat rides, and a bit of adventure—especially if spotting turtles in the wild is high on your bucket list. It’s also a great option if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a mix of wildlife and coastal views without a full-day commitment.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Guaranteed sightings of turtles in their natural environment.
• Scenic Caves & Landmarks: Explore Keri caves, the famous Arches, and Cameo Island.
• Comfort & Safety: Eco-friendly vessel with safety insurance included.
• Swimming & Photos: Multiple stops for swimming and capturing unforgettable photos.
• Convenient Pickup: Optional hotel or meeting point transfers within a 10 km radius.
• Value for Money: All-in-one experience at a competitive price, with knowledgeable guides.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Zakynthos Turtle Spotting Cruise is a thoughtfully arranged, three-hour journey that combines wildlife spotting, coastal exploration, and fun swimming stops. From the moment you’re picked up from your accommodation or meeting spot, anticipation builds for what’s to come. The guides and crew, especially someone like Dennis, are given high praise for their knowledge and friendliness — reviews mention how entertaining and informative guides make the trip.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start & Pickup: Depending on your chosen option, you’ll be collected from your hotel or a designated meeting point. The pickup service covers a broad area, including Laganas, Kalamaki, Argassi, and nearby towns, which makes planning easier. Just note that pickup is available within a 10-kilometer radius from Laganas Port, so check your location in advance.

Laganas & Cameo Island Stop: Your first brief stop is in Laganas, a lively coastal area. You’ll get a chance here to snap some photos of the coastline and perhaps see a glimpse of the famous Cameo Island, which was formed by an earthquake in 1633. The review mentions a quick 10-minute visit, making this more of a photo-op than a full sightseeing stop.

Keri Caves & Underwater Arches: The highlight for many is the exploration of the Keri Caves. The boat passes underneath the Kamares Arch, providing incredible photo opportunities of the sea caves carved by nature. The guide will stop here for about 30 minutes, allowing you to take photos and admire the stunning geology. Multiple reviews praise the caves’ beauty, with one describing the boat’s skilled maneuvering that gets close enough to photograph the formations without risking safety.

Turtle Watching & Swim at Marathonisi: Next, the boat heads toward Marathonisi, often called Turtle Island due to its shape and the presence of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta Caretta). Here, you’ll enjoy about an hour on the beach — known as the Golden Nesting Beach — where turtles lay their eggs, and where you can swim in the peaceful, clear waters. Reviewers mention how impressive it is to see turtles in their natural habitat, with some noting that they were lucky enough to spot multiple turtles during the trip.

Additional Swim Stops & Scenic Viewing: The tour includes a few more quick stops, like at Cameo Island again, giving you a relaxed chance to take more photos or enjoy the scenery.

Back to Base: After approximately three hours, the boat returns to the starting point, where the transfers will drop you off at your hotel or meeting location.

The Experience on the Water

The boat itself is a glass-bottom vessel, offering a unique perspective. Unlike standard boats, this feature lets you observe marine life from above the waterline—perfect for those who might prefer to stay dry but still want a glimpse of underwater life. The boat is described as eco-friendly, which is important for conservation-minded travelers.

The crew and guides, notably Dennis, are frequently praised in reviews. Guests mention how Dennis made a point of ensuring everyone saw the turtles and took photos, all while maintaining a respectful distance that doesn’t stress the animals. His entertaining and friendly attitude adds a lot to the trip, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.

Swimming & Photo Opportunities

The multiple stops for swimming mean you get to cool off in the pristine waters, which are often described as crystal clear and perfect for photos. The stop at Turtle Island’s beach is especially memorable, with some reviewers saying they felt lucky to spot baby hatchlings being checked in by marine conservationists—adding a special, almost magical element.

Cave Exploration & Scenic Beauty

The Keri caves are a highlight, with towering rock formations and caves that create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Guests rave about how close the boat gets, thanks to the captain’s skilled maneuvering, allowing for fantastic photographs and memorable moments.

Pricing & Value

While the price of the tour isn’t explicitly mentioned here, reviews suggest that many find it excellent value for money—covering transportation, guided commentary, multiple stops, and the chance to see turtles up close. The tour’s inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transport options.

It’s also worth noting that the tour doesn’t include food or snorkeling equipment, so if you want to snorkel or enjoy a meal, you’ll need to bring your own gear and snacks. Still, with the variety of stops and the quality of wildlife sightings, most travelers feel they get a good bang for their buck.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential, especially since some stops can be hot.
• Snorkel gear: If you want to get closer to the underwater world, bringing your own snorkel equipment is a good idea.
• Light clothing & towels: Wear comfortable clothes and take a towel for swimming.
• Arrive early: To avoid missing the boat or feeling rushed, arrive at the pickup point a little early.
• Photography: A waterproof camera or phone case will help you capture the stunning scenery and underwater moments without worry.
• Respect wildlife: The guides are praised for their respectful approach towards turtles—be sure to follow their advice and keep a respectful distance from the animals.

Authentic Insights from Past Guests

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially Dennis, for their knowledge and friendliness. One said, “Dennis was an amazing captain,” emphasizing how much the guide’s personality contributes to the overall enjoyment.

Many guests note how the scenic views and swimming stops make the trip memorable. For some, the highlight was spotting turtles, which was described as “absolutely fantastic” and “an unforgettable experience.” Others appreciated the beautiful caves, noting how close the boat could get, creating perfect photo moments.

Several travelers mention the value they got—most feel the experience was worth every penny, especially with the convenience of hotel transfers and the chance to see wildlife in the wild.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a compact, well-organized tour that combines wildlife spotting, scenic caves, and peaceful swimming spots, this Zakynthos Turtle Spotting Cruise should definitely be on your list. The focus on eco-friendly practices and the reputation of guides like Dennis add to its appeal. It offers an excellent balance of adventure, relaxation, and education, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a taste of the island’s natural beauty.

While it’s not a full-day affair, the three hours fly by, leaving you with plenty of memories—especially if you’re lucky enough to see turtles swimming freely. The stops at Keri caves and Turtle Island are truly the highlights, providing both stunning scenery and a chance to observe these gentle creatures in their natural environment.

This tour delivers great value, especially considering the quality of the wildlife encounters and the scenic beauty. It’s a perfect option for anyone wanting a fun, authentic, and respectful way to experience Zakynthos’s marine life and coastlines.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about three hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickup is available from hotels or meeting points within a 10 km radius of Laganas Port, including places like Kalamaki, Argassi, and Zakinthos town.

Is the boat suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and children should be able to handle a boat trip of this length comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, a towel, and snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Snorkeling equipment isn’t included, but you can bring your own for the swimming stops.

Will I see turtles?
Reviews suggest a high likelihood of turtle sightings, with some guests noting multiple turtles spotted during their trip.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the boat is described as eco-friendly, and guides are mindful of wildlife, especially during turtle encounters.

Are food or drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks if needed.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but cancellations are possible if conditions are unsafe. Check the weather forecast beforehand.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy Zakynthos’s stunning coastline from the water, this glass-bottom boat tour offers a memorable, authentic experience that balances fun, nature, and sightseeing.