Zakynthos: Xigia, Navagio Shipwreck and Blue Caves Boat Tour

Setting out on a boat trip around Zakynthos offers a chance to see some of the island’s most iconic sights from a unique vantage point. This 3.5-hour tour takes you along the North and East coasts, highlighting the famous Navagio Shipwreck, the mesmerizing Blue Caves, and the sulfur-rich Xigia Beach. It’s an experience packed with photo opportunities, swimming in clear waters, and discovering hidden gems that are often inaccessible from land.

One of the things we love most about this tour is how well it balances sightseeing with swimming stops—it’s perfect for those who want a taste of adventure without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides and smooth boat handling truly elevate the experience, making it educational as well as fun. However, since the tour involves boat travel and swimming in open water, some travelers prone to seasickness or with back issues might want to consider their comfort level before booking.

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave a mix of sightseeing, wildlife encounters, and relaxing dips in beautiful waters. If you’re eager to tick off Zakynthos’s most famous sights while enjoying the natural beauty and a bit of local storytelling, this experience will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Iconic Sights: Visit the world-famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach and the stunning Blue Caves.
• Swim Stops: Enjoy swimming in unspoiled bays, including Xigia Beach, known for its sulfur-rich waters.
• Expert Guides: The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide helpful commentary.
• Flexible Stops: Multiple swimming and sightseeing breaks make the trip versatile and relaxed.
• Boat Experience: A smooth and comfortable boat ride with inside visits to the Blue Caves.
• Limited Group Size: Early booking recommended for the limited seats available.

Discovering Zakynthos from the Water

We loved the way this tour takes you straight to some of Zakynthos’s most photogenic spots. Starting from Alykes or Alykanas, the boat, named GOLDEN, departs early in the morning—typically at 9:30 am, with an additional departure at 1:30 pm from June 10th. The meeting point is conveniently accessible by local buses, located at the Alykes Peer. It’s a straightforward start, and the crew is friendly, making you feel welcome from the moment you step aboard.

Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins with a sightseeing cruise that lasts about 30 minutes, allowing you to get familiar with the coastline and enjoy the breeze. Next, you’re taken directly to Navagio Bay, the star of Zakynthos. Here, you’ll have around 20 minutes to snap photos of the shipwreck, explore the beach, or simply soak in the view. This is the highlight for many, and it’s easy to see why—standing in front of this shipwreck, with its backdrop of towering cliffs, feels like stepping into a postcard.

After the iconic stop, the boat heads to a “secret stop” for around 30 minutes. This could be a wild bay or Porto Sellinas Bay, depending on the weather, where you can swim in tranquil waters away from crowds. The guide’s commentary helps you understand the geography and history of these hidden spots, adding depth to the experience.

The Blue Caves

The Blue Caves are the next major highlight. These caves are famous for their vibrant, blue-tinted waters and the chance to pass inside the caves themselves. During this stop, you’ll have about 30 minutes for photos, sightseeing, and swimming. The inside of the caves is an unforgettable experience—you’ll marvel at the way sunlight interacts with the water, creating a surreal, glowing effect. Several reviewers mentioned that the boat’s inside visit to the caves is a “unique experience,” and you’ll love seeing the vibrant hues reflected in the water.

Visiting Xigia Beach

The last swimming stop takes place at Xigia Beach, known for its sulfur-rich waters and distinctive cave that gives the sea a unique color and smell. Here, you’ll spend about 30 minutes, and it’s very much a highlight for those seeking a different kind of beach experience. Many reviews emphasize how special Xigia is—it’s probably Zakynthos’s most unusual beach due to its mineral waters and therapeutic qualities.

The Return Journey

The final part of the tour is a scenic cruise back, lasting around 15 minutes, offering a last chance to enjoy the coastline and reflect on the day’s highlights. The boat returns to Alykes, leaving you with plenty of memorable moments and stunning photos.

What to Expect on the Tour

This experience is designed to be flexible and enjoyable, with multiple stops for swimming, sightseeing, and photo opportunities. The guides are praised for their helpful commentary and knowledge about the sights, adding educational value to the fun.

You can expect warm weather, so packing essentials like a hat, sunscreen, and a towel is important. The boat is comfortable, and the group size is limited, so early booking is a good idea. The tour is not suitable for people with back problems or those prone to seasickness, as the boat navigates open waters and sometimes rougher seas depending on weather conditions.

Authentic Experiences

Many travelers point out that the guides often share interesting stories and insights that aren’t found in typical guidebooks. For example, some reviews mention how the guide helped guests capture the best photo angles or shared tips about local beaches and hidden coves. The smoothness of the boat and the attentive crew make the experience particularly enjoyable.

Value and Cost

At approximately 3.5 hours, the tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusions of multiple swimming stops, visits to the most famous sights, and the inside Blue Caves experience. While food and drinks are not included, the tour’s focus on sightseeing and swimming makes it a flexible choice for travelers who prefer to bring their own snacks.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This boat tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Zakynthos’s most famous landmarks without the hassle of organizing their own transportation or tours. It caters to those eager to explore both iconic sites and hidden spots, with enough flexibility to enjoy swimming and relaxing on the boat.

The knowledgeable guides, who speak both Greek and English, add a layer of trust and insight. Several reviewers highlight how helpful and friendly the crew was, making the entire experience more memorable. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, adding to the overall enjoyment.

While the tour doesn’t include food or hotel pickup, the convenience of the meeting point, combined with the compact duration, makes it easy to incorporate into a broader travel plan. The limited seats mean booking early is advisable, especially during peak season.

Final Thoughts

This Zakynthos boat tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending natural beauty, sightseeing, and relaxing swimming stops. It’s a fantastic way to see the island’s highlights from the water, capturing the essence of Zakynthos’s stunning coastline and crystal waters.

The inside visit to the Blue Caves and the chance to swim in Xigia’s sulfur-rich waters are standout features. The knowledgeable guides and smooth boat ride make it a comfortable, enjoyable way to spend half a day.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized tours that combine photography, nature, and some adventure will find this trip especially rewarding. It’s suitable for those who want a mix of sightseeing and leisure, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and dips in pristine waters.

In summary, if you’re after a value-packed, authentic experience that captures the best of Zakynthos’s natural wonders, this boat tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. The meeting point is at Alykes Peer, which is accessible by local buses.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with a start time typically at 9:30 am, and an additional departure at 1:30 pm starting June 10th.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring a hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the stops.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour is generally suitable for most participants, but it’s not recommended for those with back problems or prone to seasickness.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks or beverages if desired.

This Zakynthos boat tour combines the thrill of discovery with the relaxation of swimming in some of the most beautiful waters in Greece. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, it offers a fun, scenic, and memorable way to experience the island’s natural wonders.