Zakynthos: Cruise to Navagio Shipwreck with swimming stops

Getting a good look at Zakynthos’ iconic coastline is a must for any visitor, and what better way than on a 7-hour boat cruise exploring its most famous sights? This tour offers an affordable way to experience the island’s stunning scenery, vibrant water, and those legendary shipwreck views, all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat.

What we love about this experience: the chance to swim at multiple scenic sites, the opportunity to snap photos of the famous Navagio shipwreck, and the chance to enjoy drinks and snacks aboard without breaking the bank.

A possible downside? The lack of a guide means you’ll be navigating the details on your own, and the shipwreck beach itself isn’t open for swimming—something to keep in mind if swimming at Navagio is a priority.

This trip caters best to travelers who love relaxed days on the water, scenic photo ops, and casual swimming stops — perfect for families, groups, or solo adventurers on a budget.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price Point: At around $37, this cruise offers solid value for a full day of sightseeing and swimming.
• Multiple Swimming Stops: Enjoy time at the Blue Caves and Kremmidi, with opportunities to explore and snorkel.
• Famous Sights: Get close to the Navagio Shipwreck and capture stunning photos.
• Onboard Comfort: Drinks and snacks available, making the experience more relaxing.
• Limited Guided Commentary: No guide included, so you’ll rely on your own curiosity and the boat crew’s knowledge.
• Timing and Duration: Starts in the morning and returns by mid-afternoon, fitting well into a day’s itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience at a Glance

This tour begins at the bustling main port of Zakynthos Town, where you’ll find the large boat named Ikaros Palace awaiting your adventure. The boat is a comfortable size, allowing for an intimate feel without feeling crowded, and the crew speaks English, which helps with any basic questions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point & Duration:
The cruise kicks off approximately 30 minutes before departure, so arriving early is key — especially if you want to settle in and find a good spot aboard. Once onboard, the journey lasts about 7 hours, including stops and cruising time.

First Stop: The Blue Caves
One of the tour’s highlights is swimming through the brilliantly-colored water at the Blue Caves. These natural formations are a favorite among visitors, known for their striking blue hue and fascinating shapes. The boat anchors here for about 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to swim, snorkel, or just marvel at the cave walls. One reviewer, Steph, noted, “lots of time for swimming which we really valued,” and that you can swim through many caves, which can be a highlight for adventurous travelers.

Second Stop: Navagio Shipwreck
Next, you’ll head towards the world-famous Navagio Beach, with its dramatic cliffs and the iconic rusting shipwreck sitting on the white sands. Photos here are almost obligatory; many travelers, like Lorelai, mention the “wonderful views” and how accessible the shipwreck is for close-up photos.

However, it’s important to note that swimming at Navagio is often not permitted — the government has kept the beach off-limits for safety reasons, but the view from the boat is still spectacular. If swimming at the shipwreck is essential for your trip, you might find disappointment, but the sight from the boat remains impressive.

Final Swimming Stop: Kremmidi or Makri Gialo
On the return leg, you’ll make your last swim stop at either Kremmidi or Makri Gialo. These spots are known for their stunning blue waters, perfect for relaxing and cooling off. As per reviews, the 45-minute stops are enough to enjoy a good swim or take photos, balancing relaxation with sightseeing.

Additional Comforts & Practical Info

Onboard, you’ll find a bar and café where you can purchase drinks and snacks, allowing you to stay refreshed without extra planning. Reviewers like Lorelai appreciated the “accessible prices” and the “friendly staff”, which added to the laid-back vibe.

Make sure to bring essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, your camera, and swimwear — as recommended, you’ll want to be prepared for the sun and water activities. The cruise is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal to travelers with mobility needs.

The Pros and Cons

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What makes this cruise stand out?

• Excellent value for money. For around $37, you gain a full day of scenic views, swimming, and photo opportunities. That’s hard to beat when you consider the cost of individual boat trips or entrance fees elsewhere.
• Relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. The boat’s onboard bar and the opportunity to enjoy snacks and drinks makes it a comfortable day out without feeling rushed.
• Great stops for swimming and exploration. The Blue Caves and other sites are accessible for a swim, making the experience more memorable and interactive.

Things to keep in mind

• No guided commentary included. If you’re hoping for detailed info on the sights, you may want to do additional research beforehand or bring a guidebook.
• Limited swimming at Navagio. The government has restricted swimming here, so don’t rely on this tour to give you a chance to actually swim at the beach itself, but the views are still worthwhile.
• Timing and weather considerations. The tour departs in the morning and returns by 3 pm, so plan your day accordingly. Weather can also influence the experience, especially if seas are rough or visibility is poor.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is a great pick for budget-conscious travelers looking to tick off Zakynthos’ iconic sights without splurging. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed day on the water, with plenty of opportunity to swim and take photos.

If you’re after a more in-depth guided experience or want to swim at Navagio Beach itself, you might want to explore other options. But for a scenic, fun, and affordable trip that balances sightseeing with downtime, this cruise hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Zakynthos boat cruise to Navagio Shipwreck with swimming stops offers a well-rounded experience that delivers on its promise of scenic beauty and fun water activities. The value for money is clear, especially with multiple swimming opportunities, stunning vistas, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy casual days spent gazing at dramatic coastlines and splashing in turquoise waters. While it doesn’t offer a guided commentary, the crew’s friendly service and the unforgettable sights make it a worthwhile addition to your Zakynthos itinerary.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, affordable way to experience Zakynthos’ most famous sights and enjoy some swimming in crystalline waters, this cruise could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly, with swimming stops and a relaxed pace. Just ensure children are comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

How long do the swimming stops last?
Each swimming stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time to explore and relax without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Food and drinks can be purchased onboard, but bringing your own snacks or water is a good idea if you prefer specific items or want to save money.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour description doesn’t specify age restrictions. It’s suitable for most ages, but always check if traveling with very young children or seniors.

Is there a guide explaining the sights?
No, there is no guide provided for commentary during the cruise. You’ll mainly rely on the crew for any questions, and sightseeing tips.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, camera, swimwear, and beachwear are recommended. Also, consider bringing a waterproof case for your valuables.

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

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Whether you’re after stunning photo opportunities, swimming in clear waters, or just a relaxing day at sea, this Zakynthos cruise provides a memorable taste of the island’s natural beauty—all at an accessible price point.

You can check if your dates are available here: