Turtle Cruise from 9 am or 12 noon or 3 pm for 3 hours

Discovering the Turtle Cruise Experience in Zakynthos

Travelers seeking a memorable adventure around Zakynthos will find this 3-hour Turtle Cruise an appealing choice. Offered by All Trips, it promises a blend of wildlife spotting, stunning scenery, and relaxing seaside stops that showcase the island’s natural beauty.

What makes this tour particularly attractive? We love the guaranteed chance to see Caretta turtles in their natural environment, the opportunity to explore iconic Keri Caves, and the chance to enjoy a peaceful swim at Oasis Beach. Plus, the trip’s affordability at around $46 per person makes it accessible for most travelers.

However, some travelers have noted discrepancies in the transparency of what’s promised versus what’s delivered, particularly regarding the caves and boat features. If you’re someone who values honesty and detailed info, this is worth considering.

This cruise works best for those who want a straightforward, scenic outing with a focus on wildlife and picturesque coastal views. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a relaxed, social boat trip.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Guaranteed turtle spotting in summer offers a rare wildlife viewing opportunity.
• Multiple departure times allow flexible planning — choose from 9 am, 12 noon, or 3 pm.
• The 3-hour cruise includes stops at Keri Caves, Turtle Island, and Oasis Beach.
• Small group size (max 8 participants) enhances the experience and encourages interaction.
• The tour provides return transfers, making logistics smoother.
• Food and drinks are purchased separately, typically on the boat, adding to the relaxed vibe.

An In-Depth Look at the Turtle Cruise in Zakynthos

The Booking and Logistics

This tour departs from Kalamaki or Laganas — two popular spots in Zakynthos — with pick-up options around 8:15 am, 11 am, or 2:15 pm. The pick-up process is quite straightforward, with the operator offering transfers to and from the departure points, which is convenient for travelers unfamiliar with local transport.

The tour lasts exactly 3 hours, making it a manageable excursion whether you’re on a day trip or combining it with other activities. The vessel used is a glasbottom boat, though some reviews suggest the boat might not always meet expectations in terms of transparency, which we’ll explore more below.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

Turtle Spotting at Agios Sostis Port

The highlight for many is the guaranteed turtle sighting — especially in the summer months — where you’ll head to Turtle Island. Here, there’s a real chance to see Caretta caretta turtles nesting or swimming, which for wildlife fans is a major treat. The experience is enhanced if you’re lucky enough to catch them in action, making for some great photos.

One reviewer shared that “you can see turtles for great photos,” emphasizing how special this sighting can be. Still, a few pointed out that the actual turtle-spotting is weather-dependent and not always guaranteed outside the peak season.

Keri Caves and Swimming

Next, the tour stops at the famous Keri Caves, where you get about 45 minutes to marvel at the twisting rocks and natural formations. Some reviews note the caves are further away than the description suggests, which might cause a bit of disappointment if you’re expecting close-up views or specific cave features.

Travelers can also enjoy a 45-minute swim, often at Turtle Island or Keri caves, providing a relaxing break in the clear waters. Keep in mind that while the description touts caves and cave swimming, some guests have commented that the caves view might not always match the promotional images.

Oasis Beach and Other Scenic Spots

The cruise includes a stop at Oasis Beach, a smaller, less crowded spot where you can lounge on the sand or take a dip. When weather permits, the boat may also pass by Myzithres rocks, a striking formation that adds to the photo opportunities.

Cameo Island and Coastal Views

The boat swings by Cameo Island, a tiny, picturesque spot perfect for quick photos. As the boat glides past, you’ll get views of cliffs, arches, and the stunning blue waters that make Zakynthos so photogenic.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers return transfers, which simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in Kalamaki or Laganas. The cruise itself is a 3-hour guided trip with an English-speaking guide, ensuring you get some local insights.

For $46, you get a guaranteed turtle sighting (subject to seasonality), visits to Keri Caves, Oasis Beach, and two swimming stops. The boat features full insurance, so safety isn’t a concern.

However, lunch and drinks are not included, and you’ll need to buy these separately at the cantine on the boat or nearby. Some reviews mention that drinks and food are available for purchase, which is fine, but might be a consideration for those on tighter budgets or with specific dietary needs.

The Real Experience: Pros and Cons

The Positives

Wildlife viewing is the star of this trip. Multiple reviews mention guides being knowledgeable, ensuring you’re well-informed about the turtles, caves, and local spots. The scenic views of coastlines, caves, and rocks are spectacular, especially in the summer when the waters are vibrant and the weather is warm.

Travelers also appreciate the small group size (max 8), which fosters a more personal, relaxed atmosphere. The value for money is reasonable, considering the number of stops, the guided commentary, and the wildlife chances.

The Drawbacks

Some guests have expressed disappointment about the accuracy of the description. The claim that the boat is a glass-bottom vessel was challenged by reviews stating the boat does not actually have a glass bottom or it’s not transparent enough for viewing beneath the surface.

Others pointed out that caves are farther away than expected, and the tours can run later or be less transparent about delays. One traveler from Spain called the experience a “scam” due to perceived dishonesty about the tour details, particularly regarding the caves’ location and the nature of the boat.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals to travelers who are wildlife enthusiasts and want a relaxed, scenic boat trip with the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat. It’s suitable for those who enjoy coastal scenery, swimming in clear waters, and short, manageable excursions.

It’s not ideal if you are seeking detailed cave exploration or expecting luxurious amenities. If transparency and honesty about the boat features are crucial, you might want to compare with other options.

The Value of a 3-Hour Sea Adventure

For a budget-friendly price, this tour offers a combination of wildlife, coastal scenery, and relaxation. The guaranteed turtle sighting is a compelling feature, especially during the summer months, making this a highlight for wildlife lovers.

The small group size means more personalized attention from guides, who often share interesting facts about the area and wildlife, enriching the experience. The stops at Keri Caves and Oasis Beach** add variety, turning a simple boat ride into a mini-adventure.

While some reviews raise concerns about misleading descriptions or boat quality, these issues seem to be the exception rather than the rule. As long as you’re aware of what to expect, this cruise offers a balanced mix of fun, scenery, and wildlife.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour is best suited for nature lovers and sea adventurers looking for a cost-effective, scenic boat trip. Its highlights—turtle spotting, caves, and beautiful coastlines—are captivating enough to justify the price, especially if you’re traveling during the peak summer season when turtle sightings are most common.

The experience also offers opportunities for photos, relaxation, and light adventure, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Zakynthos’s seaside charm.

Just remember that some aspects—like the boat’s transparency or the exact cave locations—may not fully match expectations. Being flexible and open-minded will help you enjoy the trip to its fullest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the turtle spotting guaranteed?
Turtle sightings are guaranteed in summer, but outside that season, encounters depend on weather and turtle activity.

What is included in the tour price?
The 3-hour cruise, return transfers, an English-speaking guide, and full insurance are included. Food and drinks are purchased separately.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers departures at 9 am, 12 noon, or 3 pm, allowing flexibility in planning your day.

How long are the swimming stops?
Each swimming stop at Turtle Island and Keri Caves lasts about 45 minutes, providing ample time to relax and snorkel.

Are the boats glass-bottom?
Although described as a glass-bottom boat, some reviews suggest that the bottom isn’t transparent enough for good viewing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent the trip from starting, you will be refunded or offered an alternative trip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The small group size and relaxed pace make it suitable for families, but always check with the provider regarding age restrictions.

How many people are typically on the boat?
The tour limits groups to 8 participants for a more intimate experience, though some reviews note larger groups on similar boats.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Food and drinks are for purchase on the boat, so carry cash if you want to buy additional refreshments.

Is there any snorkeling equipment provided?
The tour description does not specify snorkeling gear, so it’s best to bring your own if you plan to snorkel.

To sum it up, this 3-hour turtle cruise offers a delightful snapshot of Zakynthos’s coastlines, caves, and wildlife. While it’s not without its quirks and occasional discrepancies, it’s a great way to spend a relaxed day on the water, especially if you’re eager to see turtles and enjoy scenic views. Just keep expectations aligned with the realities—then sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

You can check if your dates are available here: