Zakynthos: Daily cruise around the island

Exploring the island of Zakynthos by boat is a popular way to see its most famous sights, but not all tours are created equal. This particular cruise, offered by LEFKAS K&S CRUISES NE, aims to give visitors a taste of the island’s highlights in a relaxing, scenic trip. We’ve gathered insights from travelers and the tour details to help you decide if this 7-hour cruise offers good value and memorable experiences.

What draws many to this cruise are the stunning views of Navagio Shipwreck, multiple swimming stops in crystal-clear waters, and the chance to see the Caves of Keri. That said, there are some aspects to consider, like the overall pace and the lack of included food and drinks. Whether this experience suits you depends on your expectations—if you love a straightforward, scenic boat ride with photo opportunities and swimming, it could be a good fit.

Good To Know

• Comfortable, 7-hour cruise around Zakynthos with multiple swimming stops
• Popular sights include Navagio Shipwreck, Kabi Beach, and Keri Caves
• Value for money is decent, but food and drinks are extra
• Tour guides are knowledgeable, enhancing the experience
• Timing starts early, with check-in at 8:15 am
• Some logistical issues reported, such as incorrect jetty information

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Cruise Experience

This cruise begins early in the morning, with check-in at 08:15 at Zakynthos harbor, behind the port police. The boat departs promptly at 08:45, making the most of the full 7 hours on the water. You’ll be aboard the VIP cruiser Dimosthenis K, which promises a comfortable ride, though specifics about the size of the boat or group numbers aren’t detailed. Expect a friendly, English-speaking crew who will guide you through each stop and keep the trip engaging.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

First Stop: Makri Gialo
Your journey kicks off with a visit to Makri Gialo, a beautiful bay with turquoise waters. This is a fantastic spot for a quick swim or just soaking in the scenery. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, enough time to dip your toes in the water and snap some photos. Travelers note that the water here is clear and inviting, perfect for cooling off after a morning of travel.

Second Stop: Navagio Shipwreck
No trip to Zakynthos would be complete without visiting the iconic Shipwreck Beach. You’ll get about 10 minutes for photos and viewing — not enough for a full beach visit, but plenty for capturing the moment. This is the highlight for many, with the wreck’s dramatic setting often framed by stunning cliffs. Some reviews mention that the boat’s proximity allows for great photo opportunities, although crowds can sometimes be a factor.

Third Stop: Kabi Beach
Next, you’ll head to Kabi, a charming and less crowded beach near an authentic village. The stop here lasts around 30 minutes, allowing for swimming and relaxing in a more peaceful environment. The scenery is described as beautiful and authentic, offering a different vibe from the more touristy Navagio.

Passage through Keri Caves and Swimming
The boat then passes near the Keri Caves, an area known for its impressive rock formations. The crew will drop anchor near the caves, giving everyone a chance to swim in crystal-clear waters. This stop lasts approximately 40 minutes, considered the most substantial swimming opportunity on the trip. Several travelers found this to be a highlight, appreciating the chance to swim close to the caves’ natural arches and formations.

The Experience on the Water

Throughout the cruise, you can expect a relaxed pace with enough time at each stop to enjoy swimming, taking photos, and simply soaking in the views. The crew’s knowledge and friendliness enhance the trip, with some reviews praising the guides for their helpfulness and insights.

Practicalities and Considerations

Price & Value
At $53 per person, this cruise offers a reasonably priced way to explore Zakynthos’s top sights. Considering the full day out, multiple swimming stops, and the iconic shipwreck view, many find this a good deal. However, food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring cash, snacks, or perhaps purchase refreshments at the stops.

What to Bring
You’ll want to pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash for extras. A credit card might be handy if you wish to buy snacks or souvenirs at the stops. Beachwear and a hat are recommended to stay comfortable under the Greek sun.

Logistics & Potential Issues
One notable issue from a review was a guest missing the boat due to incorrect jetty information, which underscores the importance of arriving early and verifying the meeting point. The departure time is 08:45, with check-in at 08:15, so punctuality is key. The tour lasts until 16:00, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Group Size & Atmosphere
While specific numbers aren’t provided, the cruise is likely to be a moderate-sized group, given the duration and the nature of the tour. The experience is suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day.

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Authentic Insights from Travelers

One traveler from the Netherlands rated the experience poorly—1 out of 5—due to missing the boat because of wrong jetty info. This highlights the importance of clear instructions and punctuality.
Conversely, a traveler from Germany described the trip as “very nice”, noting the 3 swimming stops as a highlight and praising the chance to admire the island from the sea. They called it a “recommended trip”, emphasizing the great views and relaxed pace.

Several reviews highlight the knowledge of guides as a strong point, making the experience more engaging. The ability to see the island’s most famous sights from the water is valued, especially the Navagio Shipwreck, which remains the star attraction.

Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Worth It?

This Zakynthos island cruise is a solid choice for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxing day on the water with multiple chances to swim and take photos. It’s particularly suitable if you want a straightforward tour without complicated logistics or a packed schedule. The price point makes it accessible, and the inclusion of key sights ensures a worthwhile experience.

However, it’s best for those who don’t mind bringing their own snacks, understand the importance of punctuality, and are comfortable with a group setting. If your priority is a more personalized or guided experience, or if you want to explore the beaches in depth, you might find other tours that offer more tailored options.

This cruise offers “good value for money” and beautiful views—a dependable choice to tick off Zakynthos’s big highlights in one go.

FAQ

What time does the cruise depart?
Check-in is at 08:15, with the cruise leaving promptly at 08:45 from Zakynthos harbor.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the price does not include food or drinks, so you should bring your own or plan to purchase at stops.

How long are the swimming stops?
The stops for swimming last approximately 30 minutes at Makri Gialo and Kabi Beach, and 40 minutes near the Keri Caves.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the cruise is suitable for those comfortable with boat rides and moderate walking at stops.

What are the main sights I will see?
You’ll visit Makri Gialo Bay, Navagio Shipwreck, Kabi Beach, and the Keri Caves, with scenic views of the island’s coastline.

What should I bring with me?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, cash, and a hat or beachwear to stay comfortable.

To sum it up, this Zakynthos cruise provides a reliable, scenic way to see the island’s highlights with excellent value, friendly guides, and plenty of swimming opportunities. It’s best suited for travelers who want an uncomplicated, enjoyable day at sea, capturing iconic sights and making the most of Zakynthos’s natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: