Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour to the south of the island

Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour to the South of the Island
Location: Western Greece, Greece
Country: Greece
Rating: 4.5
Price: $282 per group (up to 5 people)
Supplier: Razis Tours
Similar Experiences: Link 1 | Link 2 | Link 3

Meta description

Discover Zakynthos’ southern coast on a private boat, with swimming, cave exploration, and turtle sightings—perfect for intimate groups seeking a personalized adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction

If you’re considering a way to explore the unspoiled southern part of Zakynthos, this private boat tour might just be the ticket. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that this is a fantastic choice for small groups wanting an authentic experience with plenty of swimming and wildlife spotting.

What we love about this tour is the chance to enjoy personalized attention from your own captain, the opportunity to spot turtles in the wild, and the chance to explore stunning caves that are only accessible by boat. Plus, the flexibility of a private trip means you can tailor parts of the journey to your preferences.

On the flip side, one consideration is the cost—though the price per group is reasonable given the exclusive nature, it might be less suitable for travelers on a tight budget. Also, as with any sea-based activity, weather conditions can influence your experience, so flexible plans are a good idea.

This tour suits couples, families, or small groups who want a more intimate, flexible, and authentic way to experience Zakynthos’ natural beauty without the crowds.

Good To Know

• Private, personalized experience with your own captain and group
• Ideal for small groups of up to 5 people, offering exclusivity and flexibility
• Focus on wildlife and nature with turtle sightings and cave exploration
• Multiple swimming stops in clear waters—perfect for cooling off
• Includes a visit to Marathonisi (Turtle Island), famed for its natural beauty and turtle nesting sites
• Comfortable, all-inclusive experience with no need to worry about other travelers

Why Choose This Private Boat Tour?

This tour offers a chance to see Zakynthos from the water in a way that larger, group tours can’t match. The private aspect means you’ll have the captain’s full attention, and the itinerary is flexible enough to suit your interests. From the start, you’ll be heading into the waters of the marine park, where expert guides help you spot Loggerhead Caretta-Caretta turtles—the real highlight for many travelers.

The boat tour is a great balance of adventure and relaxation. You’ll be able to snorkel in pristine waters, explore caves with unique geological formations, and lounge on the boat in between stops. Plus, the quick, 2-hour duration makes it an easy addition to your Zakynthos itinerary, especially if you’re short on time but craving a memorable experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

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Stop 1: Departure from Razis Tours

Your journey begins at Razis Tours, where you’ll meet your private captain and board a well-maintained boat. This initial gathering is smooth, with friendly staff and a relaxed vibe. The captain, who speaks English and Greek, will run through the plan and safety instructions, setting the tone for a stress-free trip.

Stop 2: Marathonisi (Turtle Island)

The first major highlight is the boat ride to Marathonisi, often called Turtle Island. This name isn’t just for show; it’s a protected habitat for Loggerhead turtles. As you glide across the water, keep an eye out for these gentle creatures in their natural environment—a truly enchanting sight according to reviews. One traveler mentioned, “We saw turtles swimming right beside the boat, which was surreal.”

You’ll get about 15-30 minutes here to swim in the calm, clear waters. The beach at Marathonisi is lovely—sandy and perfect for a quick dip or some light snorkeling. The shallow waters make it especially family-friendly, and many reviewers appreciated the opportunity for a peaceful, uncrowded swim.

Stop 3: Marathonisi Caves

Next, your captain will guide you toward the caves near Marathonisi. These caves are a mesmerizing sight, with dramatic rock formations carved by the sea over centuries. Many reviews mention how the caves are a highlight, with one saying, “The caves are even more impressive in person—so much better than photos.”

Here, you’ll stop again for about 15-30 minutes to snorkel and explore. The caves are a perfect spot for underwater photos—just remember to bring a waterproof case for your camera or phone. The environment is wild and unspoiled, making it a unique opportunity to get up close with Zakynthos’ geological features.

Return to Razis Tours

After exploring the caves, your boat will head back to your departure point. The return journey offers a chance to relax, reflect on the experience, and enjoy the scenic coastline.

What’s Included & What to Consider

Included:

• A private boat with a captain, ensuring personalized service
• Turtle spotting in the marine park, with guides helping identify the turtles
• Visits to Marathonisi and the caves with swimming and snorkeling opportunities
• Flexibility to create unforgettable memories in the South of Zakynthos

Not Included:

• Food and drinks—pack your own snacks and refreshments
• Hotel pickup or drop-off—plan your own transportation to Razis Tours

Practical tips:

• Bring a hat, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and waterproof camera
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for water activities
• Be aware that sea conditions may vary, so seasickness pills or precautions might be helpful for sensitive travelers

The Experience & What Travelers Say

Reviewers truly appreciated the personalized attention the private boat offers. One shared, “Having our own captain meant we could stay longer in the caves and swim wherever we wanted,” highlighting the flexibility of this experience.

Many also loved the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat—often described as magical and unexpected. The small group size was praised for creating a more intimate, less rushed atmosphere.

Conversely, some mentioned that the cost per group could be a consideration, but most felt it was a fair price for the exclusivity and tailored experience. The 2-hour duration was viewed as just right—enough to see key sights without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging way to see Zakynthos’ south coast, this private boat trip is hard to beat. It offers a perfect blend of wildlife spotting, natural cave exploration, and swimming—ideal for couples, families, or small groups wanting an authentic experience without the crowds.

The focus on personal service means you can customize your trip, whether it’s spending more time at the caves or relaxing on Marathonisi’s beach. The guide’s knowledge about local wildlife adds an educational touch, making it more than just a pretty boat ride.

The price reflects the intimate, tailored nature of the experience, and reviews indicate that the unspoiled scenery and chance to see turtles make it a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour is a fantastic way to appreciate Zakynthos’ natural charms without the hustle of larger group excursions. Its focus on wildlife, caves, and privacy makes it suitable for travelers seeking a personalized, laid-back adventure.

While it might not be the cheapest option, the exclusivity, flexibility, and immersive experience offered are well worth it for anyone wanting to make the most of their time on this beautiful island. For those who love snorkeling, wildlife, and discovering hidden spots, this trip promises a memorable slice of Zakynthos’ unspoiled coastline.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly experience, especially since the waters at Marathonisi are shallow and calm, making it safe for children.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, you can likely tailor the stops to your preferences, whether focusing more on swimming, caves, or wildlife sightings.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and waterproof case for your electronics. Comfortable clothes suitable for water activities are recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with each stop around 15-30 minutes, depending on your group’s preferences.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or refreshments if needed.

Is this tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the boat captain speaks English and Greek.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather conditions could affect the trip, so check the forecast beforehand.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Since swimming is a component, non-swimmers might find it less ideal, but they can still enjoy the views from the boat and explore the caves from outside.

In summary, this private boat tour offers a personalized, wildlife-focused way to experience Zakynthos’ south coast. With its intimate setting, emphasis on natural beauty and wildlife, and flexible stops, it’s a strong choice for travelers who want authentic connections with the island’s stunning landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here: