Embarking on a cruise to Turtle Island and exploring the stunning underwater caves aboard a glass-bottom boat is an unforgettable experience. This half-day excursion from Laganas Beach offers the chance to spot loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat while enjoying the breathtaking turquoise waters. With opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, guests can enjoy the vibrant marine life. The lively atmosphere, complete with floating food trucks, enhances the adventure as visitors appreciate the beauty of the Greek islands. But what else can one expect on this captivating journey? Let’s dive deeper into the details of this remarkable tour.
Good To Know
- Set out on a glass-bottom boat cruise to explore Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, and observe loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat.
- Spend 30 minutes at Laganas Beach spotting turtles and learning about them, followed by an hour of swimming and snorkeling at Marathonisi.
- Discover the island’s clear turquoise waters, green scenery, and opportunities to explore underwater caves and grottoes.
- Immerse in the lively atmosphere at Marathonisi, with multiple boats and floating food trucks providing a vibrant experience.
- Follow guidelines to protect the delicate ecosystem and turtle population during the excursion.
Overview of the Tour
The tour offers visitors a chance to cruise to Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, on a glass-bottom boat.
It’s a half-day excursion departing from Laganas Beach, providing the opportunity to spot loggerhead turtles in the shallow waters.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the scenic views. The atmosphere can be lively, with multiple boats and floating food trucks in the area.
The tour allows travelers to explore the island and its clear, turquoise waters, set against a backdrop of green scenery.
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour begins with 30 minutes spent at Laganas Beach, where guests can search for the loggerhead turtles, known as Caretta Caretta, and learn about these fascinating creatures.
After this, the group heads to Marathonisi, or Turtle Island, for an hour of swimming and snorkeling in the clear, turquoise waters.
Here, visitors can enjoy the scenic green backdrop as they explore the underwater world.
The tour offers an opportunity to spot the turtles in their natural habitat and appreciate the beauty of the Greek islands.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Travelers can either directly head to the meeting point or request a pickup for an additional cost.
The meeting point is located at Limani Agiou Sostis, Unnamed Road, Zakynthos 290 92, Greece. The activity concludes back at the same meeting point.
Participants should plan to arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour departs promptly. Clear communication and coordination with the tour operator are crucial to ensure a smooth start and end to the excursion.
Travelers are advised to double-check the meeting details, transportation options, and any special requirements before their scheduled tour.
Tour Participation Guidelines
A maximum of 85 travelers are allowed per tour. This ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for travelers. Confirmation is received upon booking, and various tour options are available to suit individual preferences.
While the tour offers a great opportunity to explore the island and spot turtles, participants should be aware of the tour’s guidelines to ensure a smooth and memorable journey.
Customer Feedback and Reviews
Travelers have left a total of 145 reviews for the Cruise to Turtles Island and Caves tour, which boasts an overall rating of 4.0.
Positive comments highlight the friendly staff, enjoyable swimming, and scenic views. However, feedback is mixed regarding turtle sightings and communication issues.
Some travelers experienced cancellations or last-minute changes to the schedule. While the majority of reviews are positive, the tour seems to have a few inconsistencies that could impact the overall experience.
Customers should consider these factors when deciding whether this excursion is the right fit for their preferences and expectations.
What to Expect on the Cruise
The cruise to Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, offers visitors an immersive opportunity to explore the picturesque waters and witness the natural habitat of the loggerhead turtles.
From the glass-bottom boat, travelers can spot these majestic creatures swimming in the shallow coastal waters. The half-day excursion departs from Laganas Beach, allowing guests to spend around 30 minutes searching for turtles and learning about the Caretta Caretta species.
Afterward, the boat docks at Marathonisi, where visitors can enjoy an hour of swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the stunning green scenery.
Though the atmosphere can be lively with multiple boats and floating food vendors, the cruise provides a memorable chance to connect with nature and the local marine life.
Exploring Marathonisi and Snorkeling
Once the boat docks at Marathonisi, visitors can enjoy the island’s turquoise waters and begin snorkeling. The clear, calm waters provide an excellent opportunity to spot a variety of marine life, including loggerhead turtles. Snorkelers can explore the nearby caves and grottoes, taking in the stunning natural scenery.
| Highlights of Snorkeling at Marathonisi | |
|---|---|
| Encounter Loggerhead Turtles | Explore Underwater Caves |
| Observe Vibrant Marine Life | Enjoy Panoramic Views |
Travelers can spend up to an hour swimming and snorkeling before returning to the boat. The time spent at Marathonisi is a popular highlight of the excursion, allowing visitors to connect with the region’s natural wonders.
Experiencing the Lively Atmosphere
The lively atmosphere at Marathonisi is palpable, with multiple boats and floating food trucks creating a vibrant scene.
Visitors can expect an energetic and social experience as they mingle with fellow travelers and take in the stunning natural surroundings. The presence of the floating food trucks adds to the excitement, offering a convenient way to refuel during the outing.
While the atmosphere can be lively, it’s important to be mindful of the delicate ecosystem and to follow any guidelines to protect the environment and the turtle population.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do We Need to Bring Our Own Snorkeling Gear?
No, guests don’t need to bring their own snorkeling gear. The tour provides snorkeling equipment for all participants to use during the swimming and snorkeling activities at Marathonisi.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour does not have a minimum age requirement. Infants are allowed to participate, but they must sit on laps during the excursion. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity.
Can We Extend the Duration of the Cruise?
The tour duration can be extended, but it’ll incur additional costs. Travelers can inquire about extended cruise options when booking. Keep in mind that tour activities and schedules are subject to change based on weather conditions and logistical factors.
Are There Any Restrictions on Food and Drinks?
The tour allows guests to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks. However, there are floating food trucks available on the island for additional snacks and refreshments. Glass bottles are not permitted due to safety reasons.
What Should We Wear on the Cruise?
For the cruise, it’s best to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing that can get wet. Bring swimwear, sandals or water shoes, and a towel. Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended for the outdoor activities.
The Sum Up
The cruise to Turtle Island and the glass-bottom boat exploration offer an unforgettable opportunity to witness loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat and take in the vibrant marine life of the Greek islands. With swimming, snorkeling, and a lively atmosphere, this half-day excursion from Laganas Beach provides a unique and memorable adventure for visitors.