If you’re dreaming of a flexible day trip around Zakynthos where you control the itinerary, this full-day private boat rental might just be your best bet. Offered by BLU Boat Rentals, this experience promises the freedom to explore the island’s most iconic spots — from the famous Shipwreck Cove to the enchanting Blue Caves — all at your own pace. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a group of up to six, this tour offers the chance to turn a scenic day into your own adventure.
What really makes this experience shine are two things: first, the freedom to choose your stops and swim in your favorite coves, and second, the no license needed aspect that makes this accessible for most travelers. However, keep in mind that fuel isn’t included, so you’ll want to be prepared for that extra cost. This activity suits adventurous, independent spirits eager to craft their own seaside story — enjoy the flexibility and spectacular views Zakynthos offers.
Key Points
- Self-Drive Freedom: No license required, allowing you to explore independently.
- Spectacular Stops: Swim at Shipwreck Cove, Blue Caves, and many private coves.
- All-Inclusive Setup: Includes GPS, music, USB charger, and lifejackets for a comfortable day.
- Limited Group Size: Up to 6 people, making it intimate and flexible.
- Cost-Effective: At around $311 for the day, it offers a good value for a private adventure.
- Additional Costs: Fuel not included, and skippers are optional if you prefer not to navigate.
Why Choose a Private Boat Rental in Zakynthos?
Unlike organized group tours, renting your own boat offers complete control over your itinerary. We loved the way this setup allows you to customize your day — whether you want to linger at the Shipwreck, explore caves at leisure, or find a quiet cove for a private swim. The full-day rental from 9 am to 5 pm ensures you have plenty of time without feeling rushed, giving you a relaxed pace to soak up the scenery.
Another highlight is the ease of access. No license is needed, so even if you haven’t driven a boat before, you can still enjoy this experience with confidence. The inclusion of GPS and a tracker helps you navigate the waters safely, while the sound system and USB charger keep you entertained and connected, making the trip comfortable and fun.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Greece.
The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
The day begins early, with the boat ready to set sail from Tsilivi, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the calm moments of dawn over the water. As you cruise eastward, you’ll pass through some of Zakynthos’ most picturesque coastlines, heading toward the Shipwreck Cove. This iconic spot is undoubtedly the highlight — the abandoned ship resting on the beach creates a dramatic photo opportunity.
Swim into the Shipwreck Cove — an experience that feels both surreal and invigorating. Many reviews highlight the stunning views as a major draw, with travelers remarking on the “stunning view” and the “beautiful water” that makes the sight unforgettable. Keep in mind, it can get crowded during peak times, but the flexibility of your private boat means you can arrive early or late to beat the crowds.
On the way back, you’ll make a stop at the Blue Caves, often described as “magical.” You can drop anchor in any of the caves, swim into the tunnels, or simply marvel at the cliffs and water reflections. The caves are a bucket-list destination for many visitors, and the experience of swimming in the clear waters surrounded by towering rock formations is truly special.
Further along the coast, the boat can stop at Xigia Beach with its famous sulfur springs, perfect for a dip into shallow, mineral-rich waters that many reviews mention as “relaxing.” The Pelagaki Cove and Alykes Beach are also options for a quieter swim, or you can choose your own secluded spot along the coast.
What’s Included and What’s Not?
The package includes a full-day rental from 9 am to 5 pm, GPS navigation, a tracker, lifejackets, a Bluetooth music player, USB charger, and a coolbox with ice. These amenities ensure your comfort and safety, while the GPS system helps you stay on course without the need for a license or prior experience.
What’s not included is fuel, which you might find is an extra cost depending on your boat’s usage, and the option for a skipper if you prefer not to drive. This allows you to keep the cost down if you’re comfortable navigating, or splurge on a skipper for peace of mind.
Practical Details: Transport and Meeting Points
The activity begins with a meeting in Tsilivi, where you’ll wear polo shirts with the company’s logo. The transfer within Tsilivi is free, making it convenient for most travelers staying nearby. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, giving you the freedom to explore further or relax afterward.
Participants should bring passport or ID and beachwear. It’s a straightforward setup, but remember, high heels, strollers, alcohol, and explosive substances are not permitted on the boat for safety reasons.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Our Reviewers Say
Feedback from past travelers is overwhelmingly positive, with a perfect 5/5 rating based on 8 reviews. Many highlight the stunning views and the flexibility of the experience. One reviewer describes the boat as “comfortable and easy to handle,” emphasizing how independent they felt during the day.
Others appreciate the peace of mind provided by the GPS and the organized setup, noting that the no license needed policy makes it accessible even for novices. Multiple reviews mention the beauty of swimming into the Blue Caves and the Shipwreck Cove as unforgettable highlights.
Some travelers mention that fuel costs are extra, but for the price of $311 per group, the overall value for a private, customizable day on the water is excellent. The ability to choose your own coves for swimming and relaxation adds a personalized touch missing from standard tours.
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Is This Tour Right for You?
This experience is ideal for those who seek independent exploration and are comfortable with small boat handling (or happy to skip driving with a skipper). It’s perfect for groups who want to avoid crowded tours and prefer a more personal experience. Families, friends, and couples seeking a flexible, scenic day on Zakynthos will find this very appealing.
However, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers, people with back problems, or drivers under 18, so keep those factors in mind. Also, if you’re not comfortable navigating the waters or dislike the idea of paying for fuel separately, you might want to consider other options.
Final Thoughts
Overall, renting your own boat in Tsilivi provides a highly flexible way to enjoy some of Zakynthos’ most iconic sights. The combination of stunning landscapes, private coves, and the freedom to set your own pace makes this a standout choice for water lovers and independent travelers.
The value for the price is solid, especially when considering the exclusivity of a private boat and the range of amenities provided. It’s an adventure that rewards those who love to tailor their travel experiences and explore at their own pace.
For travelers craving authentic, scenic, and customizable water-based adventures, this full-day boat rental ticks all the boxes — just remember to budget for fuel and bring your sense of adventure.
FAQ
Do I need a license to rent this boat?
No, a license is not required for this rental. The experience is designed for easy handling, with GPS and tracker to help you navigate safely.
Can I drive the boat myself?
Yes, you can drive the boat yourself if you feel comfortable, as no license is needed. Alternatively, you can opt for a skipper if you prefer not to navigate.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the full-day rental (9 am to 5 pm), GPS navigation, a tracker, lifejackets, music system, USB charger, coolbox with ice, and free transfer within Tsilivi.
Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Yes, fuel is not included and will be an extra expense based on your usage. Consider this when planning your budget.
How many people can the boat hold?
Up to 6 persons comfortably, making it suitable for small groups or families.
What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID and beachwear. It’s also wise to bring sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a towel for swimming.
Is this activity suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those with back problems. Children should be supervised closely and are best suited if they are confident swimmers.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
This private boat experience in Zakynthos offers a fantastic blend of adventure, flexibility, and stunning scenery — perfect for those eager to craft their own seaside memories.
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