Zakynthos: Private Sunset Cruise to the south of the island

If you’re dreaming of an evening on the water, watching the sun cast its golden glow over Zakynthos, this private sunset cruise might just be the highlight of your trip. Offered by Porto Koukla Cruises, this three-hour tour takes you along the southern coast of the island, exploring hidden beaches, dramatic caves, and iconic rock formations—all from the comfort of a private speedboat. It’s a chance to see Zakynthos from the sea, away from the crowds, with the added bonus of a personalized experience and stunning photo opportunities.

What we particularly like about this cruise is its combination of versatile stops – from swimming in clear waters to capturing the best sunset views. The boat itself is well-equipped, making the journey both comfortable and fun. The other standout: this is a private experience, so it’s tailored to your group, whether a family, a couple, or friends.

One potential consideration is the weather dependency. Since it’s an outdoor activity centered on the sunset, poor weather could impact the trip — worth checking the forecast and being flexible with your booking. This tour suits travelers who love scenic landscapes, enjoy marine adventures, and want a more intimate, relaxed way to experience Zakynthos’ southwestern coast.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at the Experience

2 Who Will Love This Cruise?

3 Summary of the Value

4 Who Should Consider It?

5 FAQ

6 Final Thoughts

Key Points

Exclusive Private Experience: Perfect for groups up to 8, ensuring personalized attention and a flexible schedule.
Scenic Highlights: Explore Marathonisi (Turtle Island), Keri Caves, and the stunning Myzithres at sunset.
Activities Included: Swimming, snorkeling, and photo stops in some of Zakynthos’ most picturesque spots.
Comfort & Convenience: The boat is equipped with a sun deck, onboard shower, music, shade, and refreshments.
Ideal for Sunset Lovers: You’ll witness a magical sunset that’s perfect for photos and creating memories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Keri.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The cruise departs from Porto Koukla Cruises, a calm, well-organized marina that sets the tone for a relaxed adventure. From here, you’ll meet your skipper, who is equipped with all the safety gear, navigation systems, and a smooth, powerful 7-meter speedboat. With a 250hp engine, the boat isn’t just speedy — it’s stable, making the ride comfortable even if you’re prone to seasickness.

Exploring Marathonisi (Turtle Island)

Your first stop is Marathonisi, often called Turtle Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Many reviews praise this part of the trip, noting how refreshing it is to jump into warm Ionian Sea waters. Some travelers say, “We loved the way the boat was spacious and the swimming was perfect in the warm, calm waters.” We appreciate that the tour allows you about 40 minutes here, enough time to snorkel, relax on the boat, or just take in the peaceful surroundings.

The Keri Caves

Next, you’ll cruise toward the Keri Caves, a dramatic coastline of towering cliffs and turquoise waters. With a dedicated 40-minute stop, you can snap photos of the striking rock formations, which glow vividly as the sun begins to dip. Several reviews mention how this stop is a highlight for photographers: “The caves are stunning, and the water looks even more blue as the light fades.” You may also choose to swim here or simply lounge on the boat’s deck, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

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Sunset at Myzithres

As the tour progresses, the final destination is the famous Myzithres rocks, where you can witness a sunset that’s often described as breathtaking. For about an hour, you’ll be in a prime spot to watch the sun sink into the horizon, casting a golden glow over the unusual rock formations. The views from here are perfect for photos, and many guests remark on how magical the moment is: “Watching the sunset from the boat felt like being in a postcard.” You’ll also have time to swim in the calm waters, making the most of this scenic finale.

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Practical Details: Comfort & Flexibility

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy music on onboard speakers and chilled drinks from the ice box, adding to the relaxed vibe. The boat’s amenities include a freshwater shower, a dining table, foam deck, and a stern platform—features that enhance your comfort while floating in paradise. Since it’s a private group experience, your party can customize the pace and stops, making it more tailored to your interests.

Duration & Pricing

At $395 for up to eight people, the tour offers good value, especially considering the exclusivity and personalized nature of the experience. For just under three hours, you get a well-paced journey filled with scenic stops, swimming, and sunset viewing. The timing varies by availability, so checking your preferred date in advance is recommended.

Weather & Safety

Weather can influence the trip, so it’s wise to confirm the forecast before booking. The boat is equipped with all necessary safety gear, and the skipper is responsible for navigating safely and providing a safety briefing. Note that fishing isn’t permitted during the cruise, which helps keep the waters pristine and the experience peaceful.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This private sunset cruise is ideal for travelers craving an intimate, scenic experience. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small families, or friends wanting to enjoy Zakynthos from a different perspective. If you love watching sunsets, swimming in clear waters, and capturing beautiful photos, this tour hits all those marks. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a more exclusive, relaxed alternative to larger group tours.

Summary of the Value

For a reasonable price, this tour delivers an authentic, memorable experience. The private setting means less crowding and more flexibility, and the stops are carefully chosen for their scenic beauty. The boat itself offers comfort, with amenities like a sun deck and onboard shower, making the entire journey enjoyable. Though weather can be a factor, the overall package offers excellent value for those who want a personalized, scenic evening on Zakynthos.

Who Should Consider It?

This tour suits those who prioritize stunning scenery and a quiet, intimate atmosphere over high-energy activities. It’s perfect for sunset enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone wanting a peaceful way to wrap up a day in Zakynthos. The group size is small, so it’s also suited for travelers seeking a more exclusive experience rather than crowded boat trips.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with flexibility depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the speedboat rental, skipper, safety equipment, navigation systems, onboard shower, dining table, foam deck, stern platform, and cool box.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is included at several stops, including Marathonisi, Keri Caves, and Myzithres.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera. The boat provides refreshments and a shaded area.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s for private groups of up to 8 people, offering a tailored experience.

Are there any restrictions?
Fishing is not allowed during the cruise, and weather conditions may affect the trip.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

When is the best time for this cruise?
The ideal time is around sunset hours, which vary seasonally. Check availability for exact times.

Is transportation provided to the starting point?
The tour departs from Porto Koukla Cruises, so you’ll need to get there on your own.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but always check with the operator regarding age restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Zakynthos private sunset cruise offers an elegant blend of scenic beauty, comfort, and exclusivity. It’s a perfect way to see the island’s dramatic coastline and enjoy a memorable sunset away from the crowds. If you’re after a relaxing, picture-perfect evening on the water — and don’t mind a little dependance on good weather — this tour is well worth considering.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to savor the stunning views Zakynthos has to offer, this cruise combines natural beauty with the luxury of privacy. Just pack your camera, a sense of adventure, and a desire to see the coastline from a fresh perspective.