Zakynthos Turtle Island and Keri Caves

Zakynthos’ Turtle Island and Keri Caves offer a unique opportunity to take in the natural wonders of Greece. Visitors can witness the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles nesting on the pristine white sand beaches of Marathonisi, while nearby, the Keri Caves present a captivating geological landscape teeming with tranquil coves and impressive limestone formations. Whether you’re drawn to the island’s delicate ecosystem or the allure of exploration, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that’ll leave you yearning to uncover more.

Key Points

• The 3-hour boat tour offers visits to Marathonisi (Turtle Island) and Keri Caves in Laganas Gulf, Zakynthos.
• Marathonisi is home to endangered Caretta Caretta turtles, and visitors can observe and photograph them while following guidelines to protect the nesting site.
• Exploring the Keri Caves includes a boat cruise along the coastline, allowing visitors to see unique limestone formations and spot marine life.
• The tour includes a local food tasting experience in Lithakia, providing an opportunity to sample traditional Zakynthian cheese, olive oil, and honey.
• The tour package includes hotel pickup/drop-off, bottled water, and boat tickets, with pricing ranging from $55.60 to $50.04 per person.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a 3-hour boat excursion through the picturesque Laganas Gulf, allowing visitors to explore the renowned Marathonisi (Turtle Island) and the stunning Keri Caves.

Priced from $55.60 to $50.04 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and boat tickets to Marathonisi and Cameo Islands.

Participants can enjoy photo stops, boat cruises, and swimming opportunities at these scenic destinations.

The tour is open to adults, children, and infants, with a maximum group size of 8 for land transport and 30 for the sea boat tour.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

Pricing Details

The tour offers pricing options ranging from $55.60 to $50.04 per person. Guests have the convenience of a reserve now & pay later option, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Adult	Child (4-12)	Infant (3 and younger)
$55.60	$53.32	Free
$52.82	$50.04	Free
$54.21	$51.68	Free

The pricing reflects the value-packed experience, including hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and boat tickets to Marathonisi and Cameo islands.

Itinerary Highlights

Guests embark on this captivating 3-hour boat tour in the Laganas Gulf, offering a chance to explore the renowned Marathonisi (Turtle Island) and the stunning Keri Caves.

The itinerary includes stops at Cameo Island for a photo opportunity, followed by extended visits to Marathonisi and Keri Cave. At Marathonisi, guests can observe the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles, swim in the scenic areas, and take photos.

The Keri Cave exploration includes a boat cruise and a chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters. The tour also includes a food tasting experience in Lithakia before returning to the starting point.

Key highlights:

• Observe endangered Caretta Caretta turtles at Marathonisi
• Swim and explore the scenic Keri Caves
• Enjoy a photo stop at Cameo Island
• Savor a local food tasting experience in Lithakia

Visiting Marathonisi

Visitors arrive at Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, eager to catch a glimpse of the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles that call this area home.

The 3-hour boat tour allows ample time to explore the island, starting with a photo stop. Guests then cruise around the island and have the opportunity to swim in the scenic waters.

With Marathonisi being a crucial nesting site for these turtles, visitors must exercise caution and follow guidelines to minimize disturbance.

The stunning white sand beaches and unique geological formations only add to the allure of this natural wonder.

Exploring Keri Caves

After exploring the wonders of Marathonisi, the tour proceeds on to the next captivating destination – the Keri Caves.

Visitors can expect to spend around an hour cruising along the breathtaking Keri coastline and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

The Keri Caves offer a unique geological experience, with:

• Stunning limestone formations carved by the elements over centuries
• Opportunities to spot marine life, including potential sightings of turtles
• Tranquil coves and hidden inlets perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery
• Chance to learn about the caves’ history and importance to the local ecosystem

This part of the tour provides a chance to take in Zakynthos’ natural wonders beyond the famous Turtle Island.

Tasting Local Cuisine

Following the exploration of Keri Caves, the tour concludes with a stop in Lithakia for a local food tasting experience. Visitors have the opportunity to sample various Greek delicacies, allowing them to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Zakynthos. The table below highlights some of the local specialties that may be offered during the food tasting:

Item	Description
Zakynthian Cheese	A semi-hard, brined cheese with a distinct tangy flavor.
Olive Oil	Locally produced, extra virgin olive oil from the island’s olive groves.
Olives	Cured and marinated, showcasing the Mediterranean flavors.
Honey	Sweet and fragrant honey, sourced from the island’s beekeepers.
Bread	Traditional Greek bread, freshly baked and served warm.

This culinary experience adds an authentic touch to the tour, providing visitors with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Zakynthos’ local cuisine.

Tour Inclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and boat tickets to Marathonisi and Cameo islands.

Participants can enjoy this 3-hour boat tour in the Laganas Gulf, which allows them to:

• Visit the important nesting site for endangered Caretta Caretta turtles in Laganas Bay
• Explore the stunning Keri caves and the white sand beaches of Marathonisi
• Swim in the scenic areas and view the marine life, especially the turtles
• Join a small group, with a maximum of 8 people for land transport and 30 for the sea boat tour

However, alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.

Customer Feedback

Based on the limited customer feedback available, the overall rating for the Zakynthos Turtle Island and Keri Caves tour is 4 out of 5 stars.

Reviewers particularly enjoyed the opportunity to explore the stunning Keri caves. However, some noted confusion regarding the Turtle Island portion of the tour.

It’s unclear if all visitors were able to see the endangered Caretta caretta turtles that nest in Laganas Bay, a key highlight advertised. The tour operator may want to provide clearer information about turtle sighting chances to set appropriate expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos of the Turtles on Marathonisi?

Yes, you can take photos of the turtles on Marathonisi (Turtle Island) during the tour. However, it’s important to respect the turtles and not disturb them or get too close, as they’re endangered species.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

The tour provider includes all necessary snorkeling equipment, so you don’t need to bring your own. Simply show up and they’ll provide the gear you’ll need to explore the waters around Marathonisi and the Keri Caves.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Travelers can inquire about longer tour packages that allow more time to explore Marathonisi and the Keri Caves in greater detail, depending on their preferences and schedule.

Are There Restrooms Available During the Boat Tour?

The boat tour provides bathroom facilities onboard for passengers. Restrooms are available during the stops at Marathonisi (Turtle Island) and Keri Caves, allowing participants to use the facilities as needed throughout the 3-hour excursion.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs on Marathonisi or Keri Caves?

There’s no mention of souvenir shops or vendors on Marathonisi or in the Keri Caves. The tour focuses on sightseeing and doesn’t appear to include opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the stops.

Recap

Zakynthos Turtle Island and the Keri Caves offer a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Visitors can witness the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles, swim in the pristine waters, and explore the stunning limestone formations of the Keri Caves. With a focus on sustainability and protecting the delicate ecosystem, this tour provides an unforgettable experience while ensuring the preservation of these natural wonders.