The Zakynthos Turtle Island Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Marathonisi, a vital nesting site for the endangered Caretta-Caretta turtles. Visitors can enjoy the island’s breathtaking scenery, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Keri caves and marveling at the scenic coastline. While the turtles themselves are the main attraction, the tour also provides a chance to learn about the importance of conservation efforts and the steps being taken to protect these remarkable creatures. With transportation, free cancellation, and a refreshing swimming stop, this 4.5-hour journey promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to connect with nature and witness the beauty of Zakynthos.
This experience made our list of the 16 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Keri.
Key Points
- 4.5-hour cruise around Zakynthos with a visit to the Marathonisi nesting site for endangered Caretta-Caretta turtles.
- Swim stop at the Keri caves known for their crystal-clear waters.
- Scenic views of the Zakynthos coastline and the island’s natural beauty.
- Round-trip transportation from Zakynthos Island to the port included in the package.
- Flexible cancellation policy allows full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Cruise Overview
This 4.5-hour Turtle Island Cruise around Zakynthos offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s natural wonders.
Priced from €162 per person, the cruise departs from Zakynthos Island and includes a visit to Marathonisi, a nesting site for the Caretta-Caretta turtles.
Guests can also enjoy a swim stop at the caves of Keri, known for their crystal-clear waters, and have the opportunity to spot the elusive turtles in their natural habitat.
The tour includes a 30-minute coach drive to the port and a return journey via coach after the cruise.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and the cruise is available in both English and German.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Keri.
Itinerary Highlights
The Turtle Island Cruise around Zakynthos takes visitors on a journey to explore the island’s natural highlights.
The cruise departs from Zakynthos Island and heads to Marathonisi, a nesting site for the endangered Caretta-Caretta turtles. Guests have the opportunity to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
The cruise then stops at the caves of Keri, where travelers can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Throughout the journey, passengers are treated to scenic views of Zakynthos Island from the sea, providing a unique perspective of the island’s stunning coastline.
Travel Details
To reach the departure point for the Turtle Island Cruise, participants take a 30-minute coach drive from Zakynthos Island to the port.
Once there, they board a local boat for the cruise around the island. The boat tour provides scenic views of Zakynthos from the sea.
After the cruise, passengers return to the port via the same coach service.
The tour package includes the transportation to and from the port, as well as the boat cruise itself, a visit to Marathonisi island, and a swimming stop at the crystal-clear waters of the Keri caves.
However, food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included in the package.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Turtle Island Cruise package includes the drive to the port, the boat cruise itself, a visit to Marathonisi island, and a swimming stop at the crystal-clear waters of the Keri caves.
However, it doesn’t cover the cost of food, drinks, or personal expenses. Visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel.
The cruise isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness. It’s important to note that the tour sequence may change due to weather conditions, and the captain decides the swimming stop based on the conditions at the time.
Wearing non-slip shoes is recommended.
More Great Tours NearbyPreparation and Recommendations
Visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, and a towel for the Turtle Island Cruise. The cruise isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness.
It’s important to wear non-slip shoes, as the tour sequence may change due to weather conditions. The captain decides the swimming stop based on the conditions at the time.
While the cruise includes a visit to the nesting site of Caretta-Caretta turtles and a swim stop at the caves of Keri with crystal-clear waters, food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included.
Following these recommendations will ensure a comfortable and memorable experience on the Turtle Island Cruise.
Turtle Conservation
Zakynthos Island is home to one of the world’s most important nesting grounds for the endangered Caretta-Caretta sea turtle.
These magnificent creatures face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and bycatch. The Turtle Island Cruise offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness these animals in their natural environment and learn about the efforts to protect them.
The key conservation priorities for the Caretta-Caretta turtles on Zakynthos are:
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Monitoring and protecting nesting sites to ensure successful hatching and survival of hatchlings.
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Reducing plastic pollution and marine debris that can entangle or be ingested by turtles.
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Educating the local community and visitors about the importance of turtle conservation.
Tour Duration and Pricing
The Turtle Island Cruise around Zakynthos lasts 4.5 hours and costs from KC1,628 per person.
Visitors can enjoy a full day exploring the island’s natural wonders, including the nesting site of the Caretta-Caretta turtles on Marathonisi and a refreshing swim stop at the Keri caves.
The cruise is accessible to all, with a coach transfer to and from the port. Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear.
The captain may adjust the itinerary based on weather conditions, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.
Cancelation with a full refund is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.
Cancellation Policy
Typically, the Turtle Island Cruise offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing visitors to receive a full refund if they cancel their booking at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure.
This policy provides travelers with peace of mind, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed without incurring additional costs. The cruise experience is designed to be hassle-free and cater to the needs of its guests:
- Worry-free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Full refund provided for canceled bookings
- Flexibility to accommodate changes in travel plans
This policy reflects the cruise operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction and ensures a stress-free experience for all participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Life Jackets Provided During the Boat Cruise?
Life jackets are provided during the boat cruise. The tour details indicate that all necessary equipment for the water activities is included, ensuring the safety and comfort of participants throughout the excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat, but they are not included in the tour price. The cruise provides a scenic tour and swimming stop, but any personal expenses are the responsibility of the passengers.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
There are no specific restrictions on photography during the tour. Passengers are generally free to take photos as desired, though the captain may request no flash photography in certain areas to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Cruise?
The cruise doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. However, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers, so very young children may not be able to fully participate in the swimming stop at Keri’s caves.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Cruise?
There is no information provided about the ability to extend the duration of the cruise. The cruise is advertised as a fixed 4.5-hour activity, without any mention of optional extensions.
Recap
The Zakynthos Turtle Island Cruise offers a captivating opportunity to witness the nesting grounds of the endangered Caretta-Caretta turtles. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Keri caves and marvel at the island’s scenic coastline. With transportation, free cancellation, and competitive pricing, this tour provides a hassle-free and memorable adventure for nature enthusiasts.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Keri
- Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour South Coast & Swim Stops
- Zakynthos Main Port: Full-Day Cruise by Unique Pirate Ship
- Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting and Keri Caves Boat Tour
- Zante Private Boat: Keri Caves, Mizithres, Eros Cave (max5)
- Zakynthos: 24ft Cranchi Private Cruise for 5 People
- Zakynthos: Turtle Island, Keri Caves, & Sunset Boat Tour
More Tour Reviews in Keri
- Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour South Coast & Swim Stops
- Half-Day Tour to Turtle Island – Keri Caves
- Zakynthos Main Port: Full-Day Cruise by Unique Pirate Ship
- Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting and Keri Caves Boat Tour
- Zante Private Boat: Keri Caves, Mizithres, Eros Cave (max5)
- Zakynthos: 24ft Cranchi Private Cruise for 5 People
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- Zakynthos: Private Boat Tour South Coast & Swim Stops
- Half-Day Tour to Turtle Island – Keri Caves
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- Zakynthos: Turtle Spotting and Keri Caves Boat Tour
- Zante Private Boat: Keri Caves, Mizithres, Eros Cave (max5)
- Zakynthos: 24ft Cranchi Private Cruise for 5 People
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