Planning a trip to Zakynthos (also known as Zante)? One of the best ways to experience this island’s stunning coastline is on a private boat tour. This particular cruise, operated by ZAKYNTHOS BOAT RENTALS, promises a personalized, seven-hour journey around some of the island’s most iconic spots—think turtle sightings, sea caves, and isolated beaches. While it’s not a cheap outing, it offers value for those wanting an exclusive, tailored experience away from the bustling crowds.

We love that you can customize the timing of your trip and that it’s private, meaning it’s all about your group’s pace and interests. The ability to choose your preferred departure time adds a level of flexibility that many other tours don’t provide. Plus, the boat itself isn’t just functional—it’s a sleek Italian pleasure craft, offering comfort, style, and even a shower, making the day feel more like a luxurious escape.

However, a possible consideration is the price point—$632 for up to five people. For many, that’s a fair investment for a full day on the water, but it’s worth comparing this experience’s intimacy and customization to some of the larger group excursions. This tour is best suited for travelers who cherish private, flexible outings and want more control over their day’s itinerary.

In short, if you’re after a personalized adventure on Zakynthos with the chance to see turtles, explore caves, and swim at secluded beaches, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s an excellent choice for couples, families, or small groups seeking a high-end yet authentic experience.

Key Points

Zante Private Cruise Turtle Island, Keri Caves & Mizithres - Key Points

  • Private, customizable experience suited to your wishes and preferred timing
  • Includes stunning stops like Caretta Sea Turtles, Keri Caves, Mizithres Beach, and beyond
  • Luxury boat with comfort features like a sun deck, shower, and snorkel equipment
  • Flexible stops and swimming opportunities at remote beaches, with knowledgeable guides
  • All fuel, captain, and equipment included—no hidden costs
  • Ideal for small groups looking for personal attention and tailored exploration
You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Zante Private Cruise Turtle Island, Keri Caves & Mizithres - An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Boat and Comfort

We loved the Marinello Eden 18, a sleek Italian pleasure craft powered by 100 horses—plenty of power for a smooth, stable ride. The boat offers a large front leather sundeck perfect for soaking up the sun or relaxing with a drink, and a large canopy shields you from the sun’s strongest rays. Inside, you’ll find shower facilities and clear water, plus cooling boxes stocked with bottled water, ensuring your comfort throughout the trip.

This boat’s design screams relaxed luxury, making it a pleasure to be on for hours. The snorkeling equipment provided means you can quickly hop into the water at any of the stops, with the captain happy to help you find the best spots for your swimming adventures.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour revolves around several key sites, each beloved by visitors and locals alike:

Marine Park & Turtle Spotting:
We start by cruising around the marine park, where there’s a good chance to see Caretta Sea Turtles—a highlight for many travelers. Reviews consistently mention spotting turtles within the first 10 minutes, which makes for an exciting start. It’s a thrill to see these gentle creatures in their natural habitat, and our guides are knowledgeable about their behaviors, making it both a sighting and an educational moment.

Marathonisi (Turtle Island):
The boat will stop here, giving you time to swim, relax, or explore. The island’s name hints at turtle sightings and, indeed, it’s a protected nesting site. Many visitors find this a peaceful, scenic spot to enjoy the water and unwind.

Keri Caves and Mizithres Beach:
Next, the boat drifts into the Keri Caves, natural formations crafted by wind and water over millennia. These caves are a photographer’s dream, with dramatic limestone cliffs and clear waters. The reviews highlight how stunning and remote the caves are, making them a perfect place to snorkel or simply marvel at nature’s artistry.

Mizithres Beach:
This recently formed sandy expanse offers an almost otherworldly scene—pearl shades of blue along its coast—and is sometimes called the “new Shipwreck,” referring to its striking formations. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet swim and taking in the scenery away from crowded beaches. Travelers describe it as a paradise where time seems to stand still.

Eros Cave & Piscines Beach:
Further up the coast, your guide will take you to the Eros Cave, a smaller but impressively scenic cave worth exploring. Then, the boat will head to Piscines Beach, a relatively unknown spot that many reviews describe as “spectacular” and “blissful.” Here, you’ll have plenty of time to swim and relax—it’s a highlight for many who want a secluded, pristine environment.

Customization and Flexibility

What makes this trip stand out is its customizable nature. According to reviews, the trip is flexible—you can spend longer at spots you love or skip over others if you prefer. The skipper is attentive and knowledgeable, guiding you and helping find the best places for swimming or viewing wildlife.

You’ll appreciate the timing options—you can start in the morning or afternoon, fitting the tour around your plans. Since it’s a private group, you won’t be stuck with strangers, and your captain will tailor the experience to your pace.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guide & Experience

Several travelers praise their guide—notably, James and Mario—highlighting their insightfulness, friendly manner, and local knowledge. The reviews mention how they took the group around caves and wildlife, providing commentary that made the experience more meaningful.

Having a professional skipper means you’re in safe hands, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. This is a significant advantage over larger boat tours that can feel rushed or impersonal.

The Value & Price Consideration

At $632 per group, the tour is a notable investment, especially for groups of up to five. When you consider that this covers fuel, captain, snorkeling gear, water, and comfort, it’s a solid deal for a full day of exploration. You won’t need to worry about additional costs unless you want to buy food or drinks separately, as those are not included.

Many travelers find the value in the privacy and flexibility, which is rare for boat trips. Instead of following a rigid schedule, you control your day, making it ideal for romantics, families, or friends seeking a more intimate adventure.

Practical Details & Tips

  • Duration & Timing: The tour lasts approximately 7 hours. Be sure to check the availability for your preferred departure time.
  • Meeting Point: On the right side of Kavos Harbour Psarou, easily accessible from Tsilivi and Tragaki.
  • What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer.
  • Limitations: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 125 kg. Pets are not allowed.
  • Weather: In case of bad weather, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded—sensible peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Zante Private Cruise Turtle Island, Keri Caves & Mizithres - Who Will Love This Tour?

This private cruise is perfect for travelers who want a tailored, relaxed day on the water. It suits couples looking for a romantic escape, families eager for a flexible adventure, or small groups of friends wanting exclusive access to hidden gems. If you’re keen on sea turtles and caves and prefer personalized service over crowded excursions, this tour offers excellent value and memorable experiences.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight budget or require wheelchair accessibility, but otherwise, it checks many boxes for an authentic, scenic, and peaceful day exploring Zakynthos’s coast.

Final Thoughts

Zante Private Cruise Turtle Island, Keri Caves & Mizithres - Final Thoughts

This private boat tour offers a luxurious yet authentic way to experience Zakynthos’s natural beauty. The combination of professional guides, flexible scheduling, and stunning scenery makes it a compelling choice for those seeking an exclusive, customizable adventure.

It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate private outings and want to avoid the hustle of larger groups. The opportunity to see turtles, explore caves, and swim at secluded beaches all in one day—while enjoying the comfort of a stylish boat—makes this a memorable addition to any Zakynthos itinerary.

While it’s a higher-cost option, the personalized service and extraordinary stops justify the price for many. It’s a chance to create a unique, relaxed day that captures the essence of the island’s natural charm, far from the crowded tourist spots.

FAQ

Zante Private Cruise Turtle Island, Keri Caves & Mizithres - FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups or families?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups of up to 5 people, making it ideal for families, couples, or friends wanting a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the captain, fuel, snorkeling equipment, water, sun deck, tent, shower, and clear water. Food and additional drinks are not included.

Can I choose the departure time?
Yes, you can select a time that suits your schedule when booking, providing flexibility to fit your plans.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
In case of bad weather, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded, giving you peace of mind.

Are there any restrictions?
Pets are not allowed, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 125 kg.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet the boat?
At the right side of Kavos Harbour Psarou, conveniently located close to Tsilivi and Tragaki.

Is this a good experience for wildlife sightings?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention spotting Caretta Sea Turtles early in the trip, which is a highlight for nature lovers.

If you’re after a flexible, private, and scenic day on Zakynthos’s waters, this tour offers a fine balance of comfort, adventure, and authentic exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: