Zakynthos: Keri Caves & Marathonisi Small Boat Tour with Lunch

Summary

Swim under Zakynthos cliffs watch turtles near Marathonisi and taste local lunch

You’ll ride a small boat from Zakynthos to Keri Caves and Marathonisi, swimming in clear Ionian waters and watching for sea turtles along rocky shores. Your local guide shares stories as you explore hidden coves before relaxing over a traditional Greek lunch by the harbor. Expect salt on your skin—and maybe a new favorite memory.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the color of the water at Agios Sostis port—almost too blue, like someone turned up the saturation. Our guide, Anna, waved us over with this easy smile and handed out little tips about where to sit if you wanted less spray (I didn’t listen—regret that now, my shorts were soaked before we even left the harbor). The boat was small enough that you could hear everyone’s laughter bouncing off the sides. There was this older Greek couple who kept pointing out shapes in the rocks as we drifted toward the Keri Caves. I swear one really did look like a sleeping dog.

I’d read about this day trip to Keri Caves and Marathonisi from Zakynthos but didn’t expect how quiet it would get when we slipped into those caves—just the sound of water echoing off stone and someone’s phone camera clicking. Anna told us stories about smugglers hiding here ages ago. The sun hit the walls just right so everything glowed greenish-blue for a minute. We stopped for a swim; the water was colder than I thought but so clear you could see tiny silver fish darting around your toes. Someone spotted a Caretta-Caretta turtle near Marathonisi and everyone scrambled to one side of the boat (probably not great for balance), but it just floated there, totally unbothered.

By the time we got back to shore, my skin felt salty and my hair was a mess from the wind. Lunch was at this taverna close to the harbor—grilled fish, bread that tasted smoky from the oven, tomatoes that actually smelled like tomatoes (I can’t explain it better than that). Anna sat with us and helped me pronounce “Marathonisi” properly—she laughed when I tried to roll my ‘r’. The whole thing felt easy and kind of unplanned, even though it clearly wasn’t. I still think about that light inside the cave sometimes when I close my eyes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour to Keri and Marathonisi

• Pick up from accommodation
• Travel to Agios Sostis port
• Start 3-hour boat cruise
• Pass by Keri Caves
• Pass by Marathonisi island
• Watch for Caretta-Caretta turtles
• Swim and snorkel in Ionian Sea
• Return to Agios Sostis port
• Enjoy lunch at traditional tavern

Top questions

How long is the Zakynthos small boat tour?

The boat trip lasts about three hours total.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation or nearby meeting point is included.

Are there restroom facilities at Agios Sostis port or on the boat?

No, there are no restroom facilities at either location.

Is lunch provided during this Zakynthos day trip?

Yes, lunch with local dishes is included at a traditional tavern near the harbor.

Can you see turtles on this tour?

You may spot Caretta-Caretta turtles near Marathonisi if you're lucky.

Is this boat tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Should I bring snacks or drinks?

It's recommended to bring any refreshments you may need since nothing is available at the port or on board.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or closest meeting point by air-conditioned bus, an English-speaking guide throughout your small boat journey to Keri Caves and Marathonisi, swimming stops in clear Ionian waters, plus a well-deserved lunch featuring local dishes at a taverna near Agios Sostis harbor before heading back home.