Loggerhead sea turtles have been residents of Zante's beaches for thousands of years, and with a bit of luck, you'll see them first-hand on this boat trip. Join an expert local guide for an educational day out at sea, passing by nesting sites, swimming in hidden bays and spending time in the village of Keri. Bianca, one of our guides, says, ‘In just one trip, you get to jump into clear waters, cruise along the Keri peninsula and, with luck, see turtles.'
Available either in the morning from Zante harbour or the afternoon from Keri harbour, this half-day cruise is a real treat for all the family. You'll pass by the golden beaches of Vassilikos and Marathonisi, a pine-clad islet dubbed ‘Turtle Island'. The reason's simple – one of its beaches is a favourite turtle nesting site. Bianca, who's lived on Zante for more than 20 years, says of the scenery, ‘You can do this tour a thousand times and every day is different.' Be sure to keep a lookout for Loggerheads, and you may even spot a wild dolphin or two.
Plus, you'll sail along the Keri peninsula, cruising by its sea-plunging cliffs, caves and lighthouse before dropping anchor for a swim stop at the Bay of Oasis. In the small village of Keri, you have a quick stop to shop for souvenirs, relax in a typical taverna or hit the beach. What's more, a volunteer from local conservation group ARCHELON – the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece – will be on board to give you the lowdown on its work.
What is the itinerary for this experience?This experience is available as a morning or afternoon turtle cruise, so the itinerary timings change depending on which one you pick.
Morning option:- 8:45am – depart from Zakynthos Harbour
- 9:30am to 10:00am – swimming stop at Vasilikos (Porto Roma) for 30 minutes
- 11:00am to 11:20am – turtle spotting in Laganas Bay
- 11:25am to 11:35am – photo stop at Marathonisi (Turtle Island)
- 11:45am to 12:30pm – swimming stop at Oasis Bay for 45 minutes
- 12:40pm to 12:50pm – photo stop at the Keri Caves
- 1:00pm to 1:30pm – stop at Keri fishing village with time for a short village walk
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Afternoon option:- 12:50pm to 1:20pm – arrive at Keri, village walk and boat departure
- 1:30pm to 1:40pm – photo stop at the Keri Caves
- 2:00pm to 2:45pm – swimming stop at Oasis Bay for 45 minutes
- 2:50pm to 3:10pm – turtle spotting
- 3:15pm to 3:25pm – photo stop at Marathonisi (Turtle Island)
- 4:25pm to 4:55pm – swimming stop at Vasilikos
- 5:40pm – arrive back at Zakynthos Port and transfer to your resort
Please note, the times and schedule may vary on the day
