Zakynthos Boat Trip Review: Keri, Mizithres & Marathonisi

Zakynthos, it’s one of the Ionian Islands, is that beautiful, very Greek destination drawing travelers with, almost, its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and of course, its sandy beaches. That it’s a must-do while visiting is a small boat trip exploring the gems around the island, such as the Keri Caves, Mizithres rock formations, and Marathonisi, that’s Turtle Island, you know. So, after some investigation, a bit, it was booked, one of these boat trips, and the hope was, like your expectation should be, that the experience would justify all the hype.

Why Choose a Small Boat Trip?

That big tour boats can get you to a similar location might be true, yet there’s a different vibe when it comes to a smaller boat, basically. A small boat trip gives you that more intimate and personal experience, that you’ll appreciate. You, too it’s almost, get to explore these hidden spots and smaller caves where larger vessels simply can’t go, in a way. With, arguably, fewer passengers, there’s also that benefit of less crowded conditions, too it’s almost, giving you, like your expectation should be, that chance to soak in the sights and sounds at your own pace, well. If you’re, seemingly, someone wanting that calmer and more engaging excursion, that small boat trip really seems the way to go, you know.

Setting Sail: Keri Caves

That very first stop, of course, was Keri Caves. The boat eases into these natural arches and caverns carved into the coastline, is that they display water so clear you’d swear, honestly, that it was air, still. So, as sunlight filters that way into the caves, the water glows that vibrant blue, right. Many small boat tours, just a little, allow that chance for a swim right inside the caves, something, arguably, adding an extra dimension to that experience, you know. The feeling, then, of swimming in such clear waters surrounded by unique rock formations is just unparalleled, or it feels like that, anyway.

What Makes Keri Caves Special?

These Keri Caves aren’t only just some beautiful rock formations; rather, there’s a whole experience, maybe. The color of the water, often, results from that limestone seabed reflecting sunlight in that dazzling way, maybe. That many caves have openings allowing you, almost, to swim straight into them is something that makes it more appealing, clearly. Some, basically, offer that thrilling sense of exploration, clearly. It’s also that area where the loggerhead sea turtles, which you probably heard about, basically, are sometimes spotted, even if it’s not guaranteed, obviously. These caves aren’t that regular stop, anyway; very, there are a handful of memories waiting, and if you’re like your typical holiday maker you will treasure them for quite some time, that’s for certain.

Mizithres: A Photo Opportunity Like No Other

Next up, and a highlight for many, could be Mizithres, you see these two impressive rock formations rising out from that ocean near Keri, right. That you can only reach it, more or less, by boat means that, very, it feels a bit more special, doesn’t it. When the boat gets there so close you get a chance to snap those perfect photos, which, well, everyone wants for social media. Many tours let you spend some extra time so you can take a dip here, or sunbathe that beautiful shore beneath, in a way.

The Legend Behind the Rocks

Seemingly, locals are telling stories about Mizithres and they pass through many generations. Of course, not everything can be proven. That you will hear some versions from some boat guides is just the start. You also may hear from some fellow travelers if they have a Zakynthos native relative, so, pay attention and listen with curiosity to everything. Some guides also suggest that it is very wise to stay away from these parts because currents tend to be unpredictable at times. Follow the instructions and don’t take silly risks in order to prove to your group that you can do things better, or swim better for example.

Marathonisi: Turtle Island

Marathonisi, nicknamed that Turtle Island, it is often the next destination, okay. This islet is that important nesting site for that caretta caretta sea turtle, okay. So, trips there usually include a stop at one of the beaches for swimming and sunbathing, in that case. Depending on the specific tour, clearly, you, too it’s almost, could also get that chance to explore the nearby caves, you know.

Respecting the Turtles and Their Habitat

Marathonisi is so protected, anyway, with limitations set in place to protect these turtles, obviously. It’s, basically, important to respect all guidelines, that they instruct you before that departure and after, as I was saying. Keep that safe distance from these nesting sites, do not use umbrellas on the beach (as they block sunlight reaching the eggs), and definitely do not litter; anyway, you’d leave only footprints, you see.

Booking Your Trip: What to Look For

Before, pretty, you actually book that tour, you, similarly to, need to consider a few things, nearly. That inclusions such as snorkeling equipment and beverages is important, you see. Think, still, about the size of the boat, that’s a point that makes difference if that intimate experience is actually a priority. And read that online reviews just to get a sense about that tour operator’s reputation, that is how many smart shoppers proceed when there are several choices available in an industry, literally.

What to Bring

Make sure to pack these necessities for that boat trip: sunscreen (that’s high-SPF), swimwear, a towel, shades, also that hat, well. If you, seemingly, tend to get seasick, actually, you, just a little, should consider taking that motion sickness medication before that tour starts, sort of. That camera or waterproof phone case is also, virtually, so you can capture these fantastic memories, sort of. Bottled water will also become handy on warm climate if the company does not offer, so, be prepared like that, in short.

Is It Worth It? The Verdict

That answer to whether or not a small boat trip to Keri, Mizithres, and Marathonisi is worth that money, still, is a very loud yes, I mean. From the, possibly, intimate encounters in Keri Caves to that picture-postcard scenery in Mizithres and, of course, Turtle Island’s charm, there is a chance to, finally, be pleasantly amused, as I was saying. Remember, just a little, to pick your tour operator carefully and respect the surroundings so that, actually, these treasures can continue drawing visitors for years, okay.

Visiting these destinations with such a knowledgeable guide gave the experience added flavor. Their insight, pretty, was just brilliant, almost. Every small bit added to these spots made my experience unforgettable and meaningful. Being around like your fellow companions was like exploring all that history and charm while making great friends to do so with.