Rent a license-free speedboat and skirt the southern coast of Zakynthos to Marathonisi (Turtle Island), the Keri Caves, and Mizithres Beach. Enjoy snorkel stops, sheltered coves, and wildlife encounters on a flexible six-hour circuit.
Rent a license-free speedboat and skirt the southern coast of Zakynthos to Marathonisi (Turtle Island), the Keri Caves, and Mizithres Beach. Enjoy snorkel stops, sheltered coves, and wildlife encounters on a flexible six-hour circuit.
The motor wakes the morning sea; spray knifes past the bow as the coastline of southern Zakynthos slides into view. Ahead, Marathonisi—known locally as Turtle Island—sits like a white-sand ledger against the blue, and the jagged mouths of the Keri Caves promise cool, shadowed swims. Mizithres’ basalt stacks rise from the water and dare you to circle them closely.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Mistral Boat Rentals · Zakynthos, Ionian Islands
The motor wakes the morning sea; spray knifes past the bow as the coastline of southern Zakynthos slides into view. Ahead, Marathonisi—known locally as Turtle Island—sits like a white-sand ledger against the blue, and the jagged mouths of the Keri Caves promise cool, shadowed swims. Mizithres’ basalt stacks rise from the water and dare you to circle them closely.
This stretch of coastline is part of the Zakynthos Marine Park, designated in the late 1990s to protect nesting Caretta-caretta turtles. Geologically the shore is a work of limestone and sea-sculpted cavities; cliffs give way to hidden coves and narrow channels that a small speedboat can thread. Keri village nearby retains a working-fisher feel—whitewashed houses, nets drying on racks, and tavernas that know the sea’s schedule.
On a rental day you’ll alternate between navigation and exploration: follow marked channels, anchor in protected bays, and slip into crystalline water from the boat’s swim ladder. Snorkel gear is included, so expect to check shallow reefs and sandy bays for turtles and small fish. Morning departures bring calmer seas and better light for photos; afternoons can wind up choppier as thermal breezes pick up.
Practical edge: fuel and basic driving instruction are included, but review local anchoring rules and the marine park’s restrictions before stopping at nesting beaches. Bring secure dry storage for phones, reef-safe sunscreen, and a small anchor line for short, respectful stops. A six-hour rental gives time for a relaxed circuit of Marathonisi, the Keri Caves, and Mizithres with swim breaks and on-water scouting for wildlife.
easy.
6 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; you'll need the ability to climb a ladder and swim short distances.
No license is required—brief driving instruction is provided on-site so first-time renters can operate the 60 HP boats safely.
Yes, snorkelling equipment is included in the rental so you can explore reefs and caves during stops.
Yes, snorkelling equipment is provided; respect protected areas when entering the water.
Families with children can participate, but infants should sit on laps and non-swimmers should wear life jackets provided onboard.
The Zakynthos Marine Park was established in the late 1990s to protect turtle nesting sites and the island’s sensitive coastal habitats.
Operators follow park rules: avoid nesting beaches, limit noise and litter, and use established moorings when available to reduce anchor damage.
Mistral Boat Rentals operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The motor wakes the morning sea; spray knifes past the bow as the coastline of southern Zakynthos slides into view. Ahead, Marathonisi—known locally as Turtle Island—sits like a white-sand ledger against the blue, and the jagged mouths of the Keri Caves promise cool, shadowed swims. Mizithres’ basalt stacks rise from the water and dare you to circle them closely.
The motor wakes the morning sea; spray knifes past the bow as the coastline of southern Zakynthos slides into view. Ahead, Marathonisi—known locally as Turtle Island—sits like a white-sand ledger against the blue, and the jagged mouths of the Keri Caves promise cool, shadowed swims. Mizithres’ basalt stacks rise from the water and dare you to circle them closely.
This stretch of coastline is part of the Zakynthos Marine Park, designated in the late 1990s to protect nesting Caretta-caretta turtles. Geologically the shore is a work of limestone and sea-sculpted cavities; cliffs give way to hidden coves and narrow channels that a small speedboat can thread. Keri village nearby retains a working-fisher feel—whitewashed houses, nets drying on racks, and tavernas that know the sea’s schedule.
On a rental day you’ll alternate between navigation and exploration: follow marked channels, anchor in protected bays, and slip into crystalline water from the boat’s swim ladder. Snorkel gear is included, so expect to check shallow reefs and sandy bays for turtles and small fish. Morning departures bring calmer seas and better light for photos; afternoons can wind up choppier as thermal breezes pick up.
Practical edge: fuel and basic driving instruction are included, but review local anchoring rules and the marine park’s restrictions before stopping at nesting beaches. Bring secure dry storage for phones, reef-safe sunscreen, and a small anchor line for short, respectful stops. A six-hour rental gives time for a relaxed circuit of Marathonisi, the Keri Caves, and Mizithres with swim breaks and on-water scouting for wildlife.