A boat trip to Shipwreck beach in Zante
OVERVIEW
A boat trip to shipwreck beach in Zante
When the MV Panagiotis ran aground on a sandy cove in northwest Zakynthos in 1980, no one could have predicted that one of Europe’s most iconic beaches would be born. It’s not just the much-photographed shipwreck at its centre, but the imposing cliffs rising far above and the electric-blue waters surrounding it. And to cap the sense of mystery, it’s a beach accessible only by sea.
A boat trip to the Navagio beach (as it’s known in Greek) is a rite of passage when visiting Zakynthos. You’ll have seen it on Instagram and on the front cover of magazines, but the real spectacle comes when you round the bay and catch a first glimpse of this magical cove.
The water here often radiates impossible shades of blue, from the mineral deposits in the caves around the beach. You’ll have the chance to stay on the beach and swim. But the real swimming treat comes from the stops made by the boat on the way there or back. Just don’t forget your camera.
DON'T MISS
Although undoubtedly the star of the show, the beached ship is just one of a cast of protagonists on Zante’s Shipwreck beach.
Have a swim even before you arrive
Be sure to be wearing your swimwear and have a pair of goggles for those beautiful little coves you stop at along the way to Shipwreck beach. Some boats even have a glass bottom, so you can enjoy the clarity of the water and the sea life.
Visit the Blue Caves
Choose a tour that includes a visit to the Zante’s Blue Caves. Depending on the tour you’ve booked, your boat could travel into the caves, where you’ll be treated to a light show by the dazzling Ionian Sea.
Keep an eye out for sea turtles
A boat trip around Zante will take you past Marathonisi, a famous nesting ground for Caretta Caretta sea turtles, and you may visit other Zakynthos landmarks such as the Keri Caves.
Book your trip
All your holiday planning needs in one place, letting you book direct and benefit from official online rates
Keri Kaiki Cruise from Zakynthos
Zante Island Full Day Tour
Luxury Private Yacht Cruise to Paxos, Antipaxos & Blue Caves, the Jewels of the Ionian Sea
GET PLANNING
Where do boat trips to Shipwreck beach leave from in Zante?
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Porto Vromi (west)
By car or taxi: 36km (55mins) from Zakynthos town -
Skinari (north)
By car or taxi: 36km (1hr) from Zakynthos town -
Agios Nikolaos (northeast)
By car or taxi: 32km (50mins) from Zakynthos town
There are other departure points around the island, including half-day and full-day options from the Gulf of Lagana, Alikes and Zakynthos port.
When is the best time to visit Shipwreck beach in Zakynthos?
- Boat trips run from May to October but you may be able to book a trip at other times of the year upon request.
- May-June and late September-October are the best and quietest months to visit Zante.
- If you do visit Shipwreck beach in July-August, try and get there early in the morning or in the late afternoon when it’s cooler and quieter.
- Boat trip tickets are €10-20 per person.
- All boat trips are dependent on weather conditions.
May-June and late September-October are the best and quietest months to visit.
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Winter
How long do boat trips to Zante’s Shipwreck beach last?
- Boat trips from the listed departure points take 20-45 mins to reach Shipwreck beach, depending on the stops along the way.
- You will be left on the beach for 30-45 mins.
- If you want to stay longer, ask the captain if it’s possible to be picked up when the boat returns with another group.
- Most excursions are for 1.5-3 hours but round-the-island trips can take the whole day.
If you want to stay longer, ask the captain if it’s possible to be picked up when the boat returns with another group.
Shipwreck Beach in Zante has only natural shade and no amenities selling food and drinks, so plan well and don’t forget:
