Zakynthos Island Cruise Port Guide

One of the most iconic sights in all of Greece is Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach. This secluded cove, with its rusting shipwreck and towering limestone cliffs, is only accessible by boat and is a highlight of any visit. Many boat tour excursions combine this with a visit to the magical Blue Caves, a series of geological formations where the reflection of the sea creates an ethereal blue light.

For wildlife lovers, a trip to the southern part of the island is a must. Laganas Bay is a protected nesting ground for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). Visitors can take a glass-bottom boat tour to Marathonisi Island, also known as Turtle Island, for a chance to spot these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.

For a stunning panoramic view of Zakynthos Town and the harbor, a short trip up to the village of Bohali is highly recommended. Located just a 5-10 minute taxi ride from the port, this charming hilltop village is home to the ruins of a Venetian castle and offers numerous cafes where you can enjoy the spectacular scenery. It's an easy and rewarding trip that fits perfectly within a port day.

A more extensive shore excursion often offered by cruise lines is a day trip to Olympia on the Greek mainland. This full-day journey involves a ferry ride of about 1.5 hours to the port of Kyllini, followed by an hour-long bus trip to the ancient site where the first Olympic Games were held. It's a long day but a fascinating opportunity to walk through history.

Cruise ships visiting Zakynthos typically anchor in the bay and use tender boats to bring passengers ashore. The tender pier is conveniently located directly on the main harbor promenade of Zakynthos Town, the island's capital. From the moment you step off the tender, you are in the city center. This prime location means no shuttles are required. The waterfront is lined with cafes, restaurants, tour operators, and shops, making it incredibly easy to start exploring the town on foot or find transportation to other parts of the island.

The official currency in Zakynthos, as in all of Greece, is the Euro (€). While US dollars are not accepted for transactions, major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely welcomed in most restaurants, hotels, and established shops in tourist areas. For smaller purchases at local markets, cafes, or for taxis, it is advisable to carry some Euro cash. ATMs are readily available throughout Zakynthos Town, particularly along the waterfront and main shopping streets, making it easy to withdraw local currency.

Zakynthos is considered a very safe destination for tourists, and visitors can feel comfortable exploring independently. The primary safety concerns are related to general travel precautions, such as being mindful of your belongings in crowded places. When renting scooters or ATVs, which is a popular way to see the island, exercise extreme caution as local roads can be narrow, winding, and busy. When participating in swimming or boat tours, always listen to the advice of your guides regarding sea conditions, as currents can be strong in certain areas.

Zakynthos enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal cruise destination from spring through autumn. The main cruise season from May to October sees warm to hot, sunny weather. Summer months (June to August) are the hottest, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F) and very little rainfall. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer more moderate and pleasant temperatures, perfect for sightseeing.

Visitors should pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of high-SPF sunscreen. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings or for breezy boat excursions, especially outside the peak summer months.

From the tender pier in Zakynthos Town, the town itself is easily explored on foot. To venture further, several options are available. Taxis are plentiful near the port, but it's best to agree on the fare before starting your journey. The island's public bus service, KTEL, has a main station in town and provides an affordable way to reach popular beaches and villages.

For maximum flexibility, many visitors opt to rent a car, scooter, or ATV. However, the most popular way to see the island's famous coastal sights, like Navagio Beach and the Blue Caves, is by joining an organized boat tour. Numerous operators offer these tours right from the harbor where the cruise tenders dock.

The best shopping in Zakynthos is found in the capital town, particularly along the main thoroughfare of Alexander Roma Street and its surrounding lanes. Here, you'll discover a variety of shops selling everything from high-end jewelry and fashion to traditional souvenirs. Look for local products such as high-quality olive oil, thyme honey, and delicious nougat candy called 'mandolato', which is a Zakynthian specialty. Hand-painted ceramics and items featuring the island's iconic sea turtle or shipwreck motifs also make for great keepsakes. While prices in boutiques are generally fixed, you might find some room for friendly bargaining at smaller souvenir stalls.