Blue Caves and Shipwreck Cruise

we were picked up 9.30am and took to our boat, (compared to others, a tug.) the blue caves were o.k but we could'nt get far enough in. the ship wreck is covered in graffitti. the sea at the light-house at the northern tip of the island is very rough and left me puking my a**e up fot the next hour. the food was nothing special either. we were guarenteed to see some of the carretta carretta(logger head turtles) but we did'nt as it was too late in the season (last 2wks in aug). we got dropped off again at 6.40pm, totally worn out, it was a long long day, which i would'nt repeat.

i was looking through this web page and noticed everyones messages and i thought i would have to share my experience of the shipwrek and the blue caves i visit on my honeymoon. the experience is one that i will never forget the view of the island on the way made time fly. we where very lucky to get the ship wreck before anyone eles once we had got off the boat and tuck the shear view of the beach and the ship wreck knowing the story of how the boat had got there just made the experience even better
ventureing off the boat and getting on the beach wasnt pleasent but once on the beach and looking at the crystal colour sea made it all worth while and we where lucky enough to see some dolphins on the way back! this is one expereince i was very lucky to see and would visit again.

went on this trip 10 years ago! ...honeymoon...sea gets rough around top coastline towards cephalonia and is guaranteed to getting you to spew pizza chunks! the ship isnt a ship, its an old tanker that was smuggling guns/drugs and was holed by the greek navy!! beech is shingle, and due to water being shallow, you have to swim from your boat to the shore......still at least you can say you were there!....take some chalk........

The trip lasts about 6 and a half hours and was well worth the money. It can get a little bit boring after a while looking at the same coastline for hours. There is a bar on the lower deck which was very expensive. The Blue Caves and Smugglers cove were beautiful and well worth the wait. I would advise everyone th go on this trip.

Paul Young July 2002
S.Wales

i went on this boat trip with the mare mare and had an 8 hour day of feeling really rough. half the boat was sick BUT the shipwreck aka SMUGGLERS COVE was totally amazing and looked a beautiful picture. it was well worth chucking up for in the long run.x

This was the worse trip we ever went on in Zante, I recommend that anybody who is thinking of going on it is better of taking a half day trip or hiring a boat for a group of 4. It was 6 and a half hours of boredom. It was worthwhile going to see the shipwreck and the blue caves and that was about it. We were promised so many things on the leaflet from the tour operator and got hardly any of them. The blue caves were wonderful but as the boat is big you cannot get as close as you want to so we hired a boat for an hour and went back and was actually taken inside which was so much better and completely worth the money

THIS IS A GREAT EXCURSION TO GO ON!!!!!!! the sea is bright blue and beutiful, the beach is great as is the shipwreck, there are loadza diving spots before yo get to the shipwreck aswell!!!!! ITS BRILLIANT. anybody who says this isnt good has gotta be havin a joke!!!!!!!!!

No comment, you must see it.

Discover Zante Boat Trip I must have been on the same boat trip as John Evans on 6 October 2002 and he was right. Six and a half hours of sheer torture with two little boys desperate to see the shipwreck and swim in the sea. I actually complained to Manos, our tour operator, and they gave us a refund but it did not compensate for losing a day of our holiday>

to visit the blue caves we went with a local boatman. Only four of us in the boat and we were out for just under an hour at a cost of 15 euro.The boatman went in all the caves and showed us points of interest. Excellent value for money and a very friendly chap too. Shipwreck was an old tub but the waters were clear and great for a swim. Went to the shipwreck on the round island cruise. A long day but for a tenner each who can complain at that.

If you go to Zante you have to visit the shipwreck, it is on all the holiday brochures and is all the reps go on about it. Though I did expect it to be better than it was. Luckily we went on a hot sunny day, so we could see everything. I expected it to be an old wooden boat that was close to shore, though instead it was an old rusty boat. The beach itself is not sandy though made up of pure white stones... very painful to walk on and they are so hot. The water was amazing, clear and blue- the best part of the trip! The Caves: Once you have seen one you have seen them all. A very long day though, though you have to visit!

We went on the levante speed boat from tsilivi with Spiros. The first time the weather wasn't too great so we didn't get to see the shipwreck, but Spiros was so entertaining we decided to book again. The kids loved it because they got to steer the boat & take a dive in the blue caves. Spiros is one of the few who can actually go into the caves. P.S. the 2 girls from Liverpool who gave you the turtle say hello!

This was a brilliant trip, but once you have seen one cave you have seen them all. The shipwreck was amazing, but dont be folled by the lovely golden sand(its actually stones, that kill your feet). We had a chance to swim in the middle of the sea, near turtle island as well, that was brilliant, the water is clear i could see the fish swimming around me. Towards the end of the trip i was getting a bit bored as it was getting a bit chilly but it was defintly worthwhile!x

The trip was absolutely amazing, not to be missed. The view,sea and boat were all amazing,a trip that i will never forget! Excellent value for money and very well organised. ADVICE- Book with the companies who ANNOY you whilst your walking down the high street, the reps WILL DEFINATELY con you by charging three times the price you could pay!!!!!

Would have been lovely on a nice day, it was pouring on the day we went out and were only one of six boats to brave the weather, if you were on the middle or top decks, then you got absolutely soaked to the skin, this could have been avoided by the tour guide requesting everyone to make room on the lower deck for everyone to be inside until the weather cleared. When we got through the weather the captain was brilliant and took us to the shipwreck and the blue caves, although it was a little hard to regain enthusiasm after being soaked through. The weather was too bad to go down the other side of the Island so we had to come back the same way which was a little disappointing, my advice for this trip would be not to do it in low season.

We enjoyed sailing around but come on...the shipwreck was a joke!!!Laugh at it but don't cry, they have to do something to get our interest Who thought up that one you have to ask yourself!!!

Nice trip around the coast of Zakynthos. The shipwreck however is a BIG con job. It has so far amazed me that no one has yet commented on the fact that the shipwreck is much too far up the beach!!!The med has a very small tide and yet the wreck is situated approximately 30 yards from the sea!!. Am I missing something?

A must for those of you travelling to Zante in the future! Make sure the weather is good as you stop several times to swim and you stop for an hour at the beach of the shipwreck. We had a fantastic time, we even saw a 'caretta caretta', in english that's a 'turtle'. It only cost us 15 euros each which is about £10 each for the whole day. Don't book with your rep on the first day or you will spend the whole holiday avoiding them ;-) Book with the tour operators, those irratating chaps that stop you every night on your way to dinner! They will actually save you a lot of money, probably at least half the price that your rep will charge you! Be warned!

very over-rated and tiring for the kids -dont bother

We had a round the island boat trip. Stopped at the shipwreck along with about 6 other boats, so the beach was FULL of people. I say beach but it's NOT sandy - be warned. Sea was lovely to swim but slopes very quickly so has strong waves on the edge. I say this because my wife lost a ring from her finger in the surf. Best part of the trip was swimming in the caves off the coast of Keri - superb!!

Fantastic full day out and worth every penny, ok the shipwreck is an old rusty bucket but the location is out of this world, we swam there and it was superb, the water is astounding. The caves were good but we could not hear what the rep was talking about so we missed quite a bit of information. Boat was called Mantalena it was lovely and clean a really pleasurable day.

the "wreck" is an 20 year old motorship....everybody expected an old pirate-galleon there...... the beach is bulls**t...

Maybe I went to a different shipwreck to everyone else. The beach was ****ing horrible, felt like you were drowning in sharp quicksand. All that romantasised b****s about the shipwreck, I was expecting a small galleon, 17th century pirates hah! a rusting bucket from a failed smuggling venture in 1981!!! trying to smuggle in the 'Moroccan Old Holborn'. Its a nice boat trip but if you are not good at stairs or heights, take one of the smaller boats, the bigger ones have very steep steps to the top two decks and the toilets are only on the bottom deck [the view of the crew working hard was quite nice though:))] The second stop was the blue caves which were beautiful and our talented Captain got us quite close despite it being a fairly big boat [but not enough to be a ship!!] A nice day out but dont get the kids excited with stories of pirates and take shoes you can go swimming in for the shipwreck beach.

This trip was the best. We went with Pelargos Tours at the top end of Kalamaki town. We travelled on the Mantalena for 15 euros each the food was very reasonably priced! At shipwreck beach shoes are a must but don't expect to swim if there are 8 boats all in the bay at once ..you'll be squashed! The scenery was awesome!

Id just like to say that whoever puts in their comments that the blue caves are not worth seeing are talking b******s!they are fantastic! the blueness and clearness of the water and fishes swimming under our feet!thats a memory i will never forget!the shipwreck is like the beach from the film in Thailand!and who gives a toss that its pebley get yourself in the crystal clear water and ul never know the difference!Go on a big boat thats organised by your rep at least you know your safe and the trip is genuine and ul get back in one piece!

The trip was the best part of the holiday. Went with Spiros and I've never met anyone so funny in my life! He made it a really good trip, took us in all the caves, told us loads of stories about them and let us swim in them. It certainly made my holiday and worth going on the trip with him!

we just got back from tsilivi zante altough we didnt like zante the trip to the shipwreck was the best thing we did during our stay there but the pebble beach at the shipwreck was very painfull to walk on without shoes on so i would tell anyone going there to take a pair of flipflops or a pair of jelly shoes and i am sorry but i think the story about the shipwreck is made up altough the place is lovely i think it looks like the ship itself was put there on purpose just to make money from the tourists but it was a good day and i did enjoy it and i would take your own picnic as food on the boats is expensive and not very nice

Just to back up what others have said: don't book through your holiday rep, do it yourself. Golden Dolphin run a motorboat from Alikes, but when we wanted to go, the sea was rough, so they were running from just north of the next headland up. We drove there, parked at Makrys Yialos cove(shingle beach), and paid at a little stall there (not Golden Dolphin) Only charged us 9 euros each for an hour and a quarter long trip that took us into a couple of the caves, and left us the rest of the day to do something else. Better than spending 4 to 6 hours on a sun-baked boat with dozens of others when the end result doesn't really justify it. OK the caves are pretty, but not worth a 35 euro trip. As for the shipwreck, go there by car, and take photos from the cliffs (but not with little kids - very dangerous). And DON'T stand on that rickety platform above the wreck - a disaster waiting to happen.

We booked the island tour by boat through Cavo Crosso in Kalamaki 15e (£10), entertaining trip with plenty of swim stops, weather was brilliant. Shipwreck was just amazing. Highly recommend going on this trip (whole day for 10 quid can't be bad 8am to 7pm). Take your own packed food as the ship’s food shop was very pricey! Hashim & Saiyma

We had our first trip cancelled due to bad weather, we rebooked a few days later but the sea was still rough around the top end and very few people were not ill. They couldn't safely stop at the shipwreck but did do into the largest cave front first (and he did go right in). The caves are not realy caves as I would perceive them but more like dents in the cliffs. The boat was nice with a large airconditioned lounge with a Bar and a snack bar on the next deck. Although only cheap I would not recomend this trip to anyone that gets boared easly or suffers from sea sickness. The trip was made worse by the fact that there was a large number of Italian slobs ( I have nothing against Italians) that were loud, one of them kept leaning over my daughter to shout through the window to his friends. He soon stopped when I told her very loudly that if he does it again to elbow him where it hurts. He must have heard this as he didn't do it again.

Due to the bad weather (thunderstorms and heavy showers) we only managed to get half way round before turning back. We did make it to the ship wreck and it stayed dry. The beach is horrible and pebbly and the crew won't let you take your shoes because of the oil on the beach (and the closest the boats can get in still leaves you in about four feet of water!). Advise you to take an old pair of flip-flops. The small boats from the north of the island are better for the blue caves as they go right inside and only charge five euros.

If you have a car, go to Agios Nikolas and take one of the small boats to the Blue Caves - just 5 Euros! The small boats can actually go into the caves, so you're right inside watching the bigger tour boats sail past hundreds of yards away. Then they anchor just outside and you can swim back inside. All for about three quid, you can't go wrong.

We visited the Blue Caves with Golden Dolphin at Alykes. The speed boat was brilliant and the driver friendly. If your staying in Alykanas you can book this trip at the crazy golf, don't walk all the way into Alykes to the beach booth, as we did. The boat will pick you up in Alykanas at the harbour. The trip took two hours and leaves 11am or 2pm. Great fun!

we went on the blue caves trip a few days ago with golden dolphin watersports based on the beach at Alykes.It was Brilliant,a must for anyones holiday.It was about 2 hours long,we had a short swim stop near the caves and stopped off at a taverna on the way home. If you are staying in Alikanas they will even drop you off on the way home.

We booked the island tour by boat through Dionisos tours in Kalamaki 18e (£12) we were the first boat to set off from Zante town so got the best photo's of the shipwreck and all the way around the island. Graham the guide is superb, english, (although sounds like Clive James when he speaks) and he knows everything you need to know about the Carreta carreta (pre-historic sea turtle) the raffle on the boat is worth the 5e 'cos the are excellent, taking you all the way inside the caves on a big cruiser, we won the bottle of wine but it tasted like fortified bath water!!

We only went to the Blue Caves by boat with the Golden Dolphin at Alykes.Was really good, both my children aged 5 and 14 enjoyed it as well. Excellent value for money.

If you coming to Zante the boat trip is a must. The shipwreck is not what youd expect, its better. The blue caves were nice to as were all the other sites we saw while cruising around zante. Go for a swim in the caves when you get to the ship wreck, its a must.

I thought that the shipwreck boat ride was really good and i loved the stop for taking photos in the blue caves

Took a trip to the Blue Caves on a speedboat from the end of the pier at Alykes with Golden Dolphin. A very pleasant English girl takes bookings at the end of the pier for their 2 hour trips (11am and 2pm). About 20 mins to the caves, 20/30mins looking at and going into several caves. 20 mins swimming and 20 min taverna stop at a reasonably priced taverna in a small cove on the way back. Excellent value (My 3 year old was allowed to go free), good fun and unlike the bigger boats, this one goes into the caves.

We did the Blue Caves as part of a tour of Zante, and to be honest we are glad it was a specific excursion. The caves all the looked the same, and even though we were on a very small boat we couldn't touch the water which is supposed to turn your hand blue! As part of a tour of Zante its OK, we paid 6e each for the little boat but I wouldn't bother heading out especially to see the caves.

Me and my girlfriend went on the boat trip round the whole island. It was a great way to see the island, especially as Zante is hilly and many parts are unreachable by car. We stopped at some amazing places to swim and Smuggler's Cove was an excellent site to see. However it was a little choppy in places and there was one period between two swimming stops that were too far apart considering it was during the heat of the day. having said this it was a great trip, we got a fab tan (you are on the boat from 9am till 5pm). Snack bar can be expesive, kids can get restless.

It is best to avoid the larger boat trip around the whole island as everywhere you go everyone else is doing the same! Instead, this year we hired a car and went on a small boat from the north of the island to the blue caves, which was great. When you go on a large boat you can't actually go inside the caves. The trip from Laganas to see the turtles, keri caves and turtle island is also good. The beach on turtle island is gorgeous and lovely for swimming, you can also swim in the keri caves. It costs 15 euro's and is worth it. In Lagana we also hired a pedalo for an hour (20 euro's) and saw loads of turtles much closer than on the boat trip.

Visited Zante in June and took a small speedboat from a cove near to the lighthouse at the North of the island. Did the Blue Caves and Shipwreck in 2 hours. Fantastic, kids loved it, fast boat and trip short enough not become boring. If you`ve got kids my advice is to avoid the large boat trips as they can take up most of the day and go for the smaller ones. Whether you believe the shipwreck story or not, it`s worth a visit. Fantastic location.

We visited the Blue Caves on a speedboat owned by Golden Dolphin Watersports. The captain was very experienced and took us right inside about 7 caves showing us all the different colours in the clear water. We had a 20 minutes swimming stop (but only for very confident swimmers, as the water was extremely deep)and also a stop at a taverna in a little cove. Finally we had an exhilarating trip around the Alikes/Alikanas bay at top speed! The whole trip lasted 2 hours and was well worth 15 euros (£10) Take plenty of sun cream as there is no shade!

Took boat trip to blue caves and shipwreck with dionis. The boat was small and not very comfortable as all seats were wooden. The boat was quite small so we were last to get off at the shipwreck as we had to to tie off to one of the larger boats so we didn't get shipwrecked ourselves, this shortened time spent on beach - which was an experience in itself. The beach is made up of small stones so wear shoes as it really hurts to walk in bear feet. Decide for yourself wheher you believe the story about the shipwreck or whether it was wrecked there on purpose ( that may just be the cynic in me ). The swell was quite high when we went which made swimming difficult and visibility for snorkelling was zero. The blue caves were good but short. The final stop off for a swim or sunbath was good, nice little cove with plenty of fish to see and nice warm clear water. On the whole a good trip, but not brilliant!!

Just returned from 2 weeks in Alykanas.We took a boat trip to see the blue caves with a company called Golden Dolphin-based in Alykes.Because we had 2 small children with us we wanted a short trip- and this one was just perfect.It lasted 2 hours including a 20 min stopoff at a beautiful water side taverna-for refreshments.The boat was a speed boat-the captain very experienced and life jackets were supplied for the children.There was a swimming stop on the way back and we got right into the caves-it was brillant.I would highly recommend it for families.The boat holds approx 15-20 people.If you are staying in Alykanas they will drop you back to the pier there if you like.

We went on the shipwreck cruise on the wooden boat DIAS a wonderful day we were also lucky enough to see 2 turtles even though we weren't in the turtles usual area and then we had 6 dolphins swimming alongside the boat for at least 5minutes.At 16 Euros it has to be the best value for money you'll ever find.

I went on a boat trip organised by Dias Tours in May 2002 and it was superb. It was a half day trip which I was told was better as the full day ones got boring. We were unable to visit the shipwreck as the sea to the north of the island was to choppy/dangerous to go up there. We later heard from other boats that had gone up there and had all of there passengers throwing up so I'm glad our captain was sensible in that way. They took us to another hidden beach (can't remember the name) but it was absolutely gorgeous. We then went to the blue caves which were very nice, and worth the visit. But beware if your planning on swimming there as its freezing cold!!! Although we didn't go to the shipwreck I was equally pleased with the day out and it was worth the money. Dias tours is the one to go with!

Just back from a week in Tsilivi, Zante. Having read most of the comments on here, we decided to hire a car and drive up to the north end of the island to Skinari to get a boat to the shipwreck. It cost us 14 euros(about £8, I think) each to go on a small boat to the Blue Caves and the Shipwreck Beach. The trip lasted about an hour and a half, there were only myself and my boyfriend and another German couple on board so we had the boat to ourselves. It had a glass bottom and was small enough to go right inside the Blue Caves which the bigger boats can't do. The Shipwreck Beach was gorgeous but we only got to stay there for about 15 mins. It's a shame that the beach gets so crowded, there were three big boats anchored there when we went. It would be good to go really early before the big boats arrived. Glad we went on this trip instead of the whole day on a boat.

We have just got back from a week in Zante. We organised a trip to the shipwreak and caves with "Dioniss" travel. The day was brilliant and seeing Dolphins swimming alongside the boat, made it even more special. The beach where the shipwreak is, is beautifull. The advice i picked up from this site about taking a packed lunch with you was very handy! The food on the boat looked awlful! We also booked the "Turtles trip" with the same company, this trip was not so amazing, and we got slightly ripped off, thinking we had a glass bottom boat, which we didnt. We only saw 1 turtle and found it quite boring.

We went to Kalamaki in May and tried the island cruise through our Airtours rep. It was quite expensive, 56 euros for both of us. The trip was ok until we got the the north tip of the island where the weather just changed all of a sudden. Unfortunately we werent able to land at smugglers cove and had to turn around. We did stop at the blue caves though and had a swim off the boat which made it all worth while. We also stopped at a really nice beach. If the thought of tropical fish swimming around your ankles sounds good then do this trip. But then again the weather is supposed to be rough quite often on the other side of the island so if you get seasick, you might not want to do this one.

Hey my boyfriend and i went on the trip to the shipwreak on the 15May2002, very sunny/hot day but once the boat started moving i wished i brought my jacket! the boat was very cramped and had to stand for most of the trip (8 hours!) anyone who has a slighty sensitive stomach DONT GO! i have never been sea sick, but on this trip most of the people were being sick (inc me!) or got of the boat looking very green, i can say this day was one of the worst days in my life, and the fact that the rep didn't tell us that the sea around the north end of the island is know for being bad, made it worst!!

This trip was a very long day, we got pick up at about 8 and back at 6.30, the beach stops were rushed, the boat was crowed with a lack of seating & shade (unless you sat inside). Food on board was basic (crisps & Chocolate & pies) it was also overpriced as was water. One stop off was only suitable for strong swimmers, as the swim to the Blue Caves was quite far. Although our captain was very good and tried to get the boat as near to rocks as possible & safely, so that everybody could see them. We were bored after about 2pm as there was not a lot to see & do - the swimming pool we were told it had, was a large metal tub, that could hould about 8 people, and it was not even in use (this was the reason we had chosen that particular boat). Would not do that trip again - it was too long, and a smaller boat could have got a lot closer to the caves & sights - which would have been more enjoyable.

me and my boyfriend are going to zante in september/october and i would just like to know if the boat trips are still on then? Also does anyone know what the weather will be like around that time of year. All comments will be gratefully recieved. THANKS

We went on the boat trip a few years back - it was around the beginning of June. When we got on the boat we heard the reps talking about whether we should go all the way to the caves as the sea looked choppy.Skipper of boat looked very distressed at possibilty of giving refunds so basically we all went - it was awful...I have never been so sick in my life and people were fighting to put their heads over the side of the boat - we couldn't get off the boat at all. I know this is probably not common but if you every hear the words 'a bit choppy' get off quick or be prepared to puke!!I just thank God it was before we had our children as some of the kids on board were really ill..

Hi We are taking our 8yr old son to Zakynthos mid May, does anyone have ideas about kid oriented activities/trips that will tempt him away from the beach! Also, having read postings re: Levante Tours - boat trip to Shipwreck & Caves - could someone tell me where they are based. Many thanks.

Tarquin - Laganas i the liveliest resort on the island and can get very busy in high season in the centre, although there are quieter areas. Zakynthos does not have a Bowls area of any description. There are plenty of places you can book a cruise to the Shipwrect etc., and you may get discount for hte group if you ask for it (don't expect it to be offered). You should get at least one place free, maybe two. All boats are required to carry adequate life jackets for the number of passengers on board, but i would ask for some to be given to you on boarding if it is a big worry!!

When staying here in 2000 we went on the island tour. it was lovely. The sceans are amazing. I'm going again this year so this is a trip I will not miss out on!!

There are travel agents touting for business on the two main streets in Kalamaki - you can't miss them! We drove to Skinari and picked up a boat to the Ship Wreck from there.

Me and my boyfrend went on the boat trip to the ship wreck and the caves and couldent of asked for a better day loved it.

My boyfriend and I are visiting Kalamaki for two weeks in June - July. Our rep is with JMC and I've heard the excursions are expensive. Where can we find cheaper ones to the Smugglers Wreck and Blue Cove and any Turtle trips? Any names of boats to get, companies to contact and where can we find these places when we get there? Thank you for any help you can give!

I am sending this email on behalf of the Cromer lawn green bowls association - myself and 11 other "OAP's" will be spending a week in Zante and have heard about the Ship Wreck by boat - How would we book the boat? Would there be a group or old age pensioners discount? (We do have ID! - some of us look remarkably young!) Also we have heard that Laganas is the quieter area of Zante is this right? As there seems to be one or two bars there?! Also do Zante have a crown green bowls lawn as we would very much like to play a few ends while we are there. Yours Tarquin. PS Are there life jackets on the boat as two of our members are over 90 (Sorry Margo & Brenda!) and are not able to swim.

Drove to Agios Nikolaos and boarded a boat from this fishing village £4.00 each which toured the Blue Caves inside and out. The trip was a little rough but the breathtaking sight of the Shipwreck which awaits you is well worth it! We recommend you keep away from the main tour operator's! Will definately be making a further visit to this spectacular sight.

worth the money although the day we went we werent able to stop off at the caves because the sea was too rough. however to make up for it the boat dropped us off at maronthinisi island for an hour and a half while they prepared lunch.great lunch provided and afterwards we all saw a loggerhead turtle truly amazing considering it was out of season to see them. booked with al la carte trips. nina was our guide. shes very good indeed. would definatly recommend anyone to go!!!

Excellent day out. Have brought back some amazing photos from that day. Enjoyed clambouring over the shipwreck. Felt the boat trip from Zante Town was a bit too long though.

Booked through Peter op Argasi Beach Hotel who was very helpful. Cost about 9.50ea (5000drms).Expect to pay a little bit more than usual for food & drink on the boat or take your own. Full day round the island with 3 swim stops.

We drove upto skinari light house and got a small boat to see the blue caves 2000dr each, the trip was about 35 minutes and the boat went right into the caves, there was a short swim stop as well. Excellent value and the boats run every 15 minutes. Don't take any notice of the locals who say this is the end of the road as it isn't, they just want you on their boat.

Sorry, adding to last comment. It costs us about £8 for the half day cruise. The ship was too packed, so don't expect to sit down and there is little shade on top of the boat. When the sea is choppy expect seasickness. The blue caves are pretty but they aren't as stunning as you will expect, the shipwreck is just a 1930's Scottish built trawler which is on a very pebbley beach. We only got to stop for half and hour there and in a bay for half an hour to swim. It was boring and take your own food as boat food is over priced. I wouldn't bother. Best to hire a car and do it yourself.

We used Dionysus tours in Alikanas to do a half day trip to the shipwreck and blue caves.

It cost £8 approx for this tour, we used Dionsisis tours who had a very good and helpful guide called Tim.Really great value for money relaxing day out.The shipwreck was worth seeing the beach there is a real sun trap!but be warned it may look like a white sandy beach in the pics but it is actually little white pebbles so take some scuba shoes cos they kill your feet! The boat we went on was a large modern one bit crowded I think next time we would go for a smaller one for that personal touch but still, would reccomend it.

My wife and I (36 & 32 yrs)went on this trip last October. The weather was a bit rough once you got to the north of the island so we had to turn back and have extended swim-stops instead. These people are not there to rip you off, the safety of the boat,crew and tourists is more important than the risk of running aground in bad weather. The shipwreck isn't there because the Captain was drunk! Anyway, we loved the trip so much that we went again a couple of days later and the weather was good enough to go all the way around. If you love scenery, relaxing, sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling and travelling by boat, then this trip is a must! If you are easily bored, or a Laganas party monster then don't go. It is a full day on the boat, and unless you are there at the right time of year, YOU WILL NOT SEE THE TURTLES!!!! We are going to Zante for the second time on Sunday 30th Sept. And we are definately taking the boat trip. We preferred the wooden boat by the way, much more character and not as expensive to run as the new white steel boats.

a nice change from lying on the beach! Cheap to book- boat was nothing special but ok. The sun shone all day, sea was calm too! it was worth seeing that beautiful blue sea around the shipwreck and blue caves- was able to sunbathe whilst watching the scenery. Take your own food! The food is v basic, i.e rolls doughnuts etc and mega expesivo! The swim stops are great.

The cost of the trip was approx £8 each so that is not bad for a day trip that travells all the way around the island that stops at the most popular destinations. You are told at time of booking there would be three 1 1/2 hour stops, but they don't tell you they only guarentee one. However the day that we went out the weather wasn't too good & therefore the captain decided not to continue and we turned around missing out on the other side of the island. The food that was available to buy e.g rolls e.t.c were very expensive & also disappointing, by midday i really wanted to be anywhere else (on land) as people started being sick!!!! The general feeling that everyone had had enough & wanted off. Even though half off the stuff you were told that you would see, we didn't & there is no chance of any refund. Best advice would be to do the coach trip as it is not weather permitting......

A very long day, but worth the time. The locations visited were beautiful, but perhaps there were too many of them. Make sure you try to get inside the boat because it can get very hot on the sun decks and you get plenty of sun on the stops. A great day, just be wary of the sun, no matter how much of a sun worshipper you are.

Waste of money. The most boring day of the holiday. Scenery is very similar round one side of the Island so you could go asleep and wake up 20 mins later and you'd think you were in the same place. A very commercial trip, squeezing as many fee paying tourists as possible onto the plastic seats on the cramped boat.

We 'cruised' on the mantalena, this was the least enjoyable of the excursions that we booked. An overcrowded boat with high priced not very nice food on board. The shipwreck was O.K. beautiful setting, but did not stop long enough to fully enjoy the experience, when we got there on the 'fastest cruiser' there were four other cruisers already moored and the bay and beach were crowded. However as previously stated the snorkelling in the caves was fantastic. On the whole the majority of the day is spent on a very overcrowded boat looking at coastline, if you were willing to stand and wait for a turn to look at the view.

This trip is too long, with bad food which is highly priced. difficult to relax with such a cramped boat. Please don't waste your money, as it spoils the night as well coz you will feel really tired. listen to me!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TOO LONG WHAT WAS THERE TO SEE. ALL I SAW WAS LAND AND A WHOLE LOT OF SEA. SMUGGLERS COVE WHAT AN ANTI CLIMAX SIMPLY A RUSTY OLD BOAT BIG DEAL. THE ONE GOOD THING WAS JUMPING OFF THE BOAT IN THE SEA HOWEVER WE HAD TO GET BACK ON SO THAT RUINED IT

Agree with Phil Z 09/09/01. Dont take the large comercial bots from Tsilive Town you wont see anything. Find the small independant setup to the NorthWest of the Island if you ar thinking of hiring a car. Small glass bottom boat is great for pulling moonies under when it is full of Greek and German tourists. It will always raise a laugh.

Our family of six booked a round the island trip on the Mantelena at a cost of 18000 Dr (adults 4000, children 2000) - via Manfredas, an excellent local agent in Alykes. The same trip through our holiday rep would have cost well over twice the price! It was one of the highlights of the holiday. The scenery was exceptional and we all enjoyed the swim stops. Its a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks though as prices are high.

We went on the dias (wooden boat) around the island trip boring but worth it. The shipwreck was a brilliant sight and was a great swim. The water was a gorgeous blue and was VERY clear. It was very comfortable but a bit pricey. We weren't really aloud to jump off the top but still,did! The captain was very clever as he drove us right into the bluecaves to the theme song of GOLDENEYE. The woman who gave the commentary gave it in 3 different languages, English, Greek and Dutch all very clear.

Do not book this trip through your tour operator. Go to one of the local shops and get it for half the price. We paid 5000 Drs (just under £10) each for a day on the Mantelena. It goes all the way round the island, stopping at Smugglers Cove for a rekkie and a swim, with 2 more swim stops - one on a secluded beach and another in the middle of the sea. Apparently the Mantelena is the only boat to go right into the caves - which is impressive as it is so big! If you like coastline scenery, gorgeous blue waters and a bit of Greek history, then this is a great trip!

We drove to Ag. Nich. and took the blue caves trip/ glass-bottomed boat. Nice short trip for the kids, with a swim in the caves. Snorkelling gear is a must - the scenery underwater is beautiful.

We went on the Mantelena boat trip around the island. It cost us 4000 drachmas each. It was the most boring thing I have ever been on. The boat was so full that there was hardly anywhere to sit. We stopped of for a swim twice and also stopped at the ship wreak which wasn't all that, it stank of wee and was very dangerous as there were alot of sharpe metel hanging out. This trip is not recommended for young children or if you can't swim as the places they stop to swim are very deep. We didn't even see a turtle.

We drove towards Skinari and were told by locals that the road doesn't go any further, so we took their boat - the Actipis - to the wreck. On the way back, we changed to smaller boats to go inside the blue caves. Only 4000drs each and as there were 4 adults, our daughter, 15, went free. Afterwards, take the drive north and follow the road to the wreck viewing point - fantastic view!

ME AND MY BOYFRIEND WENT ON THE BIG CRUISE AROUND THE ISLAND. WE WEREN'T TOO IMPRESSED WITH THE SHIPWRECK, MAYBE A BIT OF A FAST!! THE SNORKLING WE DID NEAR ONE OF THE CAVES WAS FANTASTIC. WE DIDN'T SPOT ANY TURTLES, BUT THE SWIMMING WITH THE FISH MADE UP FOR IT. BRILLIANT DAY OUT. DON'T FORGET YOUR SNORKLING GEAR!

Went to lighthouse and took the trip by local boat. We were unsure about going tis route, and they offered the children half price. (7 year old twins). Went into all the caves and even let us swim in them. Beware there are a lot of steps down to the boat which is ok, but coming back those who have difficulty with steep slopes might find it difficult rom this location.

We went on one of the larger boats and we cruised round the whole of the island. Considering how big the boat was we got really close to the caves and at one point the front of the boat was actually inside one of the caves. Fortunately we were sat right at the front so we had a great view. The shipwreck was brill, but the setting was even better. The water is just so clear and blue. Even though it is cold you have to go for a swim. I advis anyone to go to the caves and shipwreck but if you have young kids don't go for the whole day.

Hire a car and drive. Be sure to arrive before midday. Take one of the small local boats that are able to take you right inside the caves- not simply through the arch. In one of the smaller caves you will see the true "blue cave" effect - stunning. Otherwise you will simply be looking at a cliff and a cave from afar.

We drove to Skinari lighthouse and got the local boats - 4,000 drachmas each for what turned out to be 4 hours on the boats. They take you round the blue caves then off to the shipwreck where there is time for a swim. Try the Windwill taverna for a snack afterwards - the location is excellent. Incidentally - ignore locals who will try to tell you the road does not go that far - it does!!

GO TO LAGANAS BEACH AND GO ON A KATAMARAN, WE SAW THREE TURTLES. WHEN WE FIRST WENT TO ENQUIRE ABOUT THE COST THEY SAID NO REDUCTIONS FOR CHILDREN, BUT WE WALKED DOWN THE BEACH AND THE MAN THERE SAID HALF PRICE FOR 5YR OLD AND NO CHARGE FOR MY OTHER 22 MONTH OLD, BUT AMAZINGLY IT WAS FOR THE SAME KATAMARANS. MAKE SURE YOU GO IN SWIMMING GEAR AS YOU HAVE TO WADE OUT TO THE BOAT.

DONT GO ON THE TOURS ORGANISED BY THE REPS OR THE BIG ISLAND BOAT TOURS. GO NEAR THE BLUE CAVES AND HIRE A LITTLE BOAT & MAN YOURSELF. WE WENT INTO EVERY CAVE, THE BIGGER BOATS CANNOT GO IN, WE WERE OUT ON THE BOAT FOR OVER AN HOUR AND YOU COULD SWIM IN THE CAVES. EXCELLENT VALUE FOR MONEY & ALOT CHEAPER. AMAZING YOU MUST NOT MISS THIS.

if anyone would like to see some photos of when we were stuck in the caves email me at angel_jacki@yahoo.com

if you want to see turtles go to laganas beach go to thr left hand side pedalo's hire on they are about 3500??? for 4 people. Go to the left part of the beach and go towards the right hand side stay at the line of yellow boys you are garaunteed to see turtles we did this twice and saw around 6 turtles best value for money! we went to the blue caves via car and went on a speedboat trip to the caves we parked ion car park then walked along we got a cheap trip 2000drax each but the lady told us we had it cheap and not to tell n e 1 else how much we had paid (yeah right!) it was the worst trip ever we got stuck in a cave with another boat and instead of waiting for the other boat to leave the captain went full speed into the cliff face then backed out and hit the other boat! he kept going backwards and forwards and hitting things he could've waited 3-4mins because the boat left shortly after we manged to scrape out! not recommened never try again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

we went on the first of july to zante and took a boat trip round the island a few days later we were charged 5000drax each to go on the mantalina. it was the best boat of 7 but we were delayed in setting off because the big wooden boat next to us in the harbour got its ancor wrapped round ours! there are lovely sights around the islands but some caves we couldn't get into! we saw no turtles but was good fun water a bit choppy sometimes! DO NOT BOOK WITH THE REPS ETC we had some friends that went on a worser boat than ours through the hotel/rep and were charged 10000drax each and they didn't like it!

i think i wood of enjoyed the trip more if we hadnt of hit rough water. the sites visited were gr8 but the day went on too long and the food on the boat wasnt that nice. it starts off a gr8 day but by the end of it most of my family were down stairs i the shade in an air conditioned room.

Stayed in Laganas, and rented 4x4 to visit the caves drove up through island(approx 45mins) and took boat trip from the north(we followed the first signs we saw that said shipwreck) charged us 3000 each and 1500 for our 8yr old. took us to shipwreck, but would let us stop to swim. then showed us some caves. I then looked at th emap and discovered that he hadn't taken us to the actual blue caves( they are north of the shipwreck).Then drove right up to the blue caves and took a smaller boat, much better, went into the caves and gave us time to swim. charged us 2000 each and kids free. Be careful when dealing with locals, as felt the first trip was a complete rip off, I can't remember the name of the second boat company( Blue boats yellow writing) but any from the blue caves looked good.

we like the boat trip we went with SMILES :)we fought the places were prefect hope 2 come bac to the island wooles and palmer family

I throughly enjoyed it

We booked on the high street in Argassi (near the Wreck pub) can't remember the boat name. Cost 4000 Drax each and 2000 for our 15 yr old as we haggled! Very long day, hot but the sea was great and the smuglers wreck was well worth the visit, the sea is cold here (don't forget your snorkel gear). The wreck was the only thing worth seeing as the caves were really small hollows in the cliff. Small bottle of water 500 drax, french stick (ham & cheese) 1000 drax. We didn't see any dolphins or turtles (early August). Good value for around £8.

We went on the Mantelena and found it good value for money but BEWARE if you are slightly sea sick do not go on the boat trip. It can get choppy and a lot of people were very sick on our boat. We had 3 swimming stops which were in very nice places and its a very scenic trip. The food is reasonably priced but you don't get much choice. Take sun cream and a hat as it gets VERY hot!!!

I HAD ALREADY SEEN THE WONDERFUL SIGHT OF SMUGGLERS COVE. I WANTED TO TAKE MY HUSBAND TO SEE THIS WONDERFUL SIGHT. UNFORTUNETLY WE BOOKED VIA MANFREDA TOURS (I do not know if I have spelt this right - however they are the ones by the taxi stop on the corner). THE VERY NICE MAN SAID THAT WE WOULD SEE ALL THE LOVELY SIGHTS ON THE ISLAND INCLUDING SMUGGLERS COVE - OUR MAIN POINT FOR GOING ON THE TRIP IN THE FIRST PLACE!. WHAT THAT VERY NICE MAN NEGLECTED TO SAY IS THAT WITH ANY KIND OF WAVES AND SLIGHT WIND THEN THE OLD TRADITIONAL WOODEN BOAT (Boasted that they are the only wooden boat left on the island) CAN NOT GET YOU TO WHERE YOU WANT TO GO. WE MANAGED TO MAKE IT TO THE BLUE CAVES UNTILL THEY TURNED BACK BECAUSE WE WERE NOT ALLOWED ANY FURTHER. I WAS PLEASED FOR SAFETYS SAKE BUT UPSET THAT WE DID NOT SEE THE BREATH TAKING SMUGGLERS COVE! THE GUESTS ON THE WOODEN BOAT WERE TOLD NOTHING!!!!!! WE WERE THEN PUT OFF THE BOAT BEFORE GETTING COACHES. WE DID NOT GET TO SMUGGLERS COVE BUT WE BELIEVE A STONGER BOAT WOULD NEVER BE TURNED BACK I JUST DON'T THINK THE OLD TRADITIONAL BOAT COULD GET PEOPLE ROUND THE ISLAND. THEY ARE TAKING PEOPLES MONEY AND IT IS ALMOST AS IF THEY KNEW BEFORE SETTING OFF THAT WE WOULD NEVER MAKE IT!

You have to take a boat trip.....but beware we saw no dolphins or turtles!! The wooden boat is the best for definately, as it goes right into the blue cave (not the best cave of the tour). Make sure you are on the left of the boat otherwise you will be starring out to sea all voyage. The trip seems very long and sometimes boring. Take food and lots of sun tan cream, hat etc. Not as good if you can't swim, as the swim stops are just stops quite a way from the beaches.

This trip was indeed long, but very relaxing. We saw the Blue caves and ship wreck. It is hard to get a seat. We were on the MATALENA, which was the nicest of the 5 boats. The trip could have been a lot shorter, with less swimming stops, as some people were getting tired to fully enjoy it. The first stop for swimming was enough to enjoy and freshen up. It was well worth it, if you book by a tour comapny in Zante, instead of JMC or other holiday reps. Go on it, it is a good experience. Be prepared for a LONG, but relaxing day!!!

Went on the Dias Boat aswell, which was okay and not too crowded. It was really too long a day with too little sights. When the boat does stop however, it is breathtaking - especially at Shipwreck Cove and Marathonisi (Turtle Island).

Only way to do it it if you don't want to spend 9 hours on a boat is to head to Skinari Lighthouse and pick up a speed/motor boat (organised trip).Blue Caves 25mins - shipwreck in 30 mins - an hour to spend on the magnificent beach and cool crystal clear water, return by speed/motor boat.About £20.00 for a family of four.A1.

We went on the Matalana which was easily the best boat doing the whole day tour and their were plenty on places to escape the miday sun with an air conditioned bar! still the trip is too long. once you have seen the amazing shipwreck ( although it really is a rust bucket from scotland) and the blue caves there are only so many rock formations you can look at - if possible book a half day trip to see the caves and shipwreck.

Waste of time and money. The caves are holes in the wall. The west coast of the island was one cliff after another. We went on the DELPHINI. Uncomfortable, Smelly, Couldn't hear what was being said and snack prices a rip off. We were delayed in the harbour before setting off as there was something caught around the anchor. It is a pity that they did not cancel the trip. I would have had a more interesting day listening to the crickets.

We did this trip by driving around from Kalamaki to a nearby bay from where a boat leaves for the ship wreck. 3000 Dr each for a 25 minute ride, going into some caves too, and then finally stopping at the very over crowded ship wreck beach. Look at the photo and imagine 10 boats of various sizes mored there - with all the people too. A good visit admittedly but if you're not nimble enough to jump off the boat and clamber back on - don't bother. One lady was sea sick whilst moored at the beach. The bigger boats do have gang planks to walk down.

We visited shipwreck cove and the blue caves by booking a day cruise of the island throuh our rep natalie (at Golden sun), the boat set off from Zante town at 9.30 and arrived back at 5.30 pm, our captain was obviously very experianced as he pulled in to some very tight spots to give us the best views without giving us all heart faliure!. I would love to go back just to the shipwreck to swim in the beautiful clear blue waters, definately a lasting memory.

Shipwreck beack was a sight to behold, and the swim/snorkel was impressive, but the trip was too long, too rough and way too boring. The blue caves are really like others say, just small holes in the rock, can be seen on any coastline. And most important, as others say, AVOID DELPHINI. Rude Greeks, smelly, uncomfortable and slowest boat on the island.

If you are staying in Alykes try booking the speedboat through Golden Dolphin Water Sports. They go to the Blue Caves ( though we didn't take that trip) and they also will take you to the Sulphur Beach which is great. Their prices are pretty good too and well worth investigating before booking one of the big cruises. They are rather under-advertised and we only discovered them by chance.

What a dissapointment the caves were. They are more like cut outs in the rocks, not deep enough in the rock for the boats to go in As for the ship wreck the greeks were just to tight or to lazy to cart away an old wreck so they dragged it up onto the beach

Absolutely stunning. Even though I had seen countless pictures, including my sister's holiday photos, nothing prepared me for how breathtaking the cove is. The cliffs and beach are brilliant white and the sea is bright turquoise. After swimming in Laganes where the sea is extremely warm and unrefreshing, swimming in the ice cold sea here was brilliant. The cove was quite crowded, but I wasn't bothered because it was so beautiful. The boat does stink of piss, and our rep totally ruined the mystique of the shipwreck by telling us the true story of the government's plan for a tourist attraction, but it's well worth going for the sights. We went on the Delfini which we booked on the street of Laganas - only £7 for a 9 hour cruise, saving around £13 on the tour operator's cruise.

Went on Kosmar organised tour but could probably have got a better deal. Scenery was fantastic and we stopped twice to swim. Smugglers' Cove is lovely but shingle is v sharp and sea v salty so wear sandals that won't float off like my flip-flops did. Great day but didn't see any turtles or dolphins :-(

I love dolphins and was wondering how likley you are to see them on the boat trip?

If you insist in taking this trip, don,t use the Delphini, it's slow, stinks of fumes and you can't make out anything over the tannoy system, but if you can put up with that and are into chucking up over the side, being ripped of at the bar and generally being bored to the point of sleep, then this is the trip for you. Some of the sights are ok, but not enough to fill a hole day at sea, even the shipwreck is an old rustbucket (seems they treat thier boats the same as their cars, just let them rot). We actually stopped only twice all day, at smugglers cove for about 50 mins and then a 20 min stop for swimming,the rest of the time we just slowed down or circled at various points. So don't waste a day of you're holiday like we did, stay at the pool !!!!.

we paid to go on a round the island boat trip,going into the blue caves,stopping at the shipwreck,and also passing campi(the most romantic part of the island) however owing to bad weather conditions we were told that we would be unable to go around the whole island. instead of offering us any form of refund they left us sitting on the boat the whole day,while others went swimming. the captain spent most of the time talking on his mobile telephone,and the rep spent most of her time flirting. an absolute waste of time and money. go on the coach trip instead.

Went to lighthouse at Skinari and took trip from there.4,000 drachma each for trip to Shipwreck and Blue Casves. Trip to shipwreck was about 35 minutes and I endorse comments re the need for flip flops due to stony beach. It is also very steep from the water. Felt it was much better to go from lighthouse as taverna at the top of the hill was excellent for lunch and a drink afterwards. Also they did not hassle you as they did in village. Don't believe the touts when they say the road doesn't go any further - It does!

We paid 5000 DR per head with our 12 yr old going free.If we had booked with the Airtours rep at the hotel it was 10500 DR each!!! We went on the Mantalena which lived up to the boasts of being the largest and fastest boat.It still managed to get into the caves etc and as it was so quick managed to stop 3 times for swimming.One tip I would give is that you will need some flip flop type footwear for the smugglers beach due to all the pebbles.Great value for money. Apparently though the boats cannot always get in at Smugglers bay due to their numbers and if the sea has a bit of a swell.We heard of one person having the end of a finger chopped off walking down the rear gang plank to get onto the beach which was caused by the swell and people diving off the boat into the sea!

I read through the other comments here and many ring true. We paid 4000 each which worked out about £7.70. This was for the DIAS, the only wooden boat that does the round the island trip. 9.30 - 5.30pm although we didn't get back in port till 6.45pm. Started off as a smooth sail but started to get a bit choppy just prior to the first stop, the shipwreck. Many people were sick but thankfully it calmed down after this. Shipwreck was quite good and the views were gorgeous as was the water but beware the fine pebbled beach. Wear footwear! The Blue caves were a disappointment at first but once the pilot of the boat took us skillfully into a couple of the caves, it was much more impressive. Turtle beach was a great venue with cool caves to swim into but no turtles were seen on this day. The rest of the 'attractions' were fairly lame excuses to fill out the day but £7.70 for an all day cruise with some great views and excellent sea swimming thrown in can't be bad. It's the best way to build up your tan. Worth doing for the value for money!

the sites were brilliant but the captain/guide wasnt that good and it can become boring sailing from place to place but still worth doing.

Went via boat - only cost 5000drachs. Lasted from 9.30am til 5.30pm. We had 3 swimming stops. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole day, but the morning was slightly dodgy as the water was quite choppy and people started throwing up on all three floors of the ship!! The first swimming stop was nice but they say take your shoes off because there is sinking sand - no theres sinking pebbles and they absolutely knack your feet! But thats the only bad thing I've got to say - well worth the money.

Only did the Blue Caves. Had a car and drove right up to the light house. Would recommend stopping at the small port on the way and getting boat from there. Same price of 200Dr each, but a longer boat ride... The caves were spectacular, and really are blue!!

5000 Drk which is just under £10 which was amazing value for a 10-6.30 trip!! We went on the full tour around the island on the DIAS boat which was the only wooden one!!! We took the advise of freezing a bottle of water over night the night before so u have cold water all day, i'd take some soft drinks too as on board they r expensive!! We took our own food to cut down on expenses too as we r only poor students!! We were told we would get burned by people we spoke to prior to going, but didnt as we took sarongs to cover up and kept applying the suntan lotions!!! I loved jumping into the sea and swimming to the small beaches with everyone else on board, a bit scared of what may be lurking below, but i survived!!! The places we stopped at were amazing but tailed off towards the end where i got tired and went downstairs for a sleep on the cushioned seats!! Also started feeling a bit sicky but it was ok!!! It's a definate recomendation as it was a whole days worth of activity and it's lovely to get back to ur cramped apartment afterwards!!! xx

agree with all other comments re: delphini. inaudible speakers, rip-off snacks and unbelieveably uncomfortable seats. plus the crew and a complete pain in the a**e. delphini spewed diesel out over the "shipwreck" beach (wasn't worth seeing anyway)very little else to see or do for 9hrs - it seemed much much longer!! save yourself the misery go to skinari and just look at turtle / dolphins instead.

Having looked at the comments on the Internet before we went on holiday, we had an idea of the good & bad - Go on the Mantalena, this one has quite a lot of space, large air conditioned bar but most of all it has plenty of clean toilets (even after all day out on the sea they were spotlessly clean), the crew are cheerful and helpful and the stops for swimming were just perfect during the hot day - mind you we went on a Sunday (appears not to be so many people) and the sea was like glass - didn't see a single turtle but I can live with that disapointment, cost was equiv to £10 per person which was about £2 or £3 more than some other boats but was worth paying the extra just for the comfort - food & drinks on board are not a rip off either which was supprising.

We foolishgy booked a boat trip on the Delphini - day from hell. The only flat bottomed boat that can get right inside the blue caves. Yes I am sure it can but not when the sea is mega rough and all other boats had turned around. Not us we kept on trying. Stopped 2 or 3 times for a dip in the sea, didn't get to the shipwreck, turtles, dolphins - in fact basically spent 8 hours on a hunk of rust being ripped off by the snack bar. TOTAL WASTE OF TIME, MONEY AND HOLIDAY. Owner did offer us a free trip another time - needless to say we declined.

FOR BLUE CAVES Don't bother going on a boat trip from Zakynthos, everyone says its awful! Better to hire a car and go to Agios Nicholas(also called Skinhari beach) where there are locals with small boats - it's just a 45 minute round trip including swim - enough on a very hot day! Plus can call in at small beach to swim. Pleasant tavernas at Agios Nicholas plus a good shop for genuine hand made linens.

We booked to go on this trip with our rep...TOTAL waste of money (10000dr- Direct Holidays). Had a terrible day as the weather was bad and we had to turn back once we got to the Blue caves, as the sea was too rough. After having had a disappointing and expensive day, we went into the town and booked to go on the Delfini for only 4000dr. That trip was so much better. The shipwreck was great, but the rest of the trip is a bit long, with few other interesting sites. We were cautious at first about the vendors in the town, but the boat and the facilities were much better on the Delfini than on our first trip.

Went on the Mantalena. Very comfortable boat. Wear good beach shoes when disembarking at smugglers cove as the stony beach is very unforgiving on one's feet. Had three excellent swimming stops. Damn good show and an excellant way to see the Island.

Stay away from delphini boat trip diesel fumes, poor tannoy speakers, cramped, awful if youve got kids, very long day, book through your rep, it is more expensive, but if you book of people from the argassi road strip then its less, but a crap journey, stay away please,

Went on the Mantlena, boat was excellent but you do need sea legs for this trip. trip was very rough at times. Saw some lovely sights, although did not get to go on shore at ship wreck as the water was too rough. Stopped at other coves, take some good sandles of something as stones hurt your feet once you are off the boat. A long day but good way of seeing the island.

booked though our reps JMC we were told that you pay double but it was a long way to the blue caves and also it was our first trip.boat good and lots of space on the boat as it was almost empty.crew very good and spoke english,food on boat expensive so take your own.our JMC rep louise was brill she made us put on makeup 4 trip so she knew who she took.water at shipwreck was cold and strong current was stoney beach which had tar on.we had swim stop at a small cove that was good but you had to jump off boat.sea brill colour blue,caves good but our boat to big to go into caves.would go again.

Long day, very cold at times. Blue caves and shipwreck the highlights.Need a good book for the rest of the trip. We booked to go on Delphini. Hard seats up top!! Don't need to sit for long!! Tanoy system inaudible where we were up top. Should have taken an island map!! A long day for 4000D each, good value if you like long boat trips.

Went on the Mantlena on 4 July. Booked at Spring Tours in Kalamaki for 5000drs each - includes coach transfer. Good, well run boat. The torpedo style rolls on board were £2, not too painful if you're not buying too many I guess. Saw Turtle(1) Dophins(2) and Flying Fish(1). Swim stops were great. Shipwreck cove was very crowded with lots of other tour boats. The captain also found a cave big enough to accommodate the whole boat, all 45m of it. A great day out, but you do spend a lot of time looking at cliffs!

last week we walked to town and booked our trip. only 8 pounds each which was a bargin. we were told we would see dolphins turtles and go on the ship wreck beach did we NO!!! we were on the boat for 8 hours the tour guid was supposed to be english but was greek. over all the journy was very long and tiring half way round i wanted to swim back! the turtles were out of season we had to crook our necks to look in the water for them and there were no turtles in sight. the caves were lovely though nice calm blue water.

We booked our trip in Tsilivi with a local tour agent - do not book with reps, double the price - we paid 5,000 each which is equivalent to £10 each. We went on the Mandelena which was the fastest and what we thought the nicest boat. We stopped at the shipwreck which although is rusty (and I don't recommend climbing on it) the location is quite a site, to lie on the beach and look up was amazing, water is cold but really nice. We then made a swim stop at another cove and we were the only boat there, and another swim stop where you could only jump off as the boat didn't dock at a beach - both of these swim stops the water is warmer. Both the Blue caves and the Monk Seal caves were amazing and the boat went in as far as it could for it's size. Although it's a long day it was very pleasant, got a bit boring at times but the swim stops and view was worth it, best spent money of the whole holiday (that and having portrait done in Tsilivi by Tony). Bit of advice, take your own food and if you have a fridge freeze 2 bottles of water the night before and take these with you, as they melt you will be able to drink cold water all day. ps. I am usually very sea sick but the water was so calm I didn't feel a thing but be prepared in the night to feel a bit strange as you can feel like you are moving when sitting or standing.

Booked in Argassi through Amelia(v.pushy)to go on Olympic Sun.Very long day did not manage to get on shipwreck as captain said was too rough!!Had beach stop on Kampi beach-pebbly, but swim stop was excellant very clear sea-cant remeber where but next to Keri caves.Disappointed with blues caves & Keri caves as were given the impression would be going in/very nears caves.Take some lunch/drink with you as on borad supplies expensive.

We really enjoyed our day trip on the boat around the island, however,call me an old cynic if you like, but I reckon the shipwreck is a sham (very convenient to have a boat washed up HALFWAY! up a beach in a relatively deep water cove, which also by the way, provides a perfect site for the tour operators to 'beach' the punters. Also, guess what the hapless vessel was carrying, not anything mundane like olive oil or food or clothing but, yes you guessed it, alcohol and tobacco. All to create the 'smugglers cove' effect. Despite my misgivings on the authenticity of the site, it was a lovely place to visit and we had a great time.

We booked this trip down the main street and it cost us 3500drs each with olympic sun.The boat itself was excellent,and the guide was English and gave you lots of interesting information about the island.We had two swimming stops and found the day boring in places i.e after visiting the shipwreck it was approx 2 hours before seeing anything else other than cliffs.We would advise people to take drinks and food onboard as these were quite expensive i.e 750drs for a can of coke compared to 200drs onshore.

We went on a boat trip that takes you around the island via the caves and the shipwreck. All I can say is don't do it! The trip takes the whole day and is boring. There isn't really much to look at and the stops you make are very short with just enough time to take a photo. When we went the sea was a bit rough and due to the breeeze it was really cold so if you do go take a jumper. Although the trip isn't expensive I wouldn't waste a day of your holiday going on it.

dont book through the reps! use the street vendors there a lot cheaper, we paid 10000drc for four of us but take your own food and drink as its rather costly once theyve got you on board we used the olympic sun they stopped of at the shipwreck and in laganas bay where we got to see two turtles also, well worth the money!

Good trip and day out but a bit long winded 9am to 6pm. Normally two "swim" stops plus a landing stop on the shipwreck beach. Book the trip in excursion shops along the front as it is nearly half the price of that when booked via JMC, Airtours etc. If there's few of you try doing a deal! Take your own lunch as it's very over priced on the boat. drink prices not too bad. All in all, a fair day out (at excursion shop price)

We booked our excursion with our Airtours rep, we were under the impression that the trip involved a short boat trip to the shipwreck where we would spend a couple of hours then travel back. In fact we got on the boat at 9am and eventually got off at 5:30pm, neither me or my friend are good travellers and were both extremely sea-sick, which the reps on the boat found entertaining. The boat was dirty and smelly, refreshments expensive, the scenery was boring and the shipwreck extremely disapointing!

The day we went on this trip 2 boats were booked, but on arrival they decide to cram everyone on the Mantalena. The Captin decide that the sea was to choppy to visit the Ship Wreck and we only had one swim stop and no photo stop. Saw a turtle briefly which was fine untill the Captin decided to try and chase the poor creature needless to say we didn't see it again. We did not stop at the Blue caves as promised. If you sit upstairs on the open deck it is very hard to hear what the guide is saying. Be warned it can be very cold and warm clothes are recommended.This was booked through Pelargos Tours.

Hubby went with what was 7 year old last year - I didn't go as we also had a what was 3 year old. If weather is bad then no boats will land at the shipwreck - hubby's was the first boat in a week to land. He left @ 7.00 am - arrived back @ 6.00 pm - so very long day for children. he said it was worth doing, but wouldn't do again, & if he hadn't landed @ shipwreck then he thought it would have been disappointing.

Ditto - Lee and Georgia's comments. The trip worked out at around £25 pp. U circumnavigate the island but on half of the island is quite barren with views of cliffs, rockfaces, more cliffs and more rockfaces. It is no wonder that this part of the island is uninhabited. The story of spyro the priest was quite enlightening. Legend has it that he had a "lady friend" tied up in one of the caves for "companionship". Who de man? The shipwreck is best seen on the postcards. Up close it is a just a rust bucket - nothing romantic there.

This trip was a waste of money. We spent the whole day, from 8am to 5.30pm, on the boat with only two swimming stops. On one of them everyone got covered in oil from the beach! It was also freezing and the food on the boat was very expensive. Better to book through local operators rather than the tour operator! They are cheaper and not as long!!! Lee and Georgia

We had a good day on the Olympic Sun, the weather wasn't that good when we set off, but it did improve. The chairs on the Sundeck were not fastened down and moved considerably with the motion of the boat. Take your own food and drink as these can be expensive on the boat.

Trip itself was good value for money, but food and drink on the boat were way over-priced! Guide (with grey, curly hair and beard) very knowledgable and gave bonus talk on turtles! If you are not good at sailing then DO NOT do this trip. Weather was good when we went and one of party of three was sick! Very choppy at Shipwreck.

We visited using the Mantalena and could not have had a better day ! Good value 7000dr per adult and our son went for free, we booked in the resort and not with the rep. Be prepared to get wet at the ship wreck but well worth it. Excellentexcursion and would certainly recommend it.

Its a long day but well worth it. We went on the ship called Mantelena which is the biggest and most sturdy.Make sure you take a jacket or something as its quite cold at the start of the trip with the sea wind (thats before it got up to about 40C!). Agree dont book with the rep you can get it cheaper in town.

I dont recomend booking this in resort, as its a 10 hr day on the boat. We drove up the island, Very picturesque, then found st nicolas port, they run boat trips from there and it takes 40 minutes to get to the shipwreck, 20 mins spent there and then 40 mins back with a stop off at the blue caves for a few pics, then the drive back to resort, recommend this, but odviously car hire is an extra!!

We drove to Ag.Nicholaos, near Skinari and booked a trip to Blue Caves and Ship Wreck on a faily large boat for 4000dr adult, 2000dr child. Forget the name of the company but they have a number of different boats in the harbour. We shared the boat with only one other couple and when we got to the Shipwreck had to get in the water to get on the beach, but we expected that and were in our costumes. It was brilliant and worth the money!

The wooden boat may not look flash but it is the best tour,book direct not through a holiday rep

this is a long trip which is very hot;take your swimming stuff(even though the sea is very cold)the food and drink is very expensive on the boats so take your own;the greek pilots cram as many people on as they can so get on quick and wear plenty of sun cream.

this trip would have been better if we actually did anything but sit on a boat. Don't go on the olympic sun they tell you they stop and let you see the Blue Caves-they don't, they say you will not get wet at shipwreak - you do. they arrive home 1hr before any others and waste of money not recommended for kids of any age - so boring most fell asleep.

We had a brilliant trip all round the island, shipwreck, blue caves and the turtle island had to be the best highlights. After Virgin let us down we actually got a better deal and trip by going to the independant shops selling the trip and saved money, we ended up on a better, newer and more comfortable boat, avoid the wooden boat! Advice would be not to book all the trips with the operator since we found them more expensive, it's worth looking around.

the sea was rough and we never made it tothe shipwreck,lots of people being sick.we never should have left the harbour.

DO GO ON THE TRIP BUT DONT BOOK IT THROU MAMAS(CORNER OF LANGANAS ROAD) HE USE'S A OLD WOODEN BOAT AND THE CREW ARE VERY BAD IT TOOK THEM 105 MIN'S TO GET THE ANCHOR UP AND WHEN WE STOPPED THEY WERE STUCK AGAIN VERY OLD SHABBY BOAT. PLACE'S WE VISITED WERE LOVELY THE CAVE'S AND SHIP WRECK ARE GREAT.SHOP ROUND MOST PLACES GIVE YOU HALF PRICE FOR CHILDREN

Elle - Everyday, from all resorts, from £10 - £20 depending on how you book. Many different boats to choose from, which you can see moored in the evening in Zakynthos town harbour.

where, when and how much

Linzi - Anita drove to a place on the west coast called Porto Vromi and took a boat from there. Book at the boat. Marilyn - This excellent speedboat trip is about £20 per person i think. Try e-mailing Frances at www.tsilivi-travel.gr for info.

Hi Barry Coull Your trip sounded great.... How much did you pay? please We will be going May

Unfortunatly I did not make it to the wreck on this trip because the sea was too rogh. However, the captain stopped the boat at various spots to let us swim in the caves which I thought was an unforgetable experience and definitely made up for the loss. I advise you to stay on top deck if you suffer from sea sickness though because as I found out its not a good idea to go to the bottom when the sea is that rough..

Anita, Who did you book with?

hire a car and travel early to get a boat to the blue caves. we had the boat to our selves and it only coast 2000 drachma each.(there was 4 of us). it took about one and half hours but it was brill.

Booked trip with local rep at T junction top of Kalamki. Half the price of Tour Operators, 12 Year old travelled half price. Lovely day out. We took a cooler bag with drinks and picnic, but food and drink on boat wasn't expensive. Plenty of stops for swimming off the back of the boat, and 2 stops for the beach. Not recommended for disabled because of beach stops, but o.k.if you are going for the scenery. Wear swimwear and shorts and t-shirts. Beware, you need plenty of sun lotion. The whole trip takes about 6 hours. We went in the week as it is very busy at the weekends. Some boats get very crowded (especially the wooden boat!) Recommend you travel the 2nd week of your holiday as you should have developed a protective tan!

In reply to the Q. how much and where from. Your holiday rep will sell you a trip for around DRX 10,000 (£20+) OR Book from a local Greek Operator in the main streets for around DRX 5,000 ( £10+). We have booked our trips with "locals" for the last two years, they have always proved to be around half the price of a holiday company... although you have to accept the "Greek" way of doing things (be prepared to barter) ! and enjoy the day

travelled by jeep to village, hired a local boat to see the blue caves, all i can say is wow, very beautifull

How much is it to visit blue caves and the ship wreck & is food & drink available on board?

Superb trip with fabulous sunbathing on the pebbly beach. Loved having to jump into the sea when the boat anchored up. Take care with your cameras though! Martin Davies

Locations visited were great, but beware if you have small children or you suffer with acute sea sickness (take it from one that knows) it can be an extremely long day, the trip we took lasted 8 hours. Take your own food and water as there is not much available on some of the boats.

I went on the wooden boat to see the shipwreck,actually i have to confess it was me who sank the ship!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We took the speedboat trip round the island and it was excellent. You leave at 08:30 from either Zante Town or Tsilivi and return at 13:30. You will visit the Blue Caves, Ship Wreck & Various other things. If you want to take this trip please contact Tsilivi Travel and ask for Frances. Tell her Barry from Aberdeen told you

One of the best sites to see :)

We went in a group of 8 and had a great day out. Great fun jumping of the front of the ship!

Great day out. The view is spectacular- take a camera.

My previous message should have shown a "thumbs up"!!

Great for topping up your tan.