Zakynthos the Flower of the East
Description
Zante, the third largest island in the Ionian Sea following Corfu and Kefalonia, is renowned worldwide. The Venetians, who governed Zakynthos from 1484 to 1797, referred to it as "Fioro di Levante," highlighting its abundant floral diversity with over 7,000 species of flowers. According to legend, the first inhabitant was Zakynthos himself; son of Dardanos and king of Frygia. It is believed that he constructed an acropolis on the same site where later stood the Venetian fort. Despite suffering damage from seismic activity throughout history, Zante still bears traces of Venetian architectural influence. In 1953, a devastating earthquake struck followed by a destructive fire which reduced several historic buildings and churches into ashes along with their invaluable treasures. However, during the reconstruction process in Zante's town center known as Zante itself strict anti-seismic regulations were implemented while preserving much of its original architectural charm. Additionally, there are specific rules governing conservation efforts for two endangered marine species: loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta - caretta) and Mediterranean monk seals (Monachus - monachus).
Experience the breathtaking sight of the sun setting over Keri and Kryoneri cliffs, while delighting in the harmonious melodies "cantantes" sung by the locals. Witness with awe as the rare caretta caretta sea turtles gracefully deposit their precious eggs amidst the pristine white beaches of this enchanting island.
Itinerary
( 4 days )Your tour’s schedule in detail:
Zakynthos
Upon arrival on the island transfer to your hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Full Day Shipwreck Cruise
Second day you will be picked up and transferred to the main harbour of Zante town, where you will join the cruise boat for an unforgettable experience cruising to the north of the island and back.
The boat will cruise past the residential areas and resorts along the eastern coast of the island up to Skinari, the most northern part of the island, where you can see the lighthouse. Also, just off the port of Agios Nicholas at Skinari there is a small island in the shape of a turtle. From this point our closest neighbor, Kefalonia, can be seen.
Continuing, the boat sails fairly close to the famous Blue Caves discovered in 1897. The name comes from the colour of the water, a mixture of aquamarine and turquoise. If sea conditions allow there will be a swim stop here.
Heading onto Shipwreck Beach where you can witness the amazing fifty shades of blue of the sea in this beautiful cove and where the wreck of the ship “Panayiotis” can be seen. There will be a stop for photographs of the beach and the Shipwreck from the boat. Due to safety restrictions visitors are not allowed to disembark onto the beach or swim in the cove.
During the boat trip there will be two swim stops. The boat will anchor in the most suitable places dependent on the weather/sea conditions. Guests will be able to enter the sea via ladders on the boat. It is recommended that people who are not confident/strong swimmers take swimming aids with them.
Zakynthos at leisure
Take the oppurtunity to explore the main attractions of the island or relax to any of the amazing beaches!!!
Departure
Be ready at the hotel lobby for your departure transfer. End of our services.
Departure / Return location
Zakynthos
Departure days :
Daily except some holidays
Included
- Accommodation at the hotel category of your choice – 3 nights including breakfast daily and all taxes except accommodation tax.
- Roundtrip transfers in Zakynthos.
- Shared Cruise
- Escort
- 24hrs Assistance phone number.
- All Taxes
Not Included
- Travel Insurance
- Climate crisis resilience charge
- Anything not clearly stated above as included
Highlights
- Shipwreck
- Blue Caves
- Caretta- Caretta
- Monachus- Monachus
- Bohali Area
Combine Smart
😉Highlights of Classical Greece
Athens, Delphi, the beautiful whitewashed Cycladic Islands, Crete, the largest and south most Greek Island, and the Peloponnese with Monemvassia and Nafplion and their historical treasures. The crystal clear waters of Kythira. Hydra, the hidden gem of the Aegean.…
The Corfu experience
Corfu with its historic monuments, rich multi-cultural heritage and stunning natural landscape will seduce you.
The Kefalonia experience
Kefalonia is renowned for its cuisine, too. The island produces yellow cheese, feta cheese, olive oil, honey, αnd local meats. It has its own delicious recipes; Try the famous meat pie, the lagoto dish cooked with rabbit in a delicious sauce and sofigado dish with rabbit and garlic. Do not miss strapatsada (scrambled cooked eggs with tomatoes) and tsigaridia (fresh greens cooked with tomato sauce).
.