Zakynthos

Zakynthos

Greece

Swim with loggerhead sea turtles in crystalline waters beneath the dramatic cliffs of Navagio Beach.

Currency Euro (EUR)
Language Greek
Time Zone EET (UTC+2)
Best Time to Visit Jun–Sep
Typical Duration 17-21 nights
Price Range From $2,209 pp
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

Gateway to the stunning Ionian Islands, Zakynthos is renowned for its pristine beaches, sea turtles, and dramatic blue caves that attract luxury cruise passengers exploring Greece's lesser-known gems.

Cruises that visit Zakynthos

Build Your Day in Zakynthos

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Getting around:
Bullhorn Steak House One of the best dining experiences I had in Zakynthos! Steak house · ★ 4.9 · 4k Open · Closes 12 AM
San Leon Tavern Restaurant Best food we had in Zakynthos and wonderful people who made us feel welcome. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 4k Open · Closes 11:30 PM
Grecos restaurant laganas This was one of the best dining experiences we had in Zakynthos! Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 3k Open · Closes 11:30 PM
Avli Must try in Zakynthos town for delicious Greek food. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 3k Open · Closes 12 AM
Palatium brilliant food and amazing service, best place we have been in zakynthos Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 3k Open · Closes 12 AM
MANOO Raw Bar - Club Zakynthos One of the best restaurant of Zakynthos You should try the truffles eggs 😍 Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k Open · Closes 4 AM
Paradosiako Definitely my favourite restaurant in Zakynthos, the food was incredible! Greek restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k Open · Closes 12 AM
Porta del Mar Restaurant This was our last dinner in Zakynthos and Anna made it the most memorable. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closes soon · 10:30 PM
Botanic Garden It was worth the money, the best restaurant in Zakynthos! Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k Open · Closes 11:30 PM
Jumbo Zakynthos Good prices and plenty of stock, Shopping mall · ★ 3.9 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM Sat
DALAVERI Amazing food (fish), Greek music and super friendly service! Small plates restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k Open · Closes 12 AM
Tsilivi Center Lots of bars and restaurants and gift shops in a beautiful setting Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 0k Open · Closes 1:30 AM
ΣΠΑΘΗΣ ΑΕΒΕΕΚ (Σπαθής Κτίσμα & Διακόσμηση) Shopping mall · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM Sat
Vlahioti Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Sat
Anamnesia Zakynthos Lovely shop full of little goodies made by Greek designers. Gift shop · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closes soon · 11 PM
7th Heaven Tsilivi Nice tourist shop with really nice items on sale and friendly staff Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 0k Open · Closes 1 AM
mirabilia shop Lovely Shop with a lovely owner. Fashion accessories store · ★ 4.9 · 0k Open · Closes 12 AM
LUCKY STAR MALL Great bits and prices! Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Sat
Medusa Boutique Boutique · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closes soon · 11 PM
Yria handmade Tsilivi Very nice shop, beautiful clothes and a lot of handmade jewelry ✨ Shopping mall · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 11:30 PM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Zakynthos

About Zakynthos

Zakynthos, a jewel of the Ionian Islands, serves as a popular port of call in the Mediterranean, welcoming three distinguished cruise lines including Seabourn, Oceania Cruises, and Atlas Ocean Voyages. With 30 upcoming cruises and a strong presence during the peak months of June through October, this Greek island offers cruise travelers an accessible taste of island life without the commitment of embarkation. Most voyages calling here are extended 21-night journeys that also visit iconic Mediterranean ports like Piraeus, Dubrovnik, and Sarandë, making Zakynthos part of a rich regional itinerary.

Stepping ashore, you'll discover why this island captivates visitors with its striking natural beauty and authentic Greek charm. The famous Navagio Beach, with its dramatic cliffside setting and shipwreck, is an unforgettable sight, while the island's laid-back villages and local tavernas offer a genuine slice of Mediterranean culture. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation during your port day, Zakynthos delivers an memorable experience that complements any Mediterranean cruise perfectly.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Swim with Loggerhead Sea Turtles

Zakynthos is home to the endangered Caretta-Caretta loggerhead turtles, and boat excursions from the port take you to pristine beaches where these magnificent creatures nest and swim. This unique wildlife encounter offers an unforgettable connection to nature and supports local conservation efforts protecting these ancient mariners.

2

Taste Fresh Feta and Local Wines

Visit traditional tavernas near the waterfront to sample authentic Zakynthian cuisine, featuring creamy local feta cheese, fresh seafood, and crisp white wines produced on the island. The combination of Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality creates an authentic Greek dining experience you won't forget.

3

Explore Navagio Beach's Dramatic Cliffs

This iconic shipwreck beach, accessible by boat tour from the port, features towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters framing an abandoned cargo ship. The breathtaking scenery and unique geological formations make it one of Greece's most photographed and visited natural wonders.

4

Hunt for Treasures at Local Markets

Wander through Zakynthos Town's vibrant markets and shops selling handmade olive oil, local honey, traditional textiles, and artisan crafts. The narrow streets reveal family-run boutiques and vendors eager to share stories about their island's rich cultural heritage and products.

5

Discover Venetian Castle History

The hilltop Venetian Castle overlooks the entire island and port, offering panoramic views and centuries of Mediterranean history. A short excursion reveals stone fortifications, museums, and vantage points that showcase Zakynthos's strategic importance during the Venetian era.

Cruise Lines at Zakynthos

Cruises Departing From Zakynthos

Cruises Visiting Zakynthos

Ship Schedule at Zakynthos

Zakynthos Location

Other Cruise Ports in Greece

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zakynthos best known for?

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) and turquoise Ionian waters.

How do you pronounce Zakynthos?

Zakynthos is pronounced Za-kin-thos; stress on the second syllable.

When is the best time to visit Zakynthos?

Late spring to early autumn offers warm weather and moderate crowds.

Is Zakynthos a good family destination?

Yes, with beaches, calm seas, and scenic villages.