Last updated: August 2026 · By Ioneon Travel
Quick answer: Yes — in Zakynthos you can rent a small self-drive boat without any boating licence. Anyone 18 or over can drive one after a short safety briefing. You pick a harbour, choose 3 or 4 hours, and explore the coast at your own pace. Here's exactly how it works in 2026.
Do you really not need a licence?
Correct. Our self-drive boats run on engines within the no-licence limit, so you don't need any certificate or experience — just to be 18+. Before you set off, our team gives you a full safety briefing: how to drive, where to go, where to anchor and what to avoid. If you can drive a car, you'll be comfortable in minutes.
Where do you go from?
You choose your departure coast:
- Agios Sostis — South: the Marine Park, Turtle Island, Keri Caves and the Mizithres rocks. Calmer water, great for families.
- North Zakynthos: the Blue Caves, Shipwreck Bay and the hidden north-coast coves. Departs from Porto Vromi (Maries) or Agios Nikolaos.
2026 prices
- South (Agios Sostis): 3 hours from €130 · 4 hours from €160 — fuel included.
- North: 3 hours from €200 · 4 hours from €230 — fuel paid on-site by consumption.
Base price covers up to 4 people; extra guests are +€10 each up to a maximum of 8. Full insurance is included on every rental.
What's included
- No licence required + full safety briefing
- Full insurance coverage and life jackets
- Medical kit, sea map and a paddle on board
- Optional extras like a cool box or Bluetooth speaker
Tips for a great day
- Go in the morning for the calmest sea and the best light.
- Inside the Marine Park, remember the rules — slow speed, no anchoring near nesting beaches, keep your distance from turtles.
- Bring a mask, sunscreen and water; pack light.
Ready to captain your own day?
Tell us your date, group size and which coast you fancy, and we'll set you up.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a licence to rent a boat in Zakynthos?
No. Anyone aged 18 or over can drive one of our self-drive boats after a short safety briefing. No licence or experience is required.
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Zakynthos in 2026?
From €130 (3h) / €160 (4h) at Agios Sostis in the south, and from €200 (3h) / €230 (4h) in the north. Base price covers up to 4 people; extra guests +€10 each, up to 8.
Is fuel included?
Yes for Agios Sostis (south) rentals. For north departures, fuel is paid on-site based on what you use.
How many people fit on the boat?
Up to 8, with the base price covering 4 and extra guests at +€10 each.
Where can you go with a rental boat?
The south coast (Marine Park, turtles, Keri Caves) from Agios Sostis, or the north coast (Blue Caves, Shipwreck Bay) from Porto Vromi or Agios Nikolaos.
Plan your days
Ready to plan it properly?
Tell us your dates and group size. We will match you to the right route, timing and departure point.
