Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Navagio Beach Shipwreck in Zakynthos

Navagio Beach is a beautiful secluded beach on Zakynthos island in Greece, featuring a photogenic shipwreck amidst turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs.

This spectacular beach, known as ‘shipwreck beach’, is arguably one of the most recognized travel images globally! However, popularity has made it quite crowded with tourists eager to see the rusty shipwreck up close.

For the best photographs of the Navagio shipwreck, consider taking shots from the steep cliffs above the beach, although enjoying a boat ride to see the beach at eye level can also be a fun experience for those willing to endure the crowds.

This travel guide provides insights on reaching the best Navagio viewpoint for stunning photos, visiting the beach by boat, and essential tips before embarking on your adventure!

Best Navagio Tour Packages

Let’s explore tour packages before delving deeper into Greece’s famous shipwreck beach.

The coastline of Zakynthos is rich with sea caves, beaches, and sights available only through a boat tour.

We recommend using GetYourGuide for boat tours in Zakynthos, as they offer highly rated tours to all the top attractions like Navagio Beach, Blue Caves, Turtle Island, and more, often including free hotel pickup and drop-off from popular areas.

Where Is Navagio Beach?

Navagio Beach is situated on the northwest corner of Zakynthos island in Greece.

The island is easily accessible from Athens, with daily flights and ferries available at reasonable prices, approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) away by air.

How To Visit Navagio Viewpoint

If your goal is the iconic postcard view, it can be captured from the Navagio viewpoint on the cliffs overlooking the beach. This is where most of the stunning photos of Navagio are taken.

Driving to the Navagio viewpoint is feasible via car or ATV, or consider a day tour package that includes transportation to the viewpoint along with several other sites in Zakynthos.

The drive to the viewpoint from the main town in Zakynthos takes roughly 45 minutes and while the paved road is generally in good condition, it does turn into rough gravel near the parking area.

If you are driving, you can use this GPS location to navigate directly to the Navagio viewpoint.

Be prepared for long wait times for photos at the Navagio viewpoint, especially during the summer months, where you may have to wait for up to an hour.

Due to safety concerns, since 2022, only a small viewing platform has been open, which has increased the lines. Mornings tend to be less crowded, but waiting is still expected.

This viewing area features metal railings, which may obstruct the shipwreck view. For optimal pictures, a wide-angle camera lens is beneficial due to the platform’s proximity to the wreck.

It can be frustrating to have such a beautiful sight marred by fences. Ensure you come prepared for the sun, as the heat can be intense. Bring a hat, perhaps an umbrella, and refreshments. Beware that snack prices at nearby vendors are inflated.

Nonetheless, there is hope for getting those iconic photos at Navagio if you’re patient and strategic in your timing.

Visiting the viewpoint in the late afternoon allows you to capture pictures without obstructions, as security guards leave, offering a safer opportunity to explore the cliff edges. However, exercise caution and keep a safe distance from edges.

A short hike towards the cliff edge is rewarding; you’ll find a Greek flag 400 meters from the main parking area, just beware the rocky, uneven terrain and sun exposure.

Navagio’s beauty has become famous, making it a must on your Zakynthos itinerary!

How To Visit Navagio Beach

While the best photographs of the Navagio shipwreck are taken from above, a boat visit allows a unique perspective of the beach if you’re prepared for crowds.

Boat tours typically depart from the nearby Porto Vromi harbor. Although spontaneous boat rentals can be arranged, pre-booking a tour package online is advisable for a smoother experience.

Navagio tours usually allow approximately one hour on the beach, which is adequate time to explore, visit the shipwreck, and take pictures from various angles. Contrary to appearances, the beach is covered with small white pebbles rather than sand.

The shipwrecked vessel, named MV Panagiotis, has been rusting there for over 40 years, adorned with graffiti from adventurers.

During peak daytime hours, Navagio Beach can get quite congested, making it challenging to enjoy the scenery. To avoid crowds, try to arrive before 8 AM or after 6 PM during summer.

Additionally, visiting the shipwreck is an exciting experience despite the chaos!

History Of The Navagio Shipwreck

‘Navagio’ translates to ‘shipwreck’ in Greek.

The shipwreck’s tale commenced on October 2, 1980, when the coaster MV Panagiotis was bound for Italy carrying a shipment of smuggled cigarettes worth over $200,000.

After a conflict among crew members over shares of the profits, hostages were taken at gunpoint.

If you’re curious, the complete story can be found here, revealing details only recently uncovered.

Unfortunately, while the captain plotted his escape, engine troubles and a storm caused the shipwreck at this breathtaking beach.

Most of the cargo was spoiled or plundered, leaving the vessel’s wreck slowly deteriorating on Navagio Beach.

Over the years, its magnificent scenery and intriguing backstory drew many, and it has appeared in movies, boosting its global fame.

Entrance Fees

Both the beach and viewpoint are free to access, as is parking.

Visiting this attraction only requires payment for any tours or transport to arrive there.

Is Navagio Beach Open / Closed?

Typically, the Navagio viewpoint and beach remain open depending on weather conditions. You can explore at any time of the day or month; however, in winter, a private tour might be necessary due to fewer boat services.

Occasionally, Navagio Beach may close due to rockslide hazards, yet such closures are usually temporary.

Due to safety precautions, Navagio Beach has remained closed for summer 2023, but it’s hoped that appropriate safety measures will allow openings in 2024.

Can You Fly A Drone At Navagio?

Yes, flying a drone at Navagio is permissible, but it’s advisable to ask the security personnel before doing so.

At the viewpoint, we received permission to fly, and that’s also allowed on the beach; however, crowds may make it a less than ideal choice.

Greek regulations regarding drones are not strictly enforced, providing opportunities for quiet places to capture stunning aerial photographs among the west coast’s majestic cliffs.

Is Navagio Worth It?

Yes, I firmly believe Navagio is absolutely worth your time!

Although I found the wait for photos at the viewpoint exasperating, it’s still possible to capture famous shots in the late afternoon.

Conversely, my beach experience was a mixed bag due to overwhelming crowds, particularly for my parents, who found the environment daunting.

That said, witnessing the shipwreck firsthand is a unique experience, and our boat tour included other captivating locations, contributing to a worthwhile excursion!

More Things To See Near Navagio

Many remarkable attractions surround Navagio Beach and its viewpoint.

Nearby, the Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon, a quaint 16th-century site, is a mere 5-minute drive away.

Behind the monastery, a path leads to a cross with stunning views of the Ionian Sea, perfect for sunsets.

If visiting Navagio Beach by boat, don’t miss the opportunity to explore nearby sea caves.

The Hidden Treasure Cave stands out with its captivating sunlight-drenched interior and is accessible only by private boat tours, as shared tours often bypass this gem.

What To Bring

Consider these essential items for your Zakynthos trip:

• Waterproof Bag: Vital for keeping electronics safe on the boats.
• Waterproof Phone Pouch: Great for safeguarding your phone.
• Snorkeling Gear: Ideal for adventuring in Zakynthos’ clear waters.
• Water Shoes: Protect your feet on the pebble beach.

Where To Stay In Zakynthos

More Zakynthos Greece Travel Tips

Thank you for exploring this travel guide to Navagio Beach, a highlight in Zakynthos. For additional tips, information, and inspiration, immerse yourself further into Zakynthos Travel Guide!