Zante beach weddings at Marathonisi – Turtle Island
If you are dreaming of a desert island beach wedding in Zante, on a white sand beach with turquoise waters and stunning scenery, Marathonisi Island, also known as Turtle Island due to its unique shape and location, is probably the Zante wedding location for you. Only reached by boat, Turtle Island is the epitome of deserted Greek Island Zante Beach Wedding.
The Location of Marathonisi Turtle Island beach weddings in Zante
This picturesque turtle shaped island lies in the middle of the Bay of Laganas, floating like a turtle in the sparkling seas. It is known as ‘turtle island’ both for its turtle-like shape and because it is one of the main nesting grounds for the Caretta Caretta Sea Turtle in Zante. Zakynthos is the largest nesting ground for this endangered species, and many return to lay their eggs on the beautiful island of Marathonisi. Because of this the island is protected by the National Marine Park and has absolutely no commercial development.
The magical island is about five minutes by boat from the shore of Laganas, Agios Sostis and Porto Koukla. There are two beautiful beaches on Marathonisi – both free of sunbeds, umbrellas and any touristic development. On the front of the island there is a large, sandy beach with a distinctly tropical feel. The white sand is matched beautifully by turquoise, crystal waters. Most would agree that this is one of the most beautiful beaches in Zante. Around the side of the island there is also a smaller bay with intriguing sea caves to explore.
Quaint little picnic boats sail around the island keeping everyone refreshed and adding a very traditional Greek island feel.
Zante beach weddings at Turtle Island from Behind The Camera
We believe that Marathonisi, Turtle Island, is one of the most naturally stunning wedding locations on Zante! From behind the camera we get awesome Zante Wedding photographs and video in this beautiful spot and we’re always really excited to capture a Zante ‘wedding story’ on Turtle Island! The lighting is great with level sunshine on you throughout your wedding, the colours are beautiful, the setting is uncluttered and naturally beautiful, and the sunsets are superb. It is definitely not the easiest of wedding locations, and you have to get your guests over and back on a private boat, but we think the laid-back and beautiful location is well worth any extra cost and planning!
A typical experience at a ‘Turtle Island’ Zante Beach Wedding
While every wedding is unique, the general flow of a ‘turtle island’ wedding story is quite clear. Guests assemble at the Port in Agios Sostis for the short boat ride over to Marathonisi Island. At this point the bride and groom are introduced for the first time and we like to capture these special moments as the happy husband to be first lays eyes on his bride. Everyone enjoys the boat ride over to the island, with the chance of even spotting a turtle on the way! Upon arrival on Turtle Island the ceremony begins fairly quickly.
Due to the deserted nature of this wedding location, decorations are limited here and couples often simply have a flower arrangement but no formal chairs. We have found that this leads to a really intimate wedding feel. After the wedding ceremony on Turtle Island everyone relaxes and mingles, with guests often dipping their feet in the crystal clear seas. The following photo shoot on Marathonisi is always fabulous – with such stunning scenery we are always in heaven capturing your wedding memories here. As the sun goes down we are able to get some beautiful sunset shots before boarding the boat back to the mainland and your Zante wedding reception.
Don’t Forget…when choosing beach weddings in Zante on Turtle Island
If you do choose a Marathonisi wedding, don’t underestimate the ‘deserted island’ feel. We advise a suitably floaty dress to allow you to climb on and off the boat, as well as low shoes to walk over the sand. There is very little shade on the island so you might want to consider sun umbrellas and/or hats for your guests. One of our couples provided everyone with sambreras for after the ceremony - providing shade from the sun and a fabulous photo opportunity.
Click the images below for other Zante – Zakynthos wedding locations
