Meet Zakynthos Sea Turtles

Mediterranean Marine Life Center

About the Rescue Center

Each year tourism numbers grow, and subsequently the rise of human beach activity, pollution, lighting from island nightlife and beach erosion has contributed to a continual decline in the species population and annual hatchling survival rate.

Born on the Island, Yiannis has witnessed the severity of the situation first-hand and recognises the need for drastic protection in order to ensure that the sea turtles are able to survive and thrive in their natural habitat and nesting waters.

For over 20 years, Yiannis Vardakastanis, has fought to protect the Caretta Caretta (Loggerhead Sea Turtle) population of Zakynthos and their precious nesting beaches from habitat disturbance

Learn More

Protecting our Islands’ Wildlife

Protect Caretta Caretta (Loggerhead Sea Turtle)

Through steady action, we will ensure a bright future for our beautiful planet.

The Sea Turtle Rescue & Information Center was built in 2012 and has since been operating as an Information Center for visitors. In the meantime we have been in the process of completing the rescue facility but it takes time, money and help to get there. Once we are ready and up and running we are going to be able to rescue, rehabilitate and release sea turtles back to the wild.

Once we have reached our goal The Sea Turtle Rescue & Information Center will provide access to visitors to observe he day-to-day care of the sea turtles and to learn more about this beautiful creature. The injured or sick sea turtle will be representing their own species and help raise awareness to the public.

Testimonials

Did you enjoy your visit at Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue and Information Center?

Review us on TripAdvisor and Google page

“
Robert ATripAdvisor
“Was a twenty minute walk from our hotel. Really glad we visited. The team here are doing an amazing job protecting the native sea turtles. No turtle’s to see when we visited which was a good thing really, given that this place is a rescue centre.
Really informative centre and a good learning experience.ce.”

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Francesca MTripAdvisor
“Very interesting. AMAZING work. It was very educational and informative. People need to go here and learn how to behave on the beaches to save the Turtles and not disturb their nests. We saw some babies here. The shop and cafe were good and all the money goes to saving the turtles. Making a donation here goes a long way. Please go and donate.”

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devonvisitor0TripAdvisor
“Well worth a visit. Although no turtles were present during our visit, this is the most amazing place. Everyone is welcome, easy parking, no entrance fee, food available, interesting displays . Great information about the turtles nesting at the adjacent beach. Don't miss it!”

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MitchyoneTripAdvisor
“Amazing.This place really fascinated me, and you can share the beach with the turtle nests. 5 -10 min walk down the road. Obviously some part of it is sectioned off. If you go swimming I recommend taking a pair of those beach plastic shoes, it's a bit pebbly when you first go in. The staff do an amazing job at the rescue centre and have lots of knowledge. Don't forget your loose change to give. It all helps. They do a great job.”