3 Hours Private Boat Tour of Syracuse and Ortigia with skipper

A 3-hour private boat tour of Syracuse and Ortigia offers a unique way to explore the stunning Sicilian coast. Priced at $434.10 per group, accommodating up to 6 people, this tour provides an intimate experience led by a qualified skipper. The tour takes you around the historic island of Ortigia, passing by ancient palaces and churches from the sea—perfect for those seeking a personalized and relaxed way to see the area.

The itinerary includes several notable stops, including swimming opportunities in beautiful locations, a visit to a hidden green watersite, and a pass under the lowest bridge in southern Europe. With the option for snorkeling and flexible timing, this tour is ideal for small groups who want to enjoy Sicily’s coast at their own pace, all from the comfort of a well-equipped boat.

While the tour offers plenty of highlights, it’s important to note that the skipper only speaks Italian, which might limit the depth of commentary for non-Italian speakers. This private boat experience balances comfort, personalization, and scenic beauty for those ready to explore Syracuse from the water.

Key Points

• Private 3-hour boat tour with a qualified skipper in Syracuse and Ortigia
• Up to 6 guests per group at $434.10, booked 26 days in advance
• Swim in scenic locations, including Plemmirio and the Grotta della Pillirina
• Optional snorkeling gear available on board for seabed exploration
• Flexible stops, including a castle and a secret green watersite
• Comfort features: radio, shower, and cushions on the boat

Starting Point and Group Size: Convenient Meeting at Viale Montedoro

This tour begins at Sicily in Travel located at Viale Montedoro, 51, Siracusa. It is a private experience, meaning only your group participates, creating an intimate setting perfect for families or friends. The meeting point is accessible near public transportation, making your start smooth and hassle-free.

The group size of up to 6 people keeps the experience personal and relaxed. The price of $434.10 covers the entire boat, making it a good value for groups wanting a private adventure on the water.

Exploring Ortigia from the Sea: A 40-Minute Coastal Sail

The tour begins with a 40-minute sail around the historic island of Ortigia. From the water, you get a fresh perspective on its ancient palaces and churches, many of which are best appreciated from the sea. This approach offers a more relaxed view compared to walking through the streets, highlighting the coastal architecture and seaside charm.

This initial leg provides plenty of photo opportunities and sets the scene for the stops ahead. It’s an easy and comfortable way to get a sense of Ortigia’s size and beauty without heavy walking.

Choosing Your Stop: Castle Overlooking the Sea

A major highlight of this tour is the visit to a majestic castle overlooking the sea. Weather permitting, you can stop here for about 45 minutes—though the exact duration is flexible because it’s a private tour. You can decide whether to stay longer or move on to other stops, making this experience adaptable to your preferences.

The castle’s location offers stunning views and a glimpse into Sicily’s military history. If conditions are right, this stop provides a fantastic photo backdrop and a moment to soak in the landscape.

Swimming in Plemmirio: A Refreshing Break

One of the main attractions is the swimming stop at Plemmirio, particularly in the Pillirina area. Here, you can enjoy about 30 minutes of free swimming time, in waters known for their crystal-clear quality. The location is famous for its beautiful seabed, making it a favorite for underwater exploration.

This stop is especially appealing for those wanting a relaxing swim or to simply enjoy the sun and sea. The waters are accessible, and snorkeling gear is available upon request, enhancing the experience of exploring under the surface.

Grotta della Pillirina: A Second Swimming Opportunity

After Plemmirio, the tour continues to the Grotta della Pillirina, where you can stay afloat for about 40 minutes or longer if you wish. This spot features crystalline waters and a more secluded atmosphere, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

The free admission makes this location a worthwhile stop for those eager to enjoy Sicily’s underwater scenery. The round-trip ride provides ample time to relax and take in the coastline, with the pace tailored to your group.

Discovering the Hidden Green Watersite

A special highlight is the visit to a secret location near a tuna fishery, where the waters are noted for being green and crystalline. This 15-minute stop offers a chance to see a less-visited part of the coast, perfect for photo opportunities and appreciating the distinctive color of the waters.

Since this is a private tour, the skipper can adjust the timing or decide to spend more or less time at this location, depending on your preferences. It’s an exclusive peek into areas rarely seen from land.

The Optional Stop at the Castle and Shoreline

The castle stop is not fixed but at the discretion of the group, allowing for a personalized experience. The skipper’s flexibility means you can decide whether to linger longer at the castle or move on to other spots along the coast.

This flexibility ensures that the tour stays aligned with your interests, whether you want more sightseeing, swimming, or simply relaxing on the boat. The comfortable features on the boat, including radio, shower, and cushions, support a leisurely pace.

Practical Details and Comfort Features

This tour is equipped with radio communication, a shower, and cushions for comfort, making the ride enjoyable even in the warm Sicilian climate. The small boat design with shade is ideal for families or small groups, offering protection from the sun while maintaining intimacy.

Since the tour is booked 26 days in advance on average, it’s wise to plan ahead to secure your preferred date. The mobile ticket makes the process simple, and service animals are allowed, accommodating more travelers.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The tour requires good weather; if weather conditions cancel the trip, a full refund or rescheduling is available. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, providing peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly.

Given the flexibility in stop durations and the personalized nature of the tour, this experience can adapt to changing conditions or preferences, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private boat tour suits small groups looking for a personalized and relaxed way to see the coast of Syracuse and Ortigia. It’s ideal for families, friends, or couples who want to swim, explore, and enjoy at their own pace.

Travelers who appreciate comfort features and a flexible itinerary will find this experience especially satisfying. However, those who do not speak Italian may find it slightly limiting, as the skipper only speaks Italian.

This 3-hour private boat tour offers a unique perspective of Syracuse’s coastal beauty from the water. The flexible stops, swimming opportunities, and scenic views make it a compelling choice for small groups seeking an intimate Sicilian experience.

While the skipper’s language barrier may be a consideration, the comfort features and customizable itinerary more than compensate, ensuring a relaxing and memorable outing. The beautiful locations, like Plemmirio and the hidden watersite, stand out as highlights that visitors will cherish.

If you enjoy personalized tours, scenic boat rides, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, this experience is well worth considering for your time in Sicily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this 3-hour boat tour is exclusive to your group, with only your party participating.

What is included in the price?
The $434.10 fee covers the private boat, the skipper, and boat features such as radio, shower, and cushions. Snorkeling gear is available on request.

Can I customize the stops or the itinerary?
Since the tour is private, you can decide whether to stay longer at certain stops or change the route, such as extending time at the castle or swimming spots.

What should I bring?
Preparations like swimsuits, towels, and sun protection are recommended. The boat provides snorkeling gear upon request, but bringing personal gear is also an option.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are not refunded.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour’s physical requirements are light, mainly involving swimming and sitting on the boat. Children are welcome, and service animals are allowed.

This private boat experience in Syracuse and Ortigia offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and flexibility, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a personalized Sicilian adventure.