Siracusa Boat Tour: Tuna Factories of South East of Sicily

Discover the Tuna Fisheries and Coastal Beauty of Southeastern Sicily

This 8-hour private boat tour from Syracuse offers an engaging journey through Sicily’s maritime traditions and stunning coastal landscapes. Led by experienced guides in Italian and English, the tour explores iconic tuna factories like the Tonnara di Terrauzza, Tonnara di Avola, and Tonnara di Vendicari. It’s perfect for those interested in Sicily’s fishing history, marine scenery, and cultural sites, all experienced aboard a comfortable 8-meter rib boat.

At a price point, this tour provides a good balance of scenic sightseeing, cultural exploration, and relaxation with a small group of up to 12 people. The tour’s 4.8 rating indicates high satisfaction, especially for those who enjoy seaside vistas, snorkeling, and discovering historic industrial sites. It’s a full day of adventure, with most of the time dedicated to swimming, snorkeling, and exploring coastal landmarks, making it ideal for active travelers and enthusiasts of marine scenery.

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Key Points

• Duration: 8 hours of scenic coastal exploration and cultural visits
• Highlights: Tonnara di Terrauzza, Avola, Vendicari, Roman Columns, Marzamemi
• Activities: Snorkeling around Roman Columns, swimming at Gallina and Fontane Bianche
• Transport: 8-meter rib boat with a limited group size (max 12, recommended 8-10 for comfort)
• Food: Onboard aperitif with arancini, focaccia, fresh fruit, soft drinks, beer, and Sicilian sparkling wine
• Meeting point: Molo Zanagora, Syracuse

Starting at Molo Zanagora: The Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins promptly at Molo Zanagora, where Sicily Boats hosts the adventure. Directions are straightforward, with parking available at a nearby lot since staying in Ortigia’s Limited Traffic Zone is not possible for car access. The meeting involves some initial scenic views and a brief introduction before departure, making punctuality important.

The group size remains small, allowing for a more personalized experience. The live guides communicate in both Italian and English, sharing insights on Sicily’s fishing traditions and coastal geology. Remember to bring essentials like hat, swimwear, camera, and sunscreen for a smooth day.

Exploring Sicily’s Historic Tuna Factories: Tonnara di Terrauzza, Avola, and Vendicari

The tour’s first stop is at the abandoned Tonnara di Terrauzza, where the remains of one of Sicily’s classic tuna factories are still visible from the coast. Although no longer operational, the site offers a glimpse into the island’s long-standing tuna fishing heritage.

Next, the Tonnara di Avola overlooks the blue sea at the base of the town’s baroque center. This site embodies Sicily’s fishing history, with the ancient tuna processing facilities offering a striking view of the coastal industrial past.

The Tonnara di Vendicari, dating back to the 18th century, is set within Vendicari Nature Reserve, providing a breathtaking natural setting. The guide explains how these traditional fisheries shaped local communities, adding cultural depth to the scenic stop.

Snorkeling Around the Roman Columns and Marine Caves

One of the tour’s standout features is snorkeling near the Roman Columns, lying at about 5 meters deep on Syracuse’s seabed. These undersea relics are a major highlight, giving a chance to observe marine life while exploring ancient Roman structures submerged in clear waters.

Later, the boat visits the Grotte del Polipo and the marine caves of Syracuse, including sites like Grotta degli Occhiali, Grotta della Tartaruga, and Grotta delle Stalattiti. These natural formations add an element of exploration and adventure to the day, with the calm sea conditions making snorkeling safe and enjoyable.

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Relaxing at Gallina and Fontane Bianche: Iconic Coastal Spots

The tour pauses at Gallina, known for its white rocks sculpted by the sea. This spot is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and photo opportunities amid stunning natural sculptures. Travelers can enjoy a refreshing swim and take in the scenic beauty of this iconic coast.

Later, the boat stops at Fontane Bianche, famous for its white sands and inviting waters. This location offers a perfect spot for a swim and a peaceful break amidst the tour’s busy schedule. It’s a favorite among visitors for its crystal-clear waters and scenic shoreline.

The Charm of Marzamemi and the Historic Tonnara

The village of Marzamemi provides a 30-minute stop for a stroll through shops, artisan workshops, and colorful cafes. The Tonnara di Marzamemi is a highlight here, known for its maritime charm and historical significance as a symbol of Sicily’s fishing traditions.

This stop features an onboard aperitif with arancini, focaccia, fresh fruit, and drinks, including Sicilian sparkling wine. It’s a relaxed moment to enjoy local flavors and soak in the village atmosphere before resuming the journey.

Exploring the Southeast Coast: Capo Passero and the Fortress

Sailing toward Capo Passero, the tour passes the Charles V Fortress, which dominates the shoreline. The ride offers scenic views of this historic structure, emphasizing Sicily’s strategic maritime position.

The boat then explores the Grotte del Polipo and stops at the Tafuri Castle, adding historical intrigue and natural beauty to the itinerary. The route also includes passing Tonnara di Portopalo before turning back toward Syracuse, providing a comprehensive view of the southern Sicilian coast.

Returning via Syracuse’s Marine Caves and Ortigia’s Highlights

On the return, the boat visits the Fontane Bianche area for another swimming stop. The final part of the tour features marine caves like Grotta degli Occhiali and Grotta della Tartaruga, which offer a last chance for snorkeling and photo opportunities.

The trip ends near the Fonte Aretusa and Castello Maniace at the foot of Ortigia. As the boat gently approaches the dock, travelers can enjoy the sunset views over Syracuse, ending the day with a memorable scene of the historic cityscape.

The Overall Experience and Who Will Enjoy It

This private Sicily boat tour combines cultural exploration, marine activities, and scenic coastal views in a way that appeals to those interested in traditional Sicilian industries, natural beauty, and relaxing moments. The small group size and live guides ensure a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and photo-taking.

While the itinerary is rich and varied, participants should be prepared for weather-dependent changes and bring their own sun protection and towels. The 8-hour duration offers a relaxed pace, but those seeking more leisure time at specific stops might find it slightly busy.

This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or heart conditions, due to the physical demands of swimming and boat travel. Overall, it offers a well-rounded dive into Sicily’s maritime heritage combined with scenic coastal exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The activity is best suited for adults and older children, especially since it involves swimming, snorkeling, and some physical activity.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring hat, swimwear, camera, and sunscreen for comfort and safety.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The onboard aperitif includes arancini, focaccia, and fresh fruit, but specific dietary needs are not detailed, so it’s best to inquire in advance.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if made up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for last-minute plans.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility features. Given the boat’s design and outdoor nature, it may not be suitable for all mobility needs.

How many people typically participate?
The tour is designed for a private group of up to 12 occupants, with a recommendation of 8-10 for optimal comfort.

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