Guided Private Boat Excursion to Discover the Caves

Explore the Caves of Santa Maria di Leuca on a Private Boat Excursion

A private boat tour of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes takes you through the stunning caves surrounding Santa Maria di Leuca, Italy. With up to 11 guests, the experience offers an intimate way to admire the crystalline waters and rock formations along both the Adriatic and Ionian sides. Starting at Via Doppia Croce 63, this tour from Barca del Porto is perfect for those seeking a personalized adventure with flexible stops, snacks, and drinks included.

What sets this tour apart is the customizable itinerary that allows exploration of specific caves, guided by a captain eager to showcase the coast’s natural beauty. The cost per group is $180.58, making it an accessible luxury for small groups or families. While the tour is most popular 67 days in advance, it remains a straightforward booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled excursion, adding peace of mind.

This tour is well-suited for travelers craving an up-close encounter with unique caves, a relaxed pace, and the chance to swim in pristine waters. It’s important to note that snorkelling masks and mugs are available for an additional $15 per person, and beach towels cost $10 each, providing options for those wanting a full beach day. This private boat trip combines natural wonder with comfort, making it a memorable part of any Lecce itinerary.

Key Points

• Private boat experience for up to 11 guests with a duration of 1 hour 30 minutes
• Explore both Adriatic and Ionian caves, including Grotta Cazzafri, Grotta Terradico, Grotta Porcinara, and Dragon cave
• Stops for swimming and relaxing in crystal-clear waters
• Snacks, bottled water, Prosecco, and soft drinks included, with optional snorkelling gear and towels for purchase
• Flexible, customizable itinerary led by an experienced captain
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting Point at Santa Maria di Leuca’s Porto Vecchio

The tour begins at Via Doppia Croce, 63, in Santa Maria di Leuca. The meeting point is easy to reach, and the activity ends back at the same location, making logistics simple. The boat departs from the Porto Vecchio, a charming spot ideal for starting your exploration of the caves.

Given the private nature of the experience, your group enjoys exclusive use of the vessel, ensuring a comfortable and personalized outing. The captain, particularly noted as Simone in reviews, is praised for his friendly approach and expert guidance, adding to the overall enjoyment of the trip.

The Adriatic Side: Visiting Grotta Cazzafri and Nearby Coves

After departing from Santa Maria di Leuca, the tour first heads towards the Adriatic side, crossing to the Punta Meliso area to see Grotta Cazzafri. This cave is notable for its crystalline waters and scenic surroundings.

The itinerary continues along the coast, stopping at Grotta Terradico, Verduselle, Grotta del Soffio, and Grotta della Vora. The tour includes a stop for a swim beneath the cliffs, allowing guests to enjoy the refreshing, clear waters and get a close look at these natural formations. These stops make the experience more than just sightseeing—it’s about getting into the water and appreciating the beauty firsthand.

Travelers should prepare for the possibility of swimming in open water, and the small stops provide ideal moments for relaxing and taking photos. The focus remains on up-close viewing, with the captain guiding guests to the best vantage points.

The Ionian Side: Discovering Grotta Porcinara and the Dragon Cave

Crossing over to the Ionian side, the tour visits a series of caves starting with Grotta Porcinara, located near Punta Ristola. This region features the Grotta del Diavolo, Grotta del Fiume, Grotta delle Tre Porte, and the Caverna dei Giganti. The Dragon cave is particularly noted for its majestic presence.

Each cave has its distinct charm, with some characterized by unique rock formations and others offering spectacular water reflections. The stop for swimming in the crystal waters occurs here as well, providing an opportunity to enjoy the tranquil and clear waters that make this coast famous.

The expert guidance ensures that guests are aware of the specific features of each cave, making the experience both visually impressive and informative.

The Experience of the Captain and Safety Measures

The captain, notably Simone, is praised for his friendly demeanor and knowledge. His approach contributes significantly to the relaxed atmosphere, making the journey enjoyable for all. The tour is private, so the captain’s attention is solely on your group, enhancing the experience.

Safety measures are implied through the inclusion of snorkelling masks for rent and the provision of bottled water, snacks, and drinks. The boat is equipped for both sightseeing and swimming, with stops designed for comfortable water entry.

Weather-dependent cancellations are fully refundable if the weather is poor, ensuring that the experience remains reliable and flexible.

Comfort and Amenities Onboard

Guests are treated to snacks like tarallini, bottled water, Prosecco, and soft drinks, making the outing feel like a leisurely cruise. The fuel and drinks are included in the price, adding to the value.

For those who want to extend their comfort, snacks and beverages are readily available, and optional snorkelling gear can be rented for $15, while beach towels are available for $10 each. This makes the tour not just sightseeing but also a relaxing day on the water.

Customizable Itinerary and Flexibility

The tour allows for customization within the limits of the Ponente / Levante itinerary. The captain guides guests to discover specific shores, caves, or features based on preferences, making each trip tailored to your interests.

This flexibility is especially appreciated for groups with particular requests or those wanting to spend more time in favorite spots. The private nature of the tour ensures undivided attention and a personalized experience.

Pricing and Booking Details

The per-group price of $180.58 covers up to 11 participants, making it a cost-effective option for small groups or families. Most bookings are made about 67 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.

The tour’s free cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours beforehand. Last-minute cancellations or changes are not accepted within the 24-hour window, so planning ahead is recommended.

The Sum Up: A Personalized Caving and Water Adventure

This guided private boat excursion offers a relaxing, customizable way to explore the spectacular caves along Santa Maria di Leuca. The crystalline waters, stops for swimming, and friendly guidance make it an appealing choice for anyone eager to experience the coast’s natural beauty intimately.

While the price includes snacks, drinks, and fuel, optional upgrades like snorkelling gear and beach towels enhance the day further. The small group size and private setting ensure a personalized and relaxing experience, suitable for families, couples, or friends.

This tour provides a balanced combination of sightseeing, swimming, and comfort, making it a worthwhile addition to your Lecce adventure. Just remember to book in advance and check the weather forecast to enjoy the best possible outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
The tour involves stops for swimming and a boat ride, so children or non-swimmers should be prepared for water activities and be comfortable with boat excursions. Snorkelling gear is optional and available for rent.

What should I bring for the tour?
Guests should consider bringing a beach towel (available for purchase), sunscreen, and water shoes if preferred. The tour provides snacks and drinks, but personal items can be stored onboard.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is customizable within the limits of the Ponente / Levante itinerary. The captain guides the group to specific caves or shores based on requests whenever possible.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If poor weather causes the cancellation, a different date will be offered, or a full refund is provided. The tour is weather-dependent for safety and comfort.