Avola Group Tour: Capopassero Vendicari Aperitif Snorkeling

Avola Group Tour: Capopassero Vendicari Aperitif Snorkeling

This 5-hour group tour in Sicily combines snorkeling, scenic boat rides, and cultural visits, offering a well-rounded taste of the southern coast’s natural beauty and charming villages. Priced with flexibility—reserve now & pay later—this experience is ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure and local flavor. The tour departs from Sicily Boats in Avola and is rated 5 out of 5 based on three reviews, highlighting its popularity and quality.

The expert skippers lead you across the Gulf of Noto, stopping at key spots like the Vendicari Nature Reserve, Calamosche beach, and the Roman columns near Marzamemi. With snorkeling gear provided, including fins, masks, and snorkels, you explore vibrant seabeds and the ancient Roman columns submerged just off the coast. An authentic Sicilian aperitif with arancini, Cunzato bread, and sparkling wine completes the experience, making it perfect for singles, couples, and friends making new connections.

While the tour offers plenty of highlights, it also involves approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of navigation—which may be a consideration for those prone to seasickness or preferring land-based excursions. The balance of swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing makes this an engaging day on Sicily’s southern waters.

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Key Points

• Five-hour guided boat tour starting from Avola with snorkeling and sightseeing
• Visit the Vendicari Nature Reserve, including Calamosche beach and the Roman columns near Marzamemi
• Snorkeling equipment provided for exploring colorful seabeds and underwater Roman remains
• Aperitif featuring Sicilian sparkling wine, arancini, and local snacks on the boat
• Stops at Capopassero Island, Marzamemi, and possibly the volcanic source of Calabernardo
• Suitable for singles, couples, and groups seeking a mix of adventure and cultural visits

Starting Point and Practical Details

The tour begins at Sicily Boats in Avola, located at the coordinates 36.88846206665039, 15.140650749206543. The meeting point has a metal gate with black and yellow markings, where Stefano is available to assist. Guests can park outside on the main street for free.

This experience is designed for those comfortable with around 5 hours of outdoor activity, including swimming and boat travel. It is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, emphasizing the physically accessible nature of the trip but also its physical demands.

Highlights of the Coastal Stops

The journey begins with a scenic departure from Avola, heading south to the White Rocks of Lido di Noto. The first major stop offers a chance to see the beautiful cliffs and take photos. Next, crossing the Vendicari Nature Reserve, the boat visits Eloro and Marianelli areas before stopping for a swim in front of the Calamosche beach, renowned for its white sand and calm waters.

The tour then takes you into the heart of the reserve to view the remains of the Vendicari tuna fishery. A highlight is the stop at the white beach behind Vendicari Island, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. The Roman columns of about 5 meters deep near Marzamemi are a must-see, with snorkel gear enabling underwater exploration of these ancient ruins.

On the Island of Capopassero, the boat offers a great vantage point to admire the Tafuri castle and the octopus cave beneath the Spanish fortress. These stops provide stunning scenic views and excellent photo opportunities, especially when viewed from the boat or while snorkeling.

The Sicilian Aperitif and Food Stops

One of the tour’s standout moments is the aperitif on the boat, which features Sicilian sparkling wine, arancini with meat sauce, fresh fruit, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. This casual yet delicious meal gives an authentic taste of Sicily’s culinary delights in a relaxed setting.

Following the boat stops, there is a 30-minute land visit to the historic village of Marzamemi. Here, visitors can stroll through the traditional fishermen’s town, browse local shops, and taste some of the delicious regional specialties at their leisure. This provides a break from the boat’s active pace and allows for culture in a lively Sicilian setting.

Depending on weather and sea conditions, the final stop varies between Calabernardo’s volcanic source or Cicirata beach, offering additional scenic views and swimming opportunities before returning to Avola.

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The Itinerary Breakdown and How It Differs

This tour’s itinerary includes multiple stops such as Calabernardo, Lido di Noto, and the Tonnara di Vendicari, each offering distinct experiences—from scenic photo stops to swimming and snorkeling. The 45-minute visit to Marzamemi allows ample time to explore the historic port and local shops.

The Roman columns of Marzamemi are submerged about 5 meters underwater, making snorkel exploration accessible for those comfortable with basic snorkeling gear. Capopassero Island is notable not just for the castle view but also for its octopus cave, which adds a bit of adventure and curiosity to the day.

The total navigation time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes offers a relaxed pace, ensuring most of the time is spent swimming, snorkeling, or visiting sites, rather than long stretches on the boat.

The Experience with Sicily Boats

Sicily Boats leads this tour with experienced skippers and provides all necessary snorkeling equipment. The live guides speak both English and Italian, making the experience accessible to international visitors. The small group size enhances the personal feel, and the flexible cancellation policy allows for peace of mind—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour’s duration of 5 hours makes it a manageable half-day activity, fitting well into a broader Sicily itinerary. The reserve and pay later option offers flexibility, especially for travelers uncertain of their plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor swimming and snorkeling, appreciate scenic boat rides, and want to combine natural beauty with Sicilian culture. It suits adventurers, food lovers, and curious explorers looking to discover lesser-known coastal sites. However, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or severe seasickness, given the boat travel involved.

Final Thoughts on the Capopassero Vendicari Snorkeling Tour

The 5-hour Sicilian boat trip offers a rich mixture of scenic views, historical underwater ruins, and authentic local food. The stunning underwater Roman columns and the chance to snorkel in clear waters are standout features. The inclusion of a Sicilian aperitif adds a relaxing touch to the adventure.

While the navigation time could feel lengthy for some, the overall pace remains balanced with plenty of stops for swimming, sightseeing, and cultural visits. The tour’s high ratings reflect its appeal, especially for travelers who value beautiful coastal scenery and delicious food.

In summary, this tour delivers great value for a half-day in Sicily, making it an engaging way to experience the island’s seaside charm and underwater history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Snorkeling equipment, an aperitif with Sicilian sparkling wine, arancini, fruit, and drinks are included. The tour also includes visits to various coastal and land stops.

How long is the boat navigation?
The total navigation time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, spread throughout the 5-hour experience with stops for swimming and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While suitable for most, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women, or people with back or heart problems, considering the physical activity and boat travel involved.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring swimwear, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Snorkeling gear is provided, but personal preferences for equipment are optional.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. The booking can be made with a reserve and pay later option for added flexibility.

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