Sailing boat tour with lunch and swimming stops

A 6-hour sailing boat tour departing from Santa Maria di Leuca offers an exceptional way to explore the Salento coast. For $138.82 per person, this journey with Morgana Sailing Charter provides a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and delicious onboard lunch. With 4 reviews giving a perfect 5.0/5 rating, it’s clear that this experience leaves a lasting impression. The tour is designed to accommodate groups of no more than 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who love crystal-clear waters, dramatic caves, and scenic views.

While the tour is suited to most travelers, it’s important to note that some stops involve climbing rocks or moderate walking. The flexible itinerary covers both the Ionian and Adriatic sides of the coast, giving a diverse perspective on the region’s natural beauty. Expect plenty of swimming and relaxing, along with a fresh fish-based lunch prepared aboard. This tour combines adventure, comfort, and scenic charm in one unforgettable day.

Key Points

• 6-hour sailing experience starting from Santa Maria di Leuca at 10:30 am
• Explore caves and inlets along both the Ionian and Adriatic coasts
• Swim in transparent waters at multiple stops, including Felloniche bay and cliff fronts
• Enjoy a fresh fish-based onboard lunch during the cruise
• Maximum of 10 travelers ensures a comfortable, intimate atmosphere
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting Point in Santa Maria di Leuca

This sailing tour begins at Leuca Marine Porto Turistico, a convenient location in Santa Maria di Leuca. The tour departs promptly at 10:30 am, giving plenty of time to enjoy the day’s activities. The mobile ticket system makes check-in straightforward, and the small group size helps maintain a relaxed, personalized experience. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, so logistics are simple and predictable.

Exploring the Caves on the Ionian Side

The Ionian coastline offers a series of captivating caves and inlets. The Grotta delle Tre Porte impresses with its monumental entrance featuring three distinct openings. Other notable stops include the Grotta del Presepe, which resembles a biblical scene, and the Dragon Cave and Lovers’ Cave, both of which provide excellent spots for swimming and snorkeling.

Each cave is a visual highlight, with stunning rock formations and karst features. The guides are experienced in leading visits to these natural wonders and ensure that each stop offers enough time to enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The Ionian side is characterized by shallow, sandy seabeds at Felloniche, perfect for a relaxing swim.

Discovering the Adriatic Caves and Cliffs

The Adriatic coast presents a different set of scenic views. Passing Punta Meliso, you’ll encounter the Terradico Cave, dubbed the Indians’ Cave because of its shape resembling a tent. The Grotta Verdusella and Grotta del Soffio are notable for the sprays of water emanating from their cavities, adding an element of natural spectacle.

The final cave, Grotta del Laghetto, involves a short climb over rocks but rewards visitors with a view of a freshwater lake that appears to merge with the sea. The Falesia delle Mannute offers a dramatic backdrop for a swim in front of towering cliffs, dotted with stalactites and cavities. Each stop along the Adriatic side emphasizes geological diversity and scenic grandeur.

Swimming Stops and Water Clarity

Swimming is a key part of this tour, with multiple stops designed for refreshing dips. The Felloniche bay stands out for its shallow, sandy seabed and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for families or less experienced swimmers. The cliff front at Falesia delle Mannute offers a spectacular swim amid striking natural formations.

The waters are renowned for their clarity, giving snorkeling enthusiasts clear views of marine life and rock formations. The stops are timed to allow about 30 minutes for each swim, providing enough time to relax, float, and take photos without feeling rushed.

The Onboard Fish-Based Lunch

A highlight of this tour is the onboard lunch, which features fresh fish prepared with care. The meal is included in the price, offering a delicious break during the cruise. Guests report that the quality of the food surpasses many restaurant offerings, adding value to the experience. The lunch is served during the navigation, allowing for a leisurely meal while enjoying the views.

Navigating the Itinerary: Ionian and Adriatic Highlights

The itinerary is flexible, with skipper discretion guiding the route. The Ionian side focuses on caves and inlets, emphasizing natural beauty and swimming spots. The Adriatic side offers caves, cliffs, and freshwater lakes, providing variety and contrast.

Stops are strategically spaced, with 30-minute durations at each location. Tour participants can relax on deck between stops, taking in the scenery or catching some sun. The route is designed to maximize visual impact and water activities in a manageable timeframe.

Practical Details and Group Size

This small-group tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. The meeting point at Leuca Marine Porto Turistico is easy to find, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including service animals. The duration of approximately 6 hours is ideal for a full but comfortable day at sea.

Booking is recommended about 44 days in advance due to high demand, especially in peak months. The tour operates in good weather, with the option to reschedule or receive a full refund if canceled due to poor conditions.

Who Will Love This Sailing Experience

This tour appeals especially to those who enjoy scenic coastal views, swimming in pristine waters, and exploring caves. The personalized service, combined with a delicious onboard meal, makes it suitable for families, friends, or couples seeking a relaxed yet adventurous day. The small group size ensures plenty of space for enjoying the scenery without feeling crowded.

While the route involves some climbing at certain stops, the overall activity level remains moderate. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate walking and boat rides.

Final Thoughts on the Salento Sailing Adventure

This sailing boat tour from Lecce offers a well-rounded experience, blending nature, water activities, and local flavors. The cruise along both coasts reveals spectacular caves, cliffs, and bays that are difficult to access otherwise. The fresh seafood lunch onboard adds a layer of satisfaction, making the day both enjoyable and tasty.

The 5-star reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially noting the beautiful scenery, friendly crew, and quality food. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, ideal for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience while exploring some of Italy’s most stunning coastlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The 6-hour sailing trip includes boat transportation, a fish-based lunch, swimming stops, and visits to caves and inlets.

How many people are on each tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

What should I bring?
It’s best to bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a hat. Comfortable clothing and some cash for any additional purchases are also recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and swimming is optional. Non-swimmers can enjoy the scenery from the boat deck, but children should be supervised during water stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or reschedule is offered.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The onboard lunch features fish-based dishes, but it’s advisable to contact the provider with specific dietary needs in advance.