Syracuse: Boat Trip With Lunch, Wine, and Swimming Stops

Exploring the stunning coastal city of Syracuse, Sicily has never been easier than with this captivating boat tour. Visitors can enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of the region as they cruise around the picturesque Island of Ortigia. From visiting ancient landmarks to swimming in crystal-clear waters, this four-hour excursion offers an unforgettable experience. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, guests will savor a delightful homemade lunch featuring local specialties and complimentary wine. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, this tour promises to leave you enchanted by the charms of Syracuse. But the highlights of this tour may surprise you…

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Syracuse.

Key Points

• A 4-hour scenic boat tour around the historic Island of Ortigia with stops at Grotta del Corallo, Castello Maniace, and Plemmirio Nature Preserve.
• Includes a homemade lunch/dinner, local appetizers, seasonal fruit, and complimentary wine and Prosecco.
• Opportunity to swim at the Plemmirio Nature Preserve, known for its dramatic cliffs and diverse marine life.
• Tour guided by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history and culture of the region.
• Overall rating of 4.5/5 from 74 reviews, with praise for the stunning scenery and delicious local cuisine.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

The Syracuse Boat Trip offers visitors a scenic four-hour journey around the historic island of Ortigia. Priced from $100.44 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive experience, including stops at the Grotta del Corallo, Castello Maniace, and the Plemmirio Nature Preserve for swimming.

Guests can expect to see the natural reserve of Plemmirio and explore the historic sites of Ortigia, such as the ex Bourbon prison, Viliena fort, Spanish walls, and the Aretusa spring.

The tour also includes a homemade lunch or dinner, local appetizers, seasonal fruit, and wine or Prosecco served on board.

With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 74 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for its knowledgeable guides, enjoyable food and drinks, and stunning scenery.

Itinerary Highlights

The Syracuse Boat Trip takes guests on a guided tour with several key highlights along the way.

Starting from the Island of Ortigia, the tour includes a visit to the Grotta del Corallo, a natural cave formation.

Next, guests will see the impressive Castello Maniace, a 13th-century castle.

The tour then ventures to the Plemmirio Nature Preserve, where guests can enjoy a refreshing swim.

Throughout the journey, travelers will admire the natural reserve of Plemmirio and the historic sites of Ortigia, such as the former Bourbon prison, Viliena fort, Spanish walls, Levante waterfront, Alfeo waterfront, and the famous Aretusa spring.

The tour culminates at the Big Harbour of Siracusa, providing a comprehensive exploration of Syracuse’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Scenic Boat Trip

Guests embark on a scenic boat journey around the picturesque Island of Ortigia, seeing the captivating natural and historical wonders of Syracuse.

The 4-hour tour showcases:

1. The Grotta del Corallo, a stunning coral cave.
2. The majestic Castello Maniace, a medieval fortress.
3. The Plemmirio Nature Preserve, where guests can enjoy a refreshing swim.
4. Iconic landmarks along the Ortigia waterfront, including the former Bourbon prison, the Viliena fort, and the Aretusa spring.

Throughout the trip, guests indulge in a homemade lunch or dinner, local appetizers, seasonal fruit, and complimentary wine and Prosecco, creating a truly immersive and delightful experience.

Homemade Lunch and Drinks

During the scenic boat trip, guests are treated to a homemade lunch or dinner, carefully prepared by the onboard culinary team.

The menu features local appetizers and seasonal fruits, complemented by refreshing wine and Prosecco served throughout the journey.

Reviewers praise the delicious food, with one guest noting the "enjoyable food and drinks" as a highlight of the experience.

The homemade meals are made with fresh, local ingredients, offering a true taste of Sicilian cuisine.

Whether enjoying a midday lunch or an evening dinner, the onboard dining experience adds to the overall delight of this Syracuse boat adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Historic Ortigia

One of the highlights of the Syracuse boat trip is the opportunity to explore the historic island of Ortigia.

The guided tour takes guests to iconic landmarks, including:

1. The Castello Maniace, a 13th-century fortress with impressive architectural features.
2. The Plemmirio Nature Preserve, where guests can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
3. The Aretusa spring, a natural freshwater source that has been revered since ancient times.
4. The Spanish walls and Levante waterfront, offering stunning views of the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the rich history and cultural significance of these captivating sites, ensuring a truly immersive experience for visitors.

Natural Reserve of Plemmirio

The Plemmirio Nature Preserve is a stunning natural reserve located along the southern coast of Syracuse. This protected area is known for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters.

During the boat tour, guests will have the opportunity to stop and swim in one of the preserve’s picturesque swimming spots, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Plemmirio landscape.

The reserve is home to a diverse array of marine life, including schools of colorful fish and the occasional dolphin sighting.

Visitors can admire the natural wonders of this protected area while enjoying the company of friends and the delicious local cuisine and beverages served throughout the boat tour.

Feedback From Customers

Customers’ overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the exceptional experience provided by the Syracuse Boat Trip. With an average rating of 4.5/5 based on 74 reviews, the tour has captivated guests.

Reviewers particularly praised the:

1. Knowledgeable and friendly guides
2. Delicious homemade lunch and local appetizers
3. Fun swimming opportunities at scenic locations
4. Overall exceeding of expectations, from the boat highlights to the team’s exceptional service

Testimonials from Patricia, Karisma, and Melissa further affirm the tour’s popularity, with guests expressing a desire to repeat the experience and highly recommending it to others.

The boat trip’s seamless execution and remarkable attention to detail have clearly resonated with customers.

Important Details to Note

To fully maximize the Syracuse Boat Trip experience, there are a few important details guests should keep in mind.

The tour starts from the Infopoint Dolci Esscursioni on the island of Ortigia. Guests will embark on one of two similar boats, though the equipment, size, and colors may vary slightly.

The live tour guide provides commentary in both English and Italian. Travelers have the flexibility to adjust their plans thanks to the "reserve now & pay later" option.

With these details in hand, visitors can look forward to an enjoyable boat excursion filled with stunning sights, refreshing swims, and delectable local cuisine and drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

No, guests cannot bring their own food and drinks on the boat. The tour includes a homemade lunch/dinner, local appetizers, seasonal fruit, and wine and Prosecco served during the trip.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, there is an option for a private boat tour. Guests can book a private tour instead of a group tour, which provides a more personalized experience. Private tours may have additional costs compared to the group tour.

Are Life Jackets and Safety Equipment Provided on the Boat?

Yes, life jackets and other necessary safety equipment are provided on the boats for the tour. The tour operator ensures all guests have access to proper safety gear throughout the boat ride.

Can I Request Vegetarian or Dietary-Restricted Meal Options?

Yes, the tour provider can accommodate vegetarian and other dietary restrictions. Guests can simply request their meal preference when booking, and the crew will ensure a suitable meal is prepared for them.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Boat During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available on the boats during the tour. Guests can use the onboard restrooms throughout the 4-hour scenic boat excursion around Ortigia in Syracuse.

Recap

Enjoy the captivating sights and flavors of Syracuse on this boat tour around Ortigia. Discover the island’s historic landmarks, swim in crystal-clear waters, and savor a delightful homemade lunch paired with local wine. Led by knowledgeable experts, this comprehensive experience showcases the natural beauty and rich heritage of this Sicilian gem. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this picturesque destination in style.

You can check if your dates are available here: