Sicily Boats Note: Half day boat tour to Capopassero

Sicily Boats’ Half-Day Boat Tour to Capopassero: An Authentic Slice of Sicilian Coastline

If you’re craving a way to see Sicily’s coastline beyond the crowded beaches and bustling towns, this half-day boat tour from Avola offers a chance to enjoy some of the island’s most beautiful waters and hidden spots. Priced at around $662.86 for a group of up to 12, the five-hour journey takes you along the coast with stops at pristine beaches, historical sites, and a charming fishing village. With a knowledgeable skipper leading the way—Enzo, in one review—the experience combines scenic beauty, authentic Sicilian flavors, and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances adventure and relaxation. The stops at Vendicari Nature Reserve and Calamosche Beach let you enjoy crystal-clear waters and a peaceful natural setting. Plus, the Sicilian aperitif on board—featuring arancini, seasonal fruits, and sparkling wine—is a delightful touch that makes the entire trip feel special. A second highlight is the visit to Marzamemi, a picturesque fishing village where you can stroll historic streets, taste local granita, and soak in authentic Sicilian life.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour’s duration and stops are tightly scheduled, so if you’re after a more leisurely, all-day experience, this might feel a little rushed. Also, it’s worth noting that towels and sunscreen aren’t included, so bringing those along is a good idea. This tour is perfect for those who want a compact yet comprehensive taste of Sicily’s coast, especially if you enjoy snorkeling, charming villages, and stunning sea views.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery and clear waters make for memorable swimming and snorkeling.
• Well-organized stops at Vendicari, Marzamemi, and Capopassero provide cultural and natural highlights.
• Authentic Sicilian flavors with a lovely onboard aperitif and chance to explore local village life.
• Skilled skipper (Enzo) ensures a smooth, informative, and fun experience.
• Group size of up to 12 offers an intimate, personalized feel.
• Price point provides good value considering the included food, drinks, snorkeling gear, and scenic stops.

Exploring the Full Experience

Overview of the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at Sicily Boats’ base in Avola, a convenient starting point for exploring southeastern Sicily. From there, the boat heads out, and the first notable stop is the Vendicari Nature Reserve, famous for its untouched beaches and birdlife. Here, you’ll get a view of the island of Vendicari, Torre Sveva, and the Tonnara di Vendicari, with a chance for a swim in waters described as Caribbean-colored—a claim many reviewers agree with, describing them as both beautiful and inviting.

Next, you’ll glide past Lido di Noto, with a quick stop for a swim near the “white rocks” if weather permits. This stretch offers the perfect combination of coastline views and a relaxing break in the water. The highlight for many is the snorkeling over Roman columns in front of Marzamemi, lying about five meters underwater, where the clear visibility and intriguing historical relics make for an unforgettable experience.

The tour continues south to Capopassero, an island with a fortress you can visit on foot, and the octopus cave, adding a touch of adventure and history. A long stop here allows for swimming, exploring the fortress, and soaking in the scenery. This segment often earns praise for its unspoiled beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

The next stop is Marzamemi, a charming fishing village with cobblestone streets, colorful boats, and local eateries. You’ll spend around 30 minutes exploring the historic Tonnara, tasting granita or cremolata, and experiencing a slice of authentic Sicilian seaside life. This village visit is a favorite part for many travelers, offering a break from the water-based activities and a chance to connect with local culture.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a last swim at Cicirata beach on the return journey, giving you one more chance to enjoy the crystal waters before heading back to the starting point in Avola.

The Highlights in Detail

Vendicari Nature Reserve

This stop is a highlight for nature lovers. The sea view of the island, the historic Torre Sveva, and the Tonnara di Vendicari evoke a sense of untouched Sicily. The waters here are famously Caribbean-colored, making it ideal for swimming. Visitors consistently mention how peaceful and pristine this part of the coast is, and it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Lido di Noto and the “White Rocks”

Passing by Lido di Noto offers a stunning perspective of the coastline from the water. If the weather agrees, you’ll have the chance to dip near the white rocks—noted for their striking appearance and clear waters. The quick 15-minute stop allows for a refreshing break without disrupting the overall schedule, which is appreciated by those who love a balance of activity and downtime.

Marzamemi

This picturesque fishing village remains a favorite among past travelers. The historic Tonnara and narrow streets are charming and photogenic. You can sample local granita and cremolata, which many reviewers mention as a highlight. The land visit offers a taste of authentic Sicilian fishing culture, contrasting nicely with the sea-based stops.

Capopassero and the Octopus Cave

The island of Capopassero stands out for its fortress and scenic views. You can swim and walk around the island freely, experiencing a more exclusive slice of Sicilian waters. The octopus cave adds a dash of adventure and mystery, with snorkelers often marveling at the marine life and underwater formations here.

Calamosche and the Roman Columns

Snorkeling at Calamosche Beach is a big draw, thanks to its calm, transparent waters and scenic setting. The underwater Roman columns are a hidden relic that many find fascinating to observe while floating above. This stop combines natural beauty with a touch of history, making it an enriching experience.

The Food and Drinks

The onboard Sicilian aperitif is often praised. Expect arancini, scones, seasonal fruits, and sparkling wine, beer, or soft drinks. Reviewers emphasize how fresh and generous the food is, making the tour feel like a special occasion. This is a great way to savor local flavors while enjoying the sea breeze.

The Guide and Crew

A recurring theme in reviews is the knowledgeable and friendly skipper, Enzo, who keeps the trip lively, informative, and relaxed. Many travelers comment that the skipper’s local insights and attentiveness make a big difference in how enjoyable the journey feels. The size of the group—up to 12 people—also helps create a more personalized and intimate atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

Keep in mind that this is a five-hour tour, so packing sunscreen and a towel is advised (these aren’t included). The price covers snorkeling gear, which means you can expect good quality equipment for underwater exploring. While the tour is private for your group, be prepared for a tight schedule—great for seeing a lot in a short time, but perhaps less ideal if you prefer slow, sprawling days.

The meeting point is conveniently located in Avola, and the tour ends back at the same spot—no fuss about transfers. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering some peace of mind if weather turns bad.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick yet comprehensive taste of Sicily’s coastline—combining natural beauty, history, and local culture. It suits those who appreciate snorkeling, scenic views, and authentic villages. It’s especially ideal for small groups or families seeking a personalized adventure with a knowledgeable captain. If you’re after a relaxed pace with a mix of active and leisure moments, this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up

This half-day boat tour from Avola offers a well-rounded glimpse of Sicily’s southeastern coast, blending stunning beaches, historical sites, and charming villages. The combination of beautiful waters, snorkeling opportunities, and authentic Sicilian flavors makes it a memorable outing. The knowledgeable skipper, Enzo, and the intimate group size enhance the experience, making it feel bespoke and friendly.

While it’s a packed schedule, it provides excellent value for those who want to see many highlights in a short time. The onboard aperitif is a thoughtful touch, elevating what is already a scenic and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day on the water, this tour has something for you.

In all, if you’re visiting Sicily and want a balanced, authentic, and engaging seaside adventure, this tour is a great choice. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to combine water activities, cultural exploration, and good food in one compact outing.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, ensuring a personalized and comfortable environment.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 5 hours, including all stops and activities.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the boat, snorkeling equipment, and a Sicilian aperitif with arancini, fruits, soft drinks, beer, and sparkling wine.

Are there any additional costs?
You’ll need to bring your own towels and sunscreen, as these are not provided.

Can I swim and snorkel during the tour?
Absolutely. Several stops are dedicated to swimming and snorkeling, including areas with Roman columns and Calamosche Beach.

What are the main highlights of the itinerary?
Highlights include Vendicari Nature Reserve, Marzamemi, Capopassero island, and snorkeling over Roman columns.

Is the tour suitable for children or family groups?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially since most can participate and enjoy the water activities, but it’s best for families with older children comfortable with boat trips.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps some cash for optional local purchases during the village stop.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternate date or a full refund, as per the policy.

Embark on this Sicilian seascape adventure for a mix of natural beauty, history, and local flavor—all aboard a boat that makes exploring the coast both fun and memorable.