Sicily Boats Avola: Plemmirio boat tour 4 people 4 hours

A Detailed Review of the Sicily Boats Avola: Plemmirio Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Sicily’s spectacular coastline without the crowds, the Plemmirio boat tour from Avola offers a perfect escape. For around $398, up to four people can spend roughly four hours cruising along the southern coast, taking in stunning views and enjoying authentic Sicilian scenery. Starting from Avola, this private tour promises a mix of scenic stops, swimming, and snorkeling that captured the hearts of past travelers.

What we love most is the chance to visit diverse spots—from the historic remains of the Avola trap to the crystal-clear waters of the Plemmirio Marine Reserve. Plus, the flexible itinerary allows you to swim, relax, and take photos in some of Sicily’s most scenic locations. Another highlight is the brunch on board — a generous Sicilian aperitif with arancini, fresh fruit, and drinks that truly adds local flavor to the experience.

A possible consideration is that this tour requires good weather, which isn’t always guaranteed. If Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, cancellations are possible, but the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling. This tour is best suited for travelers craving a private, intimate experience with the freedom to swim and snorkel at their own pace, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or families who appreciate authentic coastal scenery.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized service.
• Diverse Coastal Stops: From Gallina to Ognina, each location offers unique scenery and activities.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Plenty of opportunities to cool off and explore Sicily’s underwater world.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Sicilian aperitif and fresh fruit on board enhance the experience.
• Well-Reviewed Guides: Guides like Enzo receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Weather Sensitive: Good weather is essential; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor.

Exploring the Coastline from Avola to Plemmirio

This private boat tour begins in the charming town of Avola, where you’ll meet your guide at Sicily Boats. The price covers your group of up to four, making it a cost-effective way to enjoy Sicily’s coastal beauty without the hassle of large group tours. The four-hour duration offers enough time to explore without feeling rushed, and the 26 nautical mile route covers approximately 48 kilometers, giving you a good sense of the area’s varied shoreline.

The itinerary is flexible yet thoughtfully curated to maximize your comfort and enjoyment. The journey kicks off with a view of the Tonnara di Avola, an intriguing historical site. From there, your boat will glide past the last beaches of Avola (Cicirata), offering sweeping views of the coast, and stopping at the remains of the Avola trap—a reminder of local fishing traditions.

The Highlights of the Tour

Visiting Gallina and the White Cliffs

The first major stop is Spiaggia di Gallina, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white rocks. Here, you’ll have about 20 minutes to swim and perhaps take a few daring dives from the rocky outcroppings, as some travelers have done. Reviews mention that this spot is perfect for snapping photos and enjoying some quiet time in nature.

Passing the Cassibile River Mouth

Next, the boat gently navigates through the mouth of the Cassibile River—an interesting natural feature and a good photo opportunity. The river’s entrance creates a picturesque scene and a sense of connection to the mainland’s natural landscape.

The Yacht Spotting and White Beach of Arenella

As you cruise north, there’s often a chance to spot luxurious yachts at Punta del Cane and Fontane Bianche, famous for their vibrant marine life and bustling beaches. Stops here are brief but meaningful, with about 20 minutes to swim near the Lido Arenella. Travelers love this area for its clear waters and colorful seaside scenery — so good it’s often compared to a swimming pool.

Snorkeling at Plemmirio Marine Reserve

The finale is a visit to the Parco Marino del Plemmirio, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to snorkel in the marine reserve. The reserve is known for its diverse underwater life and protected waters, making it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. The reviews highlight that guides like Enzo are knowledgeable and attentive, helping you spot local marine creatures and ensuring safety.

Final Swim and Return

The last stop allows for a final swim before heading back to Avola, offering ample opportunity to relax and soak in the Sicilian sun. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and take in the coastline once more.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Your onboard brunch is a true highlight, offering arancini, fresh seasonal fruit, and a selection of soft drinks, beer, and sparkling wine. This adds a social and flavorful touch to the trip, making it feel like a true Sicilian celebration at sea.

You’ll also have access to snorkeling equipment—fins, masks, and mouthpieces—that can help you explore underwater life comfortably. Keep in mind that you’ll need to bring your own towels and sunscreen, as these are not included.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves personalized experiences and prefers exploring at your own pace, this private boat tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially appealing for travelers eager to combine scenic beauty, light adventure, and authentic local flavors — as several reviews mention the delicious food and friendly guide as key highlights. It’s suitable for families, small groups, or couples who want a relaxed, scenic day without the chaos of larger tours.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Though $398 might seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included: a private boat, a four-hour itinerary, multiple stops, and a brunch with drinks. The overall experience delivers excellent value by allowing you to customize your day, swim in pristine waters, and enjoy genuine Sicilian hospitality all in one package.

The reviews reinforce this, with Nathalie describing her experience as “fantastic,” praising the easy communication, great guide, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. The private nature of the tour means fewer crowds and more personal attention, making it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a special day at sea.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Yes, but keep in mind that swimming and snorkeling are optional activities. If your children are comfortable in the water, they’ll enjoy the stops, but always supervise them closely, especially in open water.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but if you have specific equipment you prefer, you can bring your own.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes. The tour has a flexible cancellation policy—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. If bad weather causes a cancellation, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

How many people participate in this tour?
It’s a private experience for up to four people, making it ideal for small groups or families seeking exclusivity and comfort.

What is the best time of year to go?
While not explicitly stated, good weather is essential, so late spring through early autumn (May to September) is likely the best window for good conditions and enjoyable swimming.

How long in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 51 days ahead, suggesting that this tour is popular and benefits from early planning.

Final Thoughts

This Sicily-based boat tour from Avola is a real treasure for travelers wanting an authentic, intimate glimpse of the coast. It’s well-loved for its friendly guidance, beautiful scenery, and the chance to swim in protected waters. The inclusion of a tasty Sicilian aperitif adds a festive touch, making the entire experience feel like a leisurely celebration of Sicily’s maritime charm.

It’s an excellent choice for those who value personalized service and want to explore Sicily’s coast away from the crowds. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and authentic day at sea, this tour ticks all the boxes with a good dose of local flavor and natural beauty.

Note: Always check the weather forecast before booking, and consider booking early to ensure availability, especially if traveling during peak season.