Siracusa: Ortigia and Plemmirio Boat Tour with Drinks

Exploring Siracusa’s Coastline: Ortigia and Plemmirio Boat Tour with Drinks

If you’re visiting Sicily and looking for a relaxed way to experience the stunning coastlines of Siracusa, this 2.5-hour boat tour offers a delightful blend of scenic views, historical sights, and refreshing dips in the Mediterranean. Starting from the port of Syracuse, you’ll cruise along the coast, passing by the enchanting Ortigia Island, the formidable Maniace Castle, and the rugged shoreline of the Plemmirio Nature Reserve. For just around $51, you get a generous slice of Sicilian scenery with drinks, guided commentary, and plenty of opportunities to cool off in clear waters.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the laid-back vibe—you’re not just sightseeing from a bus or a crowded spot; you’re floating right there on the water, with the sea breeze in your hair. The tour is especially good for those who want to combine a bit of sightseeing with some relaxing swimming stops. We also love how the guide shares insights into the coast’s key sights, making the whole trip not just pretty but also informative.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t suited for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness. The boat stays relatively close to the coast, but if you’re uneasy on water, this might not be the best choice. Still, if you’re up for a leisurely day of ocean views, gentle swimming, and discovering Sicily’s coastline, this tour fits the bill perfectly—especially for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and authentic experience.

This tour is ideal for visitors who enjoy scenic cruises, nature lovers, and those interested in Sicilian history and coastal beauty without the hassle of strenuous activities. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers wanting to soak up the sea and sun will find this to be an enjoyable and worthwhile outing.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: Experience Syracuse’s coastline, including Ortigia, Maniace Castle, and the Plemmirio Nature Reserve.
• Historical Landmarks: See notable sites like the former Bourbon prison and Vigliena fort while cruising past the Spanish walls.
• Relaxing Swim Stops: Enjoy multiple opportunities to take a dip in the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.
• Inclusive Drinks: Sip on water, soft drinks, or a glass of white or red wine while you relax on the boat.
• Informative Guide: A live guide shares stories and details about the sights during the cruise.
• Varying Group Size: The experience likely offers an intimate atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer smaller groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

This tour begins at the Infopoint DOLCI ESCURSIONI in Syracuse, with the option to reserve and pay later, adding flexibility to your plans. The total duration is about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day without feeling rushed. The exact starting time varies daily, so you’ll want to check availability in advance.

The Itinerary

Once aboard, the guide (speaking Italian and English) takes you along Syracuse’s scenic shoreline. First, you’ll gaze at Ortigia Island, the historic heart of Syracuse, with its ancient streets and vibrant atmosphere just visible from the water. You’ll get a good look at the Spanish walls, the Levante and Aretusa seafronts, and the Porto Grande, which is one of the largest natural harbors in Europe.

Next, the boat heads toward notable landmarks such as the former Bourbon prison, offering insight into Sicily’s storied past. The Vigliena fort and Maniace Castle provide a dramatic backdrop, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the sunlight bouncing off their stone walls. The guide highlights these sights with concise, engaging commentary, making sure that history is accessible and interesting.

Swimming and Relaxation

After passing the historic sites, the boat moves toward the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, a protected marine area known for its rugged coastline and clear waters. Several stops are made here, allowing travelers to jump into the sea for a swim or snorkel. The water is typically calm and inviting, perfect for cooling off after absorbing the sun and sightseeing.

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Drinks and Atmosphere

Throughout the cruise, passengers are encouraged to enjoy water, soft drinks, or a glass of white or red wine. This simple touch elevates the experience, transforming a sightseeing cruise into a leisurely social occasion. Reviews mention that the drinks are well-received and add to the relaxed, holiday feel.

What Travelers Say

Past participants highlight the stunning scenery and the informative guide, which made the trip both enjoyable and educational. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide pointed out the different landmarks and shared stories about the history of Syracuse.” Others appreciated the opportunity to stop for swimming, describing the water as “crystal-clear,” and the perfect place to unwind.

A few reviews mentioned that the group size felt just right—small enough to feel personalized but large enough to have a lively atmosphere. The moderate duration also means you get plenty of scenic beauty without feeling like you’re stuck on a boat all day.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to stay protected under the Sicilian sun.
• Swimwear and towels are essential if you want to take advantage of the swimming stops.
• A camera is highly recommended to capture the beautiful coastal vistas and historic sights.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as the boat stays close to the shoreline but can still be affected by waves.
• The tour isn’t suitable for unaccompanied minors or non-swimmers, so plan accordingly.
• Check the exact departure times in advance, as they vary daily.

Analyzing Value for Money

For around $51, this boat tour packs quite a punch in terms scenery, history, and relaxation. The inclusion of live guides and drinks adds value, especially considering the scenic ambiance and swimming opportunities. It’s a budget-friendly way to see a lot of Syracuse’s coastline without the hassle of renting a boat or organizing a private tour.

While it’s a short experience, it provides a well-rounded taste of Sicily’s maritime beauty—perfect for travelers with limited time but craving authentic, memorable moments on the sea.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic cruises and want a relaxed day with some local flavor. It’s ideal for families with older kids, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate history, nature, and the sea. Keep in mind that it’s best for those comfortable in the water and not prone to seasickness.

If you’re seeking a more adventurous or longer boat trip with snorkeling or caves, you might find other options better suited to your tastes. However, if your priority is a beautiful, laid-back cruise with informative commentary and swimming stops, this tour hits the sweet spot.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Siracusa Ortigia and Plemmirio Boat Tour with Drinks offers a pretty package: stunning coastlines, historic sights, and a chance to cool off in the Mediterranean—all within a reasonably priced, 2.5-hour window. The inclusion of drinks and guided insights makes it feel like a relaxed holiday highlight rather than just a sightseeing excursion.

It’s especially worthwhile for those who want to combine history, nature, and leisure in a single outing without overly strenuous activity. The tour’s small-group feel and scenic stops make it an authentic way to experience Syracuse’s maritime charm.

For those seeking a gentle, scenic, and culturally enriching break during their Sicily visit, this cruise provides an inviting window into Syracuse’s coastal beauty — and the perfect way to unwind after exploring the city’s streets.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older children and teenagers, especially those comfortable in the water, as swimming stops are part of the experience.

Can I reserve my spot in advance?
Yes, you can reserve online and choose to pay later, offering some flexibility for your travel plans.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, camera, and water to stay comfortable and capture the scenery.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day.

Are drinks included?
Yes, water, soft drinks, and a choice of white or red wine are provided on board.

Do I need to be a good swimmer?
While swimming is encouraged, non-swimmers should be cautious, as the tour is not suitable for them.

Is this tour accessible for people prone to seasickness?
If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking precautions, as the boat stays close to the shoreline but can still experience some movement.

What sights will I see?
You’ll view Ortigia Island, the Spanish walls, Maniace Castle, the Bourbon prison, and the Plemmirio Nature Reserve.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The views are stunning, and you’ll want to capture the picturesque coastline and historic landmarks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Infopoint DOLCI ESCURSIONI and returns to the same spot at the end of the cruise.

In the end, this boat tour offers a relaxed way to see Sicily’s coast, enjoy some history, and cool off in the Mediterranean, all without breaking the bank. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to add a scenic, authentic touch to their Syracuse visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: