Tour with snorkeling at the sea caves and Ortigia Island

A Memorable Day on the Water: Snorkeling at Sea Caves & Exploring Ortigia Island

If you’re looking for a way to see Sicily from a different perspective, this boat tour offers a relaxed yet adventurous way to explore the coast. For just $23 per person, you’ll set sail from the charming port of Sbarcadero di Santa Lucia, heading out on a comfortable boat equipped with large sun awnings—perfect for soaking up the Mediterranean sun. The tour promises a mix of breathtaking sea caves, snorkeling, and a panoramic cruise around Ortigia Island, making it ideal for travelers craving a taste of nature, history, and seaside fun.

What we really love about this experience is the friendly and courteous staff, who go out of their way to make everyone comfortable and engaged, and the well-maintained boats that offer both shade and space to relax. Plus, the inclusion of snorkeling masks and life jackets means you don’t need to bring your own gear—just show up ready to splash around. A small but important detail is the multilingual audio guide, which helps you understand the significance of each stop, especially for non-Italian speakers.

A potential consideration is that the schedule can change depending on weather conditions, as one review noted a shift from 2 pm to 4 pm that affected the experience slightly. For some, this may mean a shorter or less immersive visit to the caves, especially if you’re expecting to swim in turquoise waters. Also, food and drinks are not included, so bringing your own water or snacks is a good idea if you plan to spend several hours on the water.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy water-based activities but also want a chance to see Sicily’s coastal beauty without breaking the bank. It’s especially fitting for those who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences that focus on nature and scenic views, rather than overly commercialized excursions. Families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a relaxed, value-packed day at sea will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $23, this tour offers excellent value for exploring Sicily’s coast.
• Multiple Highlights: From sea caves to Ortigia’s panoramic views and snorkeling, there’s plenty packed into this short trip.
• Friendly Guides & Well-Maintained Boats: Staff’s courtesy and comfort are emphasized, making the experience smooth.
• Flexible & Easy Booking: Reserve with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Authentic Experience: Small groups and multilingual guides make this tour approachable and informative.
• Limited Food & Drink Options: Bring your own refreshments for full enjoyment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Logistics
The tour begins at the small, picturesque port of Sbarcadero di Santa Lucia, conveniently close to a free parking lot—an important detail for travelers with their own transport. The meeting spot is near a children’s playground called “marinaretti” and the Ribellino sailing club, giving a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. After a brief safety introduction, you’ll hop aboard a clean, comfortable boat with large sun awnings—a big plus for those who want to stay shaded or catch some sun.

The Sea Caves and Snorkeling Stop
The main highlight is the exploration of the stunning sea caves. As the boat glides into these rocky formations, you’ll notice how the sunlight plays tricks on the water, creating shimmering reflections that make the caves look almost surreal. The water here is crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling, and the guides provide masks and life jackets so everyone can participate comfortably.

From reviews, it’s clear that the time spent swimming and snorkeling is the most memorable part. One traveler noted, “The moment for swimming in a cave with turquoise water was just perfect,” emphasizing the visual magic of the caves. However, some have pointed out that schedule changes might limit the time in this area—be prepared for possible adjustments, especially if the weather shifts.

A Panoramic Tour Around Ortigia Island
After the caves, the boat continues around Ortigia Island, famed for its stunning architecture and historic charm. From the water, you’ll appreciate views of beautiful facades, ancient monuments, and lively harbors. It’s a real treat to see these sights from the sea, with some reviews mentioning that the guide’s commentary helps bring the sights to life, describing the main buildings and landmarks.

The Overall Atmosphere
Throughout the trip, the tone is laid-back and friendly. Passengers often remark on how the guides take their time, making the experience feel personalized. One reviewer praised the “very nice captain who took his time,” and another enjoyed the sunset views during their late afternoon trip, highlighting the flexibility and scenic beauty of the tour.

What’s Not Included & Tips
Remember, food and drinks are not included, so pack water, snacks, or perhaps a small cooler. While the tour is short—around a few hours—bringing extra refreshments helps keep everyone comfortable. Since the boat is small and the focus is on natural beauty and snorkeling, don’t expect restaurant services or extensive facilities onboard.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for families with children, couples seeking a romantic day, or solo travelers wanting an authentic, budget-friendly adventure. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy snorkeling, scenic views, and learning about local geography through an engaging guide. For those who want a relaxing day at sea, combined with the chance to explore Sicily’s coastline and architecture, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour offers real value: a combination of stunning scenery, snorkeling, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it accessible for all ages. The friendly guides, clean boats, and the chance to see sea caves up close are the main draws. While the schedule might vary with the weather—and you’ll need to bring your own snacks—the overall experience delivers on its promise of nature, history, and fun.

If you’re in Sicily and looking for a cost-effective way to enjoy the coast, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially good if you want to avoid large crowds, enjoy some personalized service, and get a taste of the local sea in a small-group setting. Whether you’re snorkeling for the first time or simply soaking up the scenery from the deck, this trip is likely to leave you with pleasant memories and perhaps a new appreciation for Sicily’s rugged beauty.

FAQ

How much does the tour cost?
The tour is priced at $23 per person, offering excellent value for a half-day sea adventure.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the small port called Sbarcadero di Santa Lucia, near a children’s playground and the Ribellino sailing club, and ends back at the same point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to keep your plans flexible.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, there is a small free car park close to the departure point, convenient for those arriving by car.

What languages are available during the tour?
The tour offers multilingual audio guides in Italian, English, Spanish, and French, ensuring most travelers can follow along.

What equipment is provided?
Snorkeling masks and life jackets are included, so you don’t need to bring your own gear unless you prefer to.

How long is the tour?
The tour typically lasts a few hours, with stops for snorkeling and sightseeing, depending on weather and schedule changes.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own water or snacks if needed.

This boat trip combines affordability, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace—making it a smart choice for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Sicily’s coast without fuss or expense.

You can check availability for your dates here: