From San Foca: Boat Excursion Salento, Marine di Melendugno

Exploring Italy’s southern coast by boat offers an entirely different perspective—one that reveals the wild beauty, fascinating history, and inviting waters of Salento. This boat excursion from San Foca, priced at $70 per person, takes roughly 2.5 hours and departs from a convenient dock near the town. During this time, you’ll visit iconic spots like Roca Vecchia, Torre dell’Orso, Torre Sant’Andrea, and Conca Specchiulla, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and soaking in the scenery.

What we love most about this experience are the two swim stops in turquoise waters, allowing travelers to cool off and explore marine life with provided snorkeling gear. Plus, the boat’s onboard comforts—like cushioned seating, a shade canopy, and refreshing drinks—make relaxing between stops a real pleasure. On the flip side, some might find the 2.5-hour duration a bit quick if they wish to linger longer at each site, but that’s part of what keeps the trip manageable and enjoyable for most.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a small-group, private-feeling adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments, especially if they’re interested in uncovering Salento’s natural beauty and quiet coves instead of crowded beaches. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a personalized experience—renting the boat exclusively allows you to tailor your stops and timing to suit your pace.

Key Points

• Comfortable experience: Onboard amenities ensure a relaxed day at sea.
• Authentic scenery: Visit iconic landmarks like Grotta della Poesia and Faraglioni delle Due Sorelle.
• Swimming opportunities: Two stops for swimming and snorkeling in pristine waters.
• History and nature: Combines scenic beauty with interesting sites like Roca Vecchia.
• Flexible options: Possibility to rent the boat privately for a customized tour.
• Authentic local flavors: Enjoy Salento snacks and fresh fruit onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Salento Boat Excursion

Setting Sail from San Foca

Your adventure begins at a convenient dock just outside San Foca, a charming fishing village with a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning coastline. Parking is straightforward; there’s a petrol station and a bar nearby, making it easy to grab a coffee or a quick snack before boarding. Once onboard, you’ll quickly notice the boat’s inviting setup: cushioned seats, a shaded canopy providing relief from the sun, and snorkeling gear at the ready.

The departure is smooth, with the boat gliding out into the open waters, revealing the first glimpses of Salento’s rugged coast. The 2.5-hour duration strikes a balance—enough time to visit several key sites without feeling rushed, yet short enough for most travelers to enjoy comfortably.

Exploring Roca Vecchia and Grotta della Poesia

The first stop is Roca Vecchia, an archaeological and natural wonder. Here, you’ll see ancient ruins that whisper stories of historical inhabitants, combined with the Grotta della Poesia, often called one of the most beautiful natural pools in the world. The cave’s turquoise waters, framed by limestone cliffs, offer an ideal spot for a swim or some photos.

This site is both a feast for the eyes and a reminder of the area’s long history—a perfect blend of nature and lore. As one reviewer said, the trip offers “lots of time in clear blue waters outside from overcrowded beaches,” which shows how this excursion provides a more intimate way to experience these sites.

The Enchantment of Torre dell’Orso

Next, you’ll glide toward Torre dell’Orso, famous for its towering rocky cliffs and the Faraglioni delle Due Sorelle—legendary sea stacks that rise majestically from the water. These formations are truly postcard-worthy, especially in the golden light of late morning or late afternoon.

The coast around Torre dell’Orso is dotted with caves accessible only by swimming, adding a sense of adventure. The nearby Spiaggia dell’Orso is an inviting stretch of sandy beach, perfect for relaxing or taking some pictures. The landscape here is so dramatic that it almost looks painted—rock formations carved over centuries by wind and waves.

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The Natural Wonder of Torre Sant’Andrea

A short trip south brings you to Torre Sant’Andrea, famed for its white sea stacks and scenic bays. These striking rock formations are a favorite among photographers. The waters here are clear and inviting, making it an ideal spot for the second swimming stop.

Visitors often find themselves captivated by the surreal landscape—a true paradise that looks like a movie set. As one traveler noted, “its iconic sea stacks rise from the crystalline waters, surrounded by picturesque bays that look like they’ve been painted,” capturing the essence of this natural spectacle.

Conca Specchiulla and Its Hidden Coves

Finally, the tour concludes at Conca Specchiulla, a lesser-known gem with quiet coves and shallow waters. Here, you can relax in a more peaceful environment, enjoy the fragrance of Mediterranean vegetation, and marvel at the white rock surrounded by nature.

This spot offers a more tranquil end to the journey—a perfect place to cool down, take photos, or simply listen to the waves. It’s an ideal location for those wanting a more secluded experience away from crowded beaches.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The two swimming stops are undoubtedly the highlight, especially with snorkeling gear included. As one happy traveler put it, “very private trip with lots of time in clear blue waters outside from overcrowded beaches,” emphasizing the intimacy and quality of the experience.

The onboard comforts—shade canopy, cushioned seats, a shower, and refreshments—are thoughtful touches that elevate this trip from a simple boat ride to a proper escape. The inclusion of local snacks and fresh fruit gives you a taste of Salento’s flavors, adding a pleasing culinary aspect to the adventure.

Plus, the option to rent the boat exclusively offers a level of customization that many travelers appreciate. You can decide how long to stay at each site, choose your stops, or even opt for a private experience with your own group.

Potential Considerations

While 2.5 hours is a generous window for this tour, some travelers might wish for more time at each location, especially if they want to explore caves or linger on the beach. Also, since the tour is shorter, it’s best suited for those who want a quick, scenic escape rather than a full-day adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This boat excursion is ideal for travelers who value comfort and intimacy. It’s perfect if you’re seeking to avoid crowded beaches and prefer exploring sites that few travelers visit. It’s especially appealing for those interested in swimming, snorkeling, and photography against the backdrop of Salento’s striking coastline.

If you’re in Salento for a few days and want a relaxing and scenic break, this tour offers a manageable yet memorable experience. It’s also a great choice for small groups or private parties wanting a tailor-made adventure.

The Sum Up: Is This Experience Worth It?

This boat excursion from San Foca delivers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and relaxing waters. The brief but well-curated itinerary means you’ll see some of the most iconic sights of Salento, with plenty of time to swim and enjoy the environment without feeling rushed. The onboard comforts and local snacks add a touch of luxury that makes the journey all the more enjoyable.

It’s best suited for travelers who want to escape the crowds and see Salento from a different angle, especially those who love snorkeling, scenic views, and peaceful coves. If you’re after an authentic, small-group adventure with flexible options, this tour offers excellent value.

However, if you’re a full-day explorer or crave more time at each stop, you might find the 2.5-hour window a bit limited. But for most, it hits a sweet spot—providing enough time to soak in the scenery and relax in stunning waters.

This excursion offers a balanced, enjoyable, and authentic way to experience the coast of Salento, giving you memories that will last long after you leave the boat.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including two stops for swimming and sightseeing.

What sites will we visit?
You’ll explore Roca Vecchia, Grotta della Poesia, Torre dell’Orso, Faraglioni delle Due Sorelle, Torre Sant’Andrea, and Conca Specchiulla.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear is provided so you can explore the marine life during your swim stops.

Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, renting the boat exclusively allows you to choose stops, timing, and the overall route for a more personalized experience.

What onboard amenities are available?
Cushioned seating, a shade canopy, a shower for rinsing off, refreshments, and Salento snacks are included for your comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the short duration and calm waters suggest it’s suitable for families, provided children are comfortable on boats and in the water.

Where does the tour start?
The activity begins at a dock just outside San Foca, near a bar and petrol station for easy access and parking.

Are food and drinks included?
Snacks, fresh fruit, and beverages are included, but a full meal or dinner is not part of the tour.

What languages are available?
Guides speak both English and Italian.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This boat excursion from San Foca offers a captivating glimpse of Salento’s coast, combining natural beauty, history, and a relaxed pace—all at a fair price. Whether you’re seeking a day of tranquil swimming, photo opportunities, or simply a break from busy beaches, it’s an experience worth considering during your time in Italy’s southern corner.

You can check availability for your dates here: