Siracusa: 2h ortigia+grotte marine+frutta+prosecco+snorkelin

Starting in Siracusa, this 2-hour boat trip takes you around the historic Ortigia Island, offering a fresh perspective on Sicily’s charming coast. For a modest $47 per person, you’ll cruise past iconic sights like the Arethusa Fountain, admire sea caves (including the famous heart-shaped Cave of Love), and enjoy some time snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The tour is led by friendly skippers, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and spectacular scenery.

What we love most is the way this trip combines relaxation with adventure—refreshing fruit and Prosecco are served onboard, making it feel like a proper Mediterranean treat. Plus, the opportunity to swim and snorkel in such inviting waters adds a fun, tactile element to sightseeing. However, keep in mind that the boat’s roof may not be accessible in bad weather, so if you’re visiting in less predictable conditions, be prepared for some exposure.

This tour is ideally suited for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a laid-back, scenic experience. If you’re eager to see Ortigia’s coastal beauty from the water but prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to dip into the sea, this adventure will suit you perfectly. For those seeking a more in-depth historical or cultural tour, you might want to explore other options, but for pure sea, sun, and scenery, this one hits the mark.

This experience made our article of Syracuse’s 15 Best Tours (With Prices & Reviews).

Key Points

• Short and sweet: It offers a compact, 2-hour experience perfect for busy travelers.
• Authentic views: See Ortigia’s historic buildings and landmarks from a unique water perspective.
• Snorkeling and swimming: Multiple stops allow for enjoyable dips in the Mediterranean.
• Fabulous extras: Expect fresh fruit, Prosecco, and juice, adding a touch of Mediterranean luxury.
• Expert skipper: Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to safety.
• Great value: At $47, it’s an affordable way to combine sightseeing, relaxation, and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Ortigia Boat Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet the tour at the Ortigia Island excursion office, about 15 minutes before departure. The meeting point is clear—look for the Ortigia Island boat and keep an eye out for the staff in uniform. Since there’s no hotel pickup, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting spot, which is straightforward if you’re staying in central Siracusa or Ortigia.

The tour lasts exactly 2 hours, making it an easy addition to a day’s agenda. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of the coast without committing a full day. Expect the boat to be comfortably sized but not crowded—most reviews mention a friendly, intimate atmosphere, especially in groups of around 12 or so.

Itinerary Breakdown

Launching from Siracusa and passing under UMBERTINO Bridge

The journey begins by leaving the port of Siracusa, crossing under the UMBERTINO bridge—an iconic entry that offers a view of the bustling harbor below. Once outside the port, you’ll cruise past beautiful yachts at Foro Italico, catching glimpses of the city’s elegant waterfront and the cathedral dome from the water.

• What’s special here? The chance to see the city from a different angle, with sweeping views of Ortigia’s rooftops and historic structures. Many reviews highlight how seeing the ancient buildings from the water adds a new layer of appreciation.

Viewing Maniace Castle and Sea Caves

Next, the boat heads north along the coast, passing the immense Maniace Castle, a fortress carved into the rocky shoreline. As you travel, your skipper points out notable landmarks and provides insights into the area’s history and geology.

The tour includes visits to several sea caves, including the Coral Cave, a stalactite cave, and the Cave of Love—famously heart-shaped and perfect for photos. The Cave of Love is a big hit among visitors, with many sharing how they snapped memorable pictures with the cave’s distinctive shape behind them. One reviewer describes the stop as “the perfect spot for a selfie,” and many note that it’s surprisingly quiet and peaceful.

The Arethusa Fountain and Coastal Highlights

One of the tour’s highlights is seeing the legendary Arethusa Fountain, a natural spring that has inspired stories for centuries. From the water, you’ll catch a clear view of the fountain’s connection to myth and history, making it more than just a scenic spot.

The boat then continues along the coast, offering views of luxurious yachts and the city skyline. Sweeping vistas of Siracusa’s port and historic center from the water create a memorable backdrop for photos and relaxation.

Snorkeling and Swimming Stops

A key feature of this tour is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in the inviting waters. The boat stops at several spots where you can get out and enjoy the sea. One reviewer mentions a “longer than expected” swim time, which is a definite plus for those who love to cool off in the Mediterranean.

The stops are generally brief—around 10 minutes—but reviews repeatedly say the water is warm and clear, making it easy to enjoy the underwater scenery with provided masks and noodles. The relaxed pacing means you have plenty of time to float, explore, and take photos.

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Refreshments and Atmosphere

Throughout the trip, fresh seasonal fruit, Prosecco, and juice are served, elevating the experience from simple sightseeing to a mini Mediterranean feast. Multiple reviews praise the quality of the fruit and the generous Prosecco—a simple but appreciated touch that makes the tour feel special.

The crew is described as friendly and upbeat, with guides like Michelangelo and Gianni receiving particular praise for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness. Many travelers comment on how the guides make the experience enjoyable, sharing stories and tips about Ortigia and Siracusa.

Practical Considerations

• Weather: The boat’s roof may be unavailable in rough weather, so if you’re visiting during unpredictable seasons, be prepared for some sun exposure.
• Language: Guides speak Italian, English, and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Booking and Cancellation: You can reserve your place online, with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a laid-back, scenic adventure. It’s excellent for those who want a quick but authentic look at Ortigia’s coastline, with plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos. The affordability and relaxed pace also make it a good value, especially given the included refreshments and personalized experience.

If you’re after a more in-depth historical or cultural tour, you might find this a bit light on details. But if your goal is to enjoy Sicily’s natural beauty, splash around, and relax in good company, this experience delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the boat tour?
It lasts exactly 2 hours, offering a comfortable window for sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing on the water.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, the tour provides masks and noodles, and you’ll have several stops suitable for swimming and snorkeling in the warm, clear waters.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a waterproof camera. Since the boat’s roof might not be available in bad weather, consider sun protection or a hat.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, expect fresh seasonal fruit, Prosecco, and juice served onboard, which many reviews find delightful and refreshing.

Can I request photos taken during the trip?
Absolutely. You can request the photos taken on board at the end of the tour, which is a nice way to remember the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews mention that it works well for families, with plenty of time for swimming and the gentle pace. Just note the age at which children can comfortably snorkel or swim.

Do guides speak English?
Yes, guides are multilingual—Italian, English, and Spanish—so most travelers can enjoy explanations and instructions easily.

Final Thoughts

For a value-packed, scenic escape from the hustle of Siracusa, this 2-hour boat tour offers a wonderful mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun. You’ll love the stunning views of Ortigia’s coastline, the chance to snorkel in warm waters, and the friendly guides who make the experience engaging. The included Prosecco and fruit add a celebratory touch, making it feel like a true Mediterranean treat.

This trip is especially suited for those who want a relaxed pace with plenty of time for swimming, and who appreciate a good sense of humor and local knowledge from their skipper. It’s a wonderful way to see some of the most beautiful parts of Siracusa’s coast without spending a full day at sea.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or simply want a memorable experience that combines scenery, culture, and leisure, this tour will likely be one of the highlights of your Sicilian trip. Just be prepared for the possibility of sun and wind, and you’ll have a relaxing, scenic adventure in one of Italy’s most charming settings.

Enjoy your trip to Sicily, and don’t forget your camera and swimsuit!

You can check availability for your dates here: