3 Hours Private Boat Tour of Syracuse and Ortigia with skipper

A Closer Look at the 3-Hour Private Boat Tour of Syracuse and Ortigia with a Skipper

Exploring Sicily’s coast by boat offers a perspective that’s both intimate and breathtaking. This private 3-hour tour, led by a skilled skipper, takes you around the historic island of Ortigia and the surrounding waters, allowing you to appreciate the region’s beauty from a unique vantage point. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with some relaxing swimming spots, all in a small, personalized group.

One thing we particularly like about this experience is the flexibility it provides—you’re in control of your stops, and the skipper is there to make sure you get the most out of the trip. The ability to choose your swimming and snorkeling spots makes it adaptable for those who want a quiet break or a full-on aquatic adventure.

A potential consideration is that the skipper primarily speaks Italian, which could limit the amount of commentary or historical context shared during the trip. Also, the price of around $434 for up to six people is reasonable, especially considering the private nature of the tour and the inclusions, but it’s worth comparing with other local options for value.

This tour suits travelers who are comfortable with a small group, enjoy personalized experiences, and want to see Sicily’s coast from the water in comfort and style. It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking a semi-private, relaxed day with scenic views and swimming opportunities.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience offering a relaxed way to explore Syracuse’s coast.
• Ideal for small groups up to six, providing plenty of space and comfort on the boat.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops allow for a personalized aquatic experience.
• Stunning views of Ortigia and surrounding waters from a unique perspective.
• Flexible itinerary with stops that can be tailored on request, including a private castle visit.
• Good value for the price, considering the private and flexible nature of the trip and inclusions like snorkeling gear.

The Details of the Experience

This tour promises a balanced combination of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing aboard a well-equipped boat. Starting from Sicily in Travel’s office in Siracusa, you are greeted by your skipper, who is both skilled and friendly. The boats are equipped with radio, a shower, and comfortable cushions—small details that make a difference on a trip of this nature.

The first stop takes you around Ortigia itself, offering a 40-minute cruise that reveals its grandeur from the water. You’ll see ancient palaces and churches from a fresh perspective, which is especially appealing for lovers of architecture and history. While some reviews noted the lack of commentary—since the skipper only spoke Italian—they still appreciated the panoramic views and the chance to see the city in a different light.

Next, your boat approaches a majestic castle overlooking the sea. This isn’t a fixed stop, giving you the flexibility to decide whether to stay for a quick photo or dive right in. Weather conditions can influence this stop, but it offers an excellent photo opportunity with its commanding position.

The Plemmirio area becomes your next highlight, where you can swim in the clear waters of the Pilirina sector. The nearly 30-minute swim here is a favorite among reviewers, and the free snorkeling goggles provided let you explore the seabed in comfort. The water’s green, crystalline quality makes it a captivating spot for a dip.

Following this, the Grotta Della Pillirina offers an extended swim, around 40 minutes or more, depending on your preference and conditions. Reviewers have lauded this stop for its tranquility and stunning underwater scenery, making it a highlight of the trip.

The final secret stop near a tuna fishery reveals waters so clear and green that they seem almost unreal. This intimate, lesser-known spot is perfect for a quick swim to round off your water adventure.

Throughout the trip, the boat’s amenities, like the radio and shower, keep you comfortable, while cushions ensure a relaxing ride. The entire experience is roughly 3 hours, including travel time, swimming, and optional stops, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer, Pauline, appreciated the well-organized nature of the tour and the small size of the boat, which suited her family of four perfectly. She noted that the skipper was trustworthy and that the snacks and drinks onboard were a thoughtful touch. However, she pointed out that her family wished for more commentary about the sights, as the skipper only spoke Italian.

Another guest, Kiley, described their experience as “the most amazing trip,” praising their skipper, Mario, for being fun and letting them decide how to spend their time. This highlights the personalized approach that makes this tour special—if you enjoy a flexible itinerary with a friendly guide, you’ll love this trip.

Both reviews underscore the value of knowledgeable guides and stunning views, which truly make the experience memorable.

Practicalities and What to Expect

Starting from Sicily in Travel’s office in Siracusa, you’ll meet your skipper and board the boat—usually a small, intimate vessel suited for a maximum of six guests. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, which adds a layer of exclusivity and comfort.

The cost, at $434.10 per group, might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the private nature, the flexibility, and the included snorkeling gear, it offers good value—especially for families or groups of friends. Keep in mind, booking on average occurs about 26 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.

The tour runs rain or shine, but poor weather can lead to cancellation or rescheduling with a full refund. The activity includes several swim stops, which last between 15 and 45 minutes, allowing plenty of time to relax, paddle, or simply soak in the views.

The meeting point is conveniently located in Siracusa, close to public transportation, making it easy to access. The tour ends back at the starting point, so logistics are straightforward.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private boat tour is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, personalized way to see Syracuse and Ortigia from the water. If you enjoy small-group experiences, scenic views, and flexible schedules, this trip suits you perfectly. The variety of swim stops and the chance to snorkel make it ideal for water lovers and those wanting a more active experience than just sightseeing from the shoreline.

The knowledgeable skipper adds a friendly, trustworthy element—though language might be a barrier, the experience of exploring Sicily’s coast by boat remains a highlight. It’s also particularly good value for families or groups who want to share a memorable day without splitting costs across multiple seats.

This tour blends comfort, flexibility, and beauty into a small-package adventure that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want an authentic maritime perspective of Sicily, this trip offers a satisfying mix of scenic views, aquatic fun, and personal touches.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops and travel time.

How many people can join the tour?
Up to 6 people can participate, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What does the price include?
The fee covers the private boat, a skipper, snorkeling goggles (upon request), and amenities like a radio, shower, and cushions. Snacks and drinks are also included, as noted by reviewers.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, being a private tour, you have the flexibility to decide whether to stay longer at certain spots or skip others, based on weather and preferences.

Is there a snorkeling option?
Yes, goggles are provided for snorkeling, allowing you to explore the seabed at stops like Plemmirio and Grotta Della Pillirina.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera—everything else is provided onboard.

Is the skipper’s commentary available in English?
Currently, the skipper speaks Italian, so some guests might find it helpful to prepare some basic Italian phrases or have a translation app, but the views and experience speak for themselves.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions prevent the trip, the experience may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.

Where do we meet?
The starting point is Sicily in Travel’s office at Viale Montedoro, 51, Siracusa. The tour concludes back at the same location.

This private boat tour of Syracuse and Ortigia offers a relaxed, scenic, and customizable way to experience Sicily’s stunning coastline. With flexible stops, a friendly skipper, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, it’s a memorable way to explore this enchanting part of Italy from the water. Perfect for small groups seeking a personal touch, this trip blends comfort and adventure in a way that’s hard to beat.