Boat excursion with barbecue on board

Comprehensive Review of the Sicily Boat Excursion with Barbecue

If you’re looking for a way to combine Scenic Views, Good Food, and Relaxation, this boat excursion along Sicily’s coast might just be your ideal day out. Offering a roughly four-hour voyage, the tour promises stunning vistas of Ortigia, sea caves, and a beautiful beach in the Plemmirio Nature Reserve—plus the promise of a freshly grilled lunch on board. With a small group size (maximum of 5 travelers), it feels intimate enough for personal attention but enough to enjoy a lively, social atmosphere.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is the thoughtful blend of sightseeing, swimming, and eating — it’s designed to offer a well-rounded day. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent, and if the weather turns poor, your plans could be altered or refunded. This tour is particularly suited for travelers who love relaxed, easygoing days with a touch of adventure, especially those who enjoy good company and authentic local flavors.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max only 5 travelers, ensuring personalized attention
• Variety of Stops: Includes swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing in iconic spots
• Onboard Barbecue: Freshly grilled lunch with wine, in a scenic setting
• Breathtaking Views: From Ortigia to Plemmirio, sea caves, and hidden rock formations
• Expert Narration: The captain shares stories and curiosities about the area
• Weather-Dependent: Cancellations possible if weather conditions are poor

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour, priced at about $95.78 per person, offers a compact yet fulfilling package. It begins at 11:00 am from Syracuse, a city renowned for its history and coastal charm. The mobile ticket setup means you can easily present your reservation on your phone and avoid any hassle.

The duration of approximately four hours makes it ideal for travelers who want a taste of Sicily’s coast without dedicating a full day. It’s perfect as a half-day activity, leaving plenty of time to explore Syracuse or other nearby sights afterward.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour features three main stops, each with its own charm and activities:

1. Hidden Glistening Rock and Ortigia Coastline

The journey kicks off with a sail along the coast of Ortigia, Sicily’s historical heart, full of twisting streets and stunning views. You’ll get a chance to snap photos of the coastline and enjoy a swim in crystal-clear waters. The 45-minute stop here isn’t just about the sights; it’s an opportunity to cool off and take in the scenery. Reviewers have appreciated the informative commentary during the sail, which adds context to the visual feast.

2. Plemmirio Coves for Snorkeling

Next, the boat moves into the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, renowned for its spectacular sea caves and vibrant underwater life. You’ll spend around an hour exploring the coves, with ample time for snorkeling. The clear waters and rocky formations make this a highlight for anyone interested in marine life or simply enjoying a refreshing dip. The free snorkeling stop allows you to get close to Sicily’s underwater treasures, making it a real treat for water lovers.

3. Fonte Aretusa and a Scenic Lunch

The final stop is at Fonte Aretusa, a legendary freshwater spring with mythological significance. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared barbecue lunch with bread, side dishes, and a glass of prosecco included. The setting offers a breathtaking view of the harbor, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the local ambiance. The reviewer highlighted the great meat, bread, and wine, noting that the lunch was an unexpected highlight, adding a hearty, satisfying end to the trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the main reasons this tour receives high praise — notably a perfect 5-star rating from a traveler — is the professionalism and kindness of the guides, particularly Mr. Salvatore and Mrs. Carmela. Their attentive service, combined with their storytelling, makes the experience more engaging and informative. As one reviewer mentioned, “the tours flew not only for the beauty of the land but for the kindness, super sympathy, and professionalism of the guides.”

The food is also a standout feature. The lunch, including delicious grilled meat, bread, side dishes, and wine, exceeds expectations for a boat-based barbecue. It’s clear that the crew takes pride in providing quality, authentic Sicilian flavors in a beautiful setting.

Another aspect worth noting is the special surprises that may be arranged for guests, adding an element of spontaneity and fun. While details are not specified, it hints at a tour designed not just for sightseeing but for creating memorable moments.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Timing: The tour starts promptly at 11:00 am, so arriving a little earlier helps to settle in comfortably.
• Group Size: Limited to five travelers, making it perfect for those who prefer intimate experiences or personalized attention.
• Weather: Since the experience depends on good weather, it’s wise to check the forecast before booking. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• Accessibility: The tour is near public transportation, making it relatively easy to reach the meeting point in Syracuse.
• Inclusions: The ticket includes the boat ride, snorkeling, and the barbecue lunch, offering good value for the price.
• Extras: Service animals are allowed, so pet owners can also enjoy this trip.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

A reviewer from Tripadvisor emphasized that the guides’ professionalism and friendliness made the four hours fly by. They praised the delicious lunch, noting that the meat was “delicious,” and appreciated the inclusion of wine and bread. The personal touch and relaxed atmosphere seem to make this a great option for travelers seeking authentic, laid-back Sicilian hospitality.

Another traveler mentioned how the scenic views and underwater snorkeling made the trip memorable, describing the caves and coves as “beautiful and peaceful.” This reaffirms that the stops are well-chosen and offer genuine opportunities to connect with Sicily’s natural beauty.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for small groups or couples who want a relaxed, scenic day on the water. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food without the crowds or long hours. The small group size and personalized touches make it especially appealing for travelers seeking authentic interactions and a more intimate experience.

It also suits those who appreciate culinary delights — the on-board barbecue is a true highlight — and are interested in an active day of swimming and snorkeling in crystal waters. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy laid-back adventures and stunning coastal scenery, this tour will likely tick all your boxes.

The Sum Up

This boat excursion in Sicily offers a delightful blend of spectacular views, local cuisine, and relaxing swims in some of Sicily’s most beautiful spots. The small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and high-quality food elevate it beyond a simple boat trip. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting an authentic, laid-back experience that highlights Sicily’s natural beauty and charm.

If you’re looking for something that combines scenic sailing, underwater discovery, and a tasty meal in a scenic setting, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who value personalized service, local flavors, and a relaxed pace.

For anyone wanting to experience Sicily’s coast in a friendly, intimate, and memorable way, this tour is a solid choice that pairs natural beauty with genuine hospitality.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, generally most travelers can participate, but with a maximum of 5 travelers, it’s best suited for small groups or families comfortable with boat outings and swimming.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. If you want to take extra photos or underwater shots, consider bringing a waterproof camera.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather is poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but since the tour involves swimming and snorkeling, younger children should be comfortable with water activities.

How long is each stop?
The Ortigia coast stop is about 45 minutes, Plemmirio snorkeling is approximately 1 hour, and the Fonte Aretusa lunch is about 1 hour.

Is the food vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
The lunch includes grilled meat, bread, and side dishes, so it’s best suited for meat-eaters. Special dietary needs should be discussed beforehand with the provider.

This Sicilian boat tour combines the magic of the sea with delicious local flavors and personal touches, making it a wonderful way to spend a few relaxed hours in this beautiful region.