Rubber dinghy tour: tour of the island of Ustica with visit to caves and swimming

Exploring Ustica by Rubber Dinghy: A Close-Up of Sicily’s Hidden Gems

If you’re after an authentic, fun-filled way to see some of Sicily’s most inaccessible coastal spots, this rubber dinghy tour around Ustica might just be your answer. For just $35 per person, you get a roughly 2.5-hour adventure that combines sightseeing, swimming, and a touch of exploring that land-based tours simply can’t match. What makes this experience particularly appealing is the small-group setting, with all boats approved for 12 people, meaning you’ll avoid crowded tourist boats and enjoy a more intimate connection with the sea.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the professionalism of the skippers. All are licensed and highly experienced, which adds a layer of safety and reassurance—especially when navigating through caves or reaching secluded coves that are inaccessible by land or larger boats. However, potential participants should remember that the tour is largely conducted in Italian, with some content in its original language, so some basic understanding of Italian could enhance your experience.

This tour suits travelers who are looking for an active, engaging way to see Ustica’s coastline, love swimming or snorkeling, and aren’t expecting luxury amenities. If you’re comfortable on small boats and enjoy a bit of adventure, this will likely suit you perfectly. On the other hand, those seeking a more relaxed, tour-with-a-guide style might find it a little basic, but it’s all about the experience of being on the water and discovering the island’s secret spots.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Boats are approved for 12 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Licensed Skippers: All guides are highly experienced and licensed, prioritizing safety.
• Access to Hidden Coves and Caves: The boats’ design guarantees access to locations unreachable from land.
• Inclusion of Swimming and Snorkeling: The tour features stops for swimming in coves that are pristine and secluded.
• Affordable Price Point: At $35, it offers excellent value considering the access and activities included.
• Authentic Local Experience: The guide, speaking Italian, adds a local touch to the adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll Experience

Starting from Via Cristoforo Colombo, 16, in Ustica, the tour kicks off with a quick safety briefing and boarding the approved rubber dinghy. From there, you’ll cruise along the coast, guided by skippers who are passionate about the sea and familiar with every hidden nook of Ustica’s shoreline.

The main highlight is the visit to the caves—these natural formations are a real treat for anyone who loves geology or simply enjoys exploring dramatic seascapes. The boats’ design guarantees access to caves that land-based tours might struggle to reach, so you’ll get a true sense of discovery. The caves, often dark and mysterious, are perfect for photography, especially with the sunlight filtering into narrow openings.

Following the cave visit, the tour makes stops at main coves that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The waters here are notably clear, with the chance to see underwater life that’s abundant in this part of Sicily. Reviewers mention that the guides are helpful with snorkeling tips and always respectful of the environment, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced swimmers.

The swimming stops last approximately two hours and thirty minutes, which gives plenty of time to relax, float, or explore underwater with your mask. Many guests highlight the tranquil, untouched beauty of these coves, emphasizing how these spots are often unreachable by land, making the experience feel exclusive and well worth the effort.

After the swimming portion, the boat heads back to the starting point, offering scenic views and an opportunity to soak up the island’s natural beauty. The entire experience, from start to finish, is designed to be both fun and relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, share laughs, and marvel at nature.

Authentic Insights from Guests

Guests have described the skippers as “friendly and knowledgeable,” with one mentioning, “They know the caves like the back of their hand,” which really enhances the quality of the experience. Others appreciate the safety measures in place, noting that “all the skippers are licensed, which made us feel very secure on the water.”

Some reviewers highlighted the importance of bringing your own snorkel masks, towels, and food—the tour does not include these—and appreciated the suggestion to wear biodegradable sunscreen and flip-flops for comfort and environmental responsibility. The guides also emphasize the importance of respecting the natural environment, which adds a meaningful layer to the adventure.

While some found the tour somewhat basic in terms of amenities, most agreed that the focus on natural beauty and authentic exploration makes it a worthwhile choice. The price point—$35—was frequently praised as offering excellent value for a unique, small-group exploration of Ustica’s best-kept secrets.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with departures typically from the main pier near the hydrofoil dock. Check availability for the desired starting times, as this can vary. Remember to bring essentials like a towel, food, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, and flip-flops—these small details can make your trip more enjoyable.

Since the tour is conducted in Italian, a basic understanding of the language or a translator app might be helpful, although the visual and physical activities speak for themselves. The guide will be with you throughout, making sure everyone is comfortable and safe.

While the tour does not include private options or additional services like meals or masks, it’s a straightforward experience aimed at lovers of the sea and those eager to discover Ustica’s natural beauty firsthand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy being on the water and discovering secluded spots. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who don’t mind small boats and are comfortable in the water. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see Ustica’s caves and swim in beautiful coves, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, if you prefer a guided, commentary-rich experience or have mobility issues, you might find this tour somewhat limited. It’s more about the experience of exploring than about in-depth storytelling or luxury.

Final Thoughts

For a modest price, this rubber dinghy tour offers a truly authentic glimpse of Ustica’s coast—sea caves, crystal-clear waters, and quiet coves await. It’s a no-frills but highly immersive way to connect with the island’s natural environment, making it a great choice for those craving adventure and discovery over comfort and amenities.

If you’re comfortable on small boats and love the idea of swimming in secluded spots, you’ll find this trip both enjoyable and memorable. Its focus on safety, authenticity, and local knowledge ensures a rewarding experience without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most children comfortable in water and small boats should be fine, but it’s best to check with the operator directly, especially if they are very young or not confident swimmers.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a towel, food, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, and flip-flops. Masks for snorkeling are not included, so consider bringing your own if you wish to snorkel.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
The activity is weather-dependent, but specific cancellation policies allow free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can plan with some flexibility.

Are the caves accessible to everyone?
The boats are designed to access caves that land-based routes cannot reach, but accessibility might depend on your mobility and comfort with small boats.

How long are the swimming stops?
The swimming and snorkeling sections last about two hours and thirty minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the water.

What language is the guide speaking?
The tour is conducted in Italian, with some content in its original language. Basic Italian knowledge or translation tools may enhance your understanding.

This rubber dinghy tour is a fantastic way to experience the hidden treasures of Ustica, combining adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of local flavor—an accessible and affordable slice of authentic Sicily.