Boat Tour with Lunch on board

Thinking about adding a boat tour to your trip to Sicily? We’ve looked into one of the popular options—an approximately 4-hour Boat Tour with Lunch on board—that promises a scenic voyage around Syracuse’s coast, with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying a meal on the water. If you’re after a relaxing day with stunning vistas and a touch of local flavor, this tour might just be worth considering.

What we like about this experience is how it combines the natural beauty of Ortiga’s coastline and the Plemmirio Nature Reserve with the comfort of a small, intimate group. Plus, the idea of having lunch served on the boat, cooked fresh and tailored to your preferences, adds a real treat to the day. On the flip side, a possible downside is that bath stops are described as short by some travelers, which could be a consideration if swimming is a big part of your plan. This tour is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a laid-back, scenic cruise with a bit of history and good food thrown in.

Key Points

• Small group experience with only about seven people, making for a relaxed atmosphere.
• Beautiful coastal views and fascinating sea caves, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
• Guided tour that includes historical insights and clear navigation around Syracuse’s key sights.
• Fresh, onboard lunch with options that can accommodate food allergies—homemade or fish-based dishes.
• Multiple bathroom stops during the cruise, though some reviews mention they’re brief.
• Alcoholic drinks like prosecco, white and red wine, and cold drinks are included to keep you refreshed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What’s the Itinerary Like?

This boat trip is designed to give you a comprehensive view of Syracuse’s coastline, which is an absolute highlight of the area. It begins with a cruise along the northern side of Syracuse, famous for its sea caves and rocks that resemble animals—an unexpected delight for anyone interested in natural formations. We loved the way the guide explains the stories behind these formations, making the scenery even more engaging.

From there, the boat moves toward the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, a protected marine area renowned for its clear waters and abundant sea life. You’ll get to witness the Gulf of Pillirina, a spot praised for its beauty and tranquility. This part of the tour offers some prime opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, with several bathroom stops along the way. However, some guests note that these are often brief, so if swimming is a priority, plan accordingly.

One of the tour’s standout features is the circumnavigation of Ortigia Island, which allows you to admire its historic landmarks from the water. You’ll see the former Bourbon prison, the Vigliena fort, the Spanish walls, Maniace Castle, the Levante and Alfeo seafronts, along with the famous Aretusa spring and Porto Grande. These sights are best appreciated from the sea, offering a different perspective compared to walking tours.

What to Expect Onboard and During the Tour

The boat itself is described as cozy, with just enough space for about seven travelers, creating a friendly, intimate vibe. The crew, including the captain and accompanying guide, seem to be highly attentive and friendly, according to reviews. They provide detailed commentary in both Italian and English, which helps enhance your understanding of the sights and the history behind them.

Throughout the trip, you’ll be served cold drinks, water, and wine, with prosecco available for those celebrating or just enjoying the bubbly atmosphere. The highlight, perhaps, is the lunch, which is cooked live on the boat. Guests can choose between homemade or fish-based dishes, with options to accommodate food allergies—this is a thoughtful touch. The meal typically includes mixed appetizers and a first or second course, prepared fresh and enjoyed with scenic views.

The tour is flexible with timing, usually lasting around four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. It starts with a scenic cruise, continues with multiple stops for swimming, and finishes with a complete circumnavigation of Ortigia, all while being guided by knowledgeable staff.

The Highlights and Why Travelers Love This Tour

Based on reviews and the experience description, several aspects stand out:

Stunning Views and Natural Beauty: Multiple reviews praise the breathtaking scenery, especially the sea caves and the coastline of Ortigia. Julia from Germany raved about it, calling it “the greatest” trip she took in Syracuse, highlighting the small, friendly group and the incredible food.

Knowledgeable and Attentive Guides: The crew’s attentiveness and detailed explanations are frequently mentioned. This transforms a simple boat ride into an educational experience that deepens your appreciation for the local area.

Quality Food and Drinks: The onboard lunch is a major plus. Guests have described it as excellent—more than enough for a light meal, with the flexibility to specify allergies. The drinks, including wine and prosecco, add a celebratory touch.

Comfortable and Intimate Setting: With only about seven travelers, the boat feels cozy but not crowded. This allows for a relaxed, friendly environment, where everyone can enjoy the sights and conversation.

Possible Downsides and Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, a few points are worth noting:

Brief Bath Stops: Some guests, like Nadine from Germany, mentioned that the bathing stops are short, which might be disappointing if swimming is a priority. It’s a quick way to cool off but not necessarily enough time to fully enjoy a swim or snorkel.

Weather Dependence: As with any outdoor activity, the trip’s success relies heavily on the weather. Calm seas will make for a smoother ride, but rougher conditions could impact the experience.

Cost-Value Balance: While the tour includes lunch, drinks, and guided commentary, some travelers might compare it to other water-based activities. The small group size, quality food, and scenic value generally justify the price.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour suits those who appreciate scenic coastal views, want a relaxed, small-group experience, and enjoy good food and local stories. It’s ideal for adventurers interested in sea caves and marine reserves, and those who prefer guided sightseeing from the water over busy crowded tours.

It’s also a good option for travelers who want a flexible half-day activity that combines sightseeing, swimming, and dining without the hassle of organizing transportation or meals. However, if you’re specifically looking for long swimming stops or a more active water adventure, you might find the stops a bit brief.

In Closing

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and well-rounded boat experience in Syracuse, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. The chance to see the coast from the water, combined with a delicious onboard meal and friendly guidance, makes for a memorable day. It’s particularly well-suited for visitors who want a small, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the views.

While the bath stops may be shorter than some might like, the overall package—stunning scenery, knowledgeable guides, and tasty food—delivers good value. Plus, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a flexible choice for planning your Sicilian adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
This tour doesn’t specifically mention children, but its small size and gentle pace make it generally friendly. Consider the length of the trip and the boat’s environment when deciding if it’s right for younger kids.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, it’s important to specify allergies or dietary needs when booking. The onboard lunch can be tailored to accommodate certain food allergies, and the dishes are prepared fresh.

What languages are available for the guided commentary?
The tour guide speaks Italian and English, so most travelers should be able to follow along comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, a guided tour, lunch, and drinks including water, soft drinks, and a selection of wines and prosecco.

Are there bathroom facilities on the boat?
Yes, the boat stops at several points where guests can use the bathroom. However, some reviews suggest these stops are brief.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point varies depending on your booking option but is located at coordinates 37.06476974487305, 15.288712501525879.

This boat tour offers a lovely way to enjoy Syracuse’s coast, combining natural wonders, historical sights, and good food—all in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, it’s a chance to see Sicily from a perspective that’s both scenic and enriching.

You can check availability for your dates here: