ZINGARO RESERVE AND SCOPELLO: BOAT TOUR AND SNORKELING

If you’re looking to experience Sicily’s coastline in a way that combines relaxing scenery, crystal-clear waters, and a touch of adventure, this Zingaro Reserve and Scopello boat tour could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a picture of a memorable day out on the water—perfect for those who enjoy exploring nature, snorkeling, and savoring local bites.

What really appeals to us is how the tour emphasizes small groups and personalized attention. It’s clear that safety and comfort are priorities, and that the crew will pick the best spots away from crowds, so you get a more authentic experience. One thing to keep in mind? If you’re prone to motion sickness, you might want to consider whether a boat trip like this suits you. Otherwise, it’s an accessible adventure for most ages and interests, especially if you love the idea of discovering Sicily’s stunning coastline from a boat.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, snorkeling, and good company. It’s a flexible choice—available from April through November—and offers a relaxed yet engaging way to spend a few hours on Sicily’s waters, with plenty of opportunities to take in breathtaking views.

Key Points

• Beautiful Stops: You’ll visit iconic locations like the Zingaro Reserve, Scopello, and the Faraglioni, with plenty of chances for swimming and snorkeling.
• Personalized & Safe: Small group sizes and attentive crew make for a comfortable, tailored experience.
• Food & Refreshments: Enjoy small local snacks and drinks on board, adding a tasty touch to your day.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Masks, fins, and snorkels are provided, so you can easily explore the underwater world.
• Flexible & Family-Friendly: Open to all ages, with kids 0-2 going free—just let organizers know.
• Dependable & Well-Reviewed: The tour boasts a high rating (4.7/5 from 27 reviews), with guests praising the guides and stunning scenery.

Your journey begins in San Vito Lo Capo, where you’ll meet the crew at the Stella Maris white house, just beside the Sea Diver shop. Arriving about 15 minutes early helps you settle in and get a feel for the day ahead. After a friendly welcome, you’ll board the “WHY NOT”, a 13-meter motorboat designed for comfort and stability, equipped with restrooms, a large shaded area, sofas, sleeping cabins, and a spacious dinette.

The crew, including a captain and a sailor, are experienced and attentive, making safety a priority. You’ll notice that the boat is just the right size—small enough for intimacy but large enough to comfortably host 20 passengers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The First Stop: Tonnara del Secco

Your trip kicks off with a visit to Tonnara del Secco, a historic tuna fishing complex. The low stone buildings along the beach are quite photogenic, offering a glimpse into Sicily’s fishing traditions. This stop isn’t just about sightseeing; you might find it a peaceful spot to stretch your legs, take some photos, and get ready for the water activities ahead.

While not explicitly praised or critiqued in reviews, this location sets a lovely tone for the day—combining history, scenic views, and a gentle introduction to the coast.

The Zingaro Nature Reserve: A Natural Wonder

Next up is the Zingaro Reserve, Sicily’s first protected natural area and a favorite among visitors. Because the crew carefully select less crowded spots, you’ll likely avoid the busy beaches and find peaceful places for swimming and snorkeling. We loved the way this tour emphasizes authenticity and safety, steering clear of overly touristy areas.

The guides are known for their knowledge, sharing insights about the local landscape and marine life, which enhances the experience. You’ll have around 40 minutes here—enough time to swim, snorkel, and maybe even take a few photos of the rugged coastline. The waters around Zingaro are renowned for their clarity and vibrant marine life, making snorkeling particularly rewarding.

In reviews, people often highlight how the guides are both friendly and well-informed, creating a relaxed atmosphere that feels more like exploring with friends than a typical tour.

Cala dell’Uzzo & Cala del Varo: Snorkeling and Refreshments

After Zingaro, your boat will head towards two other scenic spots—Cala dell’Uzzo and Cala del Varo. Each location offers at least 30 minutes for swimming and snorkeling. The captain will choose these spots carefully, aiming to avoid the crowds and ensure you get the most out of your time in the water.

Snorkeling here is a real highlight, especially since masks, fins, and snorkels are included—no need to bring your own unless you prefer. As one reviewer noted, “once in the water, the seabed is magnificent,” confirming that these stops deliver on underwater beauty.

Between swimming, the crew serves small refreshments and snacks right on the boat. You’ll find a mix of local bites—like pane cunzatu (seasoned bread), pizza, and desserts—with wine or soft drinks. This is a delightful way to recharge without losing precious time at each location.

Scopello and the Faraglioni: Iconic Cliffs & Snorkeling

Your journey then proceeds to Scopello, famous for its jagged, spectacular Faraglioni rocks. This area offers one of the best vantage points for both sightseeing and snorkeling. In reviews, travelers mention how the crew’s attention to finding quieter spots makes a difference, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty without the crowds.

The Faraglioni make a perfect backdrop for photos and provide excellent snorkeling conditions in the turquoise waters. The crew will pick the best snorkeling spot at the Faraglioni for at least 30 minutes, so you can float around and soak in the scenery.

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The Return Journey & Final Notes

After about 50 minutes of cruising around Scopello, the boat turns back towards San Vito Lo Capo, ending a full 4-hour adventure. During this time, you’ll have enjoyed a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, snorkeling, and tasty regional snacks.

Guests tend to praise how well-organized and flexible the trip is. While the itinerary may shift due to weather or sea conditions, safety always comes first, and the crew will adapt accordingly.

Who Is This Tour For?

This boat trip is a solid choice for anyone who appreciates nature, scenic views, and underwater exploration. It’s suitable for all ages, with no upper age limit, and even kids 0-2 can join for free—just make sure to inform the organizers. The pace is relaxed, and the small group setting fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to see Sicily’s coast from the water without the hassle of organizing separate boat rentals or tours. If you love snorkeling and enjoy local snacks amid beautiful scenery, this experience offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

Final Thoughts

This Sicilian boat tour stands out because it combines stunning natural sights, personalized service, and the chance to snorkel in some of Sicily’s clearest waters. Guests frequently mention the guides’ knowledge and the spectacular views as key highlights. The focus on small groups ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the inclusion of snacks and snorkeling gear makes it an all-in-one experience.

While it’s not a tour for those sensitive to motion or seeking a high-adventure adrenaline rush, it’s perfect for travelers looking to unwind, explore, and enjoy Italy’s coastal beauty in comfort. The high rating and positive reviews suggest it offers good value for the price—a fun, safe, and scenic way to spend part of your Sicilian holiday.

In summary, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized boat trip that showcases Sicily’s coast and underwater life, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, including kids, who must be accompanied by an adult. Kids 0-2 years old can join for free—just inform the organizers in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and beachwear. The tour provides snorkeling gear, so no need to pack your own unless you prefer.

Are there any restrictions?
The activity isn’t recommended for people with motion sickness, as it involves boat cruising. No alcohol consumption is allowed during the tour, and littering or fireworks are prohibited.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The crew may adjust stops based on weather and sea conditions to ensure safety and an enjoyable experience. The main stops include Zingaro Reserve, Cala dell’Uzzo, Cala del Varo, and Scopello.

Is there food on board?
Yes, small local snacks and refreshments are served between stops, including desserts, pizza, and regional bites, accompanied by wine or soft drinks.

How do I get to the meeting point?
You can reach the meeting location via public transport, or there is parking available on site. The meeting point is at Via Faro, 75, next to Suprising and Sea Diver.

Whether you’re craving the serenity of Sicily’s waters or a fun way to explore its coastline, this boat tour offers a genuine taste of the island’s natural beauty. It’s a relaxing, scenic, and well-reviewed experience that many travelers find well worth the time.

You can check availability for your dates here: