Exploring Sicily by Boat: A Genuine Look at the Private Tour with Homemade Products and Full Beverage
Travelers looking for a relaxed yet immersive way to experience Sicily’s captivating coastline might find this private boat tour a very appealing option. Offered by Deep Sarina, this roughly 2-hour journey combines sightseeing, delicious local foods, and refreshing swims — all set against Sicily’s stunning scenery. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the consistently high ratings and glowing reviews suggest this is a well-loved experience that delivers on its promises.
What really catches our eye are two things: first, the quality of the guides and staff, who are praised for their kindness, knowledge, and attentiveness. Second, the visual feast of the scenery, from Ortigia’s historic charm to Syracuse’s colorful caves and tranquil nature reserve waters. One thing to consider, though, is that the tour’s price might be a little on the higher side for some — but when you weigh that against the all-inclusive drinks, homemade foods, and expert guidance, it seems quite fair. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic Sicilian hospitality.
Key Points

- Beautiful Scenery: The tour offers stunning views of Ortigia, Syracuse’s sea caves, and the Plemmirio Nature Reserve.
- Expert Guides: Reviewers consistently praise the staff for their friendliness, professionalism, and helpfulness.
- Authentic Food and Drink: You’ll taste homemade cold cuts, cheeses, and enjoy unlimited full beverages, making the experience feel genuine and generous.
- Flexibility and Comfort: The tour includes stops for swimming and relaxing, with a comfortable boat and a small group maximum of 12 travelers.
- Excellent Value for the Price: At around $202.44 per person, the experience covers a lot — scenery, food, drinks, and personalized attention.
- Good for Relaxation: Perfect if you’re seeking a laid-back, scenic outing with plenty of opportunities to unwind.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
This private boat tour around Sicily’s coast is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of the island’s natural beauty and cultural sights. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy Sicily’s coast from the water without feeling rushed. The 2-hour duration makes it manageable even for travelers with tight schedules, but the richness of what you see and do makes it feel like a full, satisfying outing.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
Start Point at Spiaggetta della Marina in Ortigia
The meeting point is conveniently located in Ortigia, the historic heart of Siracusa. From here, the boat gently sets off, giving you the first glimpse of the coast’s charm. You’ll notice how well the team manages to combine sightseeing with a relaxed vibe, thanks to their friendly approach and attention to detail.
Stop 1: Boat Tour around Maniace Castle
This is more than just a quick view — it’s an opportunity to see one of Sicily’s most significant fortresses from a unique perspective. The guide will point out its imposing stone walls and share tidbits about its history, while you enjoy the play of light on the water. According to reviews, this part is especially memorable because of the breathtaking views and the way the boat’s smooth ride enhances the experience. It’s also a chance for photos of the fortress rising dramatically from the sea.
Stop 2: Isola di Ortigia and Surroundings (40 minutes)
This stretch is a highlight for many. The boat skirts the island, passing by notable landmarks such as the Duomo, Santa Lucia, and Fonte Aretusa. The route is crafted to offer a good balance — enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Reviewers mention that the guides are knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone gets the most out of this panoramic cruise. You’ll see the small port, the Spanish Walls, and the historic Castello Maniace, all from the water’s perspective. This stop allows for great photos and a deeper appreciation of Ortigia’s historic layers.
Stop 3: Syracuse and Sea Caves Exploration (30 minutes)
Perhaps the most enchanting part, this involves venturing into the coast’s mysterious sea caves. The caves are worth the trip alone — stalactites, stalagmites, coral flowers, and fascinating shapes formed by nature’s artistry. This is where the reviews really shine, with many pointing out the fascinating shapes and the vibrant colors inside the caves. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, explaining the formations and local geology. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll also get a chance to take a swim in the clear waters, which several reviewers say is the perfect way to cool off after exploring.
Stop 4: Plemmirio Nature Reserve (50 minutes)
The final leg takes you to the Plemmirio Reserve, a protected area with some of the clearest waters in Sicily. The stop is flexible — you can just relax on the boat or hop in for a swim. Reviewers often highlight the crystal-clear water here, perfect for floating or cooling down. The relaxed pace and scenic surroundings make it a wonderful way to unwind. If you’re into snorkeling or swimming, this is probably the highlight for you.
The Food and Drinks

One of the standout features of this tour is the inclusion of homemade typical Sicilian products plus full beverages. Think cold cuts, cheeses, and other local delicacies, paired with unlimited drinks, including soft drinks for minors. Reviewers widely agree that the food is fresh, flavorful, and generous. Several mention that the staff is attentive and friendly, making the experience feel personal. The drinks, especially the optional alcohol, are a bonus, and many say they appreciated the no-limit approach, which adds to the relaxed vibe.
The Value of Food and Beverage
For a price of about $202.44, this experience isn’t cheap, but when you consider the inclusion of food, drinks, scenic stops, and guided commentary, it feels like a fair deal. Plus, the small group size — capped at 12 — means you’re not just another face in the crowd, but part of an intimate experience.
The Boat and Group Experience

The boat itself is described as comfortable and clean, with enough space for everyone to enjoy the views comfortably. The small group size contributes to a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere, which reviewers say makes the experience much more enjoyable. The guides are praised again for their kindness, professionalism, and knowledge — many reviews mention how they went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a good time, helping with extra explanations or even recommending other activities.
Who Will Love This Tour
This boat trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic views, good food, and a relaxed pace. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value authentic local experiences — tasting homemade products, enjoying unlimited drinks, and learning from friendly guides. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates a mix of sightseeing and swimming, this tour offers both. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples who prefer a more intimate setting.
However, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a very long day of sightseeing, this might feel a bit limited in scope. The two-hour duration means you’ll get a taste, but not a deep dive into every corner of Sicily’s coast, which is worth considering.
The Sum Up
For anyone wanting to see Sicily’s coast from a comfortable boat, with the bonus of tasting local foods, this tour hits many of the right notes. The combination of gorgeous scenery, friendly guides, and generous food & drinks makes it an experience that’s both relaxing and memorable. While it’s priced at a point that reflects its private, personalized nature, many reviews affirm that the value matches the cost — especially considering the high-quality food, scenic stops, and attentive service.
This experience shines brightest for those who enjoy a good mix of sightseeing and relaxation, with a touch of local flavor. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate engaging guides and want a cozy, small-group environment. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic day with great food and newfound friends, this tour might just be your perfect Sicilian escape.
Private Tour with Typical Homemade Products and Full Beverage
“The view was beautiful the guys super nice landscapes really breathtaking congratulations to all and thanks againAuto-translated”
FAQs
- What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable outing without feeling rushed. - Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Spiaggetta della Marina in Ortigia and ends back at the same meeting point. - Are drinks included?
Yes, there are full beverages included, with unlimited drinks available, including alcohol. Minors will be served soft drinks. - What kind of food is served?
The tour features typical homemade Sicilian products, such as cold cuts and cheeses, served fresh and plentiful. - Is swimming possible during the tour?
Yes, especially at the Plemmirio Nature Reserve and Syracuse sea caves stops, where you can take a refreshing dip in clear waters. - What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 12, ensuring a more personalized experience. - Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. - Is this tour suitable for children?
Minor travelers under 18 will be served soft drinks, and the environment is family-friendly, but the focus is on a relaxed, scenic outing. - What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, and a towel if you plan to swim. The boat is comfortable, but a hat and sunscreen are always recommended.
If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and tasty way to explore Sicily’s coast, this private boat tour offers a lot of value in a small, intimate setting. The stunning views, friendly guides, and delicious homemade foods make it an experience worth considering.
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