Tour of the island of Ortigia Nature Reserve with Lunch

If you’re thinking about exploring the beautiful island of Ortigia and its surroundings, this boat tour with lunch promises a relaxing and scenic experience. While I haven’t taken it myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty tempting picture. It’s a well-rated excursion, with perfect scores from travelers, which suggests it’s worth considering if you want a relaxed, visually captivating day on the water.

What I find particularly appealing about this tour is how it combines sightseeing with local flavors and the chance to enjoy the sea. The opportunity to taste exquisite cold cuts and cheeses while taking in incredible views is definitely a highlight. Plus, the chance to visit sea caves on the north coast of Syracuse—with their fascinating shapes, stalactites, and coral flowers—really adds a sense of adventure.

However, a word of caution: this experience lasts around 4 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a boat trip of this length. Plus, if you’re not keen on water activities or swimming, you might want to consider how much the option to take a dip in the Plemmirio reserve aligns with your plans.

All in all, this tour seems perfect for travelers who love scenic boat rides, delicious local food, and want a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxing moments. Whether you’re a couple, a small group, or a family who enjoys a laid-back day on the water, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery of Ortigia, sea caves, and the Plemmirio Nature Reserve
• Inclusive local lunch with cold cuts, cheeses, and drinks
• Informative guides who make the experience engaging
• Opportunities for swimming in crystal-clear waters
• Small group size (max 12 travelers) ensures a personal experience
• Excellent reviews consistently praise the staff, food, and views

Exploring Ortigia from the Water

The tour kicks off at the Spiaggetta della Marina in Ortigia at 11 am. From here, you’ll set off to circumnavigate the charming island of Ortigia. This part of the trip offers a chance to see Iconic sights like the Vigliena fort, the Spanish walls, and the Aretusa spring. The boat glides past Porto Grande, giving you a fresh perspective of Syracuse’s historic harbor.

Travelers rave about the views of the city’s monuments from the water, which offer a different dimension compared to walking around. The tour makes this a two-hour cruise, giving enough time for sightseeing without feeling rushed. One of the recurring themes in reviews is how beautifully the city lights up from the sea, especially as you pass under the historic bridges and along the promenade.

A Taste of the Sea: Plemmirio Nature Reserve

Next, the boat heads towards the Plemmirio Nature Reserve. This protected area is renowned for its crystal-clear waters—perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing on deck. The hour spent here is often praised for its tranquility and beauty. Many travelers note how the water is so inviting that they choose to take a dip, which makes the experience more memorable.

This stop is also a good opportunity to admire the marine environment, with some reviews mentioning the possibility of snorkeling or simply enjoying the brightly colored waters. The guide’s presence on board helps point out interesting features of the reserve, adding an educational touch.

Discovering the Sea Caves of Syracuse

The final leg of the journey involves exploring sea caves along the north coast. These caves feature stalactites, stalagmites, and coral flowers, created over centuries by natural processes. The boat ventures into these fascinating ravines, giving you a sense of adventure and wonder. The caves are often described as mysterious and photogenic, making for some great photo moments.

After touring the caves, you’ll have the chance to stop for a refreshing swim, which many reviews emphasize as a highlight. The crystal-clear waters and fascinating shapes of the caves make this part of the trip quite special.

Including the Food and Drinks

One of the standout features of this experience is the lunch, which includes local specialties. Travelers consistently praise the quality and abundance of the food, describing it as delicious, fresh, and plentiful. The full beverage service further enhances the relaxing atmosphere. The fact that minor travelers are served soft drinks makes the experience family-friendly, though the overall focus is more on the adult traveler enjoying a leisurely day on the water.

The Overall Experience and Group Size

With a limit of only 12 travelers, this tour ensures a more intimate and personal atmosphere. Guests often comment on how friendly and professional the staff, especially the guides, are. Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who explain the sights well, adding context and making the trip educational as well as scenic.

Duration-wise, the 4-hour schedule strikes a good balance. It’s enough time to see the main sights, enjoy some swimming, and savor the food, without feeling overly long or tiring.

At $104.18 per person, many travelers feel they’re getting good value. The price covers the boat trip, the guided commentary, the local lunch, and drinks. Considering the quality of the scenery, the delicious food, and the small group size, it’s a fairly reasonable cost for a day that feels like a mini-vacation.

People who love a mix of sightseeing and leisure will find this tour offers a satisfying combination. The positive reviews reflect that most guests felt it was worth the price and left with memorable moments.

This experience suits those who enjoy relaxed, scenic boat trips with opportunities to swim and take photos. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate local cuisine and want a small, friendly group experience. If you’re traveling with someone who loves nature, history, or simply lounging by the water, this tour ticks all those boxes.

If you’re traveling with children, the reviews suggest the tour is family-friendly, especially since soft drinks are served to minors and the activity isn’t overly strenuous. Just keep in mind the boat’s duration and whether your kids are comfortable with boat rides.

This Ortigia Nature Reserve boat tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines beautiful scenery, cultural sights, and delicious local food. The small group setting makes it feel personal, and the guides are often praised for their professionalism and knowledge. The opportunity to swim in pristine waters and explore spectacular sea caves makes it a memorable day out.

While the cost might seem moderate, the value lies in the quality of the sights, the comfort of the boat, and the inclusion of food and drinks. It’s especially suited for those looking to unwind, enjoy nature, and see Syracuse from a different angle—by sea.

If you love sea adventures, great food, and stunning views, this tour could be a highlight of your Sicilian trip. Just remember to bring your camera, swimwear, and a sense of adventure.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 11 am and returning to the meeting point. It includes sightseeing, swimming, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat trip, a typical local lunch, and full beverages. Tips are not included, but the reviews suggest staff appreciation is always welcomed.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, you have the option to take a break and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Plemmirio reserve or the sea caves. Many guests enjoy this part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, the tour appears family-friendly, especially since minors are served soft drinks. The boat’s duration and activities make it suitable for children comfortable with boat rides.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere relaxed and intimate.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most bookings are made around 38 days in advance, indicating high demand. Booking early is advisable to secure a spot.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for the boat. Don’t forget your enthusiasm for a day of scenic views and good food.

In the end, this tour looks like a genuine treat for anyone wanting to experience Syracuse’s coast in a relaxed and scenic setting. With highly positive reviews and a well-thought-out itinerary, it could very well become a highlight of your trip to Sicily.