Boat excursion with barbecue on board

Sailing, Swimming, and Savoring: A Friendly Look at Sicily’s Boat Excursion with Barbecue

Thinking about a day on the water while exploring Sicily? There’s a tour that promises just that—an enjoyable boat ride with a freshly grilled lunch, stops for swimming, and plenty of scenic views. From what we’ve seen, this experience could be a lovely way to unwind and soak up some of Sicily’s coastal beauty, but it’s important to understand what makes it special (and what’s not so much).

What really caught our eye are two things: first, the indoor and outdoor meal on the boat that includes a barbecue with meat, bread, side dishes, and wine, which makes it stand out from typical boat trips; second, the stops for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, with plenty of chances to cool off and enjoy the sea. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that it’s a relatively short duration—about four hours—so if you’re craving an in-depth exploration or a longer cruise, this might feel a bit limited.

This tour seems best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day with good food and a splash of adventure. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy socializing on a boat, appreciate beautiful vistas, and love the idea of a laid-back yet engaging experience. If you’re wanting a family-friendly trip or something with more extensive sightseeing, you might want to look elsewhere, but for a taste of Sicily’s coast, this looks quite promising.

Key Points

• Relaxed four-hour experience with options for swimming, snorkeling, and scenic views
• Onboard barbecue lunch, including meat, bread, side dishes, and wine
• Stops at Ortigia, Plemmirio, and Fonte Aretusa, with opportunities for photos and swimming
• Small group size (up to 5 travelers), offering a more intimate experience
• Expert captain and crew known for kindness, professionalism, and storytelling
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, giving some flexibility

Exploring Sicily’s Coast from the Water

When you’re in Sicily, the coastline is one of the biggest draws. Instead of just looking at it from land, taking a boat trip offers a different perspective—seeing the coast’s rugged beauty, hidden coves, and sea caves up close. This particular excursion combines that with the pleasure of a good meal and some fun in the water, making it a well-rounded way to enjoy a short escape.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

The tour kicks off at 11:00 am from Syracuse, starting with a sail around the island of Ortigia. We loved the idea of photos along the coast, capturing those stunning views of historic buildings and natural formations. The first stop is for swimming, giving everyone about 45 minutes to enjoy the water—whether for a quick dip or some relaxed floating.

Next, you’ll head to the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, renowned for its beautiful sea caves and clear waters perfect for snorkeling. If you’re into exploring marine life, this stop is ideal. It’s a full hour here, so you’ll have plenty of time to don your mask and fins, with the chance to see the underwater world up close.

Finally, the tour visits Fonte Aretusa, a picturesque spot overlooking the harbor, where you’ll enjoy your barbecue lunch. The breathtaking views of the harbor provide a perfect backdrop for your meal, which the tour includes. Expect a hearty plate of grilled meat alongside bread, side dishes, and wine—something that makes the experience feel more like a shared feast than just a quick snack.

What’s the Experience Like?

Based on a review I came across, the overall vibe is very positive. The guide, Mr. Salvatore, and Mrs. Carmela are praised for their kindness, enthusiasm, and professionalism. The comment, “4 hours of tours that flew not only for the beauty of the land but for their kindness and professionalism,” suggests that the crew adds a personal touch that elevates the experience.

The food is another highlight. The reviewer called the lunch “great,” mentioning the meat, bread, and wine, which indicates that the onboard barbecue is both tasty and satisfying. It seems to be a well-prepared meal that complements the leisurely pace of the tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is particularly suited for travelers who want a relaxing day on the water with some scenic and culinary delights. It’s perfect if you enjoy snorkeling and swimming, or simply lounging on the deck with good company. Given the small group size, it’s also ideal if you prefer a more intimate setting rather than large, crowded tours.

If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates good food, scenic views, and a laid-back vibe, this tour hits the right notes. That said, if you’re looking for a longer or more in-depth exploration of Sicily’s coast, or if you prefer a more active or adventure-filled experience, you might want to consider other options.

The Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Isola di Ortigia

The journey begins with the boat sailing around Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse. This is a great chance to snap photos of its charming coastline, with its blend of ancient and modern architecture. The 45-minute stop for swimming is ideal for a quick dip—enough to cool off and get a taste of the sea, but probably not long enough for a serious underwater adventure unless you’re quick.

This stop is free of charge—so you can relax without worrying about extra costs. The water here tends to be calm and inviting, making it a good option for most ages and swimming abilities.

Stop 2: Plemmirio

Next, you’ll visit the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, a highlight for snorkelers and nature lovers. The clear waters and caves offer an exciting environment for exploring marine life. The one-hour stop provides ample time for snorkeling, floating, or just enjoying the view from the boat.

Since this stop is in a protected reserve, the scenery is pristine and the marine environment is likely vibrant. If you’re into marine activities, this will be a definite high point. Plus, the scenery alone—rugged cliffs, caves, and turquoise waters—is worth the trip.

Stop 3: Fonte Aretusa

Your final stop is at Fonte Aretusa, a famous freshwater spring in Syracuse. Here, you’ll enjoy your onboard barbecue lunch with breathtaking views over the harbor. The included meal makes this moment special—imagine grilled meat, fresh bread, sides, and a glass of prosecco or wine, all served with a view.

Having the meal included makes it easy to relax without worrying about finding a restaurant or packing food. It’s a convivial way to end the cruise, sharing a meal with new friends or loved ones in a stunning setting.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour starts at 11:00 am from a central Syracuse location, making it accessible if you’re based nearby or using public transport. The small group size (max 5 people) means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which many travelers find appealing.

The price of $95.78 per person includes the barbecue lunch and the sightseeing stops. For this price, you’re getting not only transportation but also the experience of a guided tour with storytelling by the crew. The included food and drinks add good value, especially compared to the cost of hiring a private boat or eating out in town.

Flexibility is a plus—free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour means you can book with confidence, knowing you can reschedule or get a refund if weather or plans change.

What to Bring?

Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. If you plan to snorkel, don’t forget your gear—though some tours may provide it, check ahead. Pack a light jacket if you’re sensitive to breezes on the water.

Possible Downsides

While the overall experience looks wonderful, be aware that the tour duration is relatively short. If you’re craving a full day on the water or more extensive exploration of the coast, this might not be enough. Also, the tour’s success depends heavily on good weather—canceled tours due to bad weather are possible, and you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Final Thoughts

This boat excursion offers a lovely blend of sightseeing, swimming, and quality food, all wrapped in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to enjoy Sicily’s coast without the hassle of planning, and who appreciate the charm of small-group experiences.

While it might not suit those seeking a long or highly adventurous trip, it really shines in providing a taste of Sicily’s natural beauty, marine environment, and culinary delights—all in just a few hours. The positive reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew and the delicious lunch, making it a memorable part of a Sicilian holiday.

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic adventure with good company, this tour could be just what you need. It’s ideal for those who want to combine light activity with plenty of relaxation and excellent food.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, starting at 11:00 am and returning to the meeting point afterward.

Is lunch included in the price?
Yes, the barbecue lunch, which features grilled meat, bread, side dishes, and wine, is included in the $95.78 per person price.

Are swimming and snorkeling part of the experience?
Absolutely. There are stops dedicated to swimming at Ortigia and snorkeling at Plemmirio, each offering about 45 minutes to an hour for water activities.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, getting a full refund.

Is the group size small or large?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Most people seem to enjoy the combination of scenic sailing, the opportunity to swim or snorkel, and the onboard barbecue with its delicious, freshly prepared food.

By choosing this tour, you’re signing up for a charming, relaxed day on Sicily’s waters, with great food and beautiful views making it a memorable part of your trip.