Fontane Bianche is a fantastic base for exploring southeastern Sicily’s natural beauty and historical sites. Its proximity to marine reserves, ancient caves, and charming towns makes it an ideal starting point for memorable excursions. We particularly love snorkeling in the Plemmirio Marine Reserve and visiting the iconic Tonnara di Santa Panagia, which offer authentic tastes of Sicilian life. Whether you’re after a relaxing boat ride or an interactive cultural experience, Fontane Bianche has tours that match your interests.
In this guide, we’ll look at two standout options: a private tour to Ortigia and Tonnara Santa Panagia that combines stunning scenery, history, and local flavor, and a boat tour exploring Sicily’s historic tuna fisheries with opportunities for snorkeling and exploring marine caves. Both offer a glimpse into Sicily’s maritime heritage and natural beauty but cater to different preferences—one more focused on land and culture, the other on sea and adventure.
Below, we’ll walk through each tour, highlighting what makes them special, what to expect, and who they’re best suited for. Let’s dive into the details.
1. Avola: Private tour to Ortigia & Tonnara Santa Panagia
This 10-hour private tour offers a rich mix of history, nature, and Sicilian flavors. Starting from Via Elsa Morante, you’ll journey through scenic spots like the Plemmirio Marine Reserve, where snorkelers can marvel at the underwater caves and crystal-clear waters. The tour also includes visits to Ortigia Island, a lively town known for its charming streets, markets, and delightful shops.
One of the unique highlights is exploring the Lovers’ Cave and enjoying a Sicilian aperitivo with arancini, scones, fresh fruit, and sparkling wine—an authentic taste of local hospitality. The itinerary also features scenic stops at Capo Negro, Gallina, and Arenella, where you can swim and take in the coastal views. A visit to Castello Maniace caps off the day with spectacular sea vistas, topped with a light aperitif.
This tour is perfect for those who want an all-in-one day of sightseeing, swimming, and culture. The itinerary is packed, but the private setup means you can customize or linger at highlights if you wish. With a price of $1,033 for a group up to 12, it offers a good value for a comprehensive, personalized experience.
Bottom line: If you’re after a full day of exploring Sicily’s coast, with a mix of history, shopping, and swimming, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for small groups seeking a tailored, relaxed day.
2. Siracusa Boat Tour: Tuna Factories of South East of Sicily
On this 8-hour boat tour, you’ll explore Sicily’s legendary tuna fisheries—Tonnara di Terrauzza, Avola, and Vendicari—while cruising along the coast from Syracuse. The tour kicks off at Molo Zanagora and includes stops at notable sites like the Roman Columns and the Marzamemi fishing village.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to learn about Sicily’s tuna fishing traditions and see the undersea Roman Columns while snorkeling. You’ll also have time to relax at Grotte del Polipo and Fontane Bianche, where swimming in clear waters is a highlight. The visit to Castello Tafuri and Vecchia Tonnara di Portopalo combines historical intrigue with beautiful scenery.
The tour balances cultural insights with leisure, with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and photo stops. The marine caves and caves of Syracuse add an adventurous touch, making it ideal for travelers who want marine exploration with a side of history.
At around $119, the value is excellent considering the variety of sites seen and the inclusion of snorkeling. It’s best suited for active travelers looking for a sea-focused day with opportunities to see undersea ruins, swim in pristine spots, and enjoy Sicilian coastal villages.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in Sicily’s maritime history combined with snorkeling and relaxed coastal stops. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a mix of exploration and leisure at a reasonable price.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When deciding between these two options, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. If you’re after a full day of land-based exploration, culture, and local cuisine, the Avola private tour to Ortigia & Tonnara Santa Panagia offers a rich and customizable experience. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer guided, private travel with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
On the other hand, if your main goal is to experience Sicily’s famous tuna fishing history, enjoy snorkeling around Roman columns, and relax on the coast, the Siracusa boat tour provides a more active, marine-focused day. It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers or those who love being on the water.
Consider your budget—this private land tour offers a more personalized experience at over $1,000, while the boat tour offers great value at around $119 per person. Think about how much time you want to spend on land versus sea, and whether you want a flexible private day or a group adventure.
Final Thoughts
Fontane Bianche’s proximity to Sicily’s coast means you have access to a range of engaging tours. For a full-day, personalized experience that mixes history, culture, and coastal beauty, the Avola private tour to Ortigia & Tonnara Santa Panagia stands out. If marine adventures and exploring Sicily’s tuna fishing heritage appeal more, the Siracusa boat tour offers an exciting, active day on the water.
Both tours are excellent options depending on your interests—just remember to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot. Whether you prefer land or sea, Sicily’s treasures await—so get ready for a memorable adventure.
Happy travels!
