Sailing Tour in Syracuse and Snorkeling – Private

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Sicily, this private sailing tour from Syracuse offers a chance to enjoy the coast in a personalized way. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that blends relaxation, adventure, and beautiful scenery.

What we really like about this tour is its exclusivity—being private means fewer crowds and more space to savor the moment. Plus, the chance to snorkel in the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, known for its clear waters and marine wildlife, sounds genuinely special. On the flip side, it’s a four-hour experience, which might feel a bit short if you’re after a long day at sea, but that’s often enough for a taste of Sicily’s coast.

This tour seems ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a relaxed, scenic day. If you’re looking for a mix of sailing, swimming, and beautiful views, this could be just the right fit. Let’s explore what makes it tick, what you can expect, and whether it’s worth the price.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience for up to 7 people
• Includes snorkeling in the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, known for marine wildlife and untouched seabeds
• Starts from Ortigia’s port and sails along the scenic coast of Plemmirio, with a sunset toast of prosecco
• Duration of about 4 hours offers a quick but memorable escape
• Passionate guides ensure a friendly, knowledgeable atmosphere
• Free cancellation available if your plans change or weather doesn’t cooperate

What’s on Offer: A Clear Overview of the Experience

This sailing tour is designed to give you a taste of Sicily’s stunning coastline with an intimate vibe. You’ll hop aboard from the large port of Ortigia, the historic heart of Siracusa, and immediately feel a sense of adventure. The boat itself is described as great, and the guides, Sebastian and his son Roberto, get praise for making the trip fun and engaging. We love the idea that it’s a private activity—so no noisy crowds, just your group soaking up the views.

The main highlight is the sailing along the Plemmirio coast, which is known for its natural beauty and marine richness. As you glide past cliffs and coves, you’ll get to enjoy a sunset with prosecco—a special touch that elevates the experience. The total sailing time is around three hours, which strikes a good balance for those wanting a quick escape without feeling rushed.

The journey concludes back at the starting point, ending a memorable four-hour adventure. The tour’s flexibility means you can relax, chat with your guides, or keep an eye out for marine life, which is often abundant in this protected area.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Isola di Ortigia

Your day begins at the large port of Ortigia, where you’ll board the boat. This initial moment is straightforward—no extra tickets or complicated logistics, since the admission here is free. It’s mostly a launching pad, but it sets the scene for what’s to come, with views of one of Sicily’s most charming old towns.

Stop 2: Plemmirio

Once underway, the boat will sail along the coast of Plemmirio. This area is celebrated for its natural beauty and is a Marine Protected Area, meaning it’s less touched by development and more pristine. Here, you’ll enjoy plenty of time to relax, take in the scenery, and snap photos of cliffs, caves, and the sparkling sea.

The highlight of this part is snorkeling. The guides are passionate, and based on reviews, they excel at making the experience both fun and safe. You’ll explore underwater caves and be surrounded by marine life, which is abundant in this environment. The seabed remains largely untouched, so you can expect unspoiled views beneath the water’s surface.

Sunset and Prosecco

A delightful feature is the sunset toast with prosecco—adding a touch of elegance to the adventure. As the sun dips, you’ll likely find yourself marveling at the changing colors over the water, a perfect moment for photos or just soaking it all in.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Meeting Point and Timing

The activity kicks off at 9:30 am from Porta Marina, Via Ruggero Settimo in Siracusa. Given that it ends back at the same point, plan to arrive a little earlier or on time to avoid missing the boat. The tour lasts approximately four hours, which makes it a manageable half-day activity—ideal if you’re trying to fit in other sightseeing later.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum group size of 7, this experience emphasizes intimacy. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed, personalized environment over large, crowded tours. The guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, making the whole journey feel welcoming and genuine.

Weather and Cancellation

Good weather is key—if rain or storms threaten, the experience might be canceled or rescheduled. The provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind if your plans change or weather looks uncertain.

Price and Value

At $480.37 per group, the cost breaks down to roughly $68 per person, assuming seven guests. While not cheap, it’s a fair price given the private nature, the guided snorkeling, and the exclusive experience. When you compare the cost to what you’d pay for similar private boat trips elsewhere, this seems reasonable—especially considering it includes the snorkeling and sunset experience.

Real Traveler Insights

The single review available praises the guides highly—calling Sebastian and Roberto “fantastic” and noting that they made the sailing “so much fun.” The reviewer also mentions an unexpected sighting of a giant turtle, which highlights the potential for unique wildlife encounters. The fact that the guide’s knowledge and friendliness are highlighted suggests this aspect of the trip is a real strength.

The review also describes the ship as “great,” implying comfort and good equipment, which is important for a short tour like this.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private sailing and snorkeling experience suits travelers looking for an intimate, scenic day out. It’s especially good for small groups, couples, or families who want to enjoy Sicily’s coastline away from large crowds. If you’re someone who values expert guidance, a peaceful environment, and stunning vistas, you’ll find plenty to love here.

While it’s not a long or deep dive into Sicily’s maritime wonders, it offers a quality snapshot that can be a highlight of a broader trip. It’s perfect if you want to combine time on the water with memorable wildlife sightings and a relaxed atmosphere.

The Sum Up

All in all, this Sicily private sailing tour offers a well-rounded taste of what the coast has to offer—beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and the chance to snorkel in pristine waters. It’s a more personal way to experience the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, making it ideal for those who prefer small, exclusive trips over crowded excursions.

Despite the slightly higher price point, the private nature and tailored experience can justify the cost, especially if you’re seeking a special day on the sea. The sunset prosecco adds a memorable touch, and the guides’ enthusiasm makes the whole trip feel authentic and enjoyable.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic adventure with a touch of luxury—great for couples, families, or small groups wanting to see Sicily’s coast from a different angle.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the private and relaxed nature suggests it could be suitable for families—especially if children enjoy being on boats and snorkeling under supervision. It’s best to confirm with the provider based on specific age considerations.

What should I bring for snorkeling?
The tour provides the snorkeling experience, but it’s smart to bring your own swimwear, towel, and possibly waterproof sunscreen. Check with the guides if you need to bring your own gear or if it’s provided.

How long is the sailing part of the tour?
The sailing along the Plemmirio coast lasts around three hours, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the views and relax without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, guides, snorkeling, and a sunset toast with prosecco. It’s a fairly all-inclusive experience for a half-day trip.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled with a full refund if poor weather disrupts the experience. Cancellation must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this a guided tour?
Absolutely. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, making sure you enjoy your time and learn about the area.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Porta Marina, Via Ruggero Settimo in Siracusa.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers tend to book about 19 days in advance, which helps secure your spot in this popular private experience.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape that blends sailing, snorkeling, and beautiful views, this private Sicilian tour could be just what you need. It offers a personalized touch that elevates a simple boat trip into a memorable experience worth considering for your time in Syracuse.