Syracuse: Picnic boat tour of Pillirina, Ortigia & sea caves

If you’re considering a boat trip around Syracuse’s stunning coast, this tour offers a chance to see some of Sicily’s most impressive seaside scenery with a relaxed vibe. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a combination of sightseeing, swimming, and good food without the hassle of complicated planning. From what we’ve seen, this experience tends to score high — a perfect 5 out of 5 from 25 reviews — which says a lot about its appeal.

What really makes this trip stand out are the chance to explore hidden marine caves and the delicious Sicilian picnic with prosecco onboard. You get to unwind in the lovely surroundings of Ortigia, with the added bonus of swimming in the crystal-clear waters. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather — since sea conditions can affect the itinerary, especially the cave visits. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a laid-back cruise with a touch of adventure and are happy to go with the flow.

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavors. It’s especially perfect if you love being on the water and want to see Syracuse’s coast without the crowds or complicated logistics. Families, couples, or even small groups who appreciate a bit of luxury combined with authenticity will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenic Views: Expect to see Ortigia’s coast, ancient castles, and charming traditional houses from the water.
• Unique Marine Caves: Explore underground caves with bluish reflections and marine life within.
• Swim in Clear Waters: Multiple stops allow for swimming in the Mediterranean’s inviting waters.
• Delicious Sicilian Picnic: Savor local products, prosecco, or Sicilian wine onboard, enhancing the relaxed experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are well-rated for their friendliness and storytelling skills, adding value.
• Flexible Experience: Duration is around 2.5 hours; weather conditions may alter the itinerary, but safety and comfort are prioritized.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

When you hop aboard this 2.5-hour boat adventure, you’ll immediately notice the comfortable vessel with an awning, perfect for protecting against the sun. The start point is outside the restaurant “A Surgiva” in Ortigia, and the route circles around the island, offering spectacular views of Syracuse’s coastline and the inland castles like Castello Maniace.

The tour’s highlights include a visit to Pillirina Bay within the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, which is a real treat for those who love unspoiled nature. The guide will lead you into marine caves carved into the rocks, where you can marvel at bluish reflections on the walls and the thriving marine life. We’ve seen reviews describing the caves as “underground realms of natural wonders,” which really paints a picture of their beauty.

Throughout the trip, you’ll be given plenty of opportunities to swim in the crystal waters, with stops designed for cooling off and enjoying the sea. Many guests loved the chance to dive into the Sicilian sea and felt the experience was well-paced, with enough time for relaxation and fun.

The Food & Drinks

One of the trip’s selling points is the onboard Sicilian picnic, which features traditional local products. According to reviews, the food is “incredible,” with more than enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites. The drinks selection is generous, including prosecco or Sicilian wine, with some guests mentioning they were offered beer, Coke, or prosecco repeatedly. The picnic adds a real touch of authenticity and luxury, making the whole experience feel special.

The Atmosphere & Extras

Guests have the option to enjoy music playlists or simply relax while listening to the gentle sounds of the sea. The guides are known to be friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to safety, which helps create a comfortable environment on board. Many reviews highlight how the captain and crew go above and beyond to make the trip memorable — from stopping for multiple swimming breaks to sharing stories about the local area.

Size & Group Dynamics

The boat is typically small, with only around five guests, which is perfect for those who prefer an intimate experience. Some reviews mention ending up with the whole boat to themselves, turning the trip into a private adventure. This small size fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows for personalized attention from the skipper.

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The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour begins on Ortigia, with the guide explaining the significance of sites like Fonte Aretusa and Castello Maniace. From here, the boat heads towards the Pillirina Bay within the marine protected area, an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing. You might find this area particularly beautiful thanks to the clear waters and rocky formations.

Next, the boat ventures into the marine caves, carved into the rocks over centuries. These caves are illuminated by bluish reflections, giving the whole experience a somewhat enchanted feel. Several reviews mention how the caves make for fantastic photo opportunities and how the marine life inside is vibrant.

The tour also includes stopping at mussel farms, which adds another layer of local flavor and insight into the region’s fishing industries. If weather permits, the captain will take you into the caves, but sometimes, due to sea conditions, this part might be modified or canceled — so flexibility is key.

Swimming & Relaxation

The multiple swimming stops are a highlight. Guests love being able to jump into the fresh Mediterranean waters, especially since the water quality is described as “crystal clear.” The calm, shallow waters around Pillirina Bay are perfect for relaxing or playing in the waves. Many guests also appreciate the chance to float under the sun with a drink in hand — the onboard wine or prosecco certainly helps set a leisurely mood.

The Food & Drink Experience

The Sicilian picnic is a major plus. It features local products and a generous amount of food, often described as “incredible” and “more than enough.” The onboard Prosecco or Sicilian wine adds a celebratory feel, and many guests appreciate the quality and authenticity. The staff is attentive, offering extra drinks and making sure everyone feels well cared for.

The Value for Money

At $72.50 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You’re getting a small-group experience, a guided exploration of Syracuse’s coast, a selection of local food and drinks, and multiple swim stops. Guests consistently mention the excellent guide, beautiful scenery, and generous food and beverage offerings as reasons why they felt it was worth the price. The small size of the vessel and personalized service make it stand out from larger, more crowded tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates local cuisine, and wants to see some of Sicily’s natural beauty without too much effort, this trip is a great choice. It’s well-suited for small groups and couples, though families with children might enjoy it too — especially if they’re comfortable in a boat setting and enjoy swimming. Since the tour is flexible and focused on relaxing, it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a rigorous adventure or a deep dive into history.

The Sum Up

This boat tour around Syracuse offers a wonderful way to experience Sicily’s coast in a relaxed, intimate setting. You’ll see stunning sea caves, enjoy a delicious Sicilian picnic, and have plenty of chances to swim in clear waters. The small-group size, knowledgeable guides, and authentic local food make this experience stand out.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, leisure, and good local eats. If you’re after a calm yet visually spectacular outing, this trip is likely to tick those boxes. The chance to take in Syracuse’s scenic beauty from the water, coupled with the comfort of a guided experience, makes it a memorable addition to any Sicily itinerary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is accessible with wheelchair assistance, but since it involves boat boarding and potentially uneven surfaces at the meeting point, it’s best to check with the provider for specific needs.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
Yes, you can still enjoy the sights from the boat, and there’s no obligation to swim. However, many guests find swimming in the clear waters to be a highlight.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen and a hat, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a camera. The boat provides safety equipment, but it’s good to be prepared for the sun.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes prosecco or Sicilian wine along with water. Extra drinks are offered freely, and you can also bring your own if preferred.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be modified or canceled in case of bad weather or sea conditions, so check the forecast and confirm with the provider beforehand.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, starting and ending on Ortigia. Availability of starting times can be checked in advance.

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to explore Syracuse’s coast, enjoy some authentic Sicilian flavors, and see some pretty spectacular sights, this boat trip could be just what you need. It strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation, making it a delightful way to spend part of your Sicily trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: