3 Hours Private Boat Tour of Syracuse and Ortigia with skipper

Exploring the beautiful coast of Syracuse and the enchanting island of Ortigia from the water offers a fresh perspective that’s hard to beat. This private boat tour, lasting around three hours, promises a relaxed, personalized experience with a knowledgeable skipper guiding you along the coastline. From ancient palaces seen from the sea to secret swimming spots, this is a chance to enjoy Sicily’s maritime charm in a comfortable, intimate setting.

What I particularly like about this tour is the freedom it offers. You get to decide how much time you want to spend at each stop, whether it’s soaking up the sun or exploring underwater with provided goggles for snorkeling. The boat itself is well-equipped with cushions, a shower, and radio — ensuring comfort and entertainment. Plus, the option to make swimming stops in gorgeous spots like Plemmirio or near a hidden green water lagoon adds a spontaneous, adventurous touch.

A potential consideration is the language barrier — as one reviewer pointed out, the skipper spoke only Italian, which made it tricky to get detailed info about what you’re seeing. So, if you don’t speak Italian, it’s worth preparing some questions or relying on the scenic silence to enjoy the views. This tour offers incredible value for those eager for a flexible, scenic day at sea — especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.

Key points / Takeaways

• Personalized Experience: As a private tour, you get flexibility to choose stops and how to spend your time.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Sailing around Ortigia provides breathtaking perspectives of its historic buildings from the water.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Multiple opportunities to take refreshing dips, especially in scenic spots like Plemmirio and a secret green lagoon.
• Comfort & Equipment: The boat includes cushions, a shower, and goggles for snorkeling, making it comfortable and fun.
• Guide & Communication: The skipper is trustworthy and friendly, but may only speak Italian, so some language prep might help.
• Good Value: For around $434 per group (up to 6), you get a private experience tailored to your interests, making it a worthwhile splurge for small groups.

The Experience: What To Expect on the Water

Starting Point & Logistics

Your adventure begins at Sicily in Travel, located in Siracusa, a convenient spot near public transportation. This makes it easy to meet your skipper and get underway promptly. Since it’s a private tour, only your group will be on board, which keeps the experience intimate and relaxed, free from noisy crowds.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including travel time between stops. The cost is $434.10 per group, accommodating up to 6 people. That might seem steep initially, but when you consider the exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility, it’s quite reasonable — especially if splitting with friends or family.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Ortigia from the sea — The first part of the trip involves sailing around this iconic island for about 40 minutes. From this vantage point, you’ll see its ancient palaces and churches, many of which look even more impressive when viewed from the water. One review highlights the beauty of this perspective, noting that it’s a “nice tour around the irrigation island” with a small boat that offers shade, perfect for families.

A private stop at a castle — Your skipper may suggest stopping at a majestic castle overlooking the sea. If the weather’s good, you could spend around 45 minutes here, but since it’s a customizable tour, you might opt to skip or replace this stop with a dive. This flexibility is a big plus.

Swimming in Plemmirio — The tour offers a swim in the Pillirina area for about 30 minutes, with free admission. This spot is noted for its crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for a quick dip or snorkeling. One reviewer mentioned how they appreciated the fruits and drinks provided on board, adding personal touches to their experience.

Grotta Della Pillirina — Next, you can linger for around 40 minutes or more in this scenic grotto, enjoying the water or exploring underwater with goggles supplied. The cave’s beauty and the chance to swim in calm, transparent waters make this a highlight.

Hidden green waters near Syracuse — One of the most unique aspects is a “secret place” near a tuna fishery with green, crystalline waters. This spot is relatively unexplored by travelers and offers a tranquil, scenic escape. The reviewer called it a “beautiful hidden gem,” noting its peaceful atmosphere.

What the Reviews Say

One traveler praised the trustworthy captain and the well-organized trip, emphasizing the comfort of the small boat with shade. They wished for a bit more commentary about the sights, as the skipper only spoke Italian, but overall, the experience was enjoyable.

Another guest raved about their skipper Mario, calling him “so fun” and appreciating how he let them decide how to spend their time. This personal touch transformed their experience into an “amazing” day of discovery.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates privacy, flexibility, and scenic views, this boat tour hits the mark. It’s also ideal for families or small groups wanting a private outing, especially if you enjoy swimming and exploring at your own pace. Keep in mind, if language is a concern, a bit of Italian familiarity might enhance your experience, but the beautiful sights compensate for that.

Value and Pricing

Compared to larger group tours, spending around $434 for a private boat for up to six people offers excellent value. You get exclusive access, the ability to customize stops, and the comfort of a small, well-equipped vessel. For travelers seeking a memorable, personalized adventure on Sicily’s coast, this tour delivers more than just sightseeing — it’s about creating your own seaside story.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers who crave a tailored, intimate exploration of Syracuse’s coastline. Small families, friends, or couples will love how flexible the tour is, allowing for swimming, relaxing, and scenic viewing without the rush of larger groups. It’s also perfect if you want a more authentic experience away from crowded typical tours.

However, those who prefer detailed commentary or speak languages other than Italian might find the communication limited. Still, the stunning views and the chance to choose your own adventure make it worth considering.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

How long is the boat tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, including travel between stops and the time spent at each attraction.

What is included in the price?
You get a private boat for your group, the services of a skipper, cushions for comfort, a shower, and goggles for snorkeling. Fruits and drinks are also provided.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there are multiple swimming stops, including Plemmirio and a grotto, with free admission. You can swim or snorkel as you wish.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since the boat is small and has cushions and shade for comfort. Just keep in mind the language barrier with the skipper.

What if I don’t speak Italian?
Communication might be limited; preparing some questions or relying on the scenic environment can help. The focus is on the beauty of the views and swimming spots.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book?
Booking is typically made at least 26 days in advance via the provider’s platform, Sicily in Travel, with mobile tickets available for convenience.

To sum it up, this private boat tour of Syracuse and Ortigia offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, personal flexibility, and memorable swimming spots. It’s best suited for those who value exclusivity and a relaxed, customizable day at sea. While the language barrier could be a minor issue, the overall experience — with stunning views and the chance to explore Sicily’s coast from a small boat — makes it a worthwhile adventure for small groups looking to add a special touch to their Sicilian holiday.