A three‑hour motorboat tour aboard the historic Santa Maria explores Porto Cesareo’s Marine Protected Area, passing heart‑shaped islets, Spanish watchtowers and snorkeling stops over Posidonia meadows. Practical for all fitness levels, the trip pairs coastal history with clear‑water marine life.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the Santa Maria and the shoreline of Porto Cesareo slides away: limestone cliffs give way to white sand, turquoise water pushes at the hull, and a low, familiar hum of the engine sets the rhythm. The former coral-fishing vessel — a 20‑metre oak and iroko boat with three decks and panoramic seating — ferries up to 60 people around the protected cove and smaller islets.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; short swims/snorkels are shallow and supervised
Wildlife
History
The Salento coast is dotted with Spanish 16th‑century watchtowers built to deter pirate raids; Bronze Age remains on nearby islets attest to long coastal settlement.
Conservation
Porto Cesareo is an MPA that protects Posidonia meadows and restricts anchoring and collecting; follow crew guidance to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Boat tour Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
Apply and reapply reef‑safe SPF to protect both your skin and the MPA’s sensitive Posidonia meadows.
Take seasickness prevention
Calm seas can change; if prone to motion sickness, take medication or use pressure bands before boarding.
Use a waterproof bag
Protect phones, cameras and documents from spray during open‑deck time and when boarding smaller tenders.
Respect no‑anchoring zones
Avoid stepping on seagrass and follow crew instructions—anchoring and collecting marine life are prohibited in the MPA.
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects skin while preventing harm to Posidonia and marine life.
summer
Snorkel fins and mask (optional)
Personal gear can improve comfort and fit compared with rental equipment.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Blocks wind and spray on cooler mornings or breezy crossings.
spring
Motion‑sickness remedies or bands
Useful if you’re sensitive to boat movement on open water.