Plemmirio Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure: Explore Sicily’s Marine Protected Area from Ortigia
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required to snorkel comfortably and handle light swimming in open water.
Overview
Set sail from Ortigia into Sicily’s Plemmirio Marine Protected Area aboard a vintage sailboat, then snorkel among vibrant underwater caves and marine wildlife. This 150-minute tour offers a unique blend of sailing adventure and ecological immersion in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Plemmirio Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure: Explore Sicily’s Marine Protected Area from Ortigia
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The sun lays a shimmering path across the Ionian Sea as your vintage sailboat slips away from Ortigia’s bustling waterfront. The Plemmirio Marine Protected Area beckons—its waters a patchwork of deep blues and translucent greens that dare you to dive beneath the surface. This three-hour sailing and snorkeling tour offers both an intimate encounter with Sicily’s coastal beauty and a chance to feel the pulse of Mediterranean marine life firsthand.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect both your skin and the marine ecosystem by applying reef-safe sunscreen before snorkeling.
Bring water shoes
Rocky entry points make water shoes helpful for safe and comfortable access to the water.
Stay hydrated
The Mediterranean sun can be intense; carry water or hydrate before boarding to stay refreshed.
Arrive early for boarding
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure for check-in and briefing to maximize your adventure time.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mediterranean groupers often linger near rocky reefs.
- Colorful parrotfish and wrasses dart through seagrass beds.
History
Plemmirio’s coastline has been protected since 2001, preserving not only marine biodiversity but also remnants of ancient maritime activity dating back to Sicilian civilizations.
Conservation
The area is a designated Marine Protected Area with strict regulations ensuring minimal human impact and support for local ecological restoration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Necessary to protect your skin and preserve the marine environment.
summer specific
Water shoes
Helpful for safe water entry on rocky shores.
summer specific
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Standard gear for comfort during snorkeling and sailing.
summer specific
Light windbreaker or rash guard
Protects from sun and cool sea breeze on the water.
spring specific