Depart Ortigia on a vintage wooden boat to explore sea caves, the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, and low islets where dolphins often appear. Tours include snorkeling and fishing gear and suit most fitness levels.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A wooden bow parts the wake as Ortigia’s limestone facades shrink behind you, sea spray tasting faintly of salt and citrus. On a two-hour vintage-boat excursion from Syracuse, the coast becomes a moving gallery: sea caves hollowed into pale rock, sheer cliffs of the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, and the low islets of the Pillirina Reserve sliding past like stage props. Crews point out slick ledges where Mediterranean fish flash gold beneath glassy water and, if fortune favors, dolphins arc and race the boat’s bow.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–8 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal aerobic fitness required; participants should be able to climb a short ladder and stand for brief periods.
Wildlife
History
Syracuse has been a maritime hub since antiquity; Ortigia was the city’s original island harbor and retains Greek and Roman waterfront traces.
Conservation
Plemmirio is a designated marine protected area with rules against anchoring on seagrass beds; visitors are asked to avoid touching wildlife and use reef-safe products.
Reserve your spot on the Boat Excursions in Syracuse today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
The Sicilian sun is strong and sprays make reapplication necessary; choose reef-safe formulas to protect marine habitats.
Wear non-slip water shoes
Decks and rocky shore entries get slick—closed-toe water shoes improve grip and protect feet when boarding or exiting for snorkel swims.
Take seasickness prevention
If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before departure for a more comfortable trip.
Start early for best visibility
Morning trips generally have calmer seas and better underwater visibility for snorkeling and photography.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the Mediterranean’s posidonia and marine life.
summer
Water shoes
Provide traction on wet decks and rocky shore entries.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Wind and spray can be cool in mornings and on open water.
spring
Snorkel mask (personal)
Provided equipment is available, but a personal mask ensures fit and comfort.
summer