Sicily Boats: Private Boat Tours in Golfo di Noto

Situated on Italy’s southeastern coast, near Pachino in the province of Syracuse (SR), the Golfo di Noto area is a rugged stretch where the sea meets history in spectacular fashion. Sicily Boats offers a private boat tour that uncovers this coastal richness, starting from the fishing village of Marzamemi. This trip immerses travelers in both cultural and natural highlights along a coastline marked by ancient Roman ruins, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise waters brimming with marine life.

The journey begins with a slow cruise past submerged Roman columns, remnants of a once-thriving seaside settlement now cloaked beneath the waves. With snorkeling gear in hand, guests plunge into crystalline waters to witness vibrant underwater flora and fauna, discovering the ecosystem that thrives around these submerged stone monoliths. The route continues to the Vendicari Nature Reserve, a protected marine and bird sanctuary where salt flats and dunes serve as a sanctuary for migratory flamingos and other native species.

Further along, the tour navigates to the Grotte di Siracusa—the intricate sea caves that have carved out contrasting shades and textures from the limestone cliffs, creating otherworldly formations accessible only by boat. The trip culminates with a stop at Ortigia Island, a historic district of Syracuse where baroque architecture faces the sea, blending culture and nature. Enjoying the sunset by the Castello Tafuri, a coastal fortress that watches over the shoreline, rounds out a day rich with beauty and history.

Sicily Boats stands out for its intimate, private experience that focuses on detailed storytelling and local knowledge, setting it apart from larger group tours. For travelers seeking to connect with Sicily’s lesser-known coastal gems—balancing active snorkeling, serene cruising, and heritage discovery—this offering represents a unique gateway to one of Italy’s most evocative maritime landscapes.