Siracusa: SUP Excursion between the caves and Ortigia

If you’re looking to combine active fun with stunning scenery in Sicily, this Siracusa SUP tour hits the spot. It’s a chance to see Syracuse’s highlights from a unique perspective—standing on a paddleboard—guided by knowledgeable instructors who keep you safe and smiling. We’ve reviewed this experience, and it’s clear that it offers more than just paddling; it’s a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and adventure.

What we love about this tour is the chance to get close to iconic landmarks like Fonte Aretusa and Maniace Castle, all while enjoying the tranquil waters of Syracuse. The exploration of sea caves, with their stalactites and coral formations, adds a wild, almost mystical element. Plus, the included swim stop gives you a chance to cool off and soak in the scenery. One of the only possible downsides could be the need to be comfortable on a paddleboard—those who struggle with balance might find it a tad challenging.

This excursion suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, breathtaking views, and a touch of history. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or even solo adventurers eager to try water sports in a scenic setting. If you’re seeking a memorable, active way to see Syracuse beyond typical walking tours, this SUP experience offers great value and authentic fun.

Good To Know

• Balanced mix of natural, historical, and active exploration
• Expert guidance ensures safety and improved paddling techniques
• Stunning views of Ortigia, Syracuse, and sea caves
• Swim stop provides a refreshing break in deep blue waters
• Small group size keeps the experience intimate and personalized
• Affordable price offers excellent value for a two-hour guided adventure

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering Syracuse and Ortigia from the Water

The main appeal of this SUP tour is the chance to see Syracuse’s most famous sites from a new angle. Instead of just walking through the historic streets, you get to glide along the coast, paddling past landmarks and into caves that are often hidden from land-based visitors. It’s a refreshing way to connect with the landscape and history, all while enjoying some light physical activity.

The tour begins at Viale Montedoro, a convenient meeting point close to Syracuse’s historic core. The friendly instructor greets you and provides a quick 10-minute briefing on paddling techniques—this is key, especially if you’re new to stand-up paddleboarding. From there, you’ll set out on a 3 km route that takes you from Syracuse towards Ortigia. Along the way, you’ll pass the Umberto I Bridge, a striking structure that connects the mainland to the island of Ortigia, setting the scene for the adventure ahead.

Exploring Ortigia and Syracuse Landmarks

The first stops are around Fonte Aretusa and Maniace Castle. Fonte Aretusa is a legendary freshwater spring that has been an attraction since ancient times, and paddling nearby offers a perspective that photographs alone can’t capture. The castle, perched on the coast, provides a dramatic backdrop, and being on the water allows you to see its fortress walls and towers up close.

One of the highlights mentioned by reviewers is the opportunity to circle the island of Ortigia itself—a scenic route that offers panoramic views of the town’s historic buildings, vibrant markets, and charming streets. The tour emphasizes the chance to see these landmarks from the water, which many find more intimate and engaging than conventional tours.

Exploring the Sea Caves

The real thrill comes when you arrive at Syracuse’s sea caves—specifically the Cappuccini Cave, Coral Cave, and the Stalactite Cave (also known as the Grand Cave). These caves are a natural wonder, each with unique formations—stalactites, stalagmites, and coral deposits—that are fascinating to see from a paddleboard. The tour allows for entry into these caves, giving you a close-up look at their natural beauty.

A swim stop is included at a prime spot, chosen by your instructor, which provides a chance to cool down, relax, and take in the scenery from a different perspective. According to reviews, this swim is a highlight, especially when the water is clear and inviting.

Experience and Group Dynamics

The entire trip lasts roughly 2 hours, with approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes on the water. The small group size—limited to 10 participants—ensures that everyone receives personal attention. The inclusion of photos of your adventure is a nice touch, helping you remember the experience long after.

The experience is priced at about $39.86 per person, which represents good value considering the guided nature, equipment, entry to caves, and swimming opportunities included. For those new to paddleboarding, the briefing and guidance by a professional instructor like Simon, praised in reviews, help build confidence.

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Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at Viale Montedoro, where you meet your instructor. After a brief safety and paddling technique overview, you set out towards Ortigia. Paddling along the coast gives you a close-up view of Syracuse’s maritime landscape and historic structures. The first major stop is Fonte Aretusa, an ancient spring with mythological significance, where you can admire the lush greenery from the water.

Next, the route takes you past Maniace Castle, a formidable fortress guarding the entrance to the harbor. From here, the paddle continues around the island of Ortigia, offering amazing views of its historical architecture from the water—an experience that many reviewers found more immersive than traditional walking tours.

The highlight is reaching the sea caves, where you’ll explore formations that have been shaped by the waves for centuries. The Cappuccini Cave, Coral Cave, and Stalactite Cave are natural marvels, and entering them provides a sense of adventure. The swim stop usually occurs at an accessible, scenic spot, perfect for cooling down and snapping photos.

Finally, the tour circles back to the starting point, bringing the experience to a close after roughly two hours of paddling and sightseeing.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

You’ll want to wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, and bring your own sunscreen and a hat for sun protection. The waterproof bag provided is handy for keeping your valuables dry, and the life jacket is mandatory safety gear. The instructor is fluent in multiple languages (Italian, English, Spanish, French), making this accessible for many travelers.

While the tour is suitable for most fitness levels, comfort on a paddleboard is important. If balance or paddling is a concern, it’s worth noting you’ll be on the water for nearly two hours, so a basic comfort level with water activities is recommended.

Timing-wise, check availability as start times may vary, but the entire experience is designed to fit into a half-day adventure. Booking in advance is advised, especially during peak season, and flexible cancellation policies (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance) add peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This SUP excursion is ideal for those who want to blend active outdoor fun with sightseeing. It suits adventurous travelers eager to try paddleboarding in a calm, scenic setting, especially if they enjoy discovering new natural features like sea caves. Nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike will appreciate the chance to see Syracuse’s landmarks from the water, with the added bonus of a splash in the sea.

It’s also perfect for small groups or couples seeking a memorable shared experience. If you’re a solo traveler looking to meet others with similar interests, the small-group format fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

The Bottom Line

This Siracusa SUP tour offers a distinctive way to experience Syracuse and Ortigia, combining physical activity with breathtaking views and natural wonders. The guided focus ensures safety and ease, even for beginners, while the stunning scenery makes every paddle stroke worthwhile.

At an affordable price point, it delivers excellent value—especially considering the opportunity to explore hidden caves, historic landmarks, and enjoy a refreshing swim—all in just two hours. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast or someone looking for a memorable, scenic adventure, this tour is a fantastic choice.

It’s especially suited for those who want an authentic, active, and picturesque experience in Sicily, away from the crowds and typical tourist routes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a briefing on paddling techniques and is guided by an instructor, making it accessible even if you’re new to SUP.

What should I wear for the tour?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. The paddleboard and safety equipment are provided.

How long is the paddleboarding route?
You will paddle for about 1 hour and 45 minutes during the roughly 2-hour experience, covering around 3 km.

Are there opportunities for swimming?
Yes, the tour includes at least one swim stop at a prime location, perfect for cooling off and relaxing.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll see Fonte Aretusa, Maniace Castle, and explore sea caves like Cappuccini, Coral, and Stalactite Caves.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In summary, this SUP tour in Syracuse offers a fun, scenic, and active way to explore Sicily’s coast. With expert guidance, stunning views, and natural caves to discover, it’s a memorable adventure that appeals to a variety of travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: