Private Tour of Ortigia and Plemmirio Island with Lunch on Board

Exploring Sicily’s Shores — A Private Tour of Ortigia and Plemmirio Island

When it comes to soaking up the beauty of Sicily’s coast, this private boat tour of Ortigia and Plemmirio promises a day full of spectacular scenery, history, and delicious food. While we haven’t personally taken this exact adventure, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a truly memorable experience that combines nature, culture, and culinary delights on the water.

What we love most about this tour is its flexible, intimate setup — only your group on a private boat, making it a perfect choice for families, friends, or couples seeking a personalized escape. The stops at sea caves, the chance to explore the historic island of Ortigia from the water, and the opportunity to enjoy a homemade, fish-based lunch onboard stand out. Plus, the impressive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, excellent wine selection, and a relaxed vibe that makes it more than just a sightseeing trip.

A possible consideration is the price-tag; at around $1,254 for up to 12 people, it’s a premium experience, but one that many reviewers say offers good value considering the private setting, food, and drinks included. This tour best suits travelers who love a mix of adventure, history, and good food — especially those eager to enjoy Sicily from the water in comfort and style.

Good To Know

• Private and personalized experience ideal for small groups or special occasions
• Includes a homemade or fish-based onboard lunch and a generous selection of drinks
• Multiple scenic stops including sea caves, the Plemmirio nature reserve, and the historic Ortigia island
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights about the area
• Flexible timing and route tailored to your interests and weather conditions
• Excellent reviews praise the food, drinks, and professional crew for making it a relaxing and fun outing

Discovering the Highlights: A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

Your day begins at the Spiaggetta della Marina in Ortigia, a charming spot close to public transportation, making it easy to reach. The tour kicks off at 11:00 am, meaning you’ll be on the water just as the sun starts to warm up, setting the perfect tone for a leisurely half-day adventure. The boat is exclusively yours, with a capacity of up to 12 people, ensuring intimacy and flexibility.

Exploring Isola di Ortigia

The first leg of the trip is a boat circumnavigation of the historic Isola di Ortigia, the heart of Syracuse. The guide will point out significant landmarks such as the former Bourbon prison, the Vigliena fort, and the Spanish walls. You’ll also pass by the Maniace Castle, a striking fortress that holds centuries of stories, and the lively Levante and Alfeo promenades.

Travelers who enjoyed this part mention the “beauty of the coasts of Ortigia and its caves,” with some describing the caves as resembling various animals. One reviewer noted, “We had a fun trip with great guides,” appreciating the knowledge and friendly atmosphere. The coverage of the island from the water is a special perspective that reveals details often missed from land — think hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and historical structures.

Visiting the Sea Caves and Animal-shaped Rocks

Next, the boat heads towards the north side of Syracuse, famous for its sea caves and peculiar rock formations. Some rocks resemble animals or other recognizable shapes, making it a fun and whimsical stop. As one reviewer shared, “The caves and the rocks are beautiful, and the guides do a great job of explaining their significance.” Expect to see dramatic rock formations, some with natural openings leading into fascinating caves, perfect for photos or just marveling at nature’s artistry.

Enchanting Plemmirio Nature Reserve

A highlight of the trip is a visit to the Plemmirio nature reserve, especially the Gulf of Pillirina. Recognized for its pristine waters and marine biodiversity, Plemmirio offers a different kind of beauty — rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and perhaps the chance to spot some marine life. Many reviews mention the peaceful ambiance and the impressive scenery, making it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing.

Lunch and Swim Breaks

The tour includes a delicious onboard lunch, often featuring homemade or fish-based dishes prepared fresh on the boat. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food and the generous drinks selection, including prosecco, white wine, and red wine. Guests also appreciate the chance to unwind with fresh drinks and music, creating a convivial atmosphere.

The lunch experience is more than just a meal — it’s a social highlight where travelers often find themselves chatting with new friends or simply soaking up the sun with good food in hand. One reviewer summed it up as “half a day of complete relaxation and fun,” emphasizing the high-quality, hearty food served.

Wrapping Up with a View of Syracuse

The final stop involves circumnavigating Syracuse’s coastline, offering views of Porto Grande, Aretusa spring, and the Vigliena fort from the water. This part of the trip allows for photo moments and appreciating the city’s historical and natural beauty in one glance. The guides’ insights help you connect the dots between what you see from the water and the city’s storied past.

The Return and Overall Experience

As the tour wraps up back at the starting point, reviews highlight how the crew’s professionalism and friendliness made the day seamless and enjoyable. Guests mention the “fantastic team” and “great food” making the entire trip special. The relaxing atmosphere, coupled with the knowledgeable guides, turns this into more than just a sightseeing outing — it’s a memorable day out.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of scenic beauty, historical insights, and culinary delights is what makes this tour so appealing. Unlike generic boat trips, the focus on a private experience means you can tailor your time, ask questions, and enjoy the journey at your own pace. The inclusion of a full, freshly prepared lunch with wine makes it feel like a true indulgence, especially considering the cost per group.

The Value of Local Expertise and Authentic Food

Guests consistently mention the friendly and professional guides who add value with their knowledge of both history and the local environment. The onboard lunch, which offers a choice between homemade or fish dishes, is described as “at the height of a good restaurant” by one reviewer, making it a standout aspect of the trip.

Family and Group Friendly

Since the tour is private, it suits families, friends, or couples wanting a personalized experience. The boat’s capacity and flexible itinerary allow for a relaxed pace, ideal for those who prefer comfort over crowds.

A Word of Caution

The price might be steep for some, especially if traveling solo or as a couple. But considering the exclusivity, food, drinks, and the variety of stops, many feel the experience offers excellent value. Also, keep in mind that the tour relies on good weather — cancellations due to poor conditions are possible, but the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This boat tour is perfect for travelers seeking a scenic, intimate experience of Sicily’s coast with a mix of history, nature, and culinary pleasure. It appeals most to those who appreciate personalized service, luxurious comfort, and delicious food in a relaxed setting. Families, couples celebrating special occasions, or friends wanting a memorable day out will find this experience highly rewarding.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can participate. However, parents should consider their children’s comfort with boat trips and swimming.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the private boat tour, a typical onboard lunch (with both homemade and fish options), and full beverage service—prosecco, white, and red wine, plus water and soft drinks.

Can I bring my own snorkeling equipment?
Snorkeling equipment is not included, but you are free to bring your own if you wish to explore underwater during swimming stops.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While the schedule isn’t specified, most tours like this do best in warmer months when the water is inviting and the weather is sunny.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Spiaggetta della Marina in Ortigia and concludes back at the same point, making logistics straightforward.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring an exclusive and tailored experience.

To sum it up, this private boat tour of Ortigia and Plemmirio offers a compelling blend of Sicily’s historic charm, natural beauty, and tasty food. The reviews suggest that knowledgeable guides, excellent food, and a relaxed atmosphere make it a standout choice for anyone wanting a memorable day on the water. Best suited to those who value exclusivity, comfort, and authentic experiences, this trip could be the highlight of your Sicilian adventure.