Avola: Private Boat Tour to Marzamemi & Ciriga Sea Stacks

Planning a day on Sicily’s shimmering waters? This private boat tour from Avola promises a full immersion into the coast’s natural beauty, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, explore historic sites, and enjoy authentic Sicilian bites. If you’re craving a personalized, scenic adventure that balances time on the sea with land visits, this experience could be just right.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning coastal scenery with cultural stops, like Marzamemi’s charming fishing village. Plus, the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and wake up to a Sicilian sunset at sea makes it a well-rounded day. A potential hiccup? The long duration and multiple stops require a good level of comfort with boat travel and physical activity. Overall, it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, authentic local flavors, and a bit of adventure.

This tour suits those who appreciate personalized experiences over crowded group tours, and anyone eager to explore Sicily’s coast from a different perspective—by sea—while having time to relax and soak in the views.

Key Points

• Customizable private experience with the flexibility to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing at your own pace
• Stunning coastal scenery and underwater sights, including Roman columns and Ciriga’s iconic sea stacks
• Cultural touches, like visiting Marzamemi and the remains of Vendicari’s historic tuna fishery
• Rich local flavors with Sicilian sparkling wine, arancini, and fresh fruit during the day
• Approximately 3 hours of sailing interspersed with multiple stops, offering a balance of activity and relaxation
• Great for active travelers who enjoy boat rides, swimming, and scenic exploration

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

This full-day private boat tour from Avola offers an engaging way to see Sicily’s coastline from a comfortable, personalized vessel. The journey stretches over about 10 hours, with a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and land visits. Small groups—capped at 12—make for an intimate experience, often with fewer than 10 participants, which helps keep the focus on comfort and flexibility.

Departure and Initial Views

Starting from Sicily Boats’ mooring in Avola, you’ll meet your skipper, Stefano, whose friendly guidance sets the tone. The boat—likely a sturdy RIB (rigid inflatable boat)—is equipped with all necessary snorkeling gear, such as fins, masks, and snorkels, which you can use throughout the day. The first leg of your journey takes you southward, passing notable sights like Lido di Noto’s White Rocks and the Eloro coast.

Vendicari Nature Reserve and Tonnara di Vendicari

Your first major stop is the Vendicari Nature Reserve, a haven for birdlife, with remnants of ancient tuna fisheries that add a touch of history. The tour includes a visit to the Tonnara di Vendicari, where you can imagine the bustling activity of past centuries, and admire scenic views along the way. Many reviews mention how impressive the Roman columns from the 2nd century AD are when seen floating from the boat—an authentic reminder of Sicily’s layered history.

Calamosche Beach and Snorkeling Opportunities

A highlight of the day is the stop in front of Calamosche Beach, often praised for its incredible clarity and tranquility. Here, swimming and snorkeling are top-notch, with the chance to explore underwater formations and perhaps spot fish among the ruins of old fish traps. The water’s inviting turquoise hues make it feel like a Caribbean escape, as one reviewer noted.

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Exploring the Coastal Landscape

The boat navigates further to the island of Capopassero, where you can admire the Spanish Fortress and try to enter the Polyp Cave, adding an element of adventure. The crossing to the point where the Sea of Sicily and the Ionian Sea meet—the island of Correnti—offers dramatic views of two seas converging, a stirring sight that many travelers find unforgettable.

Ciriga Sea Stacks and Scenic Photos

The Faraglioni of Punta Ciriga is a standout feature, with its striking sea stacks rising from the water. After some time for photos, snorkeling, and relaxing, you’ll sail along the coast, passing Playa Carratois and the cliffs of Punta delle Formiche. These spots are perfect for soaking in the rugged beauty of Sicily’s southern coast.

Gourmet Break with Sicilian Flavors

Midway, the boat pulls up at a scenic spot for an aperitif featuring Sicilian sparkling wine, arancini, scones, fresh fruit, and drinks—an ideal way to toast the day. Many reviews appreciate this laid-back moment, noting the “beautiful views” combined with tasty local snacks that elevate the experience.

Castello Tafuri and Marzamemi

Next, the boat approaches Tafuri Castle, offering another chance for photos and underwater exploration. The final land stop is Marzamemi, a picturesque old fishing village with narrow streets, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere. Here, travelers can stroll, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy more local cuisine at their leisure.

Sunset and Return

As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Avola, passing Vendicari at sunset—an especially beautiful time for photography and reflection. The return journey is calm and scenic, perfect for enjoying the last moments of this coastal adventure.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

This tour provides all snorkel equipment, a flexible itinerary, and a knowledgeable skipper, making it a hassle-free way to experience Sicily’s coast. The 10-hour duration means you need to be prepared for a full day, including some physical activity and boat time, which is ideal for active travelers but may be tiring for some.

Pricing reflects the personalized nature of the experience, with a private group, making it a good value for those seeking exclusivity and tailored service. The tour operates in English and Italian, with a friendly guide who can answer questions and share insights along the way. Remember to bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, and a camera—waterproof gear is advisable for snorkeling.

Considerations

• The boat’s maximum capacity is 12, but for comfort, 8-10 people is recommended.
• It’s not suitable for pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems due to boat movement.
• Towels and sunscreen are not included, so pack your essentials.
• The tour is flexible, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.

Authentic Reviews and What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers emphasize the breathtaking views and the “amazing” snorkeling spots, with one noting, “The Roman columns from the boat were a real highlight.” Others mention how well-organized and attentive Stefano was, making the experience smooth and enjoyable. Some travelers appreciated the chance to customize their stops, whether for swimming, sightseeing, or simply relaxing onboard.

A common praise is the beautiful sunset at sea, which adds a magical touch to the day’s end. The mix of cultural sites like Marzamemi and natural beauty makes this tour a well-rounded Sicilian adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you love scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and exploring historic sites from the water, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy being in motion and want to avoid large, crowded tours. The private aspect offers flexibility and intimacy, perfect for couples, small groups, or families willing to spend a full day out at sea.

Those seeking authentic Sicilian experiences, away from touristy crowds, will find this tour charming and rewarding. It also appeals to travelers wanting a combination of natural beauty, history, and local flavors—a compact but comprehensive way to see Sicily’s southern coast.

The Sum Up

This private boat tour from Avola offers an immersive day into Sicily’s stunning coastline, blending scenic beauty, underwater exploration, and cultural moments. Its personalized approach makes it ideal for travelers who seek a flexible, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and take in jaw-dropping views. The stops at Vendicari, Calamosche, Ciriga, and Marzamemi ensure you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of Sicily’s coastal charm.

While it demands a full day and some physical activity, the breathtaking scenery, delicious Sicilian snacks, and the freedom to explore at your own pace make it a worthwhile splurge. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just someone eager to relax by the sea with a good glass of local wine, this tour has something special to offer.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 10 hours, with most of the time spent on the water and visiting various stops along the coast.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all participants receive snorkeling fins, masks, and snorkels to explore underwater sights.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While it’s generally suitable for active travelers, some stops involve swimming and boat time, so consider your family’s comfort with these activities.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. Towels and suncream are not included.

Is this a private experience?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, with a maximum of 12 people, but 8-10 is recommended for comfort.

What languages are available during the tour?
The guide speaks Italian and English, ensuring clear communication and insights throughout the day.

You can check availability for your dates here: