Boat Excursion

Imagine cruising along Sicily’s dramatic coastline, discovering hidden Roman columns underwater, lounging on pristine beaches, and savoring local delicacies—all in just a few hours. That’s what this Boat Excursion from Avola to Marzamemi offers. It’s a chance to see some of Sicily’s most beautiful sights from the water with the comfort and guidance of a seasoned skipper.

What we love about this tour is the blend of scenic beauty and authentic local flavor. First, the chance to snorkel over ancient Roman columns is a rare treat — an unexpected peek into history beneath the waves. Second, the inclusion of a Sicilian aperitivo, with arancini, fresh fruit, and regional wines, truly adds a relaxed, hospitable touch.

A possible consideration is the tour’s 1-hour duration, which means some travelers may prefer a longer experience if they want more time to explore. Plus, beach towels aren’t included, so packing one is a smart move.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic cruising, cultural sights, and good food without spending an entire day at sea. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of Sicily’s coast with a comfortable, guided perspective.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: Experience Sicily’s coastline from the water, including highlights like Vendicari Nature Reserve and Marzamemi.
• Historical Underwater Sights: Snorkel above Roman columns in the underwater museum near Marzamemi.
• Authentic Sicilian Flavors: Enjoy a regional aperitivo with arancini, fresh fruit, and Sicilian wines and beers.
• Flexible Options: Available as a group or private tour, with departure from Avola’s boat club.
• Value for Money: For about $105, you get scenic cruising, snorkeling gear, regional stops, and a tasting — a well-rounded experience.
• Punctual Return: The return crossing takes approximately 40 minutes, so being on time is key.

This boat tour from Avola offers a practical yet lively way to explore Sicily’s southeastern coast. It combines natural beauty, historical intrigue, and regional flavors—all within a roughly one-hour window, with additional stops and activities that fill the visit with variety.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Convenience

You’ll convene at the Avola boat club, a convenient launch point that’s accessible and well-equipped. The departure is flexible, with check-in times available depending on the day, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary. The staff speaks both Italian and English, making communication smooth.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First, the journey begins with a gentle cruise past Lido di Noto—a stretch known for its scenic views and relaxed vibe. As you glide toward the Vendicari Nature Reserve, you’ll notice the landscape shift into a protected area renowned for its diverse birdlife and unspoiled beaches. The boat pauses near Eloro, Marianelli, and Calamosche beaches, giving you a chance to see these famed stretches of Sicilian coast.

What makes this segment special is the opportunity to get as close as possible to each beach, offering excellent vantage points for photos and an understanding of why these spots are prized. The tour narrates the significance of the tuna fishery, a vital part of the reserve’s history, adding context to your experience.

Next, the boat heads toward the underwater museum in front of Marzamemi, where you’ll snorkel over three Roman columns lying about 7 meters beneath the surface. The provided fins and masks make this accessible for most, and the calm, clear waters make for a memorable encounter with history beneath the sea.

Exploring Portopalo di Capopassero

From there, the boat moves to Portopalo di Capopassero, a charming fishing village with notable sights like Tafuri Castle, the Spanish Fortress, and the Tonnara. This stop lasts around 45 minutes, spent swimming and exploring. The scenery here is striking—think old coastal fortifications against a backdrop of azure sea.

The Sicilian Aperitivo

After the swim, the tour offers a regional Sicilian aperitivo—a highlight for food lovers. You’ll enjoy arancini with meat sauce, along with fresh fruit, sparkling wine, beer, and soft drinks. The combination of regional flavors and relaxed atmosphere makes this a true taste of local hospitality.

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Visiting Marzamemi

The next stop is Marzamemi, a picturesque fishing village famous for its lively square and seafood restaurants. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to roam freely, taking in the colorful streets and enjoying a Cremolata made with fresh fruit. Many reviews note how charming and photogenic this village is, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Return Journey

Finally, the boat heads back to Avola, with about 40 minutes of cruising to enjoy the scenery once more. Punctuality for the return is advised, as the crossing is about 40 minutes long.

The Experience and Its Strengths

The mix of scenic cruising, historical snorkeling, and local culinary treats makes this a well-balanced outing. For those who love history, the underwater Roman columns are a real highlight—they bring ancient history to life beneath the water’s surface. For nature enthusiasts, the views of Vendicari’s beaches and the chance to swim in protected waters are compelling.

The apertivo Siciliano adds a relaxed, convivial touch, allowing travelers to unwind, sip regional wines, and connect with fellow travelers. On top of that, the optional private or group options make it flexible for different travel styles.

Reviewers frequently mention the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the overall value for the price. One notes that “the views and snorkeling were incredible,” while another appreciated the “authentic regional flavors” during the aperitivo.

Practical Details and What to Keep in Mind

The tour costs around $105.36 per person, which includes snorkeling gear, the regional stops, and the aperitivo. While not a full-day experience, its intensity and diversity make it a good investment for a half-day outing.

Punctuality is important: the return crossing is about 40 minutes, and missing the boat could disrupt your plans. This tour isn’t suitable for travelers over 95 years old, but it is accessible and offers wheelchair-friendly options.

Packing tips: Bring beachwear, a towel for swimming, and perhaps sun protection. Towels aren’t included, so come prepared.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This excursion is ideal for travelers who want a short, engaging taste of Sicily’s coastline without committing to a full-day tour. It’s perfect for those interested in history, nature, and regional food but who prefer a relaxed, guided experience. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a scenic adventure will appreciate the balance of activities.

If you’re a snorkeler or enjoy regional wines and local cuisine, this tour hits the right notes. However, those seeking a more extensive or adventurous sea experience might want to consider longer or more specialized options.

This boat excursion offers a compact yet comprehensive view of Sicily’s southeastern coast. Combining stunning scenery, a touch of history beneath the waves, and regional hospitality, it promises an authentic slice of Sicilian life. The price is reasonable given the inclusions, and the guided commentary enhances the experience with local context and stories.

While it’s not the longest excursion, the carefully chosen stops and the overall atmosphere make it a worthwhile option for travelers eager to explore Sicily’s waters without a large time commitment.

If you love beautiful landscapes, a bit of history, and a relaxed social vibe, this tour is sure to delight. It’s especially valuable for those who want a taste of Sicily’s natural and cultural treasures in just a few hours, making it perfect for a half-day adventure.

Is snorkel gear provided? Yes, fins and masks are included for everyone, making it easy to get into the water and see the underwater Roman columns.

How long is the boat trip? The entire experience, including stops, is roughly one hour of cruising, with additional time spent at each location for swimming, exploring, and enjoying the aperitivo.

Can I choose a private tour? Yes, the tour is available as both group and private options, so you can customize your experience depending on your preferences.

What should I bring? Pack beachwear and a towel, as towels are not included. Sunscreen and sunglasses are advisable for comfort during the day.

Is the tour suitable for children? While children of all ages can enjoy the cruise, it’s not suitable for those over 95 years old, and young children should be supervised during snorkeling.

How punctual is the return? The return crossing takes about 40 minutes, so arriving on time at the pier is important to avoid missing the boat.

Are there food options besides the aperitivo? The tour’s focus is on regional snacks and drinks included in the price. For larger meals or specific dietary needs, consider dining separately before or after the tour.

In all, this Sicily boat excursion offers an engaging, scenic, and authentic experience that combines natural beauty, history, and regional flavors—perfect for those wanting a compact taste of this captivating island’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: