Brindisi: Kayaking at Sant’Andrea Island

If you’re looking for a memorable way to explore the coast of Apulia, this kayaking adventure at Sant’Andrea Island offers a refreshing mix of wildlife, history, and breathtaking scenery. While I haven’t personally paddled these waters, reviews highlight a tour packed with surprises and natural beauty, led by knowledgeable marine biologists. It’s a fantastic option for travelers wanting an active, authentic experience away from the crowds.

What we love about this excursion is how close you’ll get to sea turtles and dolphins—these sightings turn an ordinary kayak trip into a wildlife encounter. Plus, the views of Alfonsino Castle rising dramatically from the water lend a real sense of place. A possible consideration is that the activity is weather-dependent, so a rough sea or a sudden storm might mean rescheduling. This makes it best suited for energetic, nature-minded travelers who appreciate small-group adventures and are flexible with weather conditions.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife spotting, and discovering history from a unique perspective. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a curious beginner, the experience offers a chance to connect with the sea in a relaxed, guided environment.

Key Points:

• Wildlife Encounters: Chances to see sea turtles and dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Stunning Views: Sightseeing of Alfonsino Castle and the coastline from the water.
• Authentic Experience: Led by a marine biologist guide, combining education and adventure.
• Flexible Timing: Duration of about 2 hours, with multiple start times depending on availability.
• Weather Sensitive: The trip depends on good weather; your guide will contact you if conditions change.
• Accessible by Public Transport or Taxi: Meeting point at Tourist Marina, 8 km from Brindisi’s center.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Intro to the Experience

Chances are you’ll spend about two hours paddling along the scenic waters of Brindisi, watching the setting of Alfonsino Castle silhouetted against the sky. This is a guided kayak or canoe trip designed for those eager to experience the coast from a different angle. It’s suitable for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, learning, and serenity—especially lovers of the sea and wildlife.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see sea turtles and dolphins—not guaranteed, but frequently spotted, according to reviews. The guide, a marine biologist, adds a layer of expertise that deepens your understanding of the local marine life and geology. The scenery, particularly the carparo stone fortress of Alfonsino Castle, rising over the water like a natural monument, provides some of the most impressive views you’ll find in this part of Italy.

On the downside, since the tour relies heavily on weather conditions, you might find yourself rescheduling if the sea turns rough or if rain threatens. This is not the experience for someone seeking a perfectly weatherproof activity, but for those flexible with plans, it’s well worth it.

What is Included and What to Expect

The tour includes the rental of a kayak or canoe, a safety jacket, and the guidance of an expert marine biologist. The guiding focus is both educational and recreational, giving you insight into the area’s geological features and marine life. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, noting that Aldo, a marine biologist, makes the experience both fun and informative.

Meeting at the Tourist Marina, about 8 km from central Brindisi, is straightforward. You can reach it via public transportation or taxi, with parking available nearby if you arrive by car. The marina’s peaceful, seaside atmosphere is a good prelude to the adventure ahead.

Once on the water, you’ll paddle through crystal-clear waters, keeping an eye out for sea turtles—which, according to reviews, are seen in about 99% of the trips—and dolphins, sometimes glimpsed beneath the surface. Travelers mention that the tour’s pace is leisurely enough for beginners but still engaging for more experienced paddlers.

The Highlights of the Tour

Wildlife spotting is a major draw, with many reviewers sharing stories of their encounters. One reviewer mentioned, “Guide was very good. Loved it. Did see a turtle at the end,” confirming the high success rate of sightings. This makes the tour particularly appealing for nature lovers and families with older children.

The castle views add a historical and visual dimension. Alfonsino Castle, built with carparo stone blocks, rises dramatically from the sea, providing a striking backdrop for photographs and a sense of stepping back in time. The contrast of ancient stonework with the lively marine environment creates a memorable scene.

Another highlight is the crossing of the Bocche di Puglia Bridge, a brief but scenic moment that offers a different perspective of the coastline. After a short geological explanation, the boat or kayak continues along the coast, and some tours include a chance to swim in the inviting waters—another perk that many reviews mention as a refreshing reward.

The Practicalities

The duration is around two hours, with multiple start times to suit your schedule. You’ll want to bring a change of clothes, beachwear, sunscreen, and water—the sun can be strong, and you’ll want to stay comfortable during and after the paddle.

Since food and drinks are not included, you might plan for a snack or a meal afterward in Brindisi to celebrate your aquatic adventure. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with certain health conditions, so check your personal limitations before booking.

The cost is reasonable considering the inclusion of a marine biologist guide and the small-group setting. We see that the value is high for wildlife enthusiasts and curious travelers looking for an active, educational outing.

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What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the professionalism of the guides. One said, “It was very professionally done, the guide was very informed,” which reflects the quality of the guiding staff. The opportunity to see turtles is often highlighted, with one reviewer noting, “we do see a turtle so it was a successful tour.” This high likelihood of wildlife encounters makes the trip particularly rewarding.

A traveler who called it “a true highlight of our trip” appreciated the knowledge of the marine biologist guide and the beautiful scenery. They also mentioned that the tour supports local conservation efforts, adding an ethical dimension to the adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is best for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable on the water. It suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in history—thanks to the views of Alfonsino Castle. It’s also a good choice for families with older children, given the safety gear and small-group setting.

However, those with mobility issues, wheelchair users, or people with certain health conditions should note that the experience might not be suitable for them. Also, since the tour depends on weather, it’s wise to have a flexible attitude.

This kayak tour at Sant’Andrea Island offers a combination of wildlife observation, scenic beauty, and historical interest, wrapped into a manageable two-hour experience. Its small-group format and expert guidance make it a standout choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want a genuine connection with the sea.

While weather remains a factor, the high success rate of animal sightings and the stunning views make this trip a worthwhile addition to any Brindisi itinerary. It’s perfect for those craving an active, authentic adventure with a focus on nature and history, all led by passionate guides who genuinely care about the environment.

Whether you’re paddling past the fortress of Alfonsino Castle or quietly watching for dolphins, this tour promises a memorable, meaningful escape into the waters of Apulia.

How long does the tour last?
The kayaking experience takes approximately 2 hours, with starting times available depending on availability.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Tourist Marina, about 8 km from Brindisi’s city center. You can reach it via public transportation (Line 5) or taxi.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a change of clothes, beachwear, sunscreen, and water. It’s also wise to bring any personal items you want to keep dry.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best for children who are comfortable in water and can handle paddling for two hours. The guide’s expertise can help keep younger participants engaged.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on suitable weather conditions. If the weather turns unfavorable, the guide will contact you to reschedule or offer a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to eat before or after the activity.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those with certain health conditions such as epilepsy or heart problems.

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

In essence, if you’re craving a mix of wildlife, history, and active fun in a beautiful setting, this kayaking tour at Sant’Andrea Island is a smart choice. It’s an authentic, well-reviewed experience that balances adventure with education—perfect for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Brindisi.

You can check availability for your dates here: