Exploring the vibrant marine life and historic wrecks of the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area is a must for nature enthusiasts visiting Italy’s Calabria region. This guided 2-hour boat tour departs from the picturesque Port of Le Castella, offering the chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Baia Saraceno and sample local Km 0 products onboard. At just $65.43 per person, it’s an affordable way to discover the area’s unique ecosystem. But what lies beneath the surface of this coastal paradise? The tour’s highlights may surprise you.
Key Points
- Boat tour departs from the Port of Le Castella, providing guided underwater exploration, swimming, and onboard refreshments for $65.43 per person.
- Guests can discover marine life, wrecks, and the protected ecosystem, with opportunities to swim in the transparent waters of Baia Saraceno.
- The tour includes a guided boat tour, underwater exploration, and a food tasting featuring local Km 0 products.
- Participants should wear comfortable shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen, and use the harbor facilities before departure as there are no bathrooms on board.
- The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, but small dogs under 10kg are allowed.
Tour Overview and Pricing
According to the provided information, the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area Boat Tour departs from the Port of Le Castella.
The tour costs $65.43 per person and lasts for 2 hours. Customers can receive a full refund if they cancel 24 hours in advance, and they can book without an upfront payment.
The tour offers a guided underwater exploration, the chance to see wrecks and marine life, and an opportunity for swimming in the transparent waters.
After the exploration, guests can enjoy an onboard aperitif or breakfast.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Crotone.
Exploring the Marine Protected Area
The tour begins with an initial boarding and briefing, where guests are prepared for the upcoming exploration of the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area.
The expertly guided boat tour takes visitors on a journey to discover the wonders beneath the surface. Guests can expect to:
- Peer through the monitor to observe the diverse marine life and sunken wrecks.
- Enjoy a refreshing swim in the transparent waters of Baia Saraceno.
- Delight in the on-board food tasting, featuring local Km 0 products.
- Gain a deeper appreciation for the protected ecosystem and its fascinating history.
This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with the captivating Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area.
Boat Tour Activities and Highlights
The boat tour offers a diverse array of activities and highlights that allow visitors to fully enjoy the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area.
Departing from the Port of Le Castella, the guided underwater tour takes passengers to explore the wrecks and marine wonders at Baia Saraceno.
Led by expert monitors, you will have the opportunity to swim in the transparent waters and witness the area’s captivating seabed.
After the exploration, guests can enjoy an onboard aperitif or breakfast, featuring local products.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, small dogs under 10kg are welcome aboard.
Itinerary and Scheduled Stops
The boat tour experience begins with initial boarding and a brief safety briefing at the Tourist harbor Darsena.
The tour then navigates to the historic Castle of Le Castella.
Along the way, the expert monitor provides a detailed view of the wreck and seabed below.
The highlight is a swim stop at the stunning Baia Saraceno, where guests can enjoy the transparent waters.
Finally, the tour returns to the port, and guests disembark after enjoying an onboard food tasting, either a breakfast or aperitif, made with local Km 0 products.
- Initial boarding and briefing
- Navigation to the Castle
- Monitor view of wreck and seabed
- Swim stop at Baia Saraceno
Inclusions and Participant Requirements
Included in the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area Boat Tour are the boat excursion, a professional skipper, fuel, and a food tasting of either a local breakfast or aperitif.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments. Small dogs under 10kg are allowed on board.
Participants should note that there are no bathroom facilities on the boat, so it’s recommended to use the harbor’s facilities before departure.
Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing.
While the tour provides Km 0 products, gluten-free options aren’t available.
Meeting Point and Arrival Instructions
Guests meet at the Tourist harbor Darsena to board the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area Boat Tour.
The tour operators can be identified by their white T-shirts, and the boat is unique in the harbor.
To prepare for the tour, guests should bring:
- Comfortable shoes
- Swimwear
- Sunscreen
- Comfortable clothing
The food served varies by excursion time and consists of Km 0 products, but no gluten-free options are available.
There’s no bathroom on board, so it’s recommended to use the facilities at the harbor before departure.
What to Bring on the Tour
Packing the essentials is key for an enjoyable boat tour experience. Wear comfortable shoes that can get wet, as you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Bring along your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Don’t forget to pack a light, breathable change of clothes for the journey back.
While food and non-alcoholic beverages are provided, you may want to bring any personal snacks or drinks.
Keep in mind that there are no bathroom facilities on the boat, so it’s best to use the harbor’s facilities before departure.
With the right gear, you’ll be set to fully learn about the wonders of the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area.
Onboard Food and Refreshments
The tour includes an onboard food and refreshment offering, providing guests with a tasty treat after their aquatic explorations.
The offerings may vary depending on the excursion time, but often include:
- A selection of Km 0 (locally-sourced) products, showcasing the region’s fresh and seasonal ingredients.
- A breakfast option, perfect for morning departures, to fuel adventurers before their underwater discoveries.
- A refreshing aperitif, ideal for afternoon trips, to enjoy while taking in the stunning coastal views.
Unfortunately, gluten-free options aren’t available, so guests with dietary restrictions may need to plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to Book a Private Tour?
Yes, it’s possible to book a private tour. The tour operator offers private tours, which can be reserved in advance. Private tours provide a more personalized experience and allow for customization of the itinerary.
Are Life Jackets Provided for Swimmers?
Life jackets are provided for swimmers on this tour. The tour operator ensures all safety equipment is available to participants. Guests should inquire about specific requirements when booking their tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on board. However, the tour includes a food tasting, so bringing your own may not be necessary. Check with the operators for any restrictions on outside items.
Is There Any Discount for Children or Groups?
Children under 12 get a 20% discount, and groups of 4 or more receive a 10% group discount. However, there are no options for bringing your own food and drinks on the boat tour.
What Language(S) Is the Tour Conducted In?
The tour is conducted in English and Italian. The tour operator provides an English-speaking monitor to guide the underwater portion of the excursion, ensuring all participants can fully engage with the marine environment.
Recap
The Le Castella: Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area Boat Tour offers an immersive experience to explore the stunning coastal region. Visitors can discover vibrant marine life, historic shipwrecks, and savor local delicacies while enjoying the crystal-clear waters. With a cost of $65.43 per person, this 2-hour guided excursion promises an unforgettable adventure in a breathtaking natural paradise.
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