Private tour – Gulf of Noto from Marzamemi to Plemmirio and sunset by boat

Planning a day on Sicily’s shimmering waters? A private boat tour along the Gulf of Noto offers an intimate look at some of the region’s most captivating coastal sights. This 10-hour adventure, operated by Sicily Boats, is designed for those who love authentic experiences, scenic beauty, and a dash of adventure — all with the comfort of a private guide and customized itinerary.

What draws us to this trip? First, the chance to explore places accessible only by boat — from ancient Roman columns lying beneath the water to hidden caves and unspoiled beaches. Second, the promise of a Sicilian-style aperitif on board, paired with spectacular views at sunset. The only catch? It’s a long day, and travelers should be comfortable spending much of it on the water, swimming, and exploring. Perfect for those who want a flexible, personalized way to see Sicily’s coast away from crowded tours.

If you’re after a laid-back day filled with stunning scenery, authentic local sights, and a touch of adventure, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or families with older children who enjoy water activities and scenic photography.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: The tour is tailored for small groups, offering flexibility and personalized attention.
• Multiple swimming stops: Expect plenty of time to enjoy swimming and snorkeling at various scenic spots.
• Scenic highlights: From Roman columns and ancient tuna fisheries to the sunset at Castello Tafuri, the views are spectacular.
• Authentic Sicilian experience: Includes a carefully curated aperitif with local treats and Sicilian sparkling wine.
• Expert guidance: A professional skipper and passionate guide ensure safety and enriching commentary.
• Ideal for lovers of nature and photography: The day offers many opportunities to capture stunning coastal landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

This tour combines adventure, history, and relaxation, all wrapped into a full day on the water. Departing from Marzamemi, you’ll start by heading north, where your skipper will expertly navigate the 8-meter rubber dinghy along the Sicilian coast. The boat is small enough to be intimate but secure, with a guide who shares insights into the area’s history and natural features.

First Stops and the Ancient Roman Columns

Your journey begins with a visit to the second-century Roman columns, lying at about 5 meters underwater. These relics offer a glimpse into Sicily’s past and are a favorite among snorkelers. Sicily Boats provides all necessary gear — fins, masks, and snorkels — so you can spend some time exploring this submerged piece of history. This stop sets the tone for a day combining natural beauty with historical intrigue.

Vendicari Nature Reserve and Beach Time

Next, your boat takes you across the spectacular Reitani and San Lorenzo areas toward the Vendicari Nature Reserve. Here, the highlight is a swim at the white beach behind Vendicari Island, renowned for its clear waters and pristine sands. The tour continues into the reserve, where you’ll see the remains of an ancient tuna fishery—a reminder of Sicily’s long-standing fishing traditions.

The Calamosche beach, often called one of Sicily’s most beautiful beaches, is another highlight for swimming or relaxing in the sun. The water here is usually calm, perfect for floating around and taking in the scenic surroundings.

Coastal Stops and Volcanic Spring

As you cruise along the coast toward Noto, expect to see dramatic white rocks and volcanic springs at Calabernardo. These natural features make for excellent photo opportunities. The boat then moves toward Avola, where you can observe the remains of the tuna fishery, a historic landmark, along with other coastal sights like the roundabout on the sea and the tip of Caponegro.

More Great Tours Nearby

Northern Gulf and Snorkeling in Plemmirio

By late morning, the focus shifts northward to Arenella and the Plemmirio Marine Reserve. Here, the waters are famously clear, teeming with marine life. Snorkelers will love the opportunity to explore vibrant flora and fauna beneath the surface. The stop for an authentic Sicilian aperitif on board — with arancini, focaccia, fresh fruit, and local drinks — makes this a true taste of Sicily’s generous hospitality.

Return Journey and Sunset Magic

In the afternoon, the tour heads back south, stopping at Fontane Bianche and a tiny cove near Calamosche. Then, you’ll approach the island of Capopassero, dominated by the fortress of Charles V, where you can try to explore the Octopus Caves — a fun exploration for those interested in marine geography.

The day concludes with a stunning sunset by the Castello Tafuri, perfectly framed against the island of Capopassero. Watching the sun dip behind this historic fortress while the sky turns shades of orange and pink is a memorable capstone to a day of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Duration and Pacing

While the total sailing time is around 2 hours and 45 minutes, most of the day is spent swimming, snorkeling, and exploring on land or from the boat. This pacing allows for a relaxed experience, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Sicily’s coast at your own pace.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start at Sicily Boats in Marzamemi, a charming fishing village with colorful boats and lively cafes.
• Marzamemi for a quick photo, swimming, and snorkeling.
• Vendicari Nature Reserve for history, beaches, and underwater relics.
• Coastal stops for swimming at white rocks and volcanic springs.
• Arenella for a scenic photo and dip.
• Plemmirio Marine Reserve for snorkeling and a Sicilian aperitif.
• Fontane Bianche, a popular beach area, and another swim.
• Another stop at Vendicari, revisiting its beautiful coastline.
• Capopassero Island for exploring the fortress and caves.
• Sunset at Castello Tafuri, with breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
• Return to Marzamemi, completing a full day of seaside adventure.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight how stunning the views are, especially at sunset. One reviewer mentioned, “The scenery from Tafuri Castle is incredible — a perfect way to end a day on the water.” Others appreciate the personalized nature of the tour, noting that “being in a private group made the experience feel intimate and tailored to our interests.”

Many travelers also praise the authentic Sicilian aperitif, describing it as “carefully curated and delicious,” featuring local specialties like arancini and sparkling wine. The snorkelling equipment and safety provided by the skipper allow guests to focus on enjoying the underwater scenery without worries.

Some reviews mention the long day — but agree it’s worth it for the variety of stops and the chance to see so many different coastal landscapes in one trip. The only consideration seems to be the long hours on the water, which might be tiring for very young children or those less comfortable with boats.

Practical Details

Transport & Meeting Point: The tour departs from Sicily Boats at Marzamemi (Circolo Nautico Motonautica Pachinese). Parking is available behind, as the docking area itself is not suitable for cars. Ask for Stefano upon arrival.

Duration & Group Size: The tour lasts about 10 hours, with approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes of sailing. It’s limited to up to 12 passengers, with a recommended group size of 8-10 for optimal comfort and intimacy.

Inclusions & Extras: The price covers the private guide and skipper, all sailing and swimming stops, snorkeling gear, and a Sicilian aperitif. Be sure to bring swimwear, sunscreen, and towels, as these are not included.

Language & Accessibility: Tours are conducted in Italian and English. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back issues, or those with heart problems due to the boat’s nature and physical activity involved.

Cancellation & Payment: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility to your plans.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private boat trip offers a well-rounded taste of Sicily’s coast—combining history, nature, and pure relaxation. Its best suited for travelers who love water-based activities and want the flexibility to customize their day on the sea. The combination of scenic stops, snorkeling, and a Sicilian aperitif makes it particularly appealing for couples, small groups, or families with older children seeking a memorable, authentic experience.

For those who appreciate breathtaking views, especially at sunset, and enjoy discovering lesser-seen coastal spots, this tour promises a unique perspective on Sicily’s natural and cultural landscape.

While it’s a full day, the variety of stops and the personalized attention make the price worthwhile for many travelers. If you’re after an intimate, scenic, and engaging way to explore Sicily’s Gulf of Noto, this experience is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is best suited for older children and adults, especially those comfortable on boats. It’s not recommended for very young children or infants.

How long does the sailing part last? The total sailing time is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes spread throughout the day, with most of the time spent on stops.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and any personal items for water activities. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but you’re welcome to bring your own.

Can I customize the itinerary? Yes, being a private tour, it offers the possibility of customization based on your interests and preferences.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, it’s advisable to check weather conditions, as rough seas or storms can affect sailing plans. The operator will notify you of any cancellations.

Are meals included? The tour provides a carefully curated Sicilian aperitif on board, but not a full meal. Additional snacks or meals are not included.

Is it a full-day experience? Yes, expect a 10-hour adventure that includes sailing, swimming, sightseeing, and sunset viewing.

How large is the group? The tour is private, with a maximum of 12 passengers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

What languages are available? Tours are conducted in Italian and English.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

This Sicilian boat tour promises a blend of scenic beauty, historical charm, and relaxed luxury — a perfect way to see the coast in a memorable, authentic way.

You can check availability for your dates here: