Private Tour of Ortigia and Plemmirio Island with Lunch on Board

A Deep Dive into Sicily’s Coastal Charm: Private Tour of Ortigia and Plemmirio Island with Lunch on Board

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Sicily from the water—without the hassle of planning every detail—this private boat tour might be just what you need. It promises an intimate, half-day journey that combines the rugged beauty of Ortigia’s coast, the serenity of Plemmirio’s nature reserve, and a leisurely exploration of Syracuse’s historic maritime sites. All with the bonus of a homemade lunch and excellent wines served right on the boat.

What we particularly love about this experience is its combination of scenic beauty and cultural exploration—you get to see the legendary sea caves and animal-shaped rocks, then cruise around the historic heart of Ortigia, all while enjoying the comforts of a private vessel. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious onboard meal makes this a surprisingly good value for a complete Sicily outing. The only consideration? It’s a four-hour tour, so if you’re craving an extended exploration or multiple days, you’ll want to look at other options. This tour best suits travelers who enjoy relaxed sightseeing, good food, and the chance to see Sicily’s coast with minimal fuss.

Key Points

• Private and intimate: Only your group participates, making for a personalized experience.
• Stunning scenery: Sea caves, animal-shaped rocks, and the clear waters of Plemmirio await.
• Cultural highlights: Cruise around historic sites like the Maniace Castle and Porto Grande.
• All-inclusive meal: Gourmet lunch with homemade or fish-based options, plus drinks.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing onboard.
• Accessible: Near public transportation in Ortigia, with service animals allowed.

Discovering Syracuse from the Water

This tour offers a compelling way to see Sicily’s coast, especially if, like many, you prefer a more personal, less crowded experience than a large-group boat trip. Starting at the Spiaggetta della Marina in Ortigia at 11:00 a.m., your private vessel will navigate around the island of Ortigia, a UNESCO-listed gem with a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively markets. As you sail along, your guide will point out key sights like the Bourbon prison, the Vigliena fort, the Spanish walls, and the Maniace Castle—each rich with stories and history.

The fact that this is a private tour means your group can set the pace and explore at your own comfort. For those who love to mix sightseeing with relaxing on the water, this is a significant advantage. The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, describing the coastline as “beautiful caves” and noting that they “couldn’t find the right words to describe the beauty.”

The Sea Caves and Animal-Shaped Rocks

One of the tour’s standout moments is the visit to the north side of Syracuse, famous for its sea caves and uniquely shaped rocks. Visitors often find these formations both surreal and playful—rocks resembling animals, mythical creatures, or abstract sculptures. The experience of gliding past these natural sculptures is memorable, and it’s often praised for its visual impact.

One reviewer described it as a “great hike,” emphasizing the fun and discovery of these natural wonders. This portion of the trip provides a welcome mix of scenic beauty and light-hearted fascination, perfect for families, couples, or anyone with an interest in natural geology.

Plemmirio and the Gulf of Pillirina

Next, you’ll venture into the Plemmirio nature reserve, a protected marine area renowned for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. The Gulf of Pillirina is a highlight, offering tranquil scenery and an excellent opportunity for swimming and relaxing. The reviews mention the peacefulness of the reserve and how it’s a perfect spot to unwind, with many guests describing it as “beautiful” and “fantastic.”

While the tour doesn’t include snorkeling equipment, travelers often find that the water’s clarity invites spontaneous swims and underwater photography, especially since the boat stays in the area long enough to enjoy a break. It’s a great moment to disconnect and enjoy Sicily’s unspoiled coastline.

Exploring Ortigia from the Sea

Cruising around the historic island of Ortigia, you’ll see the old Jewish quarter, the Aretusa spring, and the Porto Grande, considered some of the most iconic parts of Syracuse’s maritime history. The Levant and Alfeo promenades are perfect for sightseeing, and the panoramic views of castle ruins and ancient walls provide excellent photo opportunities.

This circumnavigation, which takes about an hour, is a highlight for history buffs and scenic lovers alike, offering a different perspective from the water. Travelers have raved about the exquisite views and how the experience “made them see Ortigia in a new light,” with some describing it as “a complete relaxation day” with “fantastic food and very prepared staff.”

The Onboard Lunch Experience

One of the tour’s best perks is the onboard lunch, which features mixed appetizers and a choice of a first or second course, either homemade or fish-based. This is served directly on the boat, with fresh drinks, prosecco, white, and red wine included. Guests consistently praise the quality and generous portions of the meal, often describing it as “at the level of a good restaurant,” and the friendly, attentive service enhances the experience.

The reviews mention how the great food, paired with music and conviviality, creates a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. The ability to enjoy a tasty meal while cruising past stunning scenery is definitely a highlight and makes the tour stand out from more typical sightseeing trips.

Practical Details and Value

At around $1,254 for the entire group (up to 12 people), the cost might seem high at first glance. However, considering the all-inclusive package—private boat, guided stops, a gourmet meal, and drinks—it offers excellent value for those seeking a personalized, luxurious experience. The private setting means no need to share the boat with strangers, and you can customize the experience to your interests.

The tour lasts approximately four hours, which is enough to enjoy multiple stops, some swimming, and plenty of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The flexibility is ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a special Sicilian day.

Reviews Highlighting the Experience

Multiple reviews speak to the warm hospitality and professionalism of the crew. Comments like “fantastic team,” “very prepared,” and “great music” highlight how much the staff contributes to a fun and seamless day. Many guests mention they found new friends onboard and appreciated the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

One reviewer summed it up as “a day of complete relaxation and fun,” emphasizing how the great food, drinks, and beautiful scenery combined for a memorable experience. Such feedback suggests that this tour is especially well-suited for travelers who value comfort, good company, and authentic local flavors.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This private boat experience is perfect for those seeking a balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and gourmet food. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends looking for a quiet, personalized adventure. If you’re interested in natural beauty, historic sites, and excellent wine, and prefer avoiding large crowds, this tour delivers.

It’s also a good fit for travelers who want to maximize their time in Syracuse with a manageable half-day trip that offers great value for money. The flexibility and private nature allow adjustments to suit your pace and interests.

The Sum Up

This private tour of Ortigia and Plemmirio offers a well-rounded Sicilian experience from the water, combining spectacular scenery, cultural highlights, and delicious local cuisine. The chance to cruise around historic sites, explore spectacular caves, and relax with a superb onboard meal makes it a memorable outing. The knowledgeable guides and attentive crew ensure that your comfort and enjoyment are prioritized.

For travelers craving a personalized, scenic, and culinary slice of Sicily, this tour hits the mark. While it’s not a lengthy expedition, the carefully curated stops and quality experience make it a standout choice for a relaxed, rich day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 11:00 a.m. from Spiaggetta della Marina in Ortigia.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s exclusively a private tour for your group, allowing for a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire trip lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day outing.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes full onboard lunch with mixed appetizers and a main course, as well as all beverages—water, prosecco, white and red wine.

Are snorkeling or swimming equipment provided?
No, snorkeling equipment is not included, but guests often enjoy spontaneous swimming in the clear waters.

Is this experience suitable for children or service animals?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

What are the main highlights of the itinerary?
Expect to see sea caves and animal-shaped rocks, cruise around historic Ortigia, and relax in the Plemmirio nature reserve.

How do reviews describe the crew and guides?
Guests frequently mention the friendly, knowledgeable team that enhances the trip’s enjoyment.

What should I consider before booking?
While fantastic, remember it’s a half-day experience—great for a relaxed taste of Sicily’s coast, but not suitable if you want a longer or more intensive tour.

This private boat trip offers a beautiful, relaxing, and culturally enriching way to experience Sicily’s coast—perfect for those who want a personal touch and some of the best scenic and culinary moments the island has to offer.