Sailing boat tour with lunch and swimming stops

Planning a day on the water around Lecce’s coast? The Sailing Boat Tour with Lunch and Swimming Stops offered by Morgana Sailing Charter promises a memorable, scenic adventure. This six-hour excursion combines the thrill of sailing along the Salento coastline, stops for swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploration of fascinating caves, and a delicious onboard fish lunch. It’s a chance to see a lesser-visited side of Italy’s Puglia region, far from crowded tourist spots.

Two things we particularly like about this trip are its balanced mix of active exploration and relaxation, and the quality of the included lunch, which many reviews praise. It’s a genuine experience set in natural beauty, rather than a cookie-cutter tour. However, one thing to consider is that the itinerary depends on weather conditions and skipper discretion, so flexibility is key. This tour suits travelers who enjoy small-group, intimate experiences, want authentic coastal scenery, and appreciate delicious local food.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
• Variety of Stops: Multiple caves, inlets, and swimming spots offer diverse sights and activities.
• Authentic Food: A freshly prepared fish-based onboard lunch delights food lovers.
• Stunning Scenery: Views of dramatic cliffs, caves, and marine life make for unforgettable photos.
• Flexible Swimming: Multiple stops for swimming and relaxing in clear waters.
• Weather Dependency: The experience hinges on good weather and skipper decisions.

An Introduction to the Sailing Adventure

If you’re eyeing a different way to explore Salento, this sailing boat tour is an excellent choice. It’s designed for those who love a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and good food, all wrapped into a manageable half-day. The fact that it’s rated 5.0/5 based on 4 reviews indicates strong satisfaction among participants.

What makes this trip particularly appealing is its combination of sailing, sightseeing, and culinary delights. You’ll get spectacular views of the coast that are best appreciated from the water. Plus, the tour’s emphasis on authentic, fresh seafood—with a lunch that’s considered better quality than many restaurants—adds to the experience’s value.

A potential caveat for some travelers is the activity’s dependence on weather conditions, which can sometimes cause changes or cancellations. Still, the tour provider offers free cancellation if plans need to change, adding a layer of security.

This tour is ideal for families, small groups of friends, or couples seeking an authentic, leisurely way to discover Salento’s coast. It’s particularly suited for those interested in caves and coastline geology or simply enjoying a day of swimming and relaxing on a boat.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike larger, more commercialized boat trips, this experience emphasizes personalized service and authentic exploration. The small group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd, allowing more time to enjoy each stop and ask questions of your skipper. The boat, Morgana, is well-equipped and comfortable enough for a full day’s outing, with plenty of space to relax or take in the scenery.

The itinerary is thoughtfully crafted, balancing active stops with rest and food. The stops at caves like the Grotta delle Tre Porte, the Lovers’ Cave, and the Dragon Cave offer spectacular scenery and opportunities for memorable photos, especially since many of these caves have names that hint at their distinct features. The swimming stops are carefully chosen in shallow, clear waters—perfect for cooling off and enjoying the natural beauty.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Departure and Route

Your adventure begins at Leuca Marineport at 10:30 am, a convenient starting point with easy access. From here, you’ll set sail along the Salento coast, with the exact route depending on coastal conditions and the skipper’s discretion. This flexibility means you might traverse both the Ionian and Adriatic sides of the coast, offering a rounded view of the area.

Caves and Inlets on the Ionian Side

One of the highlights is exploring the caves of the Ionian side, such as the Grotta del Presepe—which looks like a biblical nativity scene—and the Grotta Tre Porte, with its grand three-door entrance. The Dragon Cave and Lovers’ Cave are also notable, both of which provide excellent swimming opportunities. Many reviewers mention how these caves look even better in person than in photos, with their dramatic formations and the thrill of discovering them from the boat.

Swims and Relaxation

The tour offers multiple swim stops, with about 30 minutes at each—long enough to cool off, snorkel, or simply drift in the clear waters. The stop at Marina di Felloniche is especially praised for its shallow, sandy seabed and transparent water, perfect for families or less experienced swimmers.

The Adriatic Side

Passing Punta Meliso, the boat visits caves like the Terradico Cave, which resembles a tent, and the Grotta Verdusella and Grotta del Soffio, known for their sprays of water that add a playful element. The Grotta del Laghetto features a freshwater lake, accessible via some light rock climbing—an adventurous highlight for those who like a bit of exploration.

Scenic Cliffs

The Falesia delle Mannute offers a dramatic backdrop with its stalactites and cavities. It’s a striking visual contrast to the caves and a fitting finale before heading back to Leuca.

Onboard Lunch

What sets this tour apart is the lunch, cooked on board. Many reviews emphasize the superior quality of the food, which is fish-based and includes local specialties. After a morning of activity and sightseeing, the onboard meal feels like a well-earned reward—fresh, flavorful, and authentically Pugliese.

Experience Quality and Value

At $138.82 per person, this tour offers a good deal when you consider the inclusion of a full meal, multiple swimming stops, and guided exploration of caves and coastline. The small group size enhances the feeling of intimacy and personalized service, making it easier to relax and fully enjoy the experience.

Reviews highlight how guests leave with a smile and a deeper appreciation for Salento. One reviewer called it the “highlight of our holiday,” praising the crew’s hospitality, the beauty of the sites, and the quality of the food. Such praise suggests this trip delivers more than just sightseeing—it creates lasting memories.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book in advance — the tour is popular and often booked 44 days ahead.
• Check the weather forecast — good weather is essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
• Arrive early — to ensure a relaxed start and avoid missing the boat.
• Dress comfortably — swimwear, hat, and sunscreen are must-haves.
• Bring a towel and waterproof camera — for capturing the caves and water fun.
• Consider your swimming ability — stops are in shallow waters, but if you’re hesitant, the water is inviting enough to give it a try.

Summary

This sailing adventure from Santa Maria di Leuca encapsulates the essence of coastal Puglia: stunning natural formations, inviting waters, authentic local cuisine, and the chance to see a different side of Italy’s famous coast. Its careful balance of exploration and relaxation, along with the limited group size, makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking a genuine, low-key seaside experience.

Ideal for those who value small-group intimacy, spectacular scenery, and delicious food. If you’re craving a day away from crowds, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, cave exploring, and soaking up the sun, this tour hits all the right notes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a scenic day on the water with a touch of adventure. Nature lovers will appreciate the cave visits and coastlines, while foodies will enjoy the quality onboard lunch. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and are comfortable with weather-dependent activities. If you’re after a relaxed yet packed day exploring Salento’s coast, this tour is a worthwhile investment.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes sailing along the coast, visits to caves and inlets, swimming stops, and a fish-based onboard lunch.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and comfortable clothing. Arrive early to board on time.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; the small group size and swimming stops are suitable for families, but children should be comfortable in water.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or cancellation.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Leuca Marineport and returns to the same point at the end of the day.

To sum it up, this sailing boat tour offers an excellent way to see the coast of Salento in a relaxed, authentic manner. With gorgeous scenery, engaging stops, and a top-quality meal, it’s a memorable experience for those wanting a genuine taste of Italy’s seaside charm. Whether you’re a sun seeker, a nature lover, or a foodie, this trip provides a well-rounded overview of one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines.