Scala Dei Turchi: Skippered boat tour and refreshing swim

Setting out on a boat trip along Sicily’s southern coast offers a perfect way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the crowds or hassle. The Scala dei Turchi boat tour from Agrigento combines gentle sailing, stunning natural beauty, and a chance to cool off in clear waters—all in about 90 minutes. While it’s a short experience, it packs enough charm and authentic Sicilian flavor to leave most travelers smiling.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it is—an inexpensive way to enjoy Sicilian coastlines and take in the famous white marl cliffs. Plus, the chance to snorkel in unspoiled waters makes it both fun and refreshing. The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite brief, so if you’re expecting a full-day adventure or extensive sightseeing, this might feel a bit condensed.

This tour is ideal for anyone who appreciates natural beauty, wants a quick escape from the land-based sightseeing grind, and loves the idea of dipping into the sea in a relaxed setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and authentic local guides.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: A 1.5-hour tour that offers a quick taste of Sicily’s spectacular coast.
• Stunning views: You’ll see the iconic Scala dei Turchi cliffs and sweeping coastal vistas.
• Swim and snorkel: The crystal-clear waters provide a perfect opportunity to cool off and explore underwater life.
• Expert skippers: Guides are experienced, friendly, and knowledgeable about the area’s history and geography.
• Affordable: The tour provides great value for such a scenic and authentic experience.
• Accessible: Suitable for most ages and physical conditions, with some restrictions for non-swimmers and those with certain health issues.

The journey begins at the San Leone tourist port in Agrigento, a lively spot where the views of the Akragas River mouth and the Valley of the Temples unfold before you. The tour kicks off with a quick check-in at the second floating dock at Forte Mare, making it convenient even if you’re arriving late or in a rush.

Once aboard, you’ll first cruise for about 25 minutes on a speedboat—a swift way to get acquainted with the coast and reach the main highlight, the Scala dei Turchi. The cliffs are an impressive sight, their white marl contrasting sharply with the deep blue sea. We loved the way the boat glided smoothly along, giving us unobstructed views and a chance to capture photos.

The highlight of the tour is the stop at the stairs of the Turks—a natural formation that captures everyone’s imagination. Here, you get around 40 minutes to take photos, walk around, swim, and even snorkel. Several reviewers have appreciated this part: one noted, “Very nice tour, thanks to the tour guide for his warm welcome,” emphasizing how friendly guides contribute to the experience.

During this stop, you can dive into the clear waters, swim near the cliffs, and explore underwater life. The water’s transparency and warmth make it suitable for quick dips, especially if you’ve been sightseeing on land all day. The underwater environment is described as colorful and lively, making snorkeling worthwhile for those inclined.

Afterwards, the boat returns along the coast for another 25-minute cruise, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views from another perspective. The tour finishes back at the port, with many participants feeling they’ve had a perfect slice of Sicilian coast, ideal for a short but memorable excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Starting at San Leone port
You’ll begin your adventure watching the busy port and marvelling at the immediate scenery—the mouth of the river and the distant Valley of the Temples.

Stop 2: Speedboat ride
A quick 25-minute cruise on a speedboat gets you to the cliffs efficiently, with some reviews noting the ride itself is a highlight.

Stop 3: Scala dei Turchi & Cliff visit
This is the core of the trip: the photo stops, swimming, and walking around the white marl cliffs. The 40-minute stay here offers enough time to soak in the views and take plenty of photos. Many reviewers mention the cliffs’ photogenic appeal and the memorable nature of the swim.

Stop 4: Return cruise
Another 25-minute ride along the coast provides a relaxing way to end the tour, with ample time to absorb views of the coastline and reflect on the experience.

Stop 5: Return to port
The tour ends back at the starting point, with no extras or hidden costs. Be mindful that the total time is just about 1.5 hours, so don’t expect a full-day adventure.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour’s price covers all essentials: beverages, fuel, boat, and the skipper. You’ll also find it very straightforward: there’s no hidden fee, and the tour includes a quick and easy check-in process. The tour is flexible—reserving now lets you pay later, and cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What you should bring are biodegradable sunscreen and beachwear. The tour explicitly states that alcohol, drugs, and certain health conditions make some travelers unsuitable. For example, it’s not recommended for children under 2, non-swimmers, or those with back, heart, or high blood pressure issues. The group is small, making for a more intimate experience, and the guides speak Italian and English.

Authenticity and Value

This boat tour offers an authentic taste of Sicilian coastline without the expense or time commitment of larger excursions. It’s a straightforward, well-organized, and scenic trip designed to give visitors a quick escape into nature. The value is excellent; for roughly 90 minutes, you get a scenic cruise, a chance to swim, and incredible views, all led by knowledgeable guides.

Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and friendly attitude of the staff, which enhances the overall experience. It’s clear that Forte Mare takes pride in offering an accessible, enjoyable, and memorable activity.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a brief but visually stunning experience in Sicily, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the coast, enjoy swimming in natural waters, and appreciate authentic local guides. The stunning views of Scala dei Turchi alone make it worthwhile, especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable highlight.

The tour’s affordability makes it appealing for budget-conscious visitors, and the relaxed pace ensures you can enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Keep in mind, it’s a short trip—so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you might want to supplement it with other land-based excursions.

This experience offers a perfect balance of quick adventure and genuine Sicilian charm, making it a great choice for those seeking a scenic, fun, and authentic coastal escape.

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FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire trip is about 1.5 hours, including cruising, stops, and swimming.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the San Leone tourist port in Agrigento and ends back at the same point.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
You should check availability for specific starting times; generally, it runs during the day when the weather is warm.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years, and non-swimmers or those with certain health issues should consider restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen and beachwear for swimming and sun protection.

Are drinks included?
Yes, beverages are provided as part of the tour.

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

Is it a group tour?
It’s a small-group experience, guided by friendly and knowledgeable skippers.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling is offered during the swim stop, allowing you to explore underwater life in clear waters.

To sum it up, this Scala dei Turchi boat tour offers a manageable, scenic, and authentic Sicilian experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a quick, picturesque escape, enjoy water activities, and value local guides. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, you’ll find this trip provides a genuine taste of Sicily’s natural beauty and a memorable highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: