Castellammare to San Vito Lo Capo: Small Boat Coves & Swim Tour

Summary

Swim Zingaro’s coves, caves and Scopello’s rocks on a Sicilian boat day

You’ll board a small boat in Castellammare del Golfo and spend the day swimming in hidden Sicilian coves, exploring sea caves like Cave of the Doves, snorkeling near Scopello’s Faraglioni rocks, then docking at San Vito Lo Capo for lunch in its sleepy seaside village. Expect laughter with your guide, fresh local flavors, and that feeling of salt still on your skin long after you’re back.

What’s the experience like?

I opened my eyes to that salty morning air in Castellammare del Golfo, already hearing the clink of coffee cups from the dockside bar. Our little group shuffled onto this 10-meter boat—no big crowds, just a handful of us and our captain, Salvo, who grinned like he’d just caught a secret. The engine hummed us out past the breakwater and suddenly it was all cliffs and blue—like someone had cranked up the color dial. First stop: Cave of the Doves. Salvo pointed at the rock face (“colombaia!”), and honestly I didn’t expect the echo when he called out. You could smell seaweed and sunscreen, which is weirdly comforting if you grew up near water.

We drifted into these little coves inside the Zingaro Reserve—Cala Rossa was my favorite, though I’m still picking salt out of my hair from diving in there. The water was so clear you could see silver fish flickering around your toes (I tried to count them but gave up). Snorkeling gear was waiting for us on deck; I fumbled with mine and Salvo laughed—“Piano piano,” he said. At Scopello, those Faraglioni rocks looked unreal up close, all sharp edges against soft waves. There was a moment where everyone went quiet except for someone’s kid giggling over a crab on the ladder.

Lunch was in San Vito Lo Capo—our boat just slid right into port like it belonged there. We wandered off for couscous and grilled calamari (I still think about that lemony olive oil). The village felt slow and sun-baked; old men playing cards outside a bar barely glanced up as we passed by. On the way back, we stopped at this tiny cove with a cave they called “degli Innamorati”—the Lovers’ Cave—which sounds cheesy but actually felt kind of magical after all that sun and salt. I didn’t want to leave, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour with swimming and village visit

• Visit natural caves by boat
• Swim and snorkel at cave cove
• Swim and snorkel at Cala Rossa
• Swim and snorkel at Scopello
• Swim and snorkel at famous sandy beach
• Dock at San Vito Lo Capo port
• Visit San Vito Lo Capo village
• Have lunch at local restaurant
• Swim and snorkel at Cave of Lovers
• Swim and snorkel at Cala del Leone

Top questions

How long is the boat tour from Castellammare del Golfo to San Vito Lo Capo?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours from departure to return.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this small group boat tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included for all guests during swim stops.

Does the tour include lunch in San Vito Lo Capo?

No set lunch is included, but you’ll have time to eat at a local restaurant in San Vito Lo Capo village.

What are some stops along the route?

You’ll visit natural caves (like Cave of the Doves), Cala Rossa, Scopello with its Faraglioni rocks, several coves in Zingaro Reserve, and San Vito Lo Capo port.

Is wine or other drinks included on board?

Yes, bottled water, Coca Cola, and local wine are provided during the tour.

Are there restrooms on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on the boat.

Can infants or small children join this day trip?

Yes; infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller on board.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues or health concerns?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes swimming stops at multiple coves along Sicily’s northwest coast with use of snorkeling equipment provided onboard; bottled water, Coca Cola and local wine are available throughout; all taxes and fees are covered; plus there’s a restroom onboard for comfort before docking at San Vito Lo Capo where you’ll have time for lunch at your own pace before heading back by boat.