Ortigia: Island Boat Tour & Sea Caves with Swim Stop

Summary

Circle Ortigia by boat then slip into wild blue caves for a salty swim

You’ll circle Ortigia by boat with a local guide who knows every story along these old walls, slip into glowing sea caves where light plays tricks on stone and coral, then stop for a swim in clear Sicilian water. It’s relaxed but full of surprises—you might even end up laughing at your own accent.

What’s the experience like?

I felt oddly calm as we pushed off from the little port in Ortigia. The city looked different from the water—less postcard, more alive. Our guide, Carlo, waved at someone on the dock and then pointed out the old Bourbon prison. He had this habit of switching between Italian and English mid-sentence, which made me smile. The Duomo’s pale stone caught the morning light and I remember thinking it almost glowed against the blue.

We drifted past Castello Maniace—Carlo called it “the stubborn fortress”—and hugged the coast where vertical cliffs dropped straight into the sea. There was this salty tang in the air that stuck to my skin. When we reached the sea caves, he slowed down so we could duck inside. The light changed all at once—suddenly everything was turquoise and silver, shadows flickering over coral shapes and weird rock formations. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it didn’t come close.

Inside one cave I heard water dripping somewhere above us. Someone laughed when Carlo told us about stalactites “growing like old Sicilian noses.” It smelled damp and cool in there—not fishy exactly, just ancient. After that, he let us jump in for a swim. I hesitated (it looked cold) but went for it anyway—the shock woke me up better than coffee ever could. Floating there with Ortigia behind me…yeah, I still think about that moment sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ortigia island and sea caves tour

• See Castello Maniace from the sea
• Skirt Ortigia island and admire landmarks
• Explore sea caves and admire formations
• Stop for a refreshing swim

Top questions

Is this Ortigia boat tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible and transportation options are too.

Does the tour include time to swim?

Yes, there is a stop included for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters near Ortigia.

What landmarks do you see on this Ortigia boat trip?

You’ll see Castello Maniace, Duomo di Siracusa, Santa Lucia church, Palazzo Veneziano, Spanish Walls, Fonte Aretusa and more from the sea.

Is there a local guide during the tour?

Yes, a local guide leads the entire tour sharing stories about Ortigia’s history and sights.

Are infants or small children allowed on board?

Infants can join; they must sit on an adult’s lap or ride in a pram or stroller if needed.

Can you access public transport near the starting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby for easy access to departure point.

How long does it take to get to the sea caves from Ortigia?

The caves are along Ortigia’s coast; you reach them shortly after departing by boat.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is included; only a guided tour with swimming stop is provided.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided boat tour around Ortigia island with stops at major landmarks seen from the water plus an exploration of coastal sea caves—then time to swim in those clear Sicilian waters before heading back ashore together.