Ortigia to Plemmirio: Sailing Tour & Snorkeling Caves

Sail ortigia’s coast into plemmirio caves and snorkel wild blue waters

You’ll set sail from Ortigia’s old harbor on a vintage boat toward Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, stopping to snorkel in clear coves with local guides who know every fish by name. Expect easy laughs with your crew and a quiet moment or two as you drift back under full sail—salt on your skin and Sicily in your memory.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sailing and snorkeling in Plemmirio

• Depart from Ortigia bay
• Visit Plemmirio caves by support boat
• Explore northern Maddalena peninsula
• Snorkel with crew support
• Discover marine fauna of the park
• Sail back using wind power

The Experience

The first thing I noticed was the creak of wood under my feet—this old sailboat had stories, you could just tell. Leaving Ortigia behind, the water turned that glassy Sicilian blue I’d only seen in postcards. Our captain, Paolo, pointed out a crumbling stone fort on the shore (I missed the name; he said it fast), and then we were out past the bay, salt spray on my lips. I kept thinking how different the air smelled—briny but also a bit like sun-warmed rope and lemon from someone’s bag.

We stopped near these jagged rocks along the Maddalena peninsula—Pillirina, Paolo called it—and swapped our shoes for fins. The crew handed out snorkeling gear (all included, thankfully, since I never pack mine). There was this quick lesson about what fish to look for—Giulia tried to teach me “donzella pavonina” but I probably mangled it. Slipping into the water was colder than I expected at first. But then you see these flashes of silver darting between shadows, and everything else just fades away for a bit.

After swimming around Elephant Rock (it really does look like one if you squint), we climbed back on board. Someone passed around a bag of taralli biscuits—I’d never had them salty before—and we let the wind do most of the work sailing home. The sound of water against wood gets in your head after a while. I still think about that view back toward Ortigia as the sails filled up; it felt quieter than usual, somehow.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkeling gear provided by the friendly crew, support in the water from trained local guides who know Plemmirio inside out, plus time relaxing onboard a classic wooden sailboat as you cruise between Ortigia and the marine reserve before returning by wind power in late afternoon.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Snorkeling In Barca A Vela

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Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is included with your booking.

Where does the sailing tour start?

The tour begins from Ortigia’s harbor in Syracuse.

How long does it take to reach Plemmirio Marine Protected Area?

The boat reaches Plemmirio from Ortigia within about 30 minutes, depending on sea conditions.

Are there guides during snorkeling?

Yes, trained staff accompany guests in the water and help identify marine life.

What are some places visited during this tour?

You’ll visit Maddalena peninsula’s north side, Pillirina cove, Elephant Rock, and coastal caves near Plemmirio.

Is lunch or snacks included?

No formal lunch is included; sometimes light snacks are shared onboard.

Is this tour suitable for beginners at snorkeling?

A moderate level of fitness is required; guides assist beginners but some swimming ability helps.

Can pregnant travelers join this sailing trip?

No, pregnant travelers are not recommended to join due to safety reasons.