Porto Cesareo: Catamaran Snorkeling Tour & Aperitif Lunch

Summary

Snorkel ancient ruins swim Ionian coves savor local flavors

You’ll board a catamaran in Porto Cesareo for a day of snorkeling over Roman ruins, swimming by pine-covered islands and golden beaches along the Ionian coast. Taste local snacks and wine during an onboard aperitif lunch in a quiet cove. Expect easygoing company, salty air, and moments you’ll want to replay later.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway around Isola dei Conigli when I realized I’d been holding my breath — not from nerves, but because the pine and sea air mixed in a way I didn’t expect. Our guide, Marco, pointed out the old rabbit burrows under the acacias and laughed when my friend asked if any rabbits still hopped around. “Maybe at night,” he winked. The water was glassy that morning, just enough breeze to keep us awake as we circled north along the Gulf of Taranto. There’s something about seeing those white dunes from the boat that makes you want to jump straight in.

The first swim stop was right in front of Torre della Chianca. Marco handed me a mask and snorkel — I always fumble with those straps — and told us about the Roman columns on the sandy bottom. He said they’d been there since some unlucky ship misjudged its landing centuries ago. I didn’t expect to actually see them so clearly underwater; they looked almost fake, like someone had dropped marble props for us. The sea felt cool against my skin and tasted faintly salty-sweet, if that makes sense. We drifted near Isola della Malva after, where the water changed color every time a cloud passed overhead.

I lost track of time somewhere between Torre Lapillo and the next cove. Some folks tried diving down to spot the statue of Madonna dei Naviganti — I chickened out but watched others surface grinning. There was this moment when everyone went quiet except for splashing and distant gulls; it felt like we were further from land than we really were. Lunch came out just as we started to dry off — local cheeses, bread still warm somehow, tomatoes that tasted like sunshine (I know how that sounds), and chilled wine that made me forget about my sunburn for a bit.

On the way back through Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area, someone played music low on their phone while we sat around with sticky fingers from fruit and saltwater hair. It all felt kind of messy in a good way — not staged or rushed. I still think about that light on the water as we docked again, everyone quieter than before, maybe just full or maybe wishing it lasted longer.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Catamaran tour with snorkeling and aperitif

• Depart from Porto Cesareo slipway
• Circle Isola Grande (Isola dei Conigli)
• Travel north along Ionian coast
• Swim stop near Torre della Chianca
• Snorkel by cipollino marble columns
• Pass Isola della Malva and Bacino Grande
• Continue to Torre Lapillo beaches
• Swim and snorkel near Torre di Lapillo
• See underwater statue of Madonna dei Naviganti
• Return swim stop with aperilunch or aperitif
• Enjoy typical lunch or dinner with drinks

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Porto Cesareo tour?

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

Does this catamaran tour include food or drinks?

Yes, an aperilunch or aperitif with typical products and unlimited drinks is served onboard.

Are there swim stops at historical sites?

Yes, you'll stop at Torre della Chianca to snorkel above ancient Roman columns submerged in shallow water.

Is this snorkeling tour accessible for disabled travelers?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed onboard.

Can children join this Porto Cesareo snorkeling trip?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

How long does each swim stop last?

The exact timing varies but there are multiple relaxed swim stops throughout the cruise.

Are pets allowed on this catamaran tour?

Yes, pets are welcome on board during the trip.

What’s included

Your day includes catamaran cruising from Porto Cesareo with all snorkeling equipment provided at each stop; an aperilunch or aperitif served onboard featuring typical local foods and unlimited drinks; plus accessibility for wheelchairs, strollers, infants, service animals—and even pets—so everyone can join comfortably before returning to port together.