Santa Maria di Leuca: Boat Tour, Sea Caves & Swim Stops

Summary

Boat along Leuca’s coast pausing at Grotta del Soffio & Tre Porte for swims

You’ll set off from Santa Maria di Leuca by boat with a small group and local captain, gliding past dramatic cliffs and stopping at Grotta del Soffio for an unexpected underwater show. Swim or snorkel with provided gear near sea caves like Tre Porte, then relax on deck under southern sun. It’s peaceful, sometimes funny, always real—the kind of afternoon that lingers long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the light bounced off the limestone cliffs as we left Santa Maria di Leuca’s little harbor—almost too bright to look at, but you can’t look away. Our captain, Marco, had that sun-worn face you only get from years on the water. He pointed out tiny details in the rocks as we drifted close—“That one looks like a lion if you squint,” he joked. The sea was calm but you could still smell salt and something greenish, maybe seaweed? Hard to say. I found myself just watching the coastline slip by, not really talking much.

We stopped near Grotta del Soffio—Marco said it means “the breath”—and honestly, when I slid into the water there was this weird fizzing sound all around me from air bubbles escaping through the rocks. I didn’t expect that. The snorkeling gear was already waiting on deck (I always forget my mask), so it was easy to just float and watch little silver fish dart around my feet. Some people stayed on board and stretched out on these soft cushions under the sun; I almost joined them after a while because my fingers were starting to wrinkle.

Our last stop was Tre Porte cave. There’s something about being able to swim right up to a cave entrance that makes you feel like you’re in some old adventure movie—except it’s just us, not a film crew in sight. A couple of kids tried to count how many shades of blue they could see in the water (they lost track). On the way back, Marco handed out slices of chilled melon—nothing fancy but tasted perfect after swimming. I still think about that view back towards Leuca with everyone quiet for once, just listening to the engine hum and gulls overhead.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour with swimming stops

• Board the boat at Santa Maria di Leuca
• Sail along the coast and admire cliffs
• Stop to swim near Grotta del Soffio
• Stop near Tre Porte cave to swim or relax
• Relax on the boat's sundeck with cushions

Top questions

How long is the boat tour in Santa Maria di Leuca?

The boat tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Are swimming stops included during the tour?

Yes, there are stops for swimming and snorkeling near caves such as Grotta del Soffio and Tre Porte.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Santa Maria di Leuca boat tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included with your booking.

How many people are usually on board?

The number of guests is limited for comfort and safety; it’s a small group experience.

Is this boat trip suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the boat tour.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at Santa Maria di Leuca harbor.

What should I bring for this day trip in Santa Maria di Leuca?

You may want swimwear, sunscreen, towel; snorkeling gear is provided onboard.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes a three-hour boat ride along both coasts of Capo di Leuca with several swim stops at caves like Grotta del Soffio and Tre Porte. Snorkeling equipment is ready for you on deck so there’s no need to pack your own mask or fins—just bring yourself (and maybe some sunscreen).