Boat tour to Santa Maria di Leuca caves: 3 hours, two swims

Seven named caves, two swimming stops, and prosecco at the water's edge

A 3-hour guided boat tour from Santa Maria di Leuca marina explores the Ionian side caves—the River Cave, Cave of Indians, Cave of Seagulls, Cave of Varduselle, Cave of Blow, Cave of Vora, and others—with two stops for swimming and snorkeling. The tour includes masks, an aperitif with prosecco, and a captain who speaks English, Spanish, Italian, French and one additional language. Small group size keeps the boat intimate.

Step-by-step itinerary

3-hour guided boat tour to caves

• Meet captain Raffael at marina
• Discover Ionian side caves
• Swim and snorkel stop
• Explore caves on Ionian side
• Enjoy bath aperitif and prosecco

The Experience

You arrive at Marina Molo in Santa Maria di Leuca and board with Captain Raffael, who takes the boat out to the Ionian side where the two seas meet. The route passes seven named caves carved into the limestone cliffs—each one has its own shape and story, from the Cave of Indians to the Cave of Lovers—and the captain points out the geography as you move between them. The Meeting Point of the Two Seas marks a visible shift in the water's color and temperature where two currents collide.

Two stops break up the cave-viewing: you get about 30 minutes in the water at each one, with snorkeling masks provided. The first stop is a bathroom break; the second comes with an aperitif—prosecco, friselline, chips, and tarallini—served right at the water's edge. The small number of participants means the boat never feels crowded, and the captain adjusts the pace to let people linger at caves they want to photograph or explore more closely.

The whole tour runs three hours from departure to return. Captain Raffael speaks five languages, so the commentary works whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or in a mixed group. Snorkeling gear is included; bring a towel and sunscreen. The boat leaves from the marina in Santa Maria di Leuca itself, so there's no transfer to arrange.

What’s included

• 3-hour guided boat tour with Captain Raffael.
• snorkeling masks.
• two swimming stops.
• aperitif with prosecco, friselline, chips, and tarallini.
• guide in English, Spanish, Italian, French and one additional language.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Lo Scalo Escursioni

Is this one for you?Book this tour if you want to see multiple sea caves without arranging transport or snorkeling gear yourself—the boat, the guide, the masks and the prosecco all come with the booking, and the small group size means the pace stays relaxed.

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Top questions

What caves does the boat actually visit on this tour?

The Ionian side route includes the River Cave, Cave of Indians, Cave of Seagulls, Cave of Varduselle, Cave of Blow, Cave of Vora, Cave of the Devil, Cave Maestro Giovanni, Cave of the Three Doors, Cave of Giants, and Cave of Lovers. The exact order depends on sea conditions and how long you linger at each one.

How much time do you actually spend swimming and snorkeling?

Two stops, each about 30 minutes in the water. Snorkeling masks are provided at both stops, and the second one includes an aperitif with prosecco and snacks served on the boat.

Is the boat suitable for children and people who don't swim well?

Yes. Infants can ride in a stroller or pram, and infants must sit on an adult's lap. The tour is suitable for all fitness levels. Snorkeling is optional—you can stay on the boat or wade in shallow water at the stops instead.

What language does the guide speak?

Captain Raffael guides in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and one additional language. The tour commentary works for mixed groups.

Where does the boat depart from, and how do you get there?

The boat leaves from Marina Molo in Santa Maria di Leuca. Public transportation options are available nearby if you don't have a car.