Siracusa: Ortigia Boat Tour & Sea Caves with Snorkeling

Summary

Boat tour from Syracuse to Ortigia island with sea caves and swim stops

You’ll board a small boat in Siracusa for a relaxed cruise along Ortigia’s ancient shoreline and into hidden sea caves. With time to snorkel in clear Sicilian waters and stories from your local guide along the way, you’ll taste salt on your lips and maybe share some laughs over fresh fruit before heading back — moments you’ll probably remember longer than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever seen water this clear?" That’s what our guide, Andrea, said as we left the little dock in Siracusa. I was still trying to pronounce “Ortigia” right — Li laughed when I tried (I think I got closer by the end). The sun was already warm on my shoulders, and there was this salty smell that hit me as soon as we pushed off. The boat wasn’t fancy, but it felt right for the place — white paint chipped in spots, ropes a bit rough on your hands. We drifted past old stone buildings clinging to the edge of Ortigia, laundry flapping out over the water like someone’s private signal.

Andrea kept pointing out bits of history — apparently that arch we passed is older than most countries (he said it so casually I almost missed it). The sea caves were darker than I expected, echoey inside, with cool air brushing your face after all that sun. At one point he cut the engine and let us just float in silence for a minute. I remember hearing only the drip-drip from somewhere behind us and someone’s phone camera clicking quietly. Not sure why but that part stuck with me.

We stopped in a bay where the water really did look unreal — blue-green like those old glass bottles you find at flea markets. Snorkeling gear came out (included), and even though I’m not much of a swimmer, I gave it a go. Fish darted around my feet; someone found a shell shaped like a tiny ear. There was laughter and some awkward splashing, but nobody cared. On the way back to Siracusa, Andrea handed out slices of cold melon — not part of the official tour, just something he does if he likes you (his words). The breeze picked up and for a minute everyone went quiet again, just watching Ortigia getting smaller behind us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour to Ortigia and sea caves

• Meet at office in Via Eritrean 2 G
• Present your ticket
• Board the boat
• Sail to sea caves and bays
• Snorkel in clear waters
• Visit island of Ortigia
• Return to departure point

Top questions

Where does the Siracusa boat tour start?

The tour starts at Via Eritrea 2G in Syracuse (Siracusa), where you check in before heading to the boat.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Ortigia boat trip?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included during the stop at one of the bays.

How long is the boat excursion around Ortigia and sea caves?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect several hours between departure and return.

Is this boat tour suitable for children?

Children can join if accompanied by an adult; child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

Are specialized infant seats available on board?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available if needed.

Can pregnant travelers join this Siracusa boat tour?

This activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Is lunch provided during the trip?

No formal lunch is included; snacks may be offered informally by guides but aren’t guaranteed.

Are guides multilingual on this excursion?

The tour may be operated by multilingual guides depending on participants’ needs.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting at an easy-to-find office in Siracusa before boarding a small group boat with your local guide; snorkeling gear is provided for swimming stops among clear bays near Ortigia and inside sea caves; infant seats are available if requested; after exploring you return to your original departure point together.