Tropea, Capo Vaticano & Santa Domenica: Boat Tour with Aperitif

Summary

Boat along the Costa degli Dei, swim caves taste Calabria

You’ll start beneath Tropea’s dramatic cliffs before cruising to hidden coves near Capo Vaticano only accessible by boat. Swim or snorkel in clear water among fish and ancient rocks, then relax on deck with a generous Calabrian aperitif and prosecco as you head back toward town. There’s something about this coastline that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the color — that wild, impossible blue under Tropea’s cliffs, with the old town perched above us like it might tumble into the sea any second. We left the port early enough that fishermen were still hauling up nets, and our guide Antonio pointed at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola sitting on its rock. He told us about local legends — I only caught half of it, honestly, because I was too busy watching sunlight flicker on the water. It smelled salty and clean, with a little hint of sunscreen from someone nearby.

We drifted past Santa Domenica, where kids waved from the beach (one tried to show off a handstand but fell over laughing). Then Antonio steered us towards these white coves near Capo Vaticano — you can only reach them by sea. The granite felt cool when I touched it jumping in for a swim. Snorkeling there was kind of surreal; schools of fish darted around like they owned the place. At one point I lost track of time just floating and staring up at those rocks.

I didn’t expect to get hungry so fast but after all that swimming, the aperitif hit differently — spicy ‘nduja on bread, sharp pecorino, olives that tasted way more intense than anything back home. Someone popped prosecco and we all toasted (Antonio’s “cin cin!” was louder than everyone else’s). On the way back to Tropea port, sunburned and happy, I realized I’d barely looked at my phone once all day. That view stays with you longer than you think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour of Tropea and Capo Vaticano

• Depart from Port of Tropea
• Admire Tropea cliff and beaches
• Visit ancient Roman port underwater
• Explore white coves of Capo Vaticano
• Snorkel at Scoglio di Riaci coves
• Enjoy aperitif with Calabrian products

Top questions

How long does the boat tour from Tropea to Capo Vaticano take?

The excursion typically lasts several hours including stops for swimming and snorkeling before returning to Tropea port.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests on board.

Are food and drinks included during the boat trip?

A generous Calabrian aperitif with local products and prosecco is served during the return journey.

Where does the tour depart from?

The boat departs from the Port of Tropea along the Costa degli Dei.

Can you access Capo Vaticano's coves without a boat?

No, many white coves near Capo Vaticano are only accessible by sea during this tour.

Is this day trip suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

What sights are included on this route?

You’ll see Tropea’s historic center from below, Santa Domenica beaches, ancient Roman port ruins, Capo Vaticano coves, and marine caves near Scoglio di Riaci.

Will there be a guide on board?

Yes, a local guide accompanies you throughout the boat tour sharing stories and information about each stop.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Tropea port with a local guide leading stops at Santa Domenica and Capo Vaticano’s secluded beaches; use of snorkeling equipment; swimming in marine caves; plus an abundant Calabrian aperitif with regional specialties and prosecco served onboard before returning to port.