Plemmirio Sailing Tour from Ortigia with Snorkeling

About this tour

Sail a vintage wooden boat through Sicily's Plemmirio Marine Protected Area, departing from the historic island of Ortigia. Over two and a half hours, you'll glide along dramatic limestone cliffs and drop into crystalline waters for guided snorkelling. A marine specialist joins you to point out local fish, seagrass beds, and underwater rock formations. The pace balances time under canvas with underwater exploration, making it suited to active swimmers comfortable on small vessels.

Highlights

• Vintage sailing boat through protected marine reserve
• Guided snorkelling with expert marine staff
• Limestone cliffs and hidden coves near Ortigia
• Mediterranean fish and seagrass meadows
• Equipment supplied; bring swimwear only
• Two and a half hour outing

What to expect

You'll board a classic wooden sailboat at Ortigia's waterfront and head south toward Plemmirio's rugged headland. The boat skims along the coastline under sail, with crew pointing out geological features and marine habitats. When conditions permit, you'll anchor in a sheltered bay, don snorkelling gear, and slip into the water alongside the vessel. The marine guide swims with you, identifying species and navigating toward reef sections and deeper channels. Expect moderate physical exertion—boat movement, entering water from the deck, and 30–40 minutes of active snorkelling.

Good to know

Minimum moderate fitness required. Not suitable for pregnant travellers, those with spinal injuries, or poor cardiovascular health. Ages 14–70 only. Snorkelling equipment provided. No alcohol or outside food permitted; water available for purchase. Public transport reaches the departure point.