Tour of the island of Ortigia and the Plemmirio reserve
Tours · Italy

Tour of the island of Ortigia and the Plemmirio reserve

5.0 · 22 reviews2h 30m📍 Italy

About this tour

Sail around Syracuse's Ortigia island and the Plemmirio reserve on a 2.5-hour coastal loop. You'll pass the Bourbon prison, Vigliena fort, Spanish walls, Maniace Castle and the sprawling Porto Grande, then head out to the protected Gulf of Pillirina. Drinks flow throughout—water, prosecco, and wine—with plenty of stops to take in the Ionian views and explore key landmarks from the boat.

Highlights

  • Bourbon-era prison and Vigliena fort from the water
  • Maniace Castle and fortified Spanish walls
  • Aretusa spring and dual waterfront promenades
  • Porto Grande—Syracuse's massive natural harbour
  • Plemmirio reserve and Gulf of Pillirina
  • Prosecco and wine included throughout sail
  • Landing breaks for photos and shoreside exploration

What to expect

You'll board a vessel for a straightforward circumnavigation of Ortigia, moving anticlockwise past the island's defensive architecture and baroque waterfront. The boat makes several stops—bathroom breaks built in, plus chances to linger at viewpoints. Once you've looped the island, you'll head southeast into the Plemmirio reserve, where calmer waters meet limestone cliffs. The guide points out historical detail and natural features. Drinks service happens organically: water on tap, prosecco and wine offered throughout. It's leisurely pacing, not rushed.

Good to know

Infants sit on adult laps; prams and strollers are accommodated. Under-18s cannot drink alcohol. Service animals welcome. No snorkelling gear provided. Public transport is nearby if you need alternative transport to the departure point.

Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.

Tour of the island of Ortigia and the Plemmirio reserve · BugBitten