Otranto, with its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and welcoming harbor, is a perfect base for exploring via boat. The coastline around this historic port offers a variety of cruises and boat tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Whether you’re eager to snorkel in secluded coves, indulge in local food and wine aboard a shared trip, or enjoy the privacy of a yacht, Otranto’s boat tours promise a memorable experience. We especially like the Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Local Food Tasting, which combines natural beauty with culinary delights—perfect for those who want a little of everything.
These tours are a fantastic way to see the coast from a different perspective, with opportunities to relax, swim, and learn about the area’s hidden spots. Plus, many of these experiences boast high ratings (mostly 4.9/5), reflecting strong customer satisfaction. Whether you prefer a quick trip or a longer excursion, there’s an option here for every kind of traveler.
1. Otranto: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Local Food Tasting
At number one, this 2-3 hour boat tour offers a perfect introduction to Salento’s coast. It’s a standout because it combines snorkeling in clear waters with a stop for tasting local products, making it both adventurous and delicious. The tour explores either the northern or southern coast, giving flexibility depending on your preferences. The vessel is well-equipped for snorkeling and comfort, ensuring you can enjoy the crystal waters of the Adriatic safely.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its high rating of 4.9/5 from 25 reviews, with travelers praising the skipper’s knowledge and friendly attitude. The inclusion of local food and wine at the end enhances the experience, giving you a taste of Salento’s culinary scene. Expect to see hidden coves and dramatic sea caves, all in a small-group setting that feels intimate. This tour is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of sea adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavor—perfect if you’re short on time but want a memorable taste of the coast.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value, especially if you’re interested in snorkeling and sampling local foods in a relaxed atmosphere.
2. 5 hours Otranto, boat tour with snorkeling and aperitif
This 5-hour tour is a longer, more leisurely way to explore Salento’s coast. It includes all the features of the shorter trip—snorkeling, swimming, and exploring coves—but with more time to soak up the scenery and enjoy the onboard aperitif. Like the first, it offers a choice between northern or southern coast routes, allowing you to focus on the area that excites you most.
Guests consistently rate this experience at 4.9/5, praising the relaxed pace and the opportunity to discover more of the coastline. The itinerary is flexible, and there’s plenty of time to swim, take photos, and unwind. The onboard aperitif features local products, making it an excellent choice for food lovers who want a more immersive experience. The longer duration is perfect for those eager to explore beyond the highlights or to relax at a slower pace.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting more time on the water with scenic stops and local tastes, this 5-hour tour offers excellent value and flexibility.
3. Boat: Boat tour with appetizer and drinks included
At number three, this 3-hour boat tour emphasizes gastronomy alongside sea views. The tour boasts a large fleet with different levels of service, allowing you to choose a package that matches your comfort preferences. It includes appetizers and drinks, making it an excellent option for those seeking a laid-back, culinary-focused experience aboard a boat.
The highlight is the opportunity to enjoy local delicacies and drinks while cruising along the coast, with the boat equipped for relaxation. The customizable itinerary means if you have specific coves or sights in mind, the captain can tailor the trip. The reviews, also at 4.9/5, praise the diversity of services and the quality of onboard food. It’s a good pick for travelers looking for a comfortable, social environment with scenic views and a focus on local flavors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for social travelers who want a shorter, food-focused cruise with flexible options and onboard amenities.
4. Otranto: Albatros Boat Private Tour with Aperitif and Snacks
Number four is a private yacht experience lasting about 3 hours, perfect for those seeking exclusivity. Departing from Otranto, the Albatros offers a chance to explore either the South or North Coast in complete privacy. The large sundeck is the star feature, inviting you to relax with a glass of sparkling wine and light snacks as you soak up the scenery.
What sets this tour apart is the personalized itinerary—you decide which coves or sights to see. The private yacht allows for swimming stops tailored to your interests, and the experience is suitable for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a quiet day on the water. The reviews consistently rate it at 4.9/5, with travelers appreciating the luxury and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a tailored, luxurious day on the water with privacy and comfort as priorities.
5. Otranto: Boat Tour with Aperitif and Snorkeling Equipment
This 3-hour tour is a perfect choice if snorkeling is a priority. Led by a local skipper, it combines swimming in the Adriatic’s clear waters with an onboard aperitif featuring local products. The included snorkeling equipment means you won’t need to bring your own gear, making it convenient for spontaneous underwater adventures.
The route includes stops at scenic spots like Porto di Otranto, with plenty of time to swim, relax, and enjoy music via Bluetooth stereo system. The high rating of 4.9/5 reflects the quality of the experience, particularly the friendly skipper and excellent snorkeling spots. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a casual yet active day, mixing leisure with underwater exploration.
Bottom Line: The best choice if snorkeling and a relaxed atmosphere are what you seek, with the added bonus of local snacks and music onboard.
6. Private boat tour of the Otranto Coast
Rounding out the list is a 4-hour private tour aboard the stylish Chris-Craft motorboat, perfect for a fully tailored experience. Depart from Otranto and explore either the North or South Coast, with itinerary and swimming stops designed just for you. This exclusive tour ensures maximum flexibility for your day, whether you want to focus on swimming, sightseeing, or simply relaxing.
The boat’s large sundeck invites lounging, and a glass of the region’s best wines can be raised while enjoying the scenery. Several reviews highlight the comfort and personalized service, making it ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion or groups seeking privacy.
Bottom Line: For those looking for a luxurious, private experience with full control over the day’s activities, this is the top choice.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Otranto
When selecting a boat tour, consider your budget, time availability, and what you most want to experience. If snorkeling and tasting local foods appeal to you, the Otranto: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Local Food Tasting provides a balanced adventure. For those wanting luxury and privacy, the Private Yacht Tour offers exclusivity, while families or groups seeking a social atmosphere might prefer the Aperitif and Snorkeling or the full day.
Booking early is wise in high season, especially for private options. Think about your preferred pace—short trips are perfect for a quick taste of the coast, while longer tours suit those wanting to unwind and explore more thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
Otranto’s boat tours offer a wide variety of ways to experience its stunning coastline. The snorkeling adventures, the luxurious private yacht, and the food and wine cruises each bring something unique to the table. For a quick, fun introduction, the first tour is perfect; for a relaxed, personalized day, the private yacht stands out.
No matter your style, booking early helps ensure you secure the experience that best matches your plans. With options from 3 hours to a full day, Otranto’s waters are waiting to show you their best side.