Otranto isn’t just about its historic walls and cobbled streets; it’s also a prime spot for memorable boat tours that showcase the stunning Salento coast. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic invite you to splash in, relax, and taste local flavors. We especially love tours that combine scenic cruising with authentic regional experiences, like tasting local products or enjoying a glass of sparkling wine. An example of this is the Otranto: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Local Food Tasting, which offers a perfect mix of adventure and gastronomy. Whether you prefer a quick afternoon outing or a full-day exploration, these tours bring the coast’s natural beauty and flavors right to your hands.
Otranto’s boat tours stand out for their variety—ranging from intimate private charters to larger group excursions—each offering different ways to enjoy the scenic coastline. Some tours focus on snorkeling in secluded coves, others on relaxing with snacks and local wine onboard. For those wanting a more comprehensive experience, there’s the From Gallipoli or surroundings: Lecce and Otranto Tour, which adds cultural stops in Lecce and the Bauxite Caves into a full-day itinerary. Keep reading to find the best fit for your style and schedule.
1. Otranto: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Local Food Tasting
This 2 to 3-hour boat tour is designed for travelers wanting a quick yet immersive taste of Otranto’s coastal beauty. It’s perfect for families or anyone short on time but eager to see the sea’s best spots. The tour explores hidden coves and caves along the Salento coast, with snorkel gear provided so you can swim in the transparent waters. After splashing around, you’ll stop for a relaxed tasting of local products—think fresh cheeses, olive oil, and regional wines—allowing you to savor the flavors of Apulia. The boat is spacious, and you can choose between a northern or southern itinerary, depending on your preference for scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its high rating—4.9/5 from 25 reviews—and the enthusiastic praise for the skipper, who makes the trip engaging and informative. Reviewers love the balance of adventure and local tasting, calling it a “perfect afternoon” and “highly recommended.” It’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of the coast without committing the whole day. The relaxed pace makes it accessible even for less experienced swimmers.
Bottom Line: If a short, fun, and flavorful boat trip appeals to you, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments in just a few hours.
2. From Gallipoli or surroundings: Lecce and Otranto Tour
Spanning 8 hours, this full-day tour takes you beyond Otranto’s shores to explore the nearby towns of Lecce and the impressive Bauxite Caves. It’s ideal if you want a cultural and scenic deep dive into Puglia’s highlights. The day begins with pick-up from Gallipoli, then a scenic 30-minute drive to Lecce, where you’ll spend around three hours soaking in its famous Baroque architecture—think ornate churches, palaces, and lively streets.
Afterward, the tour continues to Otranto, giving you a couple of hours of free time to wander the historic center and enjoy seaside views. The highlight for many is the visit to the striking Bauxite Caves, a natural marvel with bright orange walls and a fascinating underground landscape. The tour’s flexibility allows you to explore at your own pace, and reviews confirm that the combination of cultural sights and natural wonders makes it a worthwhile day out.
This tour is perfect if you love history, architecture, and scenic drives. It’s also good for travelers who want a guided experience that covers multiple highlights without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive day combining cultural sights and natural wonders, this tour is hard to beat—especially with its flexible itinerary and expert guides.
3. 5 hours Otranto, boat tour with snorkeling and aperitif
This 5-hour boat tour offers a more relaxed but still adventurous way to experience Otranto’s coast. It’s similar to the shorter tour but includes an aperitif, making it ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a leisurely snack. The route covers the natural beauty of the Salento coast, with stops for snorkeling in clear waters where gear is provided. After swimming, you’ll relax on deck with a local-made snack and drinks, soaking in the sun and scenery.
What sets this tour apart is its longer duration, allowing more time for swimming and relaxing. The reviews, with a 4.9/5 rating, praise the knowledgeable crew and the chance to really unwind while discovering hidden coves. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of active water time and laid-back socializing.
If you’re interested in a slightly longer outing with more opportunities to swim and indulge, this tour provides excellent value for its extended timeframe and inclusions.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for water lovers who want to enjoy both snorkeling and convivial aperitifs on a beautiful afternoon.
4. Boat: Boat tour with appetizer and drinks included
This 3-hour cruise emphasizes the culinary side of coastal Italy, with appetizers and drinks included onboard. The large fleet and various levels of service mean you can find options tailored to your comfort level. The tour glides along Otranto’s coast, stopping occasionally for swimming in the Adriatic’s calm waters. You’ll be served regional snacks—cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread—paired with local wines or soft drinks, making it a true taste of Salento.
The highlight here is the value—you’re getting both a scenic cruise and authentic regional flavors in one package. The multiple service levels on the fleet mean you can pick an experience that suits your budget and preferences. This tour is best for those who want a social, relaxed outing with good food and beautiful water views.
The reviews highlight the friendly crew and the high-quality local products. It’s an easy choice for a casual, enjoyable afternoon on the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back cruise with regional snacks and drinks, all within a few hours.
5. Otranto: Albatros Boat Private Tour with Aperitif and Snacks
For those who value privacy and personalized service, this 3-hour private yacht offers a luxurious way to enjoy Otranto’s coast. You’ll relax on a spacious sundeck, sipping sparkling wine and nibbling light snacks as you glide past scenic coves along either the South or North Coast. The itinerary is customizable, letting you pick the exact spots and beaches you want to visit.
What makes this tour special is its exclusivity—you’re the only group onboard, and the skipper tailors the experience to your preferences. The reviews are glowing, with a rating of 4.9/5, noting how perfect it is for romantic getaways or small groups celebrating special occasions. It’s a great choice if you want a sophisticated, private outing that combines comfort, stunning views, and personalized stops.
While more costly than group tours, the private charter offers a level of luxury and flexibility that many travelers find worth the extra investment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a custom, upscale day on the sea with privacy and elegance.
6. Otranto: Boat Tour with Aperitif and Snorkeling Equipment
This 3-hour tour emphasizes both snorkeling and leisure. Led by a local skipper, it features stops in the crystal waters of the Adriatic where you can swim with provided gear. After cooling off, you’ll enjoy an aperitif with local products—perfect for relaxing as the boat gently cruises along the coast.
The stereo system with Bluetooth allows you to listen to music as you sail, adding to the laid-back vibe. The reviews highlight the friendly crew and the well-organized stops. The itinerary is simple, starting and ending at Porto di Otranto, but packed with opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and tasting regional goodies.
Ideal for travelers who want a straightforward, enjoyable water experience with the convenience of snorkeling gear and a local-style snack.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, easygoing option perfect for those who want to combine swimming, scenic views, and local snacks in a short trip.
7. Private boat tour of the Otranto Coast
This 4-hour private tour offers a truly custom experience aboard the elegant EnjoyingLife, a Chris-Craft motorboat. You’ll depart from Otranto’s picturesque port and sail along the coast, stopping at coves and beaches chosen specifically by you. The flexibility to create your own itinerary means you can focus on swimming, sightseeing, or simply relaxing on deck.
The highlight is the exclusive nature—your group has the entire boat at its disposal, allowing full freedom to explore or lounge. The skipper’s experience ensures smooth cruising and tailored stops for swimming. Plus, you can raise a glass with the best wines of Salento, making it a memorable, luxurious day.
This tour is best suited for travelers seeking privacy, comfort, and a day customized to their interests. It’s also an excellent choice for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a stress-free escape.
Bottom Line: For a luxurious, personalized experience on the water, this private tour offers unmatched flexibility and comfort.
How to Choose
When selecting a tour in Otranto, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and what type of experience excites you most. If you’re short on time but want a quick taste of the coast, the Otranto: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Local Food Tasting is ideal. For a full-day cultural adventure, the Lecce and Otranto Tour offers an immersive experience.
If your main goal is relaxing onboard with good food, the Boat with appetizer and drinks or the Albatros private yacht are excellent choices. For a more active aquatic experience, the Snorkeling tour combines swimming with scenic cruising.
Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability. Consider the length of the tour and how much time you have in Otranto—shorter trips suit quick visits, while full-day excursions are better for a relaxed exploration.
Final Thoughts
Otranto offers a diverse range of boat tours that cater to different interests and schedules. For a quick, fun adventure with local flavors, the shorter trips with snorkeling or snacks are perfect. If you’re after something more luxurious or private, the private yacht options deliver a tailored experience with added comfort.
Travelers wanting cultural depth should consider the combined land and sea excursions like the Lecce and Otranto tour. Whatever your choice, these tours unlock the best of the coast’s natural beauty and regional charm. To avoid missing out, it’s wise to book your preferred experience early, especially during the busy summer months.