San Vito Lo Capo isn’t just a charming beach town; it’s a prime starting point for exploring Sicily’s stunning coastline by boat. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise across crystal waters, an adventure exploring caves, or a day in the nature reserve, there’s something on this list for every kind of traveler. We’ve especially enjoyed the Favignana and Levanzo mini-cruise for the chance to see two beautiful islands in a single day, complete with plenty of swimming and free time. The Marettimo cruise offers a more exclusive experience with caves and a small-group vibe, perfect for those seeking calm and personalized service. And for a nature-focused day, the Zingaro Reserve boat tour delivers scenic snorkeling and hiking, with dedicated guides.
If you’re planning your Sicilian seaside adventure, these tours showcase the variety of experiences waiting just off the coast. Whether you want a full-day island hop, a snorkeling expedition, or a scenic cruise with cave exploration, the options are diverse and tailored for different interests and activity levels.
1. Favignana and Levanzo mini-cruise from Trapani with Lunch
At number 1, this mini-cruise provides a full day of island-hopping from Trapani, with a focus on the two most famous islands. The tour lasts around 9 hours and includes stops at Favignana and Levanzo, both known for their clear waters and charming villages. What sets this trip apart is the combination of cruising along scenic coastlines, with opportunities for swimming in the sea—particularly at Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra—and exploring the islands at your own pace.
The tour includes a tasty lunch on board, featuring pasta with pesto trapanese, which adds a local flavor to the experience. The itinerary is well-paced: after a 50-minute speedboat ride from the starting point in Via Ammiraglio Staiti, you’ll enjoy two hours of free time in Favignana, perfect for shopping or a walk. The cruise then takes you around the islands with scenic stops, including photo opportunities at Cala Azzurra and Levanzo.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balance of relaxation, exploration, and local flavor. Reviews highlight the friendly staff and beautiful scenery, with a 4.1/5 rating based on 65 reviews. The value for money is good given the full day’s itinerary and included lunch.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive day on the water with island exploration, swimming, and delicious food.
2. Marettimo: cruise from Trapani w/lunch and visit the caves
At number 2, the Marettimo cruise offers a slightly more intimate and adventurous experience. This 9-hour tour takes you to the small island of Marettimo, known for its rugged coastline and extensive sea caves. The tour stands out for its focus on exploring these caves up close, with a boat ride through the impressive formations.
The excursion includes a lunch on board—a good opportunity to sample local Sicilian dishes—and time to explore Marettimo’s tiny fishing village. What makes this trip unique is the emphasis on sightseeing and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The tour is rated 5/5 from just four reviews, emphasizing its high quality and personalized touch.
The guide’s local knowledge and attentive service ensure safety and comfort, even in the more active snorkeling sections. The scenery is stunning, and the caves are a real highlight. If you love small-group tours and caves, this is a top pick for a full-day sea adventure.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a more exclusive experience with cave exploration and smaller crowds.
3. RISERVA DELLO ZINGARO AND SCOPELLO: BOAT TOUR AND SNORKELING
At number 3, the Zingaro Reserve and Scopello boat tour delivers a shorter, 4-hour adventure perfect for a half-day escape. This trip takes you on the “WHY NOT,” a yacht-style boat, to cover the stunning natural coastline of the Zingaro Nature Reserve. The focus here is on snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the landscape.
The itinerary includes stops at the famed Cala dell’Uzzo and the Scopello stacks—famous for their dramatic cliffs and rock formations. The crew provides snorkeling equipment and local snacks, making it easy to relax as you explore underwater and above-water landscapes. The tour emphasizes safety and personalized service, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the surroundings.
Rated 4.5/5, most reviews note the friendly staff and the activity’s suitability for families and casual explorers. It’s a great choice if you want a quick, active day that combines scenic beauty with underwater fun.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers short on time who want a well-organized snorkeling and swimming adventure in a protected natural setting.
4. San Vito lo Capo: boat excursion to Zingaro natural Reserve
Finally, at number 4, this Zingaro natural reserve boat trip is a four-hour journey that offers a more relaxed, scenic experience starting right from San Vito Lo Capo. It’s tailored for travelers who want to see the coast, explore coves, and enjoy some light snorkeling, all with the comfort of small groups.
This tour includes snorkeling, sightseeing, and a long-tail boat ride along the coast, with stops at coves and the famous Scopello stacks. Guides share fascinating stories about the area’s geography and history, making the trip both entertaining and informative. The tour’s focus on top-tier service and passion for the sea ensures a memorable outing.
Rated 5/5, it’s highly recommended for those who want a shorter yet immersive experience that captures the essence of Sicily’s coastline without a full-day commitment. It’s ideal for families or travelers with limited time but a desire to see the Zingaro Reserve.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, scenic, and engaging day exploring Sicily’s natural beauty with guided insights.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in San Vito Lo Capo
When selecting a boat tour, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend on the water. For island lovers who want a full day of exploration, the Favignana and Levanzo mini-cruise offers a great mix of scenery and free time. If caves and snorkeling excite you, the Marettimo cruise provides an intimate adventure with personalized service. For those short on time but eager to experience the rugged coastline, the Zingaro and Scopello tour or the San Vito Zingaro trip are excellent options.
Think about your activity level—if snorkeling or swimming are priorities, pick a tour that emphasizes those. Budget-wise, tours with included lunches and small-group experiences tend to offer better value for the effort. Book early, especially in the busy summer months, to ensure availability.
To sum it up, San Vito Lo Capo’s waters are calling with a variety of boat trips that suit different tastes. Whether you want a full-day island cruise, a cave exploration, or a scenic short trip, these options promise memorable views, refreshing swims, and stories to tell long after you leave the Sicilian coast. Consider your interests, time, and budget—then book early to avoid missing out on these fantastic experiences.