Private Boat Tour: from Ionio to Sea of Sicily and Ants Cape

Contents show

Discover Sicily’s Underwater and Coastal Charm with a Private Boat Tour

Imagine spending a day cruising along Sicily’s rugged coast, exploring submerged Roman columns, wrecks, and hidden coves—all while enjoying a lively boat ride and a Sicilian-style aperitif. That’s exactly what this private boat tour from Marzamemi offers. With its combination of history, natural beauty, and genuine relaxation, it promises an authentic Sicilian adventure you’ll remember.

What we love about this experience is how it balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and leisure. You get to see ancient relics beneath the waves, admire scenic landmarks like Tafuri Castle, and enjoy a tasteful onboard aperitif—all in just five hours. Plus, the small private group makes it feel intimate and tailored, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.

One thing to consider is that weather conditions can influence the itinerary, especially the stops for snorkeling or entering certain caves. So, flexibility is key. Still, this tour mainly suits travelers who are comfortable in water, love a mix of history and nature, and want a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Sicily’s coast.

If you’re after a memorable day on the sea with personalized touches, stunning views, and a taste of local flavors, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic snorkeling experience over Roman relics and a military wreck.
Scenic coastal ride past Tafuri Castle and charming coves.
Small group private tour for personalized attention.
Delicious Sicilian aperitif with local wine and traditional snacks.
Flexible itinerary with weather-dependent stops.
Ideal for water lovers comfortable with snorkeling and natural caves.

Like being on the water? We've looked at these other boat experiences in Sicily

A Detailed Look at the Private Boat Journey

Starting Point: Marzamemi’s Charming Port

The adventure begins in the picturesque fishing village of Marzamemi, known for its adorable waterfront and lively atmosphere. Meeting at Sicily Boats, you’ll board an 8-meter rib boat with a maximum of 12 guests—though most groups tend to be smaller, around 8-10, for better comfort. From here, the boat sets off into the blue, with the captain and crew ensuring everyone is comfortable and ready for the day ahead.

The Underwater Heritage: Roman Columns and a Military Wreck

The first major highlight is the chance to snorkel above four Roman columns from the 2nd century AD, resting in about five meters of water. These relics are a rare glimpse into Sicily’s ancient past, and the clear waters make for excellent underwater photography. One reviewer mentioned how the visibility was impressive, and the spectacle of these submerged columns offers a unique link to history beneath your fins.

Next, the boat heads towards the Isola delle Correnti, the southernmost tip of Sicily. Here, if the sea’s calm, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel over the remains of a military wreck. Some guests noted that the wreck is only a few meters below the surface, making it an accessible and exciting dive into maritime history.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Coastal Stops and Hidden Coves

From there, the route takes you westward to explore Punta delle Formiche, an area famed for its wild coves, tiny islets, and caves. Think of it as a natural playground—perfect for swimming and relaxing. The rugged landscape and untouched beauty truly shine here, offering quiet spots away from the crowds. Reviewers have appreciated this segment as a “paradise for snorkelers” and a chance to unwind in pristine waters.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Sicily

Capo Passero and the Grotte del Polipo

Further along, the boat approaches Capo Passero, dominated by the historic Fortezza Carlo V. Weather permitting, you might venture into the Grotte del Polipo, natural sea caves celebrated for their intriguing shapes and photo-friendly lighting. Guests have spoken about how these caves feel like secret hideaways, with some noting the play of sunlight creating captivating underwater reflections.

Iconic Tafuri Castle and a Sicilian Aperitif

The journey isn’t complete without a scenic pass in front of Tafuri Castle, an impressive noble residence perched above the sea. This backdrop makes for stunning photos and a truly classic Sicilian vista.

Midway through the tour, everyone gets to enjoy an exclusive Sicilian aperitif onboard. The menu features arancini, stuffed focaccia, fresh fruit, and a selection of local wines and sparkling drinks. Guests consistently rave about the excellent wine selection, which elevates the experience with a toast to Sicily’s flavors.

Final Stop and Return to Marzamemi

As the tour winds down, you’ll head back towards Marzamemi, taking in more scenic views along the coast. The entire experience offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery—perfect for those wanting a well-rounded taste of Sicily’s maritime heritage.

What the Experience Includes and Practical Considerations

This 5-hour private boat tour is priced to reflect its personalized nature, with everything from fuel and snorkeling gear to the onboard aperitif included. The private setting ensures you can tailor some stops depending on weather and your interests.

Be mindful that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so plan for transportation to the meeting point in Marzamemi. Also, bring essentials like sunscreen, towels, swimwear, and a waterproof camera to capture underwater moments.

While the tour is suitable for most water lovers, it’s worth noting that pregnant women, people with back or heart issues are advised against participating due to the boat’s nature and physical activity involved. Also, the itinerary can change depending on sea conditions, so flexibility helps.

Authentic, Value-Focused Experience

This trip balances history, natural beauty, and local flavor. The boat is modern, and the crew is known for being professional and friendly, ensuring a smooth ride. The inclusion of a delicious Sicilian aperitif with local wine makes the experience feel indulgent without breaking the bank, especially considering the personalized nature of a private tour.

The stops for snorkeling over Roman columns and wrecks offer a rare opportunity to combine cultural history with marine life. Plus, the scenic coastlines, caves, and the castle create idyllic backdrops that elevate the entire outing.

In terms of value, this tour offers a compact but comprehensive slice of Sicily’s maritime charm—ideal for those who want a taste of everything without the hassle of self-organizing multiple excursions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy water activities, historical sites, and scenic vistas, particularly those comfortable in the water. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a personalized, relaxing day on the sea. The small group size and private setup mean it’s also ideal for travelers looking for an intimate, flexible adventure.

If you appreciate good wine and local flavors, the onboard aperitif will enhance your connection with Sicily’s culinary roots. However, if you’re seeking a full-day cultural tour or land-based exploration, this might be better paired with other activities.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour from Marzamemi offers a well-rounded, authentic Sicilian experience combining snorkeling, scenic cruising, and cultural sights. The highlights—submerged Roman columns, wrecks, wild coves, and the historic fortress—are meaningful touches that turn an ordinary boat trip into a memorable adventure.

The inclusion of a Sicilian aperitif and personalized attention makes this tour stand out, especially for those seeking a relaxed yet meaningful way to explore Sicily’s coast. It’s a fantastic choice for water lovers, history buffs, and anyone eager to soak up Sicily’s unique maritime atmosphere in a small, friendly group.

If you’re after a flexible, intimate, and scenic day on the sea, this tour promises both natural beauty and a taste of local life—delivered with genuine care and a splash of Sicilian charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While swimming is part of the experience, the tour is best suited for those comfortable in water. Non-swimmers can still enjoy the scenic cruise and views from the boat.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, change of clothes, and a waterproof camera for underwater photos.

Are there any restrictions for participation?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, and those with back or heart problems should consult with a doctor beforehand.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 5 hours, with a flexible itinerary based on weather and sea conditions.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat ride, fuel, snorkeling gear, and an onboard Sicilian aperitif with local wine and snacks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where do I meet the tour?
At Sicily Boats in Marzamemi, with directions available on Google Maps. Remember, parking is in nearby lots.

Is this a private experience?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, often with just your party and the crew for a personalized touch.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change, and the tour could be rescheduled or canceled if weather conditions are unsafe. Flexible booking policies apply.

In summary, this private boat tour offers a well-balanced slice of Sicily’s maritime history, natural beauty, and local flavors—all in a comfortable, intimate setting. Perfect for those looking to combine snorkeling, sightseeing, and culinary delights on a memorable Sicilian day.