Siracusa: Wine tasting by boat with tour and gourmet food

Imagine sipping on fine Sicilian wines while gently rocking on a boat as the sun dips into the Ionian Sea. That’s exactly what the Siracusa Wine Tasting by Boat promises — a relaxing, sensory journey through Sicily’s flavors and coastal beauty without leaving the water. This experience is designed for lovers of good wine, stunning scenery, and authentic food, all in a laid-back, elegant setting.

What makes this tour special? First, the sunset cruise offers unparalleled views of Ortigia’s historic skyline and the Syracuse coastline. Second, the wine tasting features two premium Sicilian wines from Cantina Tavino, expertly paired with gourmet creations crafted by a talented chef. Lastly, the combination of gentle sea breezes, relaxing music, and the calm of the evening creates a vibe that’s hard to beat.

A potential consideration? The tour’s duration is just 2.5 hours, which is perfect for a quick, intimate experience, but those seeking a longer, more extensive tasting might find it slightly brief. Still, for most, this compact journey hits the right balance of time and quality.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate fine wines, scenic boat rides, and gourmet food in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to unwind at sunset while discovering Sicilian flavors in a uniquely beautiful setting.

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Key Points

Stunning Sunset Views: The cruise offers breathtaking vistas of Ortigia and Syracuse’s sea caves, perfect for memorable photos.
Premium Sicilian Wines: Taste two exceptional wines — Daveline Grillo DOC Sicilia and Einai Nero D’Avola DOC Sicilia — paired with gourmet bites.
Authentic Food Pairings: Enjoy thoughtfully curated dishes, from tuna tartare to octopus, crafted to complement each wine.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Gentle waves, curated music, and sea breezes make the experience both calming and enchanting.
Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable crew and guides enhance your understanding of Sicilian wines and local flavors.
Convenient & Flexible: Meeting point outside A Surgiva, with flexible booking options including free cancellation and pay-later reservations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Sensory Journey on the Water

The tour kicks off outside the restaurant A Surgiva, where a friendly skipper awaits to whisk you away on a 2.5-hour voyage. As you set sail, the mood is relaxed — music plays softly, and the boat glides smoothly over the water. The timing around sunset is perfect; the sky turns hues of pink and gold, casting a warm glow over Ortigia’s historic rooftops and the shimmering coastline.

One of the true highlights is the chance to explore enchanting sea caves. From the boat, you’ll get close-up views of these natural formations, adding a sense of adventure and discovery to the voyage. The calm waters and the gentle rocking of the boat create a peaceful backdrop for sipping wine and soaking in the scenery.

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The Wine Tasting & Gourmet Pairings

The star of the tour is undoubtedly the wine tasting, featuring two prized Sicilian wines from Cantina Tavino. The first, Daveline Grillo DOC Sicilia, is an elegant white grown at around 500 meters above sea level. It’s described as vibrant, fresh, and savory — a true expression of Sicilian coastlines. Its pairing with red tuna tartare with mango and teriyaki or focaccia with red prawns and pistachios makes for a delightful symphony of flavors.

The second wine, Einai Nero D’Avola DOC Sicilia, offers a bold, unconventional red with a soft, refined profile. Grown in stony, sandy soils, it pairs beautifully with Sicilian-style octopus or swordfish caponata, making each sip a journey through the island’s culinary heritage.

Guests have praised the quality of the wines, often noting “top wine” and “super tasty” comments in reviews. The chef-curated pairings are designed to enhance each sip, turning the tasting into a true gastronomic experience. One reviewer even mentioned that the “tasty” pairings and the knowledgeable guide made the evening memorable.

Atmosphere & Extras

The overall ambiance is simply a treat. The curated music, the gentle sea breeze, and the panoramic views combine to create an environment where you can unwind completely. Plus, the boat has all safety equipment, and water is available on board, so comfort is assured.

Guests also appreciate the flexibility of the experience, with options to buy additional drinks and alcohol on board. The tour is suitable for all ages, though alcohol consumption is strictly regulated to ensure safety.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour is scheduled from a designated meeting point outside A Surgiva restaurant, with the duration set at approximately 2.5 hours. It’s advisable to check availability beforehand, as starting times vary, especially during peak summer months.

The price covers the boat, wine tastings, gourmet pairings, music, safety gear, and fuel. It’s a good value considering the quality of wines and the scenic voyage. Note that pickup and return to your hotel are not included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on time.

While the experience is largely weather-dependent, the operator reserves the right to modify or cancel the tour in case of adverse conditions, ensuring safety remains a priority.

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Booking Flexibility

With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without immediate payment, booking is straightforward and low-risk — perfect for spontaneous plans or flexible itineraries.

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Authentic Insights & Real Experiences

Based on reviews, guests often describe the skipper as “super” and highlight the music as a perfect complement — “couldn’t have been better,” said one reviewer. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories and insights about both the wines and the coast, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Many guests note the stunning views as a major highlight, emphasizing how the scenery makes the whole experience feel special. The gourmet food and wine pairings receive high praise, with one guest calling the wines “top” and the food “super tasty.” Such details suggest that the experience goes beyond simple tasting, offering a true taste of Sicilian hospitality.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour suits travelers seeking a relaxed, elegant experience that combines scenic beauty with gastronomic delights. If you’re a wine lover, appreciate authentic Sicilian cuisine, or simply want a memorable sunset on the water, this tour will meet your expectations.

It’s particularly well-suited for couples celebrating special moments, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting a luxurious yet laid-back way to experience Syracuse’s coast. The combination of breathtaking views, curated wines, and gourmet food makes it a lovely way to unwind and connect with Sicily’s culinary soul.

While it’s not a lengthy tour, the quality of the experience offers excellent value — an authentic, intimate taste of Sicily’s coast, culture, and flavors in just a few hours. Perfect for those who want a memorable, photo-worthy evening with a touch of luxury.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to sail or have previous boating experience?
No, the tour is led by a professional skipper who handles all navigation. You can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Can I bring my own drinks?
The tour does not specify restrictions on bringing drinks, but alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard, so it’s best to enjoy what’s provided.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for the weather. Bring a light jacket for evening breezes and perhaps sunglasses or a hat for sun protection.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience is family-friendly, as it’s primarily a scenic boat ride with food and wine tasting. Always check with the provider if uncertain.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour may be modified or cancelled in adverse weather or sea conditions for safety reasons, with options for rescheduling or refund.

Are vegetarian or special diet options available?
The provided information doesn’t specify dietary accommodations. It’s best to contact the provider beforehand if you have specific needs.

How many people are typically on the boat?
The tour is designed to be intimate, generally suited for small groups, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, guests need to arrive at the meeting point outside A Surgiva. Planning your route accordingly is recommended.

Can I purchase additional drinks on board?
Yes, you have the opportunity to buy drinks and alcohol during the tour if you wish.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides operate in English and Italian, making it accessible for most travelers.

This sunset boat tour around Ortigia with wine and gourmet food offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, authentic flavors, and relaxed luxury. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a peaceful evening on the water, it promises a memorable, taste-filled Sicilian adventure.