Syracuse Ortigia Boat Tour

This tour lasts approximately 2 hours and circumnavigates Ortigia, an island off the coast of Syracuse. The guide will tell you about the history of this picturesque place and its most characteristic buildings, such as the Maniace Castle. During the boat trip you can also go snorkelling - snorkel and mask rental is included in the price - and crown the experience with prosecco and fresh fruit.

The Greeks founded Syracuse around the 8th century BC and Ortigia was its original nucleus. The city thrived as a commercial and cultural centre, attracting illustrious figures such as Archimedes. Several monuments can be admired from the waters and the following list of the most famous are listed below:

• Maniace Castle - Built in the 13th century during the Norman period. It owes its name to Giorgio Maniace, Byzantine general who fought for the conquest of Sicily.
• Fonte Arethusa - A freshwater spring near the sea and surrounded by lush vegetation. According to legend, Arethusa was a young nymph loved by the river god Alpheus. To escape from him, she sought help from Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, who transformed her into a freshwater spring.
• Syracuse Cathedral - The baroque façade and domes are also visible from the sea. It is built on a site that once housed a Greek temple dedicated to Athena.
• Coastal towers - Along the coastline of Ortigia, there are several watchtowers and defence towers from different periods.

The snorkelling stop allows you to admire the fauna living on the seabed of Syracuse, including moray eels, octopus, sea bream, sea urchins, groupers and other fish. Sun cream and sunglasses are recommended.