the 9 best boat excursions in Castro

Set out to discover the Otranto caves guided by an experienced skipper and lulled by the waves of the sea.

Once you set sail from the port of Otranto, you can take 2 itineraries at the captain's discretion and depending on weather conditions:

•    North Itinerary: Grotta Monaca, Baia Mulino ad Acqua, Baia dei Turchi
•    Southern itinerary: Grotta Palombara, Baia delle Orte, Faro Palascia, Sant Emiliano

The skipper, present on board for the duration of the excursion, will tell you the history of the caves and can answer all your questions.

In addition, thanks to a dedicated stop, you will have the opportunity to swim in the sea, for which we suggest you bring snorkeling equipment to enjoy this moment.

Return is scheduled about 2 to 3 hours later, depending on the option you choose, still at the port of Otranto.

Enjoy a sunset aperitif in Porto Cesareo and dive into the crystal-clear waters of Salento as the sun sinks to the horizon.

Departing from the Lungomare Raffaele Sambati, you will embark on the motorship Santa Maria, which will take you along the following itinerary:

•    Rabbit Island
•    Scala di Furno
•    Island of the Mallow
•    Chianca Tower
•    Bay of Torre Lapillo
•    Castiglione Tower
•    Punta Prosciutto

During the navigation you will be offered an aperitif on board at sunset based on typical Salento products, accompanied by rosé wine and fresh fruit.

You will also be provided with equipment to practice surface snorkeling and admire the Salento flora and fauna.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

The experience is guaranteed upon reaching a minimum of 10 participants.

Experience a gozzo excursion along the coast of Castro Marina and discover sea caves, bays and crystal clear waters of Salento, accompanied by experienced sailors.

During the cruise, visit some of the area's best-known caves, such as Grotta Palombara, Grotta Rotundella, Grotta Azzurra and the Grotta Zinzulusa, as well as Baia Romanelli.

You can choose from three options:

•    The 1-hour tour with cave visit and one swimming stop
•    The 2-hour tour that continues to Porto Miggiano and Santa Cesarea Terme with more time for swimming
•    The 3-hour tour that offers a more complete experience, with additional swim stops and an aperitif on board, all the way to Luvara Bay.

The Gallipoli boat excursion allows you to explore the Salento region while admiring the Apulian coastline from the sea and diving into the crystal clear waters.

You will have the opportunity to admire Old Gallipoli with its towers, walls and churches. You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will share with you the history and traditions of this area. 

The tours last 3 hours; the morning and afternoon departures include a swim stop at the island of Sant’Andrea, a natural park dominated by a tall lighthouse and characterized by a rich marine ecosystem, and one at Punta Pizzo where the sandy seabed and inlet create a natural pool.

The sunset tour includes a stop at the island of Sant’Andrea and one in the Lidi area where it will be possible to admire the sun disappearing into the sea in peace.

You can dive, snorkel or relax on a SUP thanks to the equipment provided by the facility.

On board you will be offered an aperitif with artisanal focaccia, fresh fruit and local wine. 

The boat can accommodate up to 11 people and it is equipped with soft cushions, awning then extended shade area, swim platform and ladder for comfortable ascent, music and freshwater shower.

Shared or private tours can be arranged.

The catamaran excursion to Porto Cesareo offers a unique snorkeling experience in the evocative seabed of the Marine Protected Area. With sanitized equipment provided by the partner, you can admire architectural treasures such as the submerged Roman Columns and places of worship such as the Madonna dei Naviganti.

Unlike the sailboat, the twin-engine catamaran offers more space and comfort, with two hulls providing stability for smooth and safe sailing. You can soak up the sun at the bow on large cushions, while there is a canopy in the middle and stern for shade and coolness.

The experience includes an aperitif with local produce and wine in one of the enchanting coves of the Marine Protected Area.

The duration of the excursion is three hours and will be confirmed upon reaching at least 10 participants. Maximum capacity: 36 people.

The boat excursion from Torre Vado to the Leuca caves, includes two stops for swimming, where you will be given the necessary equipment for snorkeling and you can enjoy the crystal clear waters of Salento and go scperta the various caves that characterize the coast.

Departing from the port of Torre Vado, the boat excursion allows you to visit the Salento coast behind Cape Leuca on both the Ionian and Adriatic sides. You can admire the sheer cliffs, the resorts on the coast and especially the many renowned caves dotted along the entire stretch that will leave you breathless.

The daytime experience lasts 3 hours and you can choose the shift with the time of your choice. While the sunset experience has a duration of 2 hours starting at 6 pm.

Each cave has its own characteristic and among them you will visit: The Cave “of the Devil", The Porcinara Cave, The Cave of Morigio The Cave of the Crib, The Cave of the Three Doors, The Cave of the Giants, The Cave of Ortocupo, Cave of Vora.

Maximum capacity: 12 people per raft. Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, the stages may be subject to change.

3-hour boat excursion to discover the Salento caves starting from Santa Maria di Leuca.

The itinerary for this excursion, again at the captain's discretion, includes:

•    Departure from the tourist port of Santa Maria di Leuca
•    .
•    Navigation on both the Ionian and Adriatic sides
•    .
•    Visit to the most beautiful caves on the coast (about 8 per side) such as Grotta del Fiume, Grotta delle Tre Porte, Grotta degli Innamorati and Grotta del Soffio
•    Return, again at the marina in Santa Maria di Leuca
•    .

You can choose between 2 tours with the same itinerary:

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Shared tour

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This option will allow you to enjoy the boat tour shared with other participants. It includes 2 stops of about 25 to 30 minutes to dive into the water and swim in a crystal clear sea.

This tour has a maximum of 12 participants at a time.

Exclusive tour

This second option will allow you to have the whole boat exclusively for groups of up to 10 people and, in agreement with the captain, you can stop to swim in the sea whenever you want.

In addition, you will be offered refreshments on board consisting of a glass of bubbly and typical Salento delicacies.

The presence of a skipper on board, will allow you to discover the beauty of the caves and all the curiosities about them.

È strictly forbidden to smoke on the boat.

This three-hour boat excursion from Santa Maria di Leuca allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Salento coastline at sunset.

The trip will lead you to discover striking landscapes and unique rock formations that characterize both the Ionian and Adriatic sides of the coast.

The suggestive sea caves you will encounter along the way will add a touch of mystery and wonder to the adventure.

During the tour you will also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the turquoise and refreshing waters of the Salento coast, enjoying direct contact with the unspoiled nature that characterizes this part of Puglia.

Swimming stops add an element of relaxation and fun to the trip, allowing you to relax and appreciate the beauty of the sea.

On the boat you can request snacks, wine and fresh water (included in the price).

Visit Salento by boat tour from Torre Vado with an aperitif on board and bathroom stops.

The boat, carries a maximum of 12 people, complete with cushions and awning for shelter from the sun.

Departing from the port of Torre Vado, you will visit:

• San Gregorio from the sea.
• Ionian Slope which includes: cave of the dragon, cave of the lovers, cave of the stable, cave of the crib, cave of the giants, cave of the three doors, caves of the river, cave of mesciu scianni and cave of the devil.
• Torre Marcheddu and Torre dell’uomo morto.
• Punta Ristola, the southernmost point of the heel of Italy.
• Santa Maria di Leuca from the sea (Bagnarole, Villas of the’800’,monumental waterfall, Sanctuary and the Lighthouse of Santa Maria di Leuca).
• Punta Meliso, meeting point between the Ionian Sea and the Adriatic Sea.
• Adriatic side that includes: Fiumara inlet, cave of the Indians, cave of the seagulls, caves verduselle, cove orto cupo, cave of the Soffio,cave of the vora, cave of the mannute.

The whole tour explained è commented by the crew. Three bathroom stops, with masks fins for those who want to snorkel and life jackets.

To finish, an aperitif on board with local products, namely: fresh mozzarella, baked goods, Prosecco, peach tè and water.

In September and October it will beà possible to fish for tuna on board the boat, with equipment provided by the facility.

Sunset boat excursion to discover the caves of Santa Maria di Leuca.

You will leave from the tourist port of Santa Maria di Leuca and sail to the Ionian coast to admire the beautiful caves. In total you will have the chance to see about 8 of them and thanks to the skipper's explanations you will discover all their secrets.

The highlight of this tour is the stop at the Lovers' Cave with the possibility of swimming right into the cave. This unique opportunity will give you indelible memories.

Before heading back, you will be offered an aperitif consisting of a glass of bubbly and typical Salento dishes to enjoy as the sun slowly sinks into the sea.

This experience lasts about 2 hours and the departure time depends on the time of year you want to make the excursion.

We recommend that you bring the necessary to dry off once you get out of the water and appropriate clothing for the evening weather.

The Gallipoli boat excursion allows you to explore the Salento region while admiring the Apulian coastline from the sea and diving into the crystal clear waters.

You will have the opportunity to admire Old Gallipoli with its towers, walls and churches. You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will share with you the history and traditions of this area. 

The tours last 3 hours; the morning and afternoon departures include a swim stop at the island of Sant’Andrea, a natural park dominated by a tall lighthouse and characterized by a rich marine ecosystem, and one at Punta Pizzo where the sandy seabed and inlet create a natural pool.

The sunset tour includes a stop at the island of Sant’Andrea and one in the Lidi area where it will be possible to admire the sun disappearing into the sea in peace.

You can dive, snorkel or relax on a SUP thanks to the equipment provided by the facility.

On board you will be offered an aperitif with artisanal focaccia, fresh fruit and local wine. 

The boat can accommodate up to 11 people and it is equipped with soft cushions, awning then extended shade area, swim platform and ladder for comfortable ascent, music and freshwater shower.

Shared or private tours can be arranged.

For the Salento boat excursion from Gallipoli with aperitif you will have a choice of 3 different tours, all lasting about 3 hours.

South Versant Tour - Punta Pizzo

You will explore the Island of Sant'Andrea, a unique island in Salento reachable only by sea, beloved by snorkeling lovers. Punta Pizzo is another must-see place, with golden beaches and crystal clear waters, perfect for children to play safely.

North Coast Tour - Porto Selvaggio

You will explore the northern coastline of Gallipoli, passing by the famous split mountain, the Quattro Colonne, Santa Maria al Bagno and Santa Caterina, until you reach the picturesque Torre Uluzzo Bay. Porto Selvaggio Park is renowned for its distinctive landscape, with high cliffs overlooking the sea, bays and coves.

Sunset Tour

During this sunset tour, the fleet gathers near the island, offering a spectacle of the fiery red sun slowly disappearing behind the sea, mingling with the sky. During the excursion, you will be treated to an aperitif of Salento appetizers accompanied by a drink.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Discover St. Andrew's Island starting from Gallipoli with a boat excursion.

For this experience you will have a choice of:

•    Morning excursion
•    Afternoon excursion

For each of these excursions, the itinerary includes:

•    departure from the port of Gallipoli
•    Island of St. Andrew and swim stop to swim surrounded by fish
•    Punta Pizzo bay with a stop to swim in the blue waters of this natural oasis
•    return skirting Punta Suina with typical aperitif served on board

During the morning excursion, the boat staff will serve you both an aperitif and a typical fish dish.

During the excursion you will be guided by a skipper who can satisfy all your curiosity about the place.

On the boat there is snorkeling equipment, to admire the seabed, and a sunshade awning to relax in the shade if necessary.

The use of sunscreen, not on board, is recommended to protect yourself from the sun.

Discover the wonders of the Gallipoli coastline with a private excursion amid relaxation and breathtaking scenery.

The tour includes stops in crystal-clear waters so clear that the fish seem to be suspended.

The route includes three must-see stops, true postcards of Salento:

•    Sant'Andrea Island
•    Lido San Giovanni
•    Punta Pizzo (weather permitting)

The experience includes stops for swimming, relaxing on the boat and snorkeling. The necessary equipment will be available directly on board for a comfortable and carefree experience.

While sailing, you will be able to relax while listening to your favorite music and enjoying a tasty aperitif: crunchy tarallini, Salento frisa with local cherry tomatoes, fresh watermelon, water and a glass of prosecco for a toast in the Salento sea.

It doesn't end there, because included is a tasty seafood salad with octopus and squid caught directly by the skipper himself.

Departure available in two time slots from the historic center of Gallipoli.

Discover the wonders of the Gallipoli coastline with a shared tour of relaxation and breathtaking scenery.

During the excursion, there are stops in crystal-clear waters so clear that the fish seem to be suspended. The route includes two not-to-be-missed stops, true postcards of Salento:

•    Sant'Andrea Island
•    Lido San Giovanni

The experience includes stops for swimming, relaxing on the boat and snorkeling. The necessary equipment will be available directly on board, for a comfortable and carefree experience.

During the sailing, you will be able to relax while listening to your favorite music and enjoying a tasty aperitif: crunchy tarallini, frisa salentina with local cherry tomatoes, fresh watermelon, water and a glass of prosecco for a relaxing toast in the Salento sea.

Departure available in two time slots from the historic center of Gallipoli.

Depart from the Riva di Levante marina in San Leonardo for a group boat tour along the coast of Gallipoli.

The cruise will begin by sailing along the historic center, surrounded by its ancient walls, and then continue toward Sant’Andrea Island, where a stop for swimming is planned.

On board, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy the experience in complete comfort: a shaded area with comfortable seating, a sun deck with a float and pillows, a boarding platform with a ladder, a shower, restrooms, a refrigerator, goggles and fins, kickboards, life jackets, and binoculars.

During the excursion, a refreshing aperitif with prosecco or a non-alcoholic beverage will be served, accompanied by fresh fruit.

Set out to discover the Otranto caves guided by an experienced skipper and lulled by the waves of the sea.

Once you set sail from the port of Otranto, you can take 2 itineraries at the captain's discretion and depending on weather conditions:

•    North Itinerary: Grotta Monaca, Baia Mulino ad Acqua, Baia dei Turchi
•    Southern itinerary: Grotta Palombara, Baia delle Orte, Faro Palascia, Sant Emiliano

The skipper, present on board for the duration of the excursion, will tell you the history of the caves and can answer all your questions.

In addition, thanks to a dedicated stop, you will have the opportunity to swim in the sea, for which we suggest you bring snorkeling equipment to enjoy this moment.

Return is scheduled about 2 to 3 hours later, depending on the option you choose, still at the port of Otranto.

Experience a gozzo excursion along the coast of Castro Marina and discover sea caves, bays and crystal clear waters of Salento, accompanied by experienced sailors.

During the cruise, visit some of the area's best-known caves, such as Grotta Palombara, Grotta Rotundella, Grotta Azzurra and the Grotta Zinzulusa, as well as Baia Romanelli.

You can choose from three options:

•    The 1-hour tour with cave visit and one swimming stop
•    The 2-hour tour that continues to Porto Miggiano and Santa Cesarea Terme with more time for swimming
•    The 3-hour tour that offers a more complete experience, with additional swim stops and an aperitif on board, all the way to Luvara Bay.

Experience a day's sailing from Castro aboard a 1957 15-meter vintage ketch, along the Salento coast with lunch and aperitif on board.

The excursion takes place along two possible routes, chosen by the skipper according to weather conditions:

•    The northern route from Castro to Otranto via Porto Miggiano, Santa Cesarea Terme, Porto Badisco, Punta Palascìa and the Bay of Orte.
•    The southern route from Castro to Santa Maria di Leuca, which instead follows the coast of Andrano, Tricase Porto and Marina Serra.

During the day you'll sail along some of the mostù beautiful stretches of Salento, including bathroom stops, sea caves, bays and coastal views, accompanied by stories and trivia about the area.

The experience includes lunch and aperitif on board and the return è scheduled in the afternoon, around 6 p.m., after an experience that combines sea, relaxation and atmosphere of yesteryear.

Discover the Salento coast with a boat tour from Castro Marina, available in 1, 2 or 3 hours, and experience sea caves and crystal clear waters.

During the excursion you will depart from Castro Marina Port and sail along the area's main caves, such as Grotta Palombara, Rotundella, Azzurra, Zinzulusa and Romanelli, with bathroom stops in the most beautiful bays. On longer tours you will reach Porto Miggiano, Santa Cesarea Terme and Porto Badisco, with additional stops for swimming and relaxing.

The’experience è shared with other participants and guided by an experienced skipper, with itinerary and boat subject to change to ensure safety and comfort.

Rent a boat without the need for a license to experience an unforgettable day at sea. The boat can accommodate up to 8 people and is equipped with a 40 hp engine, ideal for exploring the Salento coast independently.

The boat is fully equipped to ensure comfort and safety: sunshade awning to protect yourself from the sun in the hottest hours, large sundeck to relax, ladder to facilitate the ascent after a refreshing bath and all the mandatory safety equipment.

You can sail freely, discover hidden coves, swim in crystal clear waters and enjoy the sea in total freedom with your family or friends.