The 10 best Boat Tours to the Zingaro Nature Reserve

Half-day sailing excursion from Palermo to Mondello Bay or Capo Zafferano

Set sail aboard a comfortable sailboat that can accommodate up to 10 people.

Depending on the weather conditions, you will head for Mondello Bay or Capo Zafferano.

In the first case, you will pass by the striking caves of Villa Igea, which can be reached by tender for a refreshing swim.

In the second route, you will land at Capo Zafferano, where you can swim at the beach of the Frenchmen or in the crystal-clear waters of Lido del Carabiniere.

Day trip by sailboat to the Gulf of Mondello from Palermo.

Board a comfortable sailboat that can accommodate up to 10 people and be guided by an experienced skipper, who will share with you stories and trivia about the places you will visit.

Sailing to Mondello Bay you will pass through the fascinating caves of Villa Igea, which you can reach by tender for a refreshing swim.

During the day you can explore the coast by SUP or engage in snorkeling, admiring the colorful seabed and crystal clear waters of Sicily.

The day will be enhanced by a lunch on board with typical products.

If conditions permit, on your return you can enjoy a picturesque sunset over the sea before returning to port.

Sailing tour from Palermo with a duration of about half a day discovering the coast directly from the sea, with aperitif included executable both in the morning and in the afternoon.

The excursion begins from the port of Palermo, once you leave you will embark on a leisurely coastal sail at a moderate speed along the Addaura coast.

Next, you will drop anchor in the beautiful Mondello Bay, where you will have the opportunity to swim and use the free snorkeling equipment and inflatable mattresses we provide. You will be escorted to the Capo Gallo Reserve, until you reach the Lighthouse.

Finally, you will reverse course and head to the Grotte della Regina, where in addition to swimming, you will be offered an aperitif on board based on typical products accompanied by a glass of wine and return to the port of Palermo.

Discover the Gulf of Palermo on board a beautiful boat with the best amenities, perfect for groups of friends or families with children.

Departing from Mondello pier you will avoid long queues that can form at the port of Palermo, so you can optimize your time and stay on board longer.

The itinerary guarantees pleasant swimming stops and a tour of the Capo Gallo marine reserve and, when the waves allow, the Grotta dell'Olio, making for a full immersion experience in the beautiful coastline.

On board you will find:

•    seats with cushions for a comfortable ride
•    deck and bow space for sunbathing
•    effortless access to the sea via a swim platform and convenient ladder
•    snorkeling equipment
•    sun canopy for relaxing in the shade
•    Bluetooth speaker
•    freshwater shower
•    on-board toilet

During the outing you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products both hot and cold. In addition, on board you will find beer, local wine, water or refreshing soft drinks to go with your aperitif.

An experienced skipper will accompany you throughout the outing and can tell you the best trivia about the area.

The boat tour departing from Palermo is a perfect opportunity to admire the Sicilian coast from the sea, with stops at some of the island's most beautiful places, such as the Gulf of Mondello.

You will board a modern boat, with a maximum capacity of 6 people, equipped with all comforts: swim ladder, awning for shade, outdoor shower, stereo system, sunbathing area, stern platform and teak deck.

Departure is from the "Trapezoidal Pier," located in the center of Palermo. From here you will start sailing along the coast, where you can enjoy the views, crystal clear waters and sea breeze.

Two options are available: the group tour, which lasts 4 hours, or the private tour, which can last 4 or 8 hours.

During the tour you will be offered prosecco, soft drinks, fresh fruit and various snacks.

Group tour

The first stop is Virgin Mary beach, with golden sand and a clear turquoise sea.

You will continue to the Addaura area, then arrive in the Gulf of Mondello, where a stop for a swim and an aperitif on board is planned.

You will then continue to the Capogallo promontory, where the landscape changes and becomes even more evocative, until you reach the Grotta dell'Olio, a natural cavity carved out over time by the waves of the sea.

Here you can explore the cave, snorkel and observe the play of light reflecting off the rock walls. This will also be an ideal time for another swim stop at a very special spot.

The last stop before the return is the Grotta della Regina, a fascinating and mysterious place, considered one of the hidden jewels of the Palermo coast.

Private tour

In the private tour the itinerary is free and fully customizable, to be decided together with the skipper according to your wishes.

The boat tour departing from Palermo allows you to admire the Sicilian coast from the sea while visiting some of the island's best-known spots, such as the Gulf of Mondello.

You will sail aboard a modern boat that holds up to 8 people and features a swim ladder, awning, deck shower, stereo system, sundeck, aft platform and teak deck.

Leaving from the "Trapezoidal Pier" located in the center of the city of Palermo, you will sail along Palermo's coast where you can admire the crystal clear waters and enjoy the sea breeze.

You can choose between the group tour (lasting 4 hours) and the exclusive tour (lasting 4 or 8 hours).

You will be offered prosecco, soft drinks, fruit and various snacks on board.

Group tour

The first scheduled stop is the Virgin Mary beach, characterized by the presence of golden sand and crystal clear turquoise waters.

The navigation will continue towards Addaura and then arrive in the Gulf of Mondello where, in addition to stopping for a swim, you can enjoy a delicious aperitif.

You will later reach the promontory of Capogallo, and you can admire a series of breathtaking views until you reach the Grotta dell'Olio, a cave created by the incessant force of the waves.

Here you will have the opportunity to explore this unique cave and observe the play of light reflecting off the rock walls and snorkel.

This picturesque corner will be the perfect place for another rejuvenating break: you can swim in the crystal clear waters and explore the seabed.

Finally, you will return toward the port of Palermo by making the last stop: Grotta della Regina, one of the jewels of Palermo, a fascinating and mysterious place.

Private tour

For the private tour the itinerary is flexible and customizable, to be agreed with the skipper.

Set off on an exciting 4-hour adventure aboard a catamaran or boat to Scopello and the Zingaro Nature Reserve departing from Castellammare del Golfo.

During this excursion there are 3 sea swimming stops and you can visit some of the most famous places in this area thanks to a skipper to a local guide at your disposal.

In particular, you will admire:

•    Vucciria Cave
•    Cave of the Doves
•    Red Cove
•    White Scale
•    Guidaloca
•    Tonnara di Scopello
•    Zingaro Reserve

On board you will also be offered an aperitif with 1 drink, seasonal fruit and chips.

Those who wish may use the snorkeling equipment that is provided by the facility (included in the price).

When booking, you can choose between the Copacabana catamaran (with capacity for 36 people) and the Marinello Eden 22 boat (with capacity for 8 people).

A sunset aperitif on a catamaran in Castellammare Del Golfo allows you to experience a relaxing moment while admiring striking views from the sea.

This experience is suitable for everyone and it is perfect for couples and groups of friends who want to spend a fun-filled evening.

On board you will be offered an aperitif with open wine and food accompanied by music. You will enjoy local products while admiring the coastline that is tinged with striking colors at dusk.

Departure is at 9 pm and the tour will last about 2 hours. This experience is only available from July to September.

In case of food allergies and intolerances, you can contact the facility after booking.

The gozzo excursion from Castellammare Del Golfo to the Zingaro Nature Reserve allows you to experience a unique day aboard a typical gozzo.

During the excursion you will be able to relax and admire the charming coves and caves of the coast that lead from Castellammare to the Zingaro Nature Reserve via the "Faraglioni of Scopello."

The gozzo is equipped with sundeck at the bow and seating at the stern, awning, freshwater shower and a convenient ladder for access to the water.

In addition to mandatory safety equipment (life jackets, life preservers etc.), floating boards and tubes for swimming, masks and fins for snorkeling are also available to guests on board.

During the tour, the following will be offered:

•    seasonal fruits (grapes, peaches, melon or other)
•    fresh soft drinks

Upon request you can also have lunch with seasoned bread or local products (not included in the price).

This experience takes place from May to October, subject to weather and sea conditions, and is confirmed upon reaching at least No. 6 participants.

Appropriate clothing (swimsuit) is recommended, and please remember to bring sunscreen and a beach towel.

Sailing tour in the Gulf of Castellammare is a half-day tour during which you will be taken to the Zingaro Reserve, a splendid protected natural area in Sicily, located along the northwestern coast of the island.

The tour departs from Castellammare del Golfo bound for the Grotta delle Colombe and then stops for  swimming at Cala dell’Uzzo fabulous cove forming part of the famous Zingaro Reserve continues to the Faraglioni of Scopello and another stop at Cala Bianca. 

During the sailing tour, you can explore the enchanting Faraglioni, and visit some of the coastal caves, which are often rich in natural beauty and fascinating geological formations.

To make the experience even more enjoyable, the tour is conducted on a sailboat equipped with an awning, offering pleasant sailing along the coast.

Finally, you will be served a light lunch that includes typical Sicilian cunzato bread, fruit, water and drinks, a light meal while you enjoy the spectacular view.

The one-day sailing excursion to the Zingaro Nature Reserve departing from Castellammare del Golfo gives you a unique experience off the Sicilian coast.

You will sail to the Zingaro Reserve, discovering the most famous coves and caves and admiring from the sea the majestic Faraglioni of Scopello and the Tonnara, a museum of the sea and tuna fishing traditions.

The ancient Greeks and Latins called this area Cetaria because of the abundance of tuna encountered in its waters.

During this day tour you will skirt Castellammare del Golfo, the first coves of the Coast such as Cala, Bianca, Cala Rossa, and then make your first swim stop at the Zingaro Nature Reserve in Cala dell'Uzzo, where you can explore the Grotta degli Innamorati and the small white pebble beach.

Afterwards, you will enjoy a brunch with Sicilian flavors in front of the famous Tonnara di Scopello with its Faraglioni rocks.

In the afternoon you will stop in Cala del Varo, Cala Capreria, Cala Marinella (depending on the wind) and Cala Rossa for a last dive.

The sailboat is moved mainly by the wind, so it is not possible to create a set itinerary. The skipper will choose the best stops and route before departure.

The skipper will share his experience with you through stories, legends and curiosities of the Sicilian territory or invite you to try some maneuvers to open the sails.

The experience is guaranteed with a minimum of 4 participants.

Embark on a private sunset boat excursion to discover the Tonnara and Faraglioni of Scopello from Castellammare del Golfo.

You will sail into the marine area that the ancient Greeks and Latins called it Cetaria because of the abundance of tuna encountered in its waters.

You can dive into the crystal-clear waters, in the setting of the Tonnara di Scopello, surrounded by its Faraglioni, as the sun sets on the horizon.

On board you will be served an aperitif with Mediterranean flavors, with typical recipes from Trapani tradition, such as cous-cous and tabuleh, or Sicilian street food, pane cunzatu, panelle, potato croquettes.

All this will be accompanied by a glass of bubbles, Sicilian wine or a non-alcoholic cocktail, which you can enjoy while being lulled by the sound of the waves and relaxing music.

In case of food allergies and intolerances you can contact the facility following the reservation.

Discover the beauty of Sicily aboard a catamaran and enjoy a hearty aperitif along the white coast and the Mediterranean's best-known coves, such as Tonnarella dell'Uzzo and the bays of the Zingaro Nature Reserve.

Departing from San Vito Lo Capo, sailing to Scopello, you will admire the Saracen Towers and the Tonnara of San Vito Lo Capo. You will explore the Zingaro Reserve, with an initial snorkeling stop among the coves. Finally, you will reach Scopello with its famous Faraglioni rocks. A second swim stop is planned in Scopello before returning to the port.

During the navigation you will be offered an aperitif of local products with wine and water included. In addition, snorkeling equipment will be provided directly by the facility.

The excursion lasts half a day and can be arranged in the morning or afternoon. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Maximum capacity: 38 people.

Explore the Zingaro Nature Reserve and Tonnara dello Scopello on board a boat with friends and family and swim in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to Sicily's most fascinating and hidden caves.

Departing from San Vito Lo Capo, you will visit the Saracen Towers, the Tonnara del Secco, and the Laghetto di Venere, with first swim stop at Cala 'Mpiso. Next, you will explore the Zingaro Nature Reserve and a second swim stop will be provided at Cala Dell'Uzzo. You will then continue to the historic Tonnara di Scopello with its Faraglioni rocks.

On board, typical fig cookies accompanied by almond marsala will be offered. Upon reaching Scopello, you will be served cunzato bread accompanied by white wine.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change. The experience can be done in the morning or afternoon.

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

Get ready to discover the most striking bays on the west coast of Sicily, sailing between the Zingaro Nature Reserve and the Faraglioni of Scopello.

Departing from the port of San Vito Lo Capo, the itinerary includes numerous stops and stops to dive into the crystal-clear waters and practice snorkeling with the equipment mess provided by the captain. You'll begin the sailing with a stop at the Tonnara del Secco, and then head to the Zingaro Reserve, one of Sicily's most popular destinations.

The sailing continues to Scopello to admire its famous Faraglioni rocks and snorkel in the turquoise waters. You will make 3 bathroom stops of at least 30 minutes between Cala dell'Uzzo, Cala del Varo and the Faraglioni, chosen by the captain to avoid overcrowded places. Each stop will be accompanied by light refreshments on board, with sweets, pane cunzatu, pizza and drinks.

The boat trip lasts 4 hours and can be arranged on a shared or exclusive basis. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may vary.

Maximum capacity: 20 people.

This snorkeling experience will allow you to observe from the surface the extraordinary beauty of San Vito Lo Capo's seabed.

The appointment is at the diving center located inside the tourist port of San Vito Lo Capo. Here you will be greeted by the instructor, who will explain the visiting site chosen according to the weather conditions of the day. Possible destinations are the picturesque Tonnara area or the beautiful coast of Punta Negra.

The snorkeling stop lasts about an hour. During the navigation, which lasts between 10 and 15 minutes, it will be possible to admire the beautiful coast of the Tonnara of San Vito Lo Capo or the coast of Punta Negra.

The total duration is about two hours, including preparation, going out to sea, snorkeling time and return.

Experience a unique Mediterranean experience in Sicily aboard a gulet, exploring the Zingaro Nature Reserve and enjoying an on-board lunch of typical Sicilian products.

Leaving from San Vito Lo Capo, the sailing will take you to visit the Nature Reserve and the Bay of Scopello, where you will be served a lunch of appetizers, fresh fish entrée, fruit, water and wine.

During the excursion there will be several swimming stops, during which you can take a dip in the sea or snorkel with the equipment provided directly by the facility. 

The gulet trip can be half-day or full-day in duration and is an unmissable opportunity to explore the beauty of the Mediterranean with friends.

The half-day trip runs in May, June and September, while the full-day excursion is available in July and August.

Maximum capacity: 40 people.

This diving experience will introduce you to what it means to use an aqualung in the aquatic world and allow you to experience the sensation of breathing underwater.

The appointment is at the diving center, which is located inside the tourist port of San Vito lo Capo, the instructor who welcomes you will help you prepare the necessary equipment so that you can become familiar with it, after which he will give you the basics to deal with your diving experience.

The duration in the water is about 40 minutes, the maximum depth is about 5/6 meters.

When the underwater course is finished, you go back on board and return to the diving center. During the navigation you can admire the beautiful coast of the tuna fishery of San vito lo Capo or the coast of Punta Negra.

All dive sites are reached between 10 and 15 minutes.

The Scuba Experience is for all people who do not have a diving license and want to experience diving in the crystal clear waters of San Vito lo Capo.