Snorkel Mini Cruise, Aperitif Included

Snorkel Mini Cruise, Aperitif Included, rated 4.9 across 498 traveller reviews.

Overview

This half day catamaran cruise leaves from Porto Cesareo and works its way along the Ionian coast towards the Gulf of Taranto, stopping at sandy beaches, coves and small islands where passengers can swim and snorkel. One of the more unusual features is the chance to snorkel over submerged Roman remains, alongside reefs and open water. The crew shares stories and background on the places passed along the way.

The rhythm is simple: sail, stop, swim, repeat. There are stops at Torre Chianca, Torre Lapillo and back around Porto Cesareo, each with time in the water, and snorkelling equipment is included.

With a maximum of 36 travellers, it is a shared excursion rather than an intimate outing. Reviewers repeatedly praise the crew and the swimming, though not everyone finds the format relaxing, and the language of the commentary is a point to be aware of before booking. It suits couples, families and groups happy with an easy, social morning on the water rather than serious snorkelling. The departure point is on Via Bissolati in Porto Cesareo, at the alaggio slipway, and the trip ends back where it started.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Via BissolatiCheck in at Via Bissolati, Porto Cesareo, at the Scalo di Alaggio. The tour ends back at this same point.
2. Torre ChiancaFirst stop, 20 minutes, free admission. Time to swim and snorkel from the boat.
3. Torre LapilloSecond stop, 20 minutes, free admission. Another swim and snorkel break along the sandy coast.
4. Porto CesareoFinal stop, 20 minutes, free admission. Last dip in the water before the return leg.
5. Aperitif on boardThe tour ends with an aperitif on board featuring local wines and gourmet specialties, with drinks included.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help set expectations before boarding, drawn from the listing and from what repeat reviewers say.

• Snorkel gear. Snorkelling equipment is included with the tour, per the listing. Anyone with their own mask or snorkel can bring it along if they prefer familiar gear. Multiple swim stops are part of the day.
• Bring a towel. The listing gives no packing list, but with multiple swim stops a towel, swimsuit and sun protection are the obvious essentials. Reviewers mention swimming at three different locations, so come ready to get in the water more than once.
• Group feel. The catamaran takes up to 36 travellers, and reviewers describe a social outing that works for couples, families and groups of friends. Those wanting quiet or a private experience may find the numbers noticeable. Several reviewers single out the crew as friendly and attentive.
• Food and drink. Drinks are included with the aperitif or aperipranzo, which reviewers repeatedly call abundant and genuinely local, served in individual baskets. Some describe it as closer to a meal than a snack.
• Language. Commentary may not be in English. One reviewer reported the crew did not speak English despite it being advertised.
• Finding the boat. The listing specifies departure from Via Bissolati at the Scalo di Alaggio in Porto Cesareo. The tour ends back at the same point.

Common issues. The tour needs a minimum number of travellers and good weather, and either shortfall means a different date, a different experience or a full refund rather than the outing as booked. With up to 36 people on board, one reviewer found the crowd and the on board rules restrictive and the experience short on relaxation. Commentary may be in Italian only, and the listing duration shown on this page is the verified figure for the product, while several reviewers describe the whole morning as closer to four hours; the itinerary timings above are those printed in the listing.

Common Questions