View from a boat of the historic Le Castella fortress in Capo Rizzuto marine protected area, Italy.
Tourists enjoy diving from a boat into the clear blue waters at Capo Rizzuto marine protected area, Italy.
Serene beach scene with swimmers in crystal-clear waters at Capo Rizzuto marine protected area, Italy.
Wooden steering wheel on a boat with scenic view of Capo Rizzuto coastline during Le Castella marine tour.
Pristine turquoise waters and sandy beach of Capo Rizzuto, ideal for snorkeling and exploration on the boat tour.
Crystal-clear sea and vibrant marine life near Capo Rizzuto beach, perfect for a refreshing swim on the boat tour.
Tourists enjoy a scenic boat tour near golden sands at Capo Rizzuto marine protected area under clear blue skies.
Visitors on a boat deck admire the vast sea view during a Capo Rizzuto marine protected area tour.
A boat sails at sunset in the serene Capo Rizzuto marine protected area, framed by lush greenery.
Gourmet salami platter with fresh greens and yellow cherry tomato, perfect for Le Castella boat tour picnic.
Listing ID : 57322

Activity

Duration2 Hours
Group SizeUp to 50 Guests
Starts AtPort of Le Castella, Calabria
LanguagesItalian
Boat Tour · Capo Rizzuto · Calabria

Le Castella: Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area Boat Tour

Navigate crystal-clear Ionian waters, discover underwater wonders, and unwind with an aperitif on the waves.


This two-hour journey aboard a spacious 20-metre vessel takes you into the heart of the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area, one of the largest and most ecologically significant protected marine zones in Europe. Departing from the historic Port of Le Castella, the experience blends guided exploration with open swimming and a closing aperitif.

Onboard monitors allow guests to follow real-time underwater footage captured by expert guides, revealing a sunken wreck and a rich mosaic of Mediterranean marine life without needing to dive below the surface. The experience is designed to be accessible to all ages and swimming abilities.

After the underwater viewing session, the boat anchors at Baia Saraceno, where guests are free to swim in the sheltered, transparent waters of this protected cove. A refreshing aperitif or light breakfast is served before the return to port, rounding off the outing with a convivial moment on deck.

Tour Highlights

Navigate the protected waters of Capo Rizzuto, a UNESCO-recognised marine reserve teeming with biodiversity.

Watch live underwater footage on onboard monitors as expert guides explore the seabed and a resident shipwreck.

Swim freely in the calm, clear waters of Baia Saraceno, a naturally sheltered bay within the marine reserve.

Enjoy a complimentary aperitif or breakfast served on deck before returning to the port of Le Castella.

Travel on a certified vessel equipped with a shower, offering comfort and safety for up to 50 passengers.

Receive an initial briefing from knowledgeable guides who contextualise the marine ecosystem and its protected status.

Tour Itinerary

1
Boarding and Briefing at Le Castella Port

Guests board the vessel at the Port of Le Castella and receive a short introductory briefing covering the marine reserve, safety procedures, and the planned route.

2
Navigation Toward the Castle

The boat departs and navigates along the coastline toward the iconic Aragonese Castle of Le Castella, offering scenic views of the Ionian shore and the protected reserve.

3
Underwater Monitor Experience

Expert guides descend to explore the local wreck and seabed, transmitting live footage to onboard monitors so all guests can observe Mediterranean marine life in its natural environment.

4
Swimming Stop at Baia Saraceno

The vessel anchors at Baia Saraceno, allowing guests to swim and snorkel in the transparent, protected waters of this celebrated bay within the reserve.

5
Aperitif or Breakfast on Deck

Back on board, guests are treated to a refreshing aperitif or light breakfast, providing a relaxed conclusion to the on-water experience before heading back.

6
Return to Port and Disembarkation

The boat returns to the Port of Le Castella, where guests disembark at the conclusion of the two-hour tour.

What Is Included

Included

  • Guided boat tour within the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area
  • Onboard monitor display of live underwater footage
  • Swimming stop at Baia Saraceno
  • Aperitif or light breakfast served on board
  • Expert marine guide commentary and briefing
  • Use of onboard shower facilities

Not Included

  • Personal snorkelling or diving equipment
  • Hotel transfers or transport to the port
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Any items of a personal nature

Important Information

Please arrive at the Port of Le Castella at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to allow time for boarding and the initial briefing.
Duration
The full experience lasts approximately 2 hours from boarding to disembarkation.
Meeting Point
Meet at the Port of Le Castella, located in the municipality of Isola di Capo Rizzuto, Calabria, Italy.
What to Bring
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and any personal snorkelling equipment if desired. Sun protection is strongly recommended.
Cancellation
Please refer to the booking platform for the applicable cancellation and refund policy at the time of reservation.
Accessibility
The vessel can accommodate guests with reduced mobility. Contact the operator in advance to discuss specific accessibility requirements.
Age Range
The tour is suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times on board.

Ready to Explore the Marine Reserve?

Secure your place on this guided boat tour of the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area and experience the Ionian Sea from a new perspective.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from the Port of Le Castella in the municipality of Isola di Capo Rizzuto, on the Ionian coast of Calabria.
Do I need to know how to swim to join this tour?
Swimming ability is not required to participate. The underwater content is viewable on onboard monitors, and the swimming stop is optional. Non-swimmers can remain on board during the swim break.
How large is the boat and what facilities does it have?
The vessel is 20 metres long and 5 metres wide, with a capacity of up to 50 guests. It is equipped with a shower on board.
What is the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area?
The Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area is one of the largest marine reserves in Italy and part of the wider Calabrian coastal heritage. It protects a diverse range of marine habitats and species along the Ionian coast.
Is food or drink provided during the tour?
Yes, a complimentary aperitif or light breakfast is served on board following the swimming stop at Baia Saraceno, before the return to port.
What should I wear or bring on the day?
Wear or bring a swimsuit and pack a towel, sunscreen, and a light layer for the return journey. Personal snorkelling equipment is welcome but not required.
Boat TourCapo RizzutoMarine ReserveLe CastellaCalabriaIonian SeaUnderwater TourSwimmingBaia SaracenoSea ExcursionEasy ActivityFamily Friendly
Last updated: June 2025 | Product ID: le-castella-capo-rizzuto-boat-tour

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

2 hours

Languages

Italian - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

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Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

End Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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