What to Bring on an Ortigia Boat Tour

An Ortigia boat tour needs very little preparation — but a few small things make the difference between a relaxed swim stop and a scramble. The golden rule: wear your swimsuit under your clothes before you leave, because there’s nowhere proper to change on board. This guide covers exactly what to pack, what to wear, and what’s already provided so you don’t lug extras. For what the trip itself involves, see our sea caves boat tour guide.

The Essentials

These are the items worth having on every Ortigia sea-cave tour:

• Swimwear, worn under your clothes. The swim stop is the highlight, and changing space on a small boat is minimal. Arrive ready.
• A towel. Quick-dry travel towels pack small and are ideal; some operators don’t provide one.
• Sunscreen (reef-safe if you can). There’s little shade on most boats, and the Sicilian sun is strong from late spring through early autumn.
• A hat and sunglasses. Glare off the water is intense, especially at midday.
• A waterproof or secure phone case. The caves and the swim stop are the best photo moments — and water and rocks are unforgiving on an unprotected phone.
• Flat, non-slip footwear. For the marina and the boat deck; flip-flops or boat shoes are fine, heels are not.

Nice to Have

Not essential, but they earn their space:

• Your own snorkel mask if you’re particular about fit — masks are usually provided, but a familiar one is more comfortable.
• A light cover-up or rash guard for sun protection during the longer stretches on deck.
• A small dry bag for your phone, keys, and a spare layer.
• A bottle of water. Some tours serve prosecco or fruit, but it’s wise to bring your own water in the heat.
• A little cash for tips or a drink, even if the tour itself is prepaid.

What’s Usually Already Included

Don’t over-pack — much is handled for you:

• Snorkel masks are carried on board on most tours.
• Prosecco, fruit, or an aperitif features on many trips (check your listing).
• Life jackets are provided where required, and some operators require them for children.

What to Leave Behind

• Bulky bags and valuables. Space is tight and you’ll be in and out of the water; bring only what fits in a small dry bag.
• Glass bottles and lots of single-use plastic. You’re cruising through the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area — pack light and pack out.
• Heavy shoes or a full daypack. This is a two-hour boat trip, not a hike.

A Note on Kids and Comfort

The small boats and calm coastal route suit families, and glass-bottom boats are especially popular with children who can watch the seabed through the hull. Bring extra sun protection and a towel for each child, and check the operator’s minimum age or life-jacket rules when you book. If anyone is prone to seasickness, the sheltered coastal route is gentle, but a light snack beforehand and a seat toward the middle of the boat help.

Quick Packing Recap

• Wear: swimsuit under clothes, hat, sunglasses, flat non-slip shoes
• Pack: towel, sunscreen, waterproof phone case, water, small dry bag
• Skip: bulky bags, valuables, glass, heavy shoes
• Provided: snorkel masks (usually), sometimes prosecco/fruit, life jackets where required

Ready to Book?

A top-rated small-group Ortigia boat tour sorts the route, the gear, and the swim stop for you — you just bring your swimsuit and a towel. Check availability and get on the water.