From San Vito Lo Capo: Zingaro Reserve and Scopello Snorkeling Tour

History

The Zingaro Nature Reserve, Sicily’s first protected area established in 1981, was born from local protests against a proposed coastal highway that threatened its pristine landscape. Spanning 7 km of untouched coastline between San Vito Lo Capo and Scopello, it preserves ancient prehistoric settlements, diverse flora like sea lavender, and endemic wildlife, including peregrine falcons. Its creation safeguarded hidden coves once used by smugglers, blending natural beauty with a legacy of environmental activism.

Nearby, the Tonnara di Scopello, a historic tuna processing site dating to the 13th century, was expanded by the Sanclemente family in the 15th and 16th centuries as a key economic hub for Sicily’s mattanza (tuna slaughter) tradition. Abandoned in 1984 after centuries of operation, it now stands as an open-air museum amid dramatic faraglioni (sea stacks), symbolizing the island’s maritime heritage and the decline of traditional fishing.

Highlights

• Sail aboard a stable catamaran to explore Zingaro Reserve’s hidden coves and Scopello’s iconic faraglioni.
• Snorkel in crystal-clear waters with free equipment, discovering underwater wonders like marine caves.
• Savor a tuna-based aperitif or lunch paired with local white wine and water.
• Admire Saracen towers, the Tonnara di San Vito, Firriato, and the enchanting Lake of Venus.
• Enjoy a relaxed, spacious ride on a double-hull vessel accommodating up to 35 passengers.

Full Description

Set sail from San Vito Lo Capo’s port on the catamaran Buena Vida for a 4-hour adventure along Sicily’s stunning northwest coast. Departing from the maritime fuel station near the bronze statue of Saint Vitus, your Italian-speaking guide introduces the region’s maritime lore as you glide toward the Zingaro Nature Reserve. Marvel at ancient Saracen towers, the historic Tonnara di San Vito, and the mythical Lake of Venus, a serene inlet steeped in legend.

The journey delves into Zingaro’s protected coves, where turquoise waters invite stops for swimming and snorkeling—free fins, masks, and snorkels provided to reveal vibrant sea life in hidden grottos. Continue to Scopello, anchoring near the dramatic faraglioni stacks guarding the Tonnara di Scopello, a 13th-century tuna fishery turned museum. Here, indulge in a onboard aperitif or lunch featuring fresh tuna products, complemented by local white wine and water, while soaking in panoramic views.

With life jackets for safety and the catamaran’s double hull ensuring stability, this tour blends relaxation, exploration, and Sicilian flavors, offering an intimate escape into one of Europe’s most biodiverse coastlines.

Why Choose This Experience?

This catamaran tour provides a serene, eco-conscious way to access Zingaro’s car-free coves and Scopello’s cinematic stacks—sites often featured in films like Ocean’s Twelve—without the crowds of land-based hikes. The onboard guide’s local insights and included snorkeling gear make it ideal for families or couples seeking adventure and indulgence, while the tuna aperitif highlights Sicily’s culinary heritage.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours and reserve-now-pay-later add flexibility, and the small vessel size (max 35) ensures a personal touch. Perfect for a half-day highlight from San Vito Lo Capo, it complements beach days or Trapani visits, delivering unforgettable Mediterranean magic.

What’s Included

• Catamaran tour on Buena Vida (max 35 passengers)
• Snorkeling equipment (fins, mask, snorkel)
• Aperitif/lunch with tuna products, water, and local white wine
• Life jackets for safety
• Onboard guide (Italian)

Itinerary

• Meet at the end of San Vito Lo Capo’s port near the maritime fuel station and Saint Vitus statue
• Board catamaran and depart, viewing Saracen Towers and Tonnara di San Vito (20-30 minutes)
• Cruise to Zingaro Reserve coves for swimming and snorkeling (1-1.5 hours)
• Stop at Firriato and Lake of Venus for scenic admiration
• Anchor at Scopello’s faraglioni and Tonnara for photos and onboard aperitif/lunch (45 minutes)
• Return to San Vito Lo Capo port (30-45 minutes)

Pricing

From $41 per person

Meeting Point

At the end of the port in San Vito Lo Capo, near the maritime fuel station and bronze statue of Saint Vitus, 91010 San Vito lo Capo TP, Italy

How to Get There

• By car: Drive SS187 from Trapani (1 hour) or Palermo (1.5 hours); parking available near the port.
• By bus: AST lines from Trapani or Palermo to San Vito Lo Capo (1-2 hours), then walk 5 minutes to the port.
• By taxi: From Trapani Airport (45 minutes) or Palermo Airport (1.5 hours); request drop-off at the port statue.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Swimsuit and towel for swimming/snorkeling
• Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
• Comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes
• Camera for capturing coastal views
• Reusable water bottle (supplements included drinks)

Know Before You Go

• Arrive 15 minutes early at the port meeting point for boarding.
• The tour operates weather permitting; may adjust stops for safety.
• Life jackets are mandatory for non-swimmers; children must be supervised.
• Aperitif includes tuna—notify for dietary needs in advance.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reviews

• We had an excellent time! The meeting point was easy to find, and the guide was entertaining and genuine. The snack was lovely, complete with dancing and music, making it a joyful sea day.
• Very enjoyable trip with a charismatic and friendly crew. The catamaran’s stability was perfect for relaxing, and the snorkeling spots were magical. Good value—would recommend to anyone in San Vito Lo Capo.
• Out of many boat options, this was ideal—perfect size with Pippo as our funny, enjoyable guide. Snacks were great, and the white wine was delicious. The Zingaro coves and Scopello stacks were unforgettable!