Snorkelling-Tour in Porto Cesareo with typical aperitif

The catamaran mini-cruise starts from the Slipway of Porto Cesareo, from which the boat of A Mare Salento sets sail: the first island of the boat tour stands out for its thick vegetation of pines and acacias and is called Isola Grande, better known as Isola dei Conigli, as in the past it was home to hundreds of wild rabbits and is now in the phase of wildlife restocking. Once circumnavigated, we proceed northwards, going up the Gulf of Taranto, along the beautiful Ionian coast, rich in natural inlets drawn by the sea over the centuries and white beaches from which wonderful golden dunes stand out. Once you have passed the Island at heart, get ready for your first swim stop!

The Torre della Chianca, in front of which a small island emerges, dates back to 1570 and is lapped by a natural inlet, formerly a Roman port. On the sandy bottom at a depth of about 4.5 meters, you can see some imposing columns lost by a Roman ship sunk during a wrong docking maneuver. Here we will make the first swim stop where it will be possible to snorkel and observe the cipollino marble columns more closely. Then we will skirt the Isola della Malva, located in front of the Torre della Chianca, near the Bacino Grande (artificial basin used for the reproduction of mullets and sea bass).

Our journey continues north in the direction of Torre Lapillo, an opportunity to coast the most beautiful beaches of Salento, up to the foot of the Torre di Lapillo, where we will make a further swim stop and for those who want, it will be possible to practice snorkeling in the waters springs springing from the base rocks of the reef, which create an enchanting play of color and a splendid underwater landscape in the water. The location is also the site where you can dive to see on the seabed the statue of the Madonna dei Naviganti dedicated to the victims of the sea, the Costa Concordia and migrants.

The last stage, on the way back, includes a swim stop accompanied by an aperilunch or aperitif in a cove or inlet of the Porto Cesareo Marine Protected Area. Once again you will be able to enjoy the transparency that distinguishes our waters and immediately after a hearty lunch / dinner served, always based on strictly typical products, native wine and various and unlimited drinks.