Spend three hours exploring some of the clearest water and best swimming spots along the Gallipoli coastline on this relaxed boat tour to Punta Pizzo and Sant’Andrea Island. With two swim stops, snorkelling equipment provided and an onboard aperitif included, this experience is ideal for families, couples and anyone wanting a slower-paced day on the sea.
Cruising along the southern Ionian coast, you’ll pass famous beaches, protected natural areas and rocky island scenery while local skippers guide the route according to the conditions on the day.
After departure from Gallipoli’s harbour, the boat follows the southern coastline past some of the area’s best-known beaches including Lido San Giovanni, Baia Verde and Punta della Suina. From the water, the coastline opens into long stretches of sand, rocky coves and shallow turquoise sea that are difficult to fully appreciate from land. The relaxed cruising pace makes the experience suitable for guests of all ages, including families with younger children.
The first major stop takes place in the bay of Punta Pizzo, part of a protected regional natural park known for its clear shallow water and sheltered swimming conditions. Guests can swim directly from the boat, float in calm water or relax onboard beneath the shaded seating areas. This area is especially popular with families thanks to the gentle seabed and slower navigation throughout the tour.
The second stop heads towards Sant’Andrea Island, a rocky offshore island surrounded by clearer deeper water ideal for snorkelling. Masks are provided onboard, allowing guests to explore the underwater rock formations and marine life around the island. During the stop, the skipper serves an aperitif with local products, fresh fruit, prosecco or wine while music plays onboard. After time spent swimming and relaxing near the island, the boat returns towards Gallipoli along the coastline.
Routes and swim locations may vary depending on sea and weather conditions to ensure the safest and best experience possible.
This tour operates along the southern coastline of Gallipoli in the Salento region of Puglia, an area known for its warm Ionian waters, protected marine zones and long sandy beaches. Departures usually take place from Scale Nove Pier on Riviera Armando Diaz near Gallipoli’s old town.
The route combines two very different coastal environments. Punta Pizzo offers shallow protected bays within a natural park setting, while Sant’Andrea Island provides more rugged scenery and rocky snorkelling areas only accessible by boat. Together, they create a varied experience combining relaxed swimming with coastal exploration.
Public parking is available near the commercial port before entering the old town bridge. During summer months, guests are advised to arrive 15–30 minutes before departure.
No boating or snorkelling experience is required. The tour is designed to be accessible for beginners and families, with slower navigation and calm swimming areas selected whenever possible.
Guests should bring swimwear, towels, water shoes, sun protection and comfortable clothing suitable for being at sea. Snorkelling masks, flotation aids and life jackets are available onboard. Guests who cannot swim are welcome and should notify the skipper before departure so appropriate equipment can be prepared.
Created by locals who grew up around Gallipoli’s coastline, these tours focus on helping guests experience the sea in a more authentic and relaxed way. Rather than operating fast-paced sightseeing trips, the emphasis is placed on smaller groups, comfortable navigation and time spent properly enjoying each stop.
Years of local experience allow the skippers to adapt routes daily according to weather and sea conditions, choosing the best swimming and snorkelling spots for the group. With thousands of guests welcomed onboard every season, the experience combines local knowledge, professional safety standards and a friendly atmosphere throughout the trip.
Yes, this is considered one of the most family-friendly tours available thanks to its calmer swimming areas and slower style of navigation. Punta Pizzo is especially popular with families because of its shallow clear water and sheltered conditions.
Children are welcome onboard, with life jackets and flotation equipment available. Younger guests can swim safely near the boat while parents relax onboard or join them in the water.
Punta Pizzo is part of a protected natural park along the Gallipoli coastline and is known for its shallow turquoise water, sandy seabed and quieter atmosphere compared to nearby beaches. Accessing it by boat allows guests to enjoy the area away from crowded shorelines.
The water here is usually calm and clear, making it ideal for swimming, floating and relaxing directly from the boat.
Yes. Snorkelling takes place near Sant’Andrea Island where the rocky seabed and clear water create good visibility for beginners and casual snorkellers alike. No previous experience is necessary.
Masks are provided onboard and guests can enter the water directly from the boat. Those who prefer not to snorkel are free to swim casually or remain onboard during the stop.
Shared tours are kept relatively small, with a maximum of 12 guests onboard. This helps create a more relaxed atmosphere and allows easier access to swimming and snorkelling areas during the stops.
Smaller groups also mean guests have more space onboard compared to larger tourist excursions operating in the area.
Guests should bring swimwear, a towel, water shoes and sun protection. Comfortable clothing is also recommended, particularly during hotter summer departures.
A waterproof phone pouch or small dry bag can be useful for keeping valuables protected during swimming stops.
Yes, all boats have shaded seating areas available for guests who prefer protection from direct sunlight during the excursion.
There are also open deck areas for sunbathing and enjoying the coastal views while cruising between locations.
Absolutely. Guests who cannot swim are welcome onboard and flotation equipment including life jackets, floating boards and armbands is available.
The skippers are experienced in assisting nervous swimmers and can recommend the safest areas to enter the water during the stops.
Routes are monitored daily based on weather and sea forecasts. If conditions are unsafe, the tour may be rescheduled or cancelled for safety reasons.
Guests affected by weather cancellations are offered either an alternative date or a full refund.
Yes, an onboard aperitif is included during the excursion featuring local products, fruit, prosecco or wine, along with free water throughout the tour.
The aperitif is served during one of the swimming stops and is designed as a light social refreshment rather than a full meal.
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About the centre
Gallipoli
Operated by Sea Tour Gallipoli, a partner of adventuro.
