Boat Trip to the Salento Caves from Castro with Swimming
4.9()
Activity
Motorboat
Languages
English, Italian
Minimum age
No age restrictions
Meeting place
Castro
At our stand at the Porto Vecchio (Via Scalo delle Barche zona Porto Vecchio, 73030 Castro Marina, LE)
Free cancellation with full refund up to 24 hours before the start of the activity
Details
During our boat trip to the Castro Caves, you can explore this wonderful stretch of the heel of Italy and discover some truly incredible rock formations!
We will depart from Castro's Porto Vecchio and head north. We will first reach the Grotta Palombara, characterized by a beautiful triangular entrance, and then the Grotta Azzurra, which owes its name to the intense blue of its waters. Our next stop allows you to see the impressive Zinzulusa Cave, so-called because of the stalactites hanging from its ceiling like rags, called "zinzuli" in the local dialect. Your skipper will then take you to the beautiful inlet of Porto Miggiano, where you can dive into the crystal-clear water of this area.
Once everyone is back on the boat, we will head towards Santa Cesarea Terme, stopping a short distance from its sulphurous springs. Our return trip will now begin and, along the way, we will be able to admire an old watching tower in Porto Miggiano before being back in the port of Castro.
Highlights
- View from the sea of the beautiful Zinzulusa Cave
- Visit of the most famous grottos and inlets
- 1 swimming stop
Departure & Return
We meet at the Porto Vecchio of Castro 15 minutes before the departure time. You can find 2 paid car parks at a short distance from the port, or park along the road. After approximately 2 hours, we will return to the port of departure.
Characteristics of the boat
- Number of passengers: 12
- Sun-protected area
- No restrooms
- Not accessible to wheelchairs
- Small-sized pets allowed
Bring along
- Hat and sun cream
- Swimsuit and towel
- Water
This guided boat tour exploring the caves from Castro is a highlight for visitors to Salento, with around 94% of reviewers giving a five-star rating. Guests consistently praise the "wonderful places...super sea!" and the stunning coastline. The skippers are celebrated for being knowledgeable, friendly, and great with families. While a few guides have limited English, this is easily managed. The boats are clean and comfortable, and the tour includes a much-loved swimming stop, making it a fantastic experience for couples and families.
AI generated from the text of customer reviews
Popular mentions
Crew44
Swimming stops24
Boat12
Landscape12
Organization8
Comfort5
Value for money4
Lisa · FamilyNetherlands · July 2026
Loved our cave tour & swimming trip with Luigi! The boat was beautiful and comfortable, we shared it with 1 other couple. Luigi explained a lot in both (perfect) English and Italian. The bay swimming was lovely, we brought our snorkel and got to see plenty of fish. Would absolutely recommend this family owned business for your trip in the Castro area.
Maria Veronica · FamilyItaly · June 2026
The sea was wonderful, and the visit to the caves was thrilling. The captain/guide was very kind.
Translated from Italian
Viviane · CoupleBelgium · June 2026
It was a nice trip in a small group. The swimming stop was also great. It's a shame that the captain/guide only spoke Italian. However, when booking, it was stated that the tour would be in both English and Italian...
Translated from Dutch
Showing 1 - 3 out of 79 reviews
Offers by Nautica Red Coral Salento79 Reviews8 Offers
Can I bring my dog or pet?
Yes, small-sized pets are allowed on board.
How long is the boat trip?
The boat trip lasts approximately 2 hours.
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is at the Porto Vecchio in Castro. Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Is there a swimming stop during the trip?
Yes, the trip includes one swimming stop in the beautiful inlet of Porto Miggiano.
How many people can be on the boat?
The boat can accommodate a maximum of 12 passengers.
Are there toilets on board the boat?
No, there are no restrooms on the boat.
Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the boat is not accessible to wheelchairs.
What should I bring with me?
It is recommended to bring a hat, sun cream, a swimsuit, a towel, and some water.
What languages does the guide speak?
The skipper provides explanations during the tour. According to reviews, commentary is available in both English and Italian.
From
15 €
The checkyeti guarantee1-click cancellation7 days/week support100% price clarity
Netherlands · July 2026
Italy · June 2026
Belgium · June 2026
