Silversea Luxury Cruises Nach Otranto

Experience the spectacular beauty of the Adriatic Sea, Apulian Coast and its caves during this relaxing, half-day sightseeing and swimming excursion via boat.

Otranto, Castro Marina, Southern Apulia, Castro Marina

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the village of Castro Marina, located in the southern area of the Apulian region on the very heel of Italy's boot. Upon arrival at Castro Marina, walk from the coach-parking lot to your awaiting boat. After receiving your safety instructions, embark the boat for your approximately two-hour cruise towards the port of Santa Cesarea Terme.

Boat Cruise, Adriatic Sea, Apulian Coast, Caves, Visit to the Azzura and Zinzulusa Caves

Whilst cruising along the beautiful waters of the Adriatic Sea, explore a portion of the Apulian coast, and pass by some of its most important and renowned caves, including Azzurra, Palombara, Zinzulusa, Romanelli, Solfatara, and Streghe, or 'Witches'. Stops are made to visit two of the caves by boat. Included are the Azzurra Cave, with its extraordinary reflections of light, and Zinzulusa Cave, with its impressive entrance, and full of history and legends.

Bay and Santa Cesarea Swimming Stops, Refreshments

Sea conditions-permitting, a pair of stops are also made for an invigorating, guided swim. The first stop is near a charming, crystal-clear bay, and the second stop is near the Solfatara Cave in Santa Cesarea. Following the swimming portion of your tour, enjoy refreshments and local snacks served on board during the relaxing ride back to the port at Castro Marina. Upon arrival, walk back to the coach-parking lot, re-board your coach for the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 669 yards (about 612 metres), at times over uneven, rocky, and slippery surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, embark/disembark the boat and manoeuvre in/out of the boat. This tour is recommended for guests that are in good physical condition, and know how to swim. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with non-slip, closed-toe beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection, a towel and change of clothing from the ship. Guests must be at least five years old to participate on this tour. There are no changing facilities on board the boat. The entire boat-seating area may be covered with a tent. Guests may opt to remain on the boat during the swimming stops and cave visits. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Wine is only served after guests have finished swimming; guests may not swim if they have consumed alcohol. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, fish and marine life sightings are not guaranteed. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Experience the exquisite architecture, flavours and legacy of Galatina during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing and winery excursion.

Otranto, Galatina, Old Town, Town Centre, San Pietro and Paolo's Church, Via Garibaldi, Palaces

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the charming and historic Old Town of Galatina. Upon arrival, begin your guided walking tour of the town centre, which is dominated by the elegant façade of San Pietro and Paolo's Church. From here, continue along Via Garibaldi and marvel at the Baroque and Rococò-style aristocratic palaces en route to the impressive Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria.

Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria

One of the most important Franciscan-style basilicas in southern Italy, the 14th-century Basilica of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria is considered one of the very few examples of structures in the local Apulian Romanesque-Gothic style. The building is divided into five naves, whose walls and vaults are adorned with cycles of breath-taking frescoes.

Winery Tour and Tasting with Local Specialities

Next, re-board your coach and head to one of the region's famous wineries. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the winery, then proceed for a tasting of three locally-produced, Negroamaro and Ruah wines accompanied by local specialities. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1.25 miles (about two kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, five-ten steps at the winery and ten steps at the Basilica. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection is recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Basilica; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. On Sundays, church holidays and during weddings, groups are not allowed inside the churches during services. Guests may have the chance to visit the churches independently, quietly and reverently. Guides are not permitted to enter and talk during church services. Photography and videography are prohibited inside the churches. Shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Restroom facilities are located in cafés and restaurants; the purchase of a small snack or beverage is recommended in order to use the restrooms, and is at the expense of each guest. This tour should be confirmed or cancelled seven days prior to call. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Discover the splendid beauty, flavours and history of one of the pearls of the Ionian Sea during this memorable, half-day excursion to the Old Town of Gallipoli.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 75-minute drive to Gallipoli. The Old Town is located on a tiny island dividing the deep Ionian Gulf into two branches; Taranto to the north, and Leuca, the southernmost Apulian town. Both Taranto and Leuca are connected to Magna Grecia, the main Ionian region. The medieval Old Town of Gallipoli is dominated by the huge Baroque Cathedral, and its houses are painted in warm, Mediterranean colours. Olive oil production was a great source of wealth here during between the 17th and 19th centuries. Exports of olive oil were so huge that many underground factories and cisterns were carved out of the local limestone (carparo). Fishing was, and still is, also vital to the local economy; Gallipoli's marketplace has always been one of its most characteristic sites to visit during summertime.

Old Town, Town Centre, Castle, Fountain, Baroque Cathedral and Paintings

Upon arrival in Gallipoli's Old Town, begin your guided tour of the town centre. Along the way, see local fisherman repairing their nets, and pass by and learn about the interesting history of this medieval town, its Castle and Renaissance-style Fountain. A visit is made to the stunning Cathedral, which is completely covered with wonderful Baroque paintings.

Underground Olive Oil Factory, Tasting of Apulian Specialities

Next, learn about the town's traditional olive oil production techniques during a guided tour of one of the 35 underground oil factories, which were recently restored. In addition, discover how hard life was for the people employed there; living among animals, and leaving the factory only after the several months-long production process was completed. Following your guided tour, proceed for a tasting of delicious Apulian specialities, including taralli and focaccia with olive oil, accompanied by wine. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 75-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.5 miles (about 2.4 kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, five steps at the Cathedral, 15 steps at the factory and 30 steps to access the coach. Walking in Gallipoli is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection is recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Cathedral; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. On Sundays, church holidays and during weddings, groups are not allowed inside the churches during services. Guests must be at least five years old to participate on this tour. Guests may have the chance to visit the churches independently, quietly and reverently. Guides are not permitted to enter and talk during church services. Photography and videography are prohibited inside the churches. Shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Restroom facilities are located in cafés and restaurants; the purchase of a small snack or beverage is recommended in order to use the restrooms, and is at the expense of each guest. The driving time between the pier and Gallipoli is approximately 75 minutes in each direction. The tour sequence may vary.

Explore the beautiful Baroque city, flavours and noble lifestyle of Lecce during this splendid, full-day sightseeing excursion.

Otranto, Apulian Countryside, Lecce, Baroque Architecture

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive north through the beautiful Apulian countryside en route to Lecce, renowned for its grand Baroque architecture and the impressive, lavish décor on its buildings. The local sandstone, tinged with a warm yellow nuance, is so easy to work with that it prompted the rise of a local style (Lecce Baroque) as ornate and intricate as any the world has seen. Lecce's architectural splendour was further enhanced by the local stone masons who left their mark on this city, covering its buildings with fanciful cherubs, monsters, flowers, fruits, beauties, and beasts. Far off the beaten tracks for most of Italy's art-loving visitors, Lecce is situated on the south-eastern tip of Italy's boot, and astounds visitors with its lesser-known magnificence.

Porta Napoli, Piazza Duomo, Cathedral, Archbishop's Palace, Seminary Palace

Upon arrival in Lecce, your guided walking tour begins at Porta Napoli, one of the oldest gates to the town. Narrow streets filled with beautiful palaces lead you to Piazza Duomo, where the magnificent Cathedral and Archbishop's Palace are located. A visit is made to the Cathedral, built between 1659 and 1670 by Giuseppe Zimbalo on a pre-existing Romanesque church. The main façade, facing both the Archbishop's and Seminary's Palaces, is modestly decorated, while the side façade facing the square is an explosion of Baroque architecture with Lecce's patron saint, Saint Oronzo, in a triumphal arch. Leaving the Cathedral, visit both the Archbishop's and Seminary palaces.

Town Centre, Piazza Sant'Oronzo, Amphitheatre, Basilica of Santa Croce

Next, proceed on-foot to the Piazza Sant'Oronzo, which lies in the heart of the town. This is the site of the most important local, ancient Roman ruins, a 20,000-seat Amphitheatre dating from the 2nd century, and a column which originally stood in Brindisi to mark the end of the Appian Way. Continue walking along the little alleys en route to the most famous of Lecce's many highlights, the Basilica of Santa Croce. During your guided walking tour, marvel at a variety of intricately-detailed statues and ornaments.

Noble Palazzo Tour, Tasting of Local Specialities with Wine, Free Time

Leaving the Basilica of Santa Croce, the highlight of your tour is a visit to a stunning, noble palazzo. Located on a magnificent corner of the Old City, this hidden gem is just steps away from the Cathedral, and listed among the most noble palaces and buildings in this city of Baroque architecture. Upon arrival, you are greeted by the owners of the palazzo, who personally escort you on a tour of this exquisite, noble house. Following your guided tour, proceed to one of the halls of the palazzo for an aperitif and tasting of local specialities surrounded by splendid antiquities and nobility. Following your visit, some free time is made available to explore the narrow and beautiful streets of Lecce's town centre at your leisure. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately two miles (about 3.2 kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, ten steps at the Cathedral, ten steps at the Basilica and 20 steps at the Palazzo. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection is recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Cathedral and Basilica; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. On Sundays, church holidays and during weddings, groups are not allowed inside the churches during services. Guests must be at least five years old to participate on this tour. Guests may have the chance to visit the churches independently, quietly and reverently. Guides are not permitted to enter and talk during church services. Photography and videography are prohibited inside the churches. Shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Restroom facilities are located in cafés and restaurants; the purchase of a small snack or beverage is recommended in order to use the restrooms, and is at the expense of each guest. The palazzo is selected based upon available and the number of guests participating on this tour. This tour should be confirmed or cancelled 15 days prior to call. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore the splendid history, sights and Baroque architecture of the 'Florence of the South' during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion to Lecce.

Otranto, Apulian Countryside, Lecce, Baroque Architecture

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive north through the beautiful Apulian countryside en route to Lecce, renowned for its grand Baroque architecture and impressive, lavish décor on its buildings.

The local sandstone, tinged with a warm yellow nuance, is so easy to work with that it prompted the rise of a local style (Lecce Baroque) as ornate and intricate as any the world has seen. Lecce's architectural splendour was further enhanced by the local stone masons who left their mark on this city, covering its buildings with fanciful cherubs, monsters, flowers, fruits, beauties, and beasts. Far off the beaten tracks for most of Italy's art-loving visitors, Lecce is situated on the south-eastern tip of Italy's boot, and astounds visitors with its lesser-known magnificence.

Porta Napoli, Piazza Duomo, Cathedral, Archbishop's Palace, Seminary Palace

Upon arrival in Lecce, your guided walking tour begins at Porta Napoli, one of the oldest gates to the town. Narrow streets filled with beautiful palaces lead you to Piazza Duomo, where the magnificent Cathedral and Archbishop's Palace are located. A visit is made to the Cathedral, built between 1659 and 1670 by Giuseppe Zimbalo on a pre-existing Romanesque church. The main façade, facing both the Archbishop's and Seminary's Palaces, is modestly decorated, while the side façade facing the square is an explosion of Baroque architecture with Lecce's patron saint, Saint Oronzo, in a triumphal arch. Leaving the Cathedral, exterior visits are made to both the Archbishop's and Seminary palaces.

Town Centre, Piazza Sant'Oronzo, Amphitheatre, Basilica of Santa Croce, Free Time

Next, proceed on-foot to the Piazza Sant'Oronzo, which lies in the heart of the town. This is the site of the most important local,ancient Roman ruins, a 20,000-seat Amphitheatre dating from the 2nd century, and a column which originally stood in Brindisi to mark the end of the Appian Way. Continue walking along the little alleys en route to the most famous of Lecce's many highlights, the Basilica of Santa Croce. During your guided walking tour, marvel at a variety of intricately-detailed statues and ornaments. Following your visit, some free time is made available to explore the narrow and beautiful streets of Lecce's town centre at your leisure. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately two miles (about 3.2 kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone and slippery surfaces, with ten steps at the Cathedral and ten steps at the Basilica. Walking in Otranto is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection is recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Cathedral and Basilica; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. On Sundays, church holidays and during weddings, groups are not allowed inside the churches during services. Guests must be at least five years old to participate on this tour. Guests may have the chance to visit the churches independently, quietly and reverently. Guides are not permitted to enter and talk during church services. Photography and videography are prohibited inside the churches. Shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Restroom facilities are located in cafés and restaurants; the purchase of a small snack or beverage is recommended in order to use the restrooms, and is at the expense of each guest. The tour sequence may vary.

Discover one of the most beautiful ancient cities in southern Italy on-foot during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Otranto Walking Tour

Depart the pier for a scenic walking tour of Otranto, one of the most charming and historic locales in southeast Italy. Otranto was one of Ancient Rome's leading ports for its trade with Asia Minor and Greece, and an important foothold of the Byzantine Empire in Italy. In 1070, Otranto fell under Norman rule, and was destroyed by the Saracens in 1480.

Cathedral, Floor Mosaic, Chapel of Beati Martiri, Crypt

Your first stop is at the Cathedral, which rises atop of the small town and was built to be one of the most outstanding churches in Apulia. Its crypt was erected in 1088 and the church was completed about a century later; a time of great prosperity for this small town. During your guided tour of the Cathedral, marvel at the magnificent floor mosaic. One of the biggest in Europe, it was created by Priest Pantaleone between 1163 and 1165. In the Cathedral, step into the Chapel of Beati Martiri. The chapel and crypt house the mortal remains of 800 locals slain by the Saracens for refusing to renounce their faith.

Aragonese Castle, Ancient Walls, Bastions, Church of St. Peter, Frescoes, Old Town, Free Time

Next, an exterior visit is made to the Aragonese Castle, the old fortress of Otranto. From here, walk along the Ancient Walls and their bastions en route to the 9th-century Byzantine Church of St. Peter, renowned for its beautiful frescoes. Following your guided tour, some free time is made available to explore the Old Town at your leisure. At the conclusion of your visit, commence the short walk back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.5 miles-two miles (about 2.4 kilometres-3.2 kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone and slippery surfaces, with ten steps at St. Peter's Church to access Main Street, 20 steps at the Cathedral's Crypt and 20 steps along the Ancient Walls. Walking in Otranto is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection is recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Cathedral and St. Peter's Church; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. On Sundays, church holidays and during weddings, groups are not allowed inside the churches during services. Guests must be at least five years old to participate on this tour. Guests may have the chance to visit the churches independently, quietly and reverently. Guides are not allowed to enter and talk during services. Photography and videography are prohibited inside the churches.

Explore Otranto at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hours) sightseeing tour via private car. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48-72 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle within the Otranto area; maximum distance of 50 km. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Otranto at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hours) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48-72 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle within the Otranto area; maximum distance of 50 km. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.