From Trapani: Favignana and Levanzo Boat Trip with Stops

Exploring the Egadi Islands: A Detailed Look at the Favignana and Levanzo Boat Trip

Planning a day out in Sicily and considering a boat trip to the Egadi Islands? This particular cruise from Trapani offers a chance to see some of the archipelago’s most iconic sights—Favignana and Levanzo—while enjoying a relaxed itinerary, local flavors, and scenic views. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but from the descriptions, reviews, and details, it seems like a solid way to tick off two of Sicily’s most beloved islands if you’re after a bit of sun, sea, and exploration.

What we really appreciate about this trip are the stops at stunning coves like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, plus the opportunity to visit the historic center of Favignana and explore Levanzo’s caves and wreck sites. The lunch on board sounds like a nice touch, especially for those wanting to keep things simple and enjoyable. However, a key consideration is the language barrier—there’s no mention of multilingual guides or translations, which could be an issue if you don’t speak Italian or English. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day with some guided sightseeing, rather than in-depth explanations or culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Convenient half-day island visits with plenty of time for swimming and sightseeing
• Beautiful coves and beaches like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, perfect for swimming or just soaking in the views
• Onboard lunch included, offering a chance to enjoy Sicilian flavors in a casual setting
• Stops in Favignana for exploring the historic center and local shops
• Levanzo’s caves and wreck sites provide a glimpse into the island’s natural and archaeological treasures
• Limited time ashore means you’ll want to prioritize what interests you most

Setting Out from Trapani: The Journey Begins

Your day starts early, with a departure at 9:00 AM from the port of Trapani. The meeting point is straightforward—just head to Via Ammiraglio Staiti, 98, and find the boat at the designated box. The boat itself looks to be well-equipped for a day of cruising, and the schedule aims to give you a full day of island exploration within about 9 hours.

The ride from Trapani is not just transportation but part of the experience. Sailing along the coast, you’ll get a good look at the Egadi Islands’ rugged shoreline and clear waters. The atmosphere on deck is likely relaxed, perfect for soaking in the sun, chatting with fellow travelers, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze.

Favignana: The Queen of the Archipelago

Favignana is often called “the butterfly island” because of its shape, and you’ll quickly see why—it’s a striking silhouette against the sea. The tour allocates around 2 hours here, which is enough to stretch your legs, get a sense of the island’s vibe, and explore the historic center.

During the cruise, several stops are planned at some of the area’s most famous coves—Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, and Bue Marino. Cala Rossa, in particular, sounds like a highlight, described as an amphitheater of rocks with turquoise waters, perfect for a swim. Many reviews rave about the beauty of these spots; one traveler mentions that Cala Rossa looks like one of the most beautiful in the world.

While on Favignana, you could rent a bicycle or scooter to explore further, or visit the Fioro Tuna Museum—a fun way to learn about the island’s fishing traditions. The historic center is also worth a quick look: narrow streets, local shops, and lively cafes give you a taste of everyday island life.

A common critique from reviews is that the time onshore can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to visit multiple spots or relax longer. One traveler suggested that more time for swimming at Levanzo would improve the experience, which is worth considering if swimming and relaxing are priorities.

Levanzo: Small but Spectacular

After leaving Favignana, the boat heads to Levanzo, with about 1.5 hours on the island. This tiny island is known for its white limestone landscape, caves, and archaeological sites. You’ll get a quick glimpse of the small fishing village and can visit some of the caves known for their beauty and history.

The Grotta del Genovese is a major draw, with ancient cave paintings and archaeological remains. The Cala Minnola is especially noted for its pristine waters and the wreck of a Roman ship—lying at around 27 meters deep—making it a fascinating spot for snorkelers or those interested in underwater archaeology.

From reviews, it seems many travelers appreciated the chance to visit Levanzo’s caves and see the submerged wreck, which adds an adventurous element to the trip. However, some felt that one and a half hours isn’t quite enough to really explore the island in depth. Still, for most, it’s enough to get a snapshot of Levanzo’s rugged charm.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Local Flavors

A frequently mentioned highlight is the lunch served on the boat. The menu seems simple but tasty—pennette (pasta) and melon, as one reviewer described. Many reviews praise the staff and the quality of the meal, though a few suggest offering alternative fruits for those who may not enjoy melon. The fact that lunch is included makes this a convenient option for travelers wanting a low-stress, all-in-one experience.

It’s a casual meal, probably not a gourmet feast, but you’ll certainly get a taste of Sicily’s hospitality and flavors in a relaxed setting. The onboard lunch is a nice touch, especially if you prefer not to go ashore for dining.

The Return and Sunset Views

After exploring both islands, the boat heads back to Trapani, offering a chance to enjoy the fascinating sunset over the sea. Many reviews mention that the return journey is a peaceful way to end the day, with the chance to reflect on the sights and sounds of the islands.

The overall duration of about 9 hours** is well-balanced—long enough to see the highlights but not so long as to become tiring. The scenery, especially during the sunset, is described as one of Sicily’s more captivating experiences.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is good for travelers with mobility needs. The group size isn’t specified but, based on reviews, it seems to be a typical tour group with a friendly atmosphere.

Pricing isn’t detailed here, but it’s important to remember that value isn’t just about cost—it’s about what you get: boat rides, stops at beautiful coves, a local lunch, and guided visits. Many travelers find it worthwhile, especially if they’re looking for a scenic, relaxed day out.

One thing to keep in mind is the language barrier. The tour is offered in both English and Italian, but reviews indicate that explanations about the islands’ history might not always be translated. If you’re curious about in-depth stories or historical context, you may need to do some pre-trip research or prepare some questions in advance.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic cruising, swimming, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking to tick off two beautiful islands without the hassle of multiple transfers or complicated logistics, it’s a convenient choice. The views from the boat and the stops at coves like Cala Rossa are highlights that many find memorable.

It’s less suited for those wanting detailed historical guides or extensive exploration ashore, given the limited time on land and the language considerations. If you’re traveling with children or seniors, the comfortable boat ride and the opportunity to swim might appeal, but always consider the physical demands of boat travel and walking.

This tour offers a nice balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor—a solid option if you want a taste of the Egadi Islands with minimal fuss and maximum scenery.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always good to check with the provider directly about specific needs.

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including travel, stops, and lunch.

Will I have enough time to explore each island?
You’ll have around 2 hours in Favignana and 1.5 hours in Levanzo, which is enough for a quick visit and some sightseeing but not extensive exploration.

Does the tour include snorkeling?
While snorkeling is not explicitly listed, some stops at coves like Cala Rossa suggest swimming and enjoying the clear waters. The wreck at Cala Minnola might appeal to underwater enthusiasts.

What is the lunch like?
A simple, tasty meal with pasta and melon, served on board. Some reviews suggest offering alternative fruit options.

Can I rent bikes or scooters on Favignana?
Yes, it’s possible to rent bikes or scooters to explore the island more freely during your free time.

Is there a guide explaining the sights?
Explanations are provided in both English and Italian, but some reviews mention a lack of detailed translations or historical commentary.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towels, sun protection, and a camera. Comfortable shoes are also recommended if you plan to walk around the islands.

Whether you’re after stunning sea vistas, quick island getaways, or just a relaxing day on the water, this tour offers a straightforward way to experience some of Sicily’s most beautiful island scenery. Just keep in mind the limited time ashore and language aspects, and you’re likely to find it a worthwhile trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: