Polignano a Mare: Boat Cruise, visit to the caves with Spritz

Exploring the Caves of Polignano a Mare by Boat: A Genuine Look

If you’re dreaming of a quick, scenic escape to the famous seaside town of Polignano a Mare in Italy, a boat tour exploring its spectacular caves might be just what you need. We’ve come across this experience and, honestly, it sounds like a delightful way to see some of the most striking natural formations along the coast. It’s a short ride—about an hour and a half—and offers a chance to escape the crowds, enjoy the sea, and take in views you won’t find unless you venture by water.

What catches our eye about this tour? First, the small group size in open boats, which promises a more intimate and relaxed experience. Second, the inclusion of an aperitif with Prosecco or Spritz—a lovely touch that makes the outing feel a bit more special. The only potential downside? The tour’s reliance on weather conditions, which can sometimes lead to cancellations, as some reviews have mentioned. Still, if you’re after a manageable, fun, and scenic activity—particularly for those who appreciate natural beauty and a bit of local charm—this tour could be perfect.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy sightseeing from a boat, want a relaxed pace, and appreciate expert guiding in a friendly setting. It’s not overly strenuous or lengthy, making it accessible for most visitors eager for a taste of Polignano’s coast without a full day commitment. Let’s break down what you can expect and why it might be a good fit for your trip.

Key Points

• Small, intimate boats with a maximum of 10 people, offering a more personal experience.
• Visiting multiple sea caves, including the famous Grotta Palazzese, in a relaxed, 1.5-hour cruise.
• A scenic route along Polignano’s jagged coastline with photo stops at notable spots.
• An included aperitif on board—Prosecco or Spritz—to enjoy while taking in the views.
• Expert local skipper guiding the tour, with friendly service and knowledgeable commentary.
• Crystal-clear waters perfect for a quick dip or just marveling at the sea’s bluest shades.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

We love the way this tour combines natural beauty with a laid-back vibe. Starting from La Veranda di Giselda, you’ll hop aboard a small open boat, designed for easy navigation through the caves and along the rugged coastline. The size of the boat is a clear advantage—it offers a cozy, less crowded environment, and the open design means you’re right there with the sea breeze and fresh air.

The itinerary includes several stops at iconic spots like the San Vito Abbey, where you can snap a few photos, and the famous Grotta Azzurra, known for its stunning blue waters. These short pauses—around five minutes each—are enough to absorb the scenery without feeling rushed. Plus, the tour passes by unique formations like the Scoglio dell’Eremita (Hermit’s Rock) and the Grotta degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Cave), ensuring you get plenty of picture-worthy moments.

One highlight is the visit to Grotta Palazzese, a legendary cave that’s often admired from afar, but seeing it from the water adds a special perspective. The tour’s route also takes you to Cala Port’alga and the Grotticella Sella, small yet striking spots that add to the sense of discovery.

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy an aperitif—either a refreshing Spritz or Prosecco—while gently drifting along. This simple touch elevates the experience, making it feel more leisurely and indulgent. And for those who like a quick dip, the boat makes a stop for a swim in the clear waters, giving you a chance to cool off or just enjoy the sea.

The Group and Duration

Each boat hosts up to 10 people, which we see as a real plus. It keeps the atmosphere friendly, and the skipper can give more personalized attention. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, a perfect length for a morning or late-afternoon activity without it taking over your whole day.

Timing-wise, you’ll want to check the specific start times before booking, but generally, you’ll be out on the water for a manageable stretch. The experience is carried out in English or Italian, so communication is smooth regardless of your language preference.

Pricing and Value

At around $33 per person, this tour strikes us as good value for such a close-up exploration of Polignano’s caves. The price includes the boat, guide, aperitif, and the chance to swim in the sea, which all contribute to a well-rounded experience. Considering how much natural beauty and local charm you get in such a brief window, it’s a pretty reasonable expense.

Of course, the price doesn’t cover transportation to the meeting point, but if you’re already in Polignano, this won’t be a problem. The meeting point is conveniently located in front of La Veranda di Giselda, and staff are easy to spot in branded T-shirts.

Real Traveler Feedback

Reviews provide a helpful glimpse into what you can expect. One guest from Germany expressed disappointment when weather canceled their trip—”unfortunately due to, well understood, weather conditions, the trip was cancelled,”—showing the importance of good weather for this activity. But many travelers highlight the small boats and friendly skipper, with one describing it as “fun and carefree,” and another calling the guide “fantastic,” noting their kindness and knowledge.

Several reviewers mention the stunning views and good value, emphasizing that the experience is worth trying if you’re in Polignano a Mare. A traveler from Poland described it as “great,” and particularly appreciated the “beautiful views and very friendly gentlemen operating the boat.” That personal touch—the friendly guides and the laid-back atmosphere—appears to be a real highlight.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal if you want a relaxed, scenic experience with minimal hassle. It’s perfect for those who enjoy natural beauty and sea views, and who appreciate having a small, friendly group rather than a large, noisy tour. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want something memorable but simple, this could be your ideal outing.

While not specifically tailored for families or children, the small boat size and gentle pace make it accessible for most ages, especially if everyone is comfortable with boat rides. It’s also a good pick if you’re short on time but want to see some of Polignano’s most iconic caves.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Polignano a Mare and love the idea of a short, scenic boat ride, this tour offers a friendly, intimate way to see the coast’s natural wonders. The inclusion of an aperitif makes it feel a little more indulgent, and the knowledgeable skipper adds a layer of personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

While weather-dependent, this experience rewards those who enjoy small-group outings, stunning sea views, and a dash of local flavor. It’s a straightforward but memorable way to get closer to Polignano’s incredible landscape—think of it as a mini-adventure that captures the essence of this seaside jewel.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the small boat size and gentle pace could suit children comfortable with boat rides. Always check with the provider about age restrictions or suitability.

What should I bring for the tour?
Just bring comfortable shoes for the walk to the meeting point. Since the boat is open, you might also want sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. A towel or swimsuit for swimming could be optional if you plan to dip in the sea.

Is the tour canceled in bad weather?
Yes, weather conditions can lead to cancellations, as noted in reviews. It’s good to have a backup plan or be flexible with your schedule.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, including stops and photo opportunities. It’s a nice, manageable length for most travelers.

What’s included in the price?
The boat, professional skipper, an aperitif (Prosecco or Spritz), parasol, and a stop for swimming are included. Transport to the meeting point is not.

Can I book a transfer to the meeting point?
Yes, transfers are available on request, so you can coordinate that if needed.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic way to explore Polignano a Mare’s coast and caves, this boat tour offers a friendly, authentic experience that highlights the natural beauty of this unique stretch of Italy. With beautiful views, a knowledgeable guide, and a touch of local hospitality, it’s worth considering for a memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: