Procida & Ischia: a full-day experience with cruises from Naples

If you’re looking to squeeze two of Italy’s most charming islands into a single day, this tour offers a pretty appealing option. It’s a full-day experience that combines scenic cruises, independent exploration, and a chance to soak in the Mediterranean beauty without the hassle of multiple bookings.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances relaxing boat rides with ample free time to wander at your own pace. Another highlight is the chance to see Procida’s colorful fishing villages and the spectacular sights of Ischia’s castles and beaches. But, like any busy day trip, it’s not perfect — expect a long day with some early starts and a lot of moving parts.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a taste of the islands’ essence without dedicating multiple days. It’s especially good if you enjoy scenic boat journeys and want to explore Procida’s authentic charm and Ischia’s diverse landscapes in one go.

Key Points

• Fast-paced but comprehensive full-day tour covering two beautiful islands from Naples.
• Free time on both islands allows for personal exploration and discovering hidden gems.
• Scenic cruises offer stunning views of the Mediterranean, Vesuvius, and the islands’ coastlines.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers except those prone to seasickness.
• Expect a long day with around 10 hours of activity, including travel and free exploration.
• Ideal for those who appreciate cultural sights, seaside walks, and natural beauty in a relaxed setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and First Cruise

The adventure kicks off at the ONTANO TRAVEL TICKET OFFICE inside Molo Angioino in Naples. From there, you board a speedboat for a roughly 50-minute journey to Procida. The boat ride itself is part of the thrill—expect to see Vesuvius looming in the distance, with panoramic views of Naples’ promenade and the outline of the Gulf islands.

Travelers often comment on the smoothness of these transfers. One reviewer summed it up simply: “Sehr gut,” indicating that the cruise was enjoyable and comfortable. The short ride sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead, with plenty of chances to snap photos of the sparkling blue waters and rugged coastlines.

Exploring Procida: The First Stop

Once on Procida, you’ll have around 3 hours of free time to explore at your own pace. The island’s Marina Corricella is a standout—an iconic, rainbow-hued fishing village with narrow alleys, lively cafes, and colorful boats. It’s a favorite photo spot and a great place for a casual stroll or a coffee.

You’ll also find the Terra Murata area, a medieval fortified village with an Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo at the highest point. The abbey houses art and offers sweeping views over the Gulf. Many visitors appreciate the chance to wander through quiet streets and enjoy the authentic atmosphere that feels miles away from tourist crowds.

Procida’s Pozzo Vecchio Beach (famous from the film starring Massimo Troisi) is perfect for a quick swim or just a walk along volcanic coastlines. It’s a relaxing spot before heading back on the boat to Ischia.

Transition to Ischia

After a 20-minute cruise, you’ll arrive at the larger island of Ischia. Here, your free time extends to about 6 hours—plenty of time to explore or simply unwind. Many travelers use this time to visit major sights like the Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress perched on a volcanic islet connected to the mainland by a bridge. Inside, you’ll find gardens, ancient prisons, and panoramic views that make for memorable photos.

The village of Ischia Ponte is charming—cobbled streets lined with artisan shops and historic buildings, perfect for wandering and soaking in the local vibe. For those interested in nature, La Mortella Gardens are a real highlight: tropical plants, ponds, and terraces offer a peaceful retreat.

More Great Tours Nearby

Beaches and Natural Wonders

Ischia is famous for its thermal spas and beaches. Maronti Beach, with its clear waters and natural fumaroles, is ideal for relaxing or taking a dip. If thermal waters are your thing, you might find Sorgeto Bay appealing—a natural pool warmed by underground heat, accessible via a scenic staircase.

Borgo Sant’Angelo is another picturesque spot—white alleys, quaint boutiques, and terraces overlooking the sea make for an ideal spot to enjoy an aperitif with a view.

Wrapping Up and Return Cruise

The day winds down with a relaxing late afternoon cruise back to Naples. As the boat glides along, you’ll enjoy the last of the golden sunset, and the views of the coastline become even more stunning. The overall experience captures the essence of both islands: scenic beauty, local charm, and a taste of Mediterranean life.

Practical Details and What to Expect

• Transportation: The tour uses speedboats for transfers, which are quick and offer great views but might be uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness.
• Timing: The full day spans about 10 hours, including travel, free time, and sightseeing. Early mornings and late afternoons are busy, so prepare accordingly.
• Group Size: While not explicitly stated, tours like this typically cater to small to medium groups, making it easier to move around and explore freely.
• Cost & Value: With the opportunity to see two islands in one day plus scenic cruises, the price seems fair, especially considering how much ground is covered and the ease of transportation.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.
• What to Bring: Comfort is key—bring sturdy shoes, sun protection, swimwear, and a camera to capture those incredible views.

What We Love

The combination of scenic cruises with free time on both islands offers a flexible, immersive experience. The views of Vesuvius, the coastline, and the colorful harbors are truly memorable. We also appreciated the opportunity to explore Procida’s peaceful streets and Ischia’s lush gardens on our own.

Considerations

Keep in mind that it’s a long day—if you’re not used to boat travel or are prone to seasickness, it might be worth considering other options or preparing accordingly. The schedule is tight; there’s limited time to sit down for a full meal, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy quick bites.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love boat rides and scenic views, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a taste of Italy’s Gulf islands without multiple overnight stays. If your priority is relaxing at a leisurely pace, you might find the schedule a bit rushed.

This experience suits those interested in culture, seaside strolls, and natural beauty, especially if exploring independently appeals to you. It’s also good for active travelers who appreciate walking around, exploring villages, or visiting historic sites like castles and botanical gardens.

FAQs

How long is the cruise between Naples and Procida?
The cruise to Procida takes about 40 minutes, offering a quick, scenic ride with views of Vesuvius, the promenade, and the islands on the horizon.

Is there free time on both islands?
Yes, you get about 3 hours on Procida and 6 hours on Ischia, enough to explore independently, relax, or visit specific sights like castles and beaches.

Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
This tour might not be ideal if you’re prone to seasickness, as it involves boat transfers on open water.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, a charged camera or smartphone, and a power bank for extra battery life.

Can I visit thermal baths or beaches?
While the itinerary highlights beaches like Maronti and natural pools like Sorgeto Bay, whether you visit them depends on your free time and personal preferences.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility requirements to enjoy the experience.

What is the typical group size?
While not specified, tours like this generally accommodate small to medium groups, allowing for a more personalized exploration.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the charm of Procida and Ischia—two islands that each bring their own character and beauty to the table. The scenic boat rides alone are worth the trip, providing stunning views that make the entire experience worthwhile.

The free time on each island allows visitors to choose their own adventure—whether that means wandering winding streets, relaxing on a beach, or visiting historic sites. It’s a good option for those who want a full-day escape from Naples but still prefer to explore at their own pace rather than on a fixed schedule.

Keep in mind, it’s a long day, full of moving parts, so packing light, being prepared for the weather, and setting realistic expectations will help you enjoy it fully. If you’re after beautiful scenery combined with a bit of cultural exploration, this trip is a solid pick.

Overall, it balances enjoyment, convenience, and authentic island experiences — perfect for curious travelers eager to see two of Italy’s gorgeous Gulf islands in just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: