PRIVATE boat tour from Monopoli 3 or 5 with Skipper and Aperitif

If you’re dreaming of spending a relaxed day on the water exploring Italy’s coastal gems, this private boat tour from Monopoli might be exactly what you need. Although we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and info suggest it offers a comfortable, personalized experience with plenty of opportunities to see iconic sights and enjoy some downtime swimming and sipping drinks.

What really catches our eye are the spacious boat—a Blu & Blu 7m vessel equipped with a sun deck, awning, shower, and audio system—making it ideal for lounging and socializing. Plus, the private nature of the tour means no strangers, only your group and the skipper. That’s a big plus for anyone craving intimacy and flexibility during their day at sea.

One potential drawback to keep in mind? The itinerary seems quite packed with stops, which could mean less time at each site or some stops being brief. If you’re hoping for long, leisurely swims or in-depth cave explorations, you might find this tour a little rushed. Still, for those who value a curated, exclusive experience with expert guidance, it’s a strong contender.

This tour seems best suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want a tailored day out, soaking up spectacular views, swimming in beautiful spots, and enjoying good company without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Exclusive private experience with only your group and a knowledgeable skipper
• Beautiful coastline and stops including Polignano a Mare and Monopoli
• Comfortable, well-equipped boat with sunbathing areas, shower, and audio system
• Flexible itinerary with options for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing
• All-inclusive aperitif with typical Apulian products, prosecco, beer, and snacks
• Cost efficiency for private group considering the premium experience and exclusivity

What You Can Expect from This Private Boat Tour

This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a curated day of exploring some of Italy’s most picturesque coastal spots, all from the comfort of a private vessel. The cost is $636.25 per group, which can seem steep at first glance, but when you consider it covers up to 9 people along with the boat, skipper, fuel, and drinks, it offers good value—especially for an intimate, customizable experience.

The duration is flexible, around 3 to 5 hours. You can tailor your day depending on your interests—whether that’s spending more time swimming, sightseeing, or just relaxing on deck. The boat itself is designed for comfort, with a large sundeck at the bow and stern, ideal for soaking up the sun and taking in the views of this stunning coastline.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour features multiple stops, all within a short span of the starting point in Monopoli. The core stops include:

Polignano a Mare

Just about 10 minutes north, this town is famous for its high cliffs and caves. The highlights include GROTTA PALAZZESE, a spot known not only for its beauty but also for the international restaurant nearby. You’ll likely enjoy several stops here for swimming and exploring caves, depending on the day’s plan.

Monopoli

Similarly just 10 minutes south, Monopoli’s port and historic center are impressive. The skyline of the old city, with its cathedral and walls, creates a picturesque backdrop while you swim in the clear waters. One reviewer noted, “swimming with the backdrop of the beautiful skyline of the old city,” which really paints the scene.

Multiple Scenic Stops

The tour description repeats several stops along the coast with names like Grotta Azzurra, Cala Ponte Marina, Abbazia di San Vito, Spiaggia di San Vito, Cala Porta Vecchia, Porto antico di Monopoli, and others—each offering the chance for swimming, relaxing, or sightseeing. While the itinerary seems somewhat repetitive in listing, these locations are all close by and renowned for their natural beauty.

What Are These Stops Like?

Based on the reviews, you can expect several opportunities for swimming and snorkeling—the boat comes equipped with snorkeling gear. The stops near caves and inlets are particularly appealing, with some frequent stops for quick dips and exploring the underwater scenery.

Potential Limitations

Some reviews mention that swimming near caves may be limited. One reviewer expressed disappointment, saying, “we were disappointed to find out that we were not allowed to get close to any of the caves or swim near them,” which might be a restriction due to safety or local rules. So, if your big goal is cave exploration or long swimming sessions, it’s worth considering that this might not be the most adventurous tour in that respect.

The Experience Onboard

The boat itself is a highlight. Described as super spacious, with plenty of deck space to lounge or sunbathe, it’s well-suited for groups wanting a comfortable day out. The audio system, playing music via Bluetooth, adds to the fun, and snorkeling gear is provided for underwater adventures.

The aperitif is included—think typical Apulian products paired with prosecco, beer, or other drinks. One guest summed it up as “great drinks and appetizers,” which makes the experience feel more special and tailored.

The skipper’s role is key—reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide, with one noting their skipper was “great” and kept everything on time. The fact that the boat is exclusive means you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, just your group and the skipper, adding a layer of intimacy and flexibility.

Pricing and Value

At around $636 for up to 9 people, this experience offers a good value for a private, all-inclusive tour. With fuel, snorkeling, drinks, and the boat’s amenities included, it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy a day on the water without additional costs.

While not the cheapest option, the value lies in the exclusivity and customization—you’ll get to pick your preferred stops and spend quality time with your companions. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized experience instead of a crowded, group tour.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private boat tour suits small groups of friends, couples, or families who enjoy relaxing on the water, sightseeing, and swimming. If you’re looking for a luxurious, flexible day with a knowledgeable skipper, this fits the bill. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or just a fun day out in Italy’s stunning seaside.

However, if you’re seeking hardcore cave exploration or long, unstructured swimming, you might want to consider other options. The tour is designed to be comfortable and curated, which means some stops could be brief.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re craving an exclusive, relaxed day exploring Italy’s coast with good company and stunning scenery, this private boat tour hits the right notes. The boat’s amenities, combined with the knowledgeable skipper and inclusive drinks, make it a memorable experience. It’s a good pick for those who want control over their day, avoiding large crowds and enjoying personalized service.

On the flip side, if your main goal is to explore caves in depth or swim extensively in remote spots, you may find the stops a bit limited. But for overall comfort, stunning views, and a touch of luxury, this tour offers a solid package.

In short, this experience is best for those who value intimacy, flexibility, and comfort, and are happy to pay a bit extra for a tailored day at sea in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.

FAQs

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will be on the boat along with the skipper.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat comfortably accommodates up to 9 people plus the skipper.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the boat, skipper, 30 liters of fuel, snorkeling equipment, and an aperitif with typical Apulian products, prosecco, beer, or drinks.

Can I customize the stops?
While the itinerary is set, the private nature of the tour usually allows some flexibility to spend more or less time at certain spots.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps a hat. You might also want to have your own snacks or extra drinks if desired.

Is there a minimum or maximum duration?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on your preference and weather conditions.

Are there any restrictions on swimming near caves?
According to reviews, swimming near caves might be limited, so don’t expect long cave swims unless specified.

This private boat tour offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxation, perfect for those wanting a personalized day on Italy’s spectacular coastline. Whether celebrating or simply enjoying a day with friends, it’s a fairly luxurious way to see some of the best spots around Monopoli.