Private excursion to the island of Ischia with Gozzo Cilento 12m

If you’re considering a day on the water around Ischia, this private boat tour on a classic gozzo might just be what you’re after. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of an experience that’s both scenic and personalized.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is its flexibility—it’s tailored entirely to your group, with a boat comfortably equipped for changing clothes or catching some rest below deck. Plus, the professional yet friendly crew seems to make all the difference, turning a boat trip into a memorable day.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point of around $1,390 for up to 14 people—it’s not the cheapest option out there, but for a private, bespoke experience, it’s quite competitive. If you’re after a mix of scenic views, cultural sights, and the chance to relax in thermal waters, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a flexible schedule, personalized service, and a bit of luxury on the water.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with a professional crew
• Well-equipped gozzo with changing room and bathroom for comfort
• Multiple scenic stops, including thermal springs, charming villages, and bays
• Ideal for groups up to 14, offering good value for a private tour
• Includes essentials like snorkeling gear, towels, bottled water, and restroom facilities
• Perfect for those wanting a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and a unique perspective of Ischia

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Boat and Its Comforts

What makes this tour stand out for us is the boat itself—a 7.65-metre Fratelli Aprea gozzo model 750 Open Cruise. It isn’t just a boat for sightseeing; it’s a cozy floating retreat. With a bathroom and changing room area on board, it caters to travelers who prefer to stay comfortable throughout the day. Whether you want to freshen up after a swim or catch a quick nap, you’re covered.

The vessel is described as spacious and well-organized, which is essential when you’re out on the water for several hours. Plus, the boat’s classic design combined with modern amenities gives the whole experience a charming yet practical vibe.

The Itinerary – What to Expect

The tour spans roughly 7 to 8 hours, with a series of stops designed to showcase the island’s diverse beauty.

Sailing Around Ischia

The day kicks off with a sail around Ischia, which is often the highlight for many travelers. From the water, you’ll get a fresh perspective of the island’s rugged coastline, colorful villages, and iconic landmarks. This part is perfect for photos and just soaking in the scenery. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to see parts of the island less accessible by land.

Ischia’s Most Beautiful Church

One of the stops includes viewing a notable church from the sea. This provides a peaceful moment to admire the architecture and learn a bit about its history—an added touch of culture without the crowds.

Sorgenti Termali di Sorgeto

Next, you’ll have the chance to dip into Sorgeto’s natural thermal waters, famed for their healing and relaxing properties. It’s a unique natural experience that many visitors cherish, especially since the waters are free to access.

Sant’Angelo

The charming village of Sant’Angelo is often called the “pearl” of the island. You’ll get about an hour here to wander its colorful streets, browse boutique shops or simply enjoy the view. Its hillside setting and vibrant colors make it a favorite for many.

La Scarrupata Bay

For a quick swim in crystal-clear waters, La Scarrupata offers a stunning bay with calm, inviting waters. It’s perfect for cooling off and taking some photos of the scenic coast.

Castello Aragonese

The Castello Aragonese is one of Ischia’s most famous landmarks. From the sea, you’ll see the full castle complex, which offers perspectives inaccessible by land. The hour spent here is a highlight, giving you a chance to admire its structure and imagine its history.

Baia di San Montano

Another swimming opportunity awaits at San Montano Bay, a beautiful spot where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Fungo Rock

Finally, approaching the Fungo—a volcanic rock formation—adds a natural, iconic touch to the trip. It’s a fun photo stop and showcases the island’s volcanic roots.

The Extras That Make a Difference

Included in the tour are beach towels, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and restroom facilities, making the day comfortable and convenient. The crew’s local knowledge seems to be a highlight, with reviews praising the guides’ professionalism and friendliness.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is best suited for groups looking for a private, relaxed day on the water, with enough flexibility to customize stops based on your interests. It’s ideal for those wanting to see the island from a different vantage point and enjoy some time in thermal waters or scenic bays. Travelers who prefer a luxury, bespoke experience without feeling rushed will appreciate this setup.

The Value of the Experience

Considering the size of the boat and the level of customization, the cost of around $1,390 seems fair, especially since it covers the entire day, many stops, and the added comfort of onboard amenities. If you’re traveling with a group of up to 14, splitting the cost makes this an accessible luxury.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently commend the professionalism, kindness, and knowledge of the crew, particularly highlighting the skippers. One review noted, “Very nice boat and well organized. Thanks for the captain and guide who came with us,” emphasizing the quality of service.

Another reviewer shared, “We just had one of the best boat experiences of my life,” praising the staff, the itinerary, and the overall vibe. Food reviews from those who had lunch at La Scarrupata describe it as “amazing, exquisite appetizers, and delicious grilled squid,” hinting at the quality of experiences onshore as well.

Practical Considerations

The tour starts at 10:00 am and ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan around. Pickup from the nearest port is included, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with life jackets for children available.

Sailors prone to seasickness should consider taking precautions, as with all sea trips. It’s worth noting that this is a private tour, so the experience is tailored to your group’s pace and interests.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a personalized day on the water, combining scenic sailing, cultural sights, and time to relax, this tour checks many boxes. It’s great for groups who want to avoid crowded tours and prefer a more intimate experience with a knowledgeable crew guiding the way.

While not specifically geared toward families with very young children, the availability of life jackets and the comfort onboard make it accessible for most. It’s also perfect if you want to couple sightseeing with the chance to swim and soak in thermal waters.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from the nearest port on Ischia is included, making logistics straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time for all the stops and relaxing moments.

Can I bring children?
Yes, life jackets for children are available, and the boat’s facilities are suitable for family groups, though you might want to consider seasickness precautions for sensitive kids.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers fuel, towels, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, restroom access, and a private boat with a professional crew.

Are there any recommended clothing or gear?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, and perhaps a light jacket for the breeze. The boat’s changing room helps if you want to freshen up or change clothes.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Poor weather may lead to rescheduling or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This private boat tour around Ischia offers a fantastic way to see the island without the usual crowds, thanks to its customizable nature and knowledgeable crew. With stops at thermal springs, charming villages, and scenic bays, it combines relaxation, cultural insight, and stunning views—all from the comfort of a classic gozzo boat.

If you’re traveling with a group and value privacy and flexibility, this trip will likely meet your expectations. It’s a more luxurious way to experience Ischia, especially if you want to avoid structured group tours and enjoy a day tailored to your interests.

While it’s not a budget option, the level of comfort, personalized service, and unique perspectives justify the price for many. If you love being on the water and want to discover the island from a relaxed, intimate vantage point, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.