Full-Day Private Boat Tour to Ischia Procida from Sorrento

A Cozy Day Exploring Ischia and Procida by Private Boat

Thinking about a day out on the water around Naples’ stunning Gulf? This Full-Day Private Boat Tour to Ischia and Procida from Sorrento promises a tailored, relaxed experience with plenty of opportunities to soak in the scenery, snorkel, and enjoy local flavors. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve looked into what makes it appealing—and what you should consider before booking.

What I really like about this tour is that it’s completely customizable, meaning you can adjust the stops or pace based on your interests. Plus, the reviews highlight how knowledgeable and attentive the guides are, making the whole experience both enjoyable and informative. On the flip side, the price per person is on the higher side, but given the private nature and included amenities, many travelers find it offers good value for a full day of exploring.

If you’re someone who loves a mix of relaxing in beautiful spots, discovering charming villages, and having the freedom to create your own itinerary, this tour could be a wonderful fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service, scenic boat rides, and a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and local culture. Just keep in mind that it’s a full day out, so plan accordingly if you prefer more laid-back or shorter excursions.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience allows you to choose how to spend your day.
• Knowledgeable guides help enhance the experience with useful information and attentive service.
• Includes plenty of swimming and snorkeling stops at beautiful, natural spots.
• Comfortable boat with a maximum of 12 passengers ensures a personal touch.
• Cost reflects the exclusivity and amenities, making it a good value for those seeking a private day on the water.
• All logistics, including pickup and snacks, are covered, simplifying your day.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour offers a thoughtfully planned yet flexible itinerary, with stops designed to showcase the highlights of both islands while giving you time to relax and explore at your own pace. Here’s a detailed look at each part:

Starting with Sorrento Pickup

The experience begins with a hotel pickup, which is a real perk—no need to worry about how to get to the boat. This service makes the start seamless, especially after a long journey or if you’re staying a bit outside the main harbor area. The boat itself is a Gozzo Jeranto 950, a classic Italian vessel that comfortably fits up to 12 passengers, ensuring you won’t be crammed in with strangers. The staff is described as attentive and professional, which sets the tone for a smooth trip.

First Stop: Spiaggia dei Maronti in Ischia

Arriving at Ischia, you’ll likely start at Maronti Beach, renowned as the longest beach on the island, stretching nearly 3 km. It’s an inviting spot for a quick swim or just to admire the view. The water here is perfect for those who want to relax on the sand or enjoy the sea breeze.

Second Stop: Castello Aragonese & The Green Cave

Next, the boat will pause near the Green Cave, carved into the rock with a natural play of colors caused by sunlight reflecting into the water—a picture-perfect moment. Swimming and snorkeling here is highly recommended. The cave’s enchanting light and hues are a favorite among visitors.

Following that, you’ll visit Castello Aragonese, a fortress perched on a huge rock connected to the island by a 220-meter bridge. Though you won’t enter the castle during this tour, viewing it from the water gives you a sense of its grandeur and history. It’s a classic photo opportunity and a reminder of the island’s strategic importance.

Free Time in Ischia Porto

After the scenic stops, you’ll anchor at Ischia Porto for around 3-4 hours, giving you ample time to explore the town independently. Many travelers enjoy hopping into a microtaxis, the tiny three-wheeled cars, which are a fun and authentic way to see the area quickly. This free time is perfect for grabbing a light lunch, visiting local shops, or simply wandering the lively streets.

Heading to Procida: Vivara & Terra Murata

Sailing towards Procida, the boat stops near Vivara, an uninhabited, protected nature reserve connected to Procida by a bridge. Its pristine waters and natural beauty are ideal for a brief swim or just appreciating the wild, untouched landscape. This spot is especially appealing for nature lovers or those who want a peaceful break.

Then, the boat cruises past Terra Murata, the oldest part of Procida. Seen from the sea, it’s a fortified village perched atop a hill, with historic sites like the Palazzo d’Avalos prison and the Abbey of San Michele. Although you won’t step foot on land here, the view from the boat offers a fantastic perspective.

The Charm of Porto di Corricella

No visit to Procida is complete without a stop at Porto di Corricella, arguably the most iconic village in the area. The colorful buildings, arched streets, and stunning bay make for perfect photo moments. This is a wonderful place to take a swim and soak up the lively ambiance.

Free Exploration of Procida

The tour then offers you about 2 hours to explore Procida on land independently. Whether you want to stroll, shop, or just relax with an ice cream, you have enough time to get a taste of what makes this island special.

Returning to Sorrento & Final Tasting

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to Sorrento, with a sweet touch—a limoncello tasting to round out your experience. It’s a charming way to end the trip, and many reviews mention how much they appreciated this thoughtful detail.

What the Tour Includes and What to Keep in Mind

The included amenities are pretty generous: hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, drinks (including wine, prosecco, beer, soda, bottled water), beach towels, and fuel. All of this contributes to a worry-free day, letting you focus on enjoying yourself.

However, the snorkeling equipment is not provided, but you can bring your own or buy it on board for €15 for a mask and €9 for a snorkel. If swimming and snorkeling are high on your list, bringing your gear might be worth it.

The price of around $1,279 per person might seem steep, but for a private, full-day experience with a dedicated crew, it’s quite reasonable. The tour’s private nature means you won’t be part of a large group, which enhances comfort and flexibility.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveller Feedback

A notable review mentions, “We had a fab time with skipper Luca and guide Luisa, who made our day really enjoyable and comfortable, visiting Ischia, Procida and Capri.” This highlights how well the guides care for their guests, providing useful info while keeping the atmosphere relaxed. Other comments emphasize the stunning views and the excellent company of the crew, making for a memorable day.

Travelers who love a personalized touch and a mix of scenic cruising, swimming, and land exploration will find this tour hits the spot. The inclusion of free time in both islands is a real plus, giving you freedom to choose your adventure—whether that’s sunbathing, sightseeing, or just relaxing with a drink.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private boat tour is ideal for couples, small groups, or friends who want a flexible, intimate experience on the water. It’s perfect if you value freedom of itinerary, personalized service, and swimming in beautiful spots. Families with older children might also enjoy it, especially if they’re comfortable with a full day on a boat. Just note the duration and think about whether your group is ready for the full 8-9 hours.

People seeking a luxurious yet authentic day out, with the comfort of hotel pickup, snacks, and a guided cruise, will appreciate the value here. If you’re after a structured tour with set stops, this might feel too flexible, but for those wishing to craft their perfect day, it’s spot-on.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

How long is the free time on Ischia Porto and Procida?
You’ll have about 3-4 hours in Ischia Porto and 2 hours in Procida, giving you plenty of time to explore, eat, or relax as you wish.

What’s the boat like?
The boat is a Gozzo Jeranto 950, a traditional Italian vessel with a maximum capacity of 12 passengers, ensuring a comfortable, private experience.

Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, snacks and a variety of beverages, including wine, prosecco, beer, soda, and bottled water, are included in the price.

Can I snorkel during the trip?
Snorkeling equipment isn’t included but can be purchased on board (€15 for a mask, €9 for a snorkel), or you can bring your own.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In The Sum Up, this private boat trip offers a thoughtful way to explore two of the Gulf of Naples’ most charming islands. The flexibility, attentive guides, and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile choice if you’re after a full day of sea, sun, and stories. It’s best suited for those who want an intimate experience with plenty of options to tailor the day—perfect for a romantic escape, a small group of friends, or curious travelers eager for a personalized adventure. Just remember, it’s a long day, so pack sunscreen, your snorkeling gear, and a sense of curiosity.