Boat tour Excursion from Trapani to Favignana and Levanzo 8 hours

Exploring the Egadi Islands: A Detailed Look at the Trapani to Favignana and Levanzo Boat Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Sicily, chances are you’ll want to spend some quality time exploring the stunning Egadi Islands. One of the most popular ways to do this is with a boat excursion from Trapani that visits Favignana and Levanzo—an experience often described as more than just a tour, but a true sea adventure. Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this 8-hour journey offers a perfect balance of relaxation, scenic beauty, and local flavor.

What we really love about this trip is how flexible and personal it feels. The skipper (not just a boat driver but a dedicated guide) is there to make sure your day is tailored to your pace and interests, and the small group size—capped at 12 people—means you won’t be lost in the crowd. Plus, the chance to snorkel in crystal waters and enjoy fresh seafood cooked right on board makes this a memorable day out.

Of course, no experience is perfect for everyone. The trip involves quite a few swimming stops—so if seasickness is a concern, you’ll want to consider that. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, bad conditions could mean rescheduling. But for travelers who love the sea, appreciate small groups, and want a mixture of adventure and chill time, this tour fits the bill beautifully.

If you’re looking for a relaxing yet engaging day exploring Sicily’s islands, this boat trip is likely to suit you. It’s especially ideal for those who value authentic experiences, scenic stops, and the chance to sample local cuisine in a laid-back setting.

Key Points

• Small-group atmosphere ensures a personal experience, with no more than 12 guests onboard.
• Multiple swimming and snorkeling stops offer ample time to enjoy the waters and explore marine life.
• Flexible timing with the skipper allows for a customized experience, making the most of good weather and your preferences.
• Scenic route includes sights like Colombaia castle and stunning beaches, perfect for photography and relaxing.
• Includes local cuisine with delicious seafood pasta cooked on board, often highlighted as a memorable part of the day.
• Ideal for travelers seeking relaxation, scenic beauty, and a taste of Sicilian island life, but not recommended for those with seasickness.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Setting Off from Trapani

The adventure begins at Mare and More, on the marina in Trapani, around 10:00 a.m. This starting point is conveniently close to public transportation, making it easy to reach. Once aboard the boat, you’ll quickly notice the intimate setting—maximum 12 people—creating a relaxed, friendly vibe.

As the boat departs, the first sight you’ll enjoy is the Colombaia castle, which stands as a proud symbol of Trapani. It’s a nice touch, giving a quick taste of local history and setting the tone for the day.

First Stop: Cala Azzurra

Our favorite part of the trip was the first swim at Cala Azzurra, renowned as one of the prettiest beaches on Favignana. The water here is famously clear and inviting, with vibrant turquoise hues that photographers would kill for. The seabed is visible even in deeper waters, and the bay is teeming with fish—perfect for snorkelers and swimmers alike. The review from a traveler summed it up: “You swim on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, admiring the turquoise seabed and the many fish.” This stop is about an hour, giving plenty of time to relax and soak in the beauty.

Exploring Iconic Tuff Quarries: Grotta del Bue Marino

Next, the boat heads to the Grotta del Bue Marino, a site famous not just for its archaeological and geological significance but also for its old tuff quarries. Here, the group gets another hour to enjoy the water and marvel at the history embedded in the rocks. Free of charge, this stop offers a mix of natural beauty and a peek into Favignana’s past.

Cala Rossa: Italy’s Most Beautiful Beach?

The third swim stop is at Cala Rossa, often described as Italy’s most beautiful beach. It’s an “enchanted place,” with crystal-clear waters that seem untouched by any human activity. The description from reviews highlights how special this place is: “An unspoiled, wild cove with waters that are perfect for a peaceful swim.” This stop is another hour of pure relaxation and underwater exploration.

Time in Favignana Town

After several hours at sea, the tour pauses to explore Favignana town for two hours. You can wander through the charming streets, visit local shops, and sample typical dishes such as tuna kebabs or pistachio coffee. The guide helps you discover the highlights and local eateries, making this a nice break from the water. Many reviews mention this part as a highlight—an authentic taste of island life, combined with the chance to stretch your legs.

Levanzo: The Wild Side

In the afternoon, the boat moves to Levanzo, the smallest of the Egadi Islands, but also the most rugged and unspoiled. First, there’s a stop at Spiaggia di Cala Dogana, a wild and pristine beach, perfect for swimming among countless fish and spectacular landscapes. The beauty of Levanzo’s scenery is consistently praised—“The scenery and colors change, but the beauty is always unique,” as one reviewer put it.

Following that, the crew anchors at Spiaggia di Cala Minnola, another fantastic spot for snorkeling and swimming. The beach is surrounded by a forest of marine pines, creating a wild, almost untouched vibe that many travelers find captivating. The last stop here is again Cala Minnola, with its unspoiled charm, before heading back to Trapani.

Return and Reflection

As the day winds down, the boat heads back to the port, with a gentle hour to unwind and share stories. The tour concludes at the same marina where it all started, around 6 p.m., leaving you with a treasure trove of memories.

What the Reviews Say

Reviews of this tour are exceptionally positive, consistently rating it a perfect 5.0 out of 5. Travelers frequently comment on how knowledgeable and friendly the skipper is, often highlighting how he makes everyone feel safe and well taken care of. One traveler said, “Captain Massimo is very experienced, and we felt very safe with him on his boat,” which is reassuring if you’re not an experienced swimmer or just want peace of mind.

Many reviewers also emphasize the quality of the stops, especially the swimming spots like Cala Azzurra and Cala Rossa, describing them as “breathtaking” and “beautiful.” The seafood pasta cooked on board by the skipper’s wife is a recurring highlight—simple, fresh, and delicious, adding authentic Sicilian flavor to the day.

People also appreciate the small-group setting, noting how it fosters a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere where everyone feels taken care of. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s like sailing with a member of your family,” capturing the warmth and authenticity of the experience.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, it’s important to remember that bad weather can cancel or alter the itinerary, as the tour is weather-dependent. If you’re prone to seasickness, be prepared—though the boat is equipped for comfort, some might find the stops and movement challenging. The tour doesn’t cater explicitly to families, but if your children are comfortable around water and boats, they could very well enjoy this adventure.

The price point of around $132.50 per person seems fair considering the inclusions—multiple stops, snorkeling gear, and a tasty lunch. It’s not cheap, but the value lies in the personalized, relaxed experience and the chance to see some of Sicily’s most beautiful coastal spots.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip suits travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they’re seeking a laid-back, immersive day at sea with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine. It’s ideal if you like small groups, personalized attention, and spontaneous itineraries shaped by the weather and the skipper’s advice.

It’s also perfect for those who enjoy scenic views, marine life, and exploring charming towns without the hassle of planning each detail. However, if you’re easily seasick, prone to motion sickness, or traveling with very young children who can’t swim or handle boat rides, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

FAQs

How long is the boat tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 10 a.m. and returning around 6 p.m., allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

What’s included in the price?
The cost (around $132.50 per person) covers boat access, snorkeling equipment, and a delicious seafood pasta lunch prepared on board. The stops at beaches and sites are free of charge.

Is the tour suitable for people with seasickness?
Seasickness is a consideration; if you’re prone to it, you might want to take precautions like medication or avoid the trip during rough weather. The boat is designed for comfort, but movement can still affect sensitive travelers.

How many people are on the boat?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a cozy and personalized experience, avoiding the crowds often found on larger tours.

Can I customize my experience?
The skipper is available to manage the schedule based on weather and group preferences, so you can enjoy a more tailored day, especially with flexible stops.

What can I do during the stops?
Swim, snorkel, relax on the beaches, or explore the town of Favignana. Many reviews highlight the quality of the swimming spots and the opportunity to enjoy local flavors.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, so it’s best to check the forecast.

Final Thoughts

This 8-hour boat tour from Trapani to Favignana and Levanzo offers a wonderfully relaxed way to explore Sicily’s stunning coastal scenery. The combination of scenic stops, snorkeling, fresh local cuisine, and a friendly skipper makes it a genuine highlight for those who love spending time in the water and discovering new landscapes.

It’s especially suited for travelers who cherish small-group adventures and spontaneous experiences. While it’s not the best choice if seasickness is a concern or for very young children, most others will find this trip a memorable, well-balanced day at sea.

If you’re after a chance to unwind, soak up some sunshine, and enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches Italy has to offer, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—and maybe even exceed them.