Exclusive tour of Stromboli island, Boat tour with Pasqualo

Discovering Stromboli with Pasqualo: An Honest Look at the Private Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Stromboli from a unique perspective, this private boat tour with Pasqualo might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, plenty of travelers have and share a pretty compelling story about what to expect. What makes this experience stand out is the chance to see Stromboli’s volcanic activity up close from the water, combined with visits to tucked-away villages and scenic swimming spots that land-based tours simply can’t reach.

Two features that really appeal to us are the personalized nature of the tour—since it’s private, you’re not sharing the boat with strangers—and the opportunity to explore areas only accessible by sea. Plus, the fact that you can snorkel in clear waters and stroll through authentic villages like Ginostra adds a nice touch of local charm. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price point—at over $330 for a group of four, it’s definitely an investment, especially when factoring in weather dependence and the limited time.

This tour is best suited for those who love a mix of adventure, scenery, and culture. If you’re the type who enjoys scenic boat rides, discovering volcanic landscapes, and having a guide who can share local insights, this experience could be a great fit. It’s also a good pick for travelers looking for a more intimate, flexible day on the water rather than a large-group excursion.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: This is a private tour, so you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed and tailored experience.
• Unique Access: You reach areas only accessible by boat, including the charming village of Ginostra.
• Volcanic Views: Get a close-up look at Stromboli’s active Sciara del Fuoco lava flow and puffing peak.
• Swimming & Snorkeling: Enjoy multiple stops to swim and snorkel in beautifully clear waters.
• Local Insights: Your skipper, Pasqualo, is knowledgeable about the island and can answer questions about daily life, volcano activity, and local spots.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour relies on good weather; if conditions turn poor, the trip could be canceled or altered.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off from the Pontile in Stromboli and lasts approximately 3 hours. That’s a compact window, but enough to cover some of the most impressive sights around the island without feeling rushed. The certainty of a mobile ticket makes planning straightforward—just show up, hop on the boat, and set off on your adventure.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Ginostra — a Village Off the Beaten Path

Your first stop is Ginostra, a small, peaceful village reachable only by boat. This setting offers a chance to breathe in the calm atmosphere, take in sea views, and enjoy some authentic local charm. Travelers have reported enjoying a drink or a quiet walk through the town, soaking in the unspoiled scenery. The highlight here is the “Piscinette di Ginostra,” natural swimming pools where you can take a leisurely swim or snorkel.

A review from a traveler in August 2021 notes, “a granita in Ginostra is a must,” emphasizing how this place offers a genuine taste of local life. The hour and a half allocated gives plenty of time to relax, explore, and maybe snap some memorable photos.

Stop 2: Stromboli Volcano — witnessing the Lava and Smoke

Next, you move toward the Sciara del Fuoco, one of the most dramatic volcanic sights you could hope for. This steep volcanic scar is where the island’s eruptions pour lava and ash into the sea, creating spectacular, constantly changing scenery. The tour includes an opportunity to snorkel at this spot, letting you see the volcanic activity from a safe distance in the water.

Our source mentions that the admission is included, which is great, as it means no extra fuss or expenses. Many travelers find this part of the tour especially memorable because of the stunning views of the eruptive activity—a raw reminder of Earth’s power.

Stop 3: Stromboli’s Sea Stack — a Blue Haven

The final stop is a tiny but striking sea stack called Strombolicchio, located about 2 km northeast of the main island. This isolated, volcanic origin formation offers a different kind of beauty—deep blue waters and rugged volcanic terrain. Travelers get a brief window here to enjoy swimming and soaking up the last rays of sun before heading back.

One reviewer describes it as “a beautiful spot,” and says the water’s deep blue color makes it perfect for a last swim. The 30-minute stop is short but sweet, giving you a final dose of the island’s natural beauty.

The Guide and Personal Touch

The tour is led by Pasqualo, a local skipper who’s praised for his knowledge and friendliness. According to reviews, he is attentive, answering questions about the island, volcano, and local life, even sourcing fresh seafood snacks for his guests. Similarly, one reviewer highlighted how he picked great stops, including a memorable granita in Ginostra.

However, it’s worth noting that there was a review mentioning a miscommunication about the language—the reviewer booked an English tour but felt the guide didn’t speak enough English. The company responded that Pasqualo delegated the tour to his team, and promised improvements. So, if language is a concern, it’s worth confirming beforehand.

Snorkeling, Swimming, and Refreshments

The tour emphasizes swimming and snorkeling at several points, with the natural pools and volcanic waters offering clear, inviting spots. Many travelers enjoy relaxing in the water, taking in the scenery, and cooling off from the Mediterranean sun. Some reviews mention the delicious local snacks and simple refreshments provided, including a fresh seafood snack, which adds a local flavor to the experience.

Pricing and Value

The cost is around $332 for a group of up to four people, which averages out to about $83 per person. While that’s not cheap, it’s quite reasonable considering the exclusivity—it’s a private tour—and the personalized experience you get. The price includes the stops, snorkeling spots, and the guide’s local expertise, making it a package that balances cost with memorable moments.

Practical Details and Booking

Most travelers book around 38 days in advance, indicating that the tour is popular and in demand. The meeting point is straightforward—the Pontile in Stromboli—and since it’s a private tour, your group gets undivided attention. Cancellation is easy and flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, which adds a bit of peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is particularly well-suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy personalized experiences, scenic water-based exploration, and volcanic landscapes. If you’re looking for a day that combines stunning views, cultural insights, and a splash of adventure, this trip hits those marks. It’s also great if you prefer a more intimate setting rather than a large group tour.

However, those on a very tight budget or expecting a tour with extensive land-based sightseeing might find the price a bit steep for the limited hours. Also, if you’re worried about language barriers, it’s worth clarifying the guide’s language skills beforehand.

The Sum Up

All in all, this private boat tour of Stromboli with Pasqualo offers a rare chance to see the island’s volcanic activity from the water, explore secluded villages, and swim in crystal-clear waters. Many travelers have enjoyed the knowledgeable guidance, authentic local stops, and the chance to witness Stromboli’s fiery eruptions up close. While the price is on the higher side, the personalized nature and exclusive access make it a worthwhile splurge for those craving a more intimate, adventurous day.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves combining scenic boat rides, volcanic views, and local culture in one smooth package, this tour is likely to deliver. Just remember to double-check details like language and weather conditions before booking, and you’ll be set for a memorable day on Stromboli.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify restrictions, the tour mainly involves boat travel, swimming, and snorkeling, which generally suits older children comfortable in water. It’s best to check with the provider directly for specific age recommendations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, stops at Ginostra, snorkeling spots, and viewings of Stromboli’s lava flow and sea stack. It also includes the guide’s local insights and some snacks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, which provides enough time for the three main stops without feeling rushed.

What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet at the Pontile in Stromboli, a central and accessible location.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

Is there a minimum group size?
It’s a private tour for up to 4 people, so it’s flexible as long as your group fits within that limit.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, and perhaps a camera. The tour is weather-dependent, so check the forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations if conditions aren’t safe.

This tour offers a good blend of adventure, scenery, and local flavor—perfect for travelers wanting a memorable, personal experience of Stromboli’s volcanic wonder.