From Trapani: Egadi Islands Tour by RIB to Favignana and Levanzo with Lunch

Exploring the Egadi Islands by RIB from Trapani: A Practical Review

If you’re considering a day trip to the Egadi Islands, a tour by RIB (rigid inflatable boat) might just be what you need for an adventure that balances fun, natural beauty, and a touch of luxury. We’ve looked into this 8-hour experience, which promises visits to Favignana and Levanzo with stops at some of the most iconic and hidden spots, plus a tasty lunch and a relaxed atmosphere.

What really makes this trip stand out are the crystal-clear waters you’ll sail in and the delicious local food served onboard. The chance to see secluded coves and golden beaches is another big plus, especially if you’re after those postcard-perfect Mediterranean views. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the group size—with just 12 seats, it’s intimate, but that also means reservations are wise, and bad weather can mean cancellations.

This tour suits adventurous couples, groups of friends, and families looking for a mix of relaxation and exploration. If you’re after a laid-back, authentic experience in the Egadi Islands with a personal touch, this might just be perfect. But if you prefer a more structured, large-group cruise, you might want to explore other options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Intimate group size (12 people) ensures a personalized experience.
• Multiple swim and snorkel stops provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water.
• A well-curated itinerary visits Favignana’s iconic beaches and Levanzo’s scenic coves.
• Fresh, local onboard lunch with wine makes for a relaxed, enjoyable meal.
• Flexible schedule with a cancellation policy that offers peace of mind.
• Weather-dependent: the itinerary can change due to sea conditions.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting Off from Trapani

You’ll meet your crew at Mare e Vento di Favignana, inside the Mistral Wind Harbor. It’s a straightforward spot with free parking nearby, which already feels convenient. Once onboard, the boat isn’t huge—just 12 seats—so expect an intimate, friendly vibe from the start. The ride out to the islands takes about 30 minutes, giving you a quick taste of the sea’s beauty and a chance to get excited about what’s ahead.

Cruising in the Mediterranean

Once you arrive, the real fun begins. The boat’s size makes for smooth navigation and access to smaller coves that bigger vessels can’t reach. The highlight is the crystal-clear waters—the kind that make you want to jump right in. Expect to stop at several key spots:

• Cala Azzurra: Known for its striking blue waters, it’s a favorite for swimming and snorkeling. The guided stop here allows you to appreciate the vibrant marine life.
• Bue Marino and Cala Rossa: These beaches and coves offer dramatic scenery with their rocky formations and golden sands—perfect for taking photos or just soaking in the view.
• Grotta degli Innamorati: The Lovers’ Cave, with its romantic name, promises a peaceful stop for exploration and photos.

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Perfect for Water Lovers

The tour emphasizes swimming and snorkeling at nearly every stop, so bring your water shoes, snorkel gear if you have it, and be ready for some immersion in the Mediterranean’s calm, inviting waters. Several reviews mention how enjoyable these stops are, with travelers quoting their appreciation for the chance to “dive directly from the boat” and enjoy the underwater scenery.

Lunch and Aperitif

Midday, you’ll anchor at the Favignana port for a delicious onboard lunch. The menu features local products, and the inclusion of good wine and tapas-like snacks helps set a laid-back, convivial tone. Many travelers found the simple, authentic cuisine to be a highlight, adding a genuine flavor to the day.

Later in the afternoon, an aperitif by the sea caps off the trip, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. One reviewer praised the “superb” wine selection, which added a touch of elegance to the relaxed vibe.

Exploring Favignana and Levanzo

After lunch, there’s some free time to explore Favignana’s town—shopping, wandering, or just relaxing. The stops here are brief but well-placed for a quick stretch. As you head over to Levanzo, expect more scenic views and another chance to swim at Cala Minnola, a picturesque cove loved for its peacefulness and natural beauty.

The Return Journey

The boat ride back takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and chat with fellow travelers. The entire day is designed to balance activity, relaxation, and scenic enjoyment, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 8 hours, starting in the morning or early afternoon; check availability for exact times.
• Group size: 12 people, ensuring an intimate atmosphere.
• Price: Consider the value—includes boat, lunch, drinks, and stops—making it a convenient way to cover a lot of ground without extra costs.
• What to bring: sunglasses, hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, water shoes. Pack light but be prepared for water activities.
• Weather considerations: the itinerary might change if sea conditions are rough. In such cases, the tour might be canceled with a full refund, so keep an eye on the forecast.
• Not suitable for: very young children (under 2), pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, given the boat’s nature.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 4.5 stars from 15 reviews suggests most travelers have enjoyed their day. Many praise the stunning scenery, friendly staff, and the authentic experience. One traveler shared that the skipper Santo’s professionalism made the trip memorable, while another appreciated the authenticity of the lunch.

However, not all reviews are perfect. One reviewer from France lamented that the skipper only spoke Italian and didn’t make much effort to communicate with non-Italian speakers, which could be a consideration if language is important for you. Also, a comment about being drenched during the crossing highlights the importance of packing suitable water gear.

What Travelers Love:

• The beauty of the stops, especially Cala Azzurra and Grotta degli Innamorati.
• The opportunity to swim and snorkel in pristine waters.
• The informal, friendly atmosphere onboard.
• The local, simple lunch and good wines.

What Could Be Better:

• The language barrier if you don’t speak Italian.
• The possibility of bad weather affecting the itinerary.
• The limited time at each stop, which might feel rushed for some.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you want an intimate, flexible day out that combines natural beauty, water activities, and local flavors. It’s perfect for adventurous spirits who aren’t bothered by a boat ride and enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing with good food and wine. Families with older children who are comfortable on boats might find it especially enjoyable, given the relaxed pace and safe stops.

If you’re seeking a luxurious, large-group cruise or have mobility issues, you might want to look elsewhere. But for those craving a personalized, authentic day in the Egadi Islands, this experience strongly delivers.

FAQ

• What is the starting point for the tour?
  You’ll meet at Mare e Vento di Favignana inside Mistral Wind Harbor in Trapani.

• How long is the boat ride to the islands?
  The trip to the islands takes approximately 30 minutes each way.

• What stops are included on the itinerary?
  Stops include Cala Azzurra, Bue Marino Beach, Cala Rossa, Grotta degli Innamorati, Cala Dogana, Cala Fredda, and Cala Minnola.

• Is snorkeling included?
  Yes, snorkeling at stops is part of the experience, with opportunities at most locations.

• What should I bring?
  Sunglasses, hat, towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and water shoes are recommended.

• Is food included?
  Yes, a local, authentic lunch with wine and snacks is served onboard, and there’s an aperitif later in the day.

• Can I cancel?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  It’s suitable for families with children who are comfortable on boats but not for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

• Will the itinerary change?
  Yes, due to sea weather conditions, the schedule could be adjusted or canceled with a full refund.

• How big is the group?
  The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This RIB tour in the Egadi Islands offers a combination of scenic beauty, water fun, and authentic Sicilian flavors that’s hard to beat for those looking for a genuine day at sea. It’s particularly suited to travelers who want a personal touch and the flexibility to explore hidden coves and beaches with a friendly crew.

While not the best choice if you prefer large-group tours or have mobility concerns, for most active and curious travelers, this experience provides a memorable way to see Favignana and Levanzo—one splash at a time. Expect stunning vistas, a laid-back vibe, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the best of Sicily’s waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: