Marettimo: tour of the wonders of the wildest island in the Egadi archipelago

If you’re dreaming of a day spent soaking in wild landscapes, exploring sea caves, and swimming in clear, turquoise waters, a boat tour around Marettimo could be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a relaxed, nature-focused experience ideal for those who love the sea and beautiful coastline.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are its comprehensive exploration of the island’s caves and hidden coves—which means you’ll get a good dose of adventure and stunning scenery—and its comfortable, safe boat that seems to be well-suited for a day of leisurely cruising. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour relies heavily on weather conditions, especially when visiting the caves, which can affect what you’ll actually see and do.

This experience generally appeals to travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic day on the water—it’s not a high-intensity adventure, but rather a chance to relax and soak in the island’s natural beauty. If you enjoy stories about local legends and history, the guide’s narration will add an extra layer of interest. It’s particularly good for those who want to escape busy tourist spots and explore the coast at a slow, comfortable pace.

Key Points

• Wild coastline and caves: The tour offers an in-depth look at Marettimo’s rugged cliffs and fascinating caves.
• Expert storytelling: The guide shares history, legends, and secrets of the island, adding context to the scenery.
• Comfortable boat: The vessel is described as cozy, safe, and suitable for a relaxed cruise.
• Swimming in secluded coves: Stops at crystal-clear spots like Cala Bianca and Punta Troia give you time for a refreshing swim.
• Weather-dependent cave visits: Cave visits depend on sea conditions, so some caves may be skipped if the weather is unfavorable.
• Affordable price point: At around $47 per person for roughly four hours, it offers good value, especially considering the included snorkeling gear and water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins from the port of Scalo Nuovo, where you’ll easily find the boat marked “Marine Joy”. Departure times are typically at 10 a.m. or 3 p.m., giving you flexibility depending on your plans.

Coastal Navigation

Once aboard, the boat will set off on a scenic journey around Marettimo, hugging the coast as it ascends cliffs and reveals wild landscapes. We loved the way this part of the tour combines gentle movement with continuous views of sheer drops and rugged terrain. It’s a great way to get a sense of the island’s natural terrain without any physical exertion.

During this cruise, your guide will share stories and insights into Marettimo’s history and folklore. This background helps deepen your appreciation—knowing why the caves look like they do, or hearing legends about the island’s secret spots, makes the scenery even more captivating.

Visiting the Sea Caves

Depending on sea conditions, you’ll get to explore some or all of the island’s most famous caves. The list includes:

• Grotta del Cammello
• Grotta della Bombarda
• Grotta Perciata
• Grotta della Pipa
• Grotta del Presepe
• Ficarella Cave
• Tuono Cave
• Toro Cave
• Innamorati Cave

Each cave has its own unique shape and natural light effects, with rocks sculpted by wind and water over time. Reviewers mention the caves are characterized by their curious shapes and natural light, which makes them exciting to see from the boat. Be aware, though, that the actual visit depends on the ocean’s mood, and sometimes only a few caves might be accessible.

Swimming and Relaxation

The tour includes several stops in secluded coves perfect for swimming — with clear, calm waters. Spots like Cala Bianca and Scalo Maestro are frequent favorites, offering calm, turquoise waters where you can take a dip.

One reviewer mentioned that the stops are “ideal for swimming,” and others appreciated the chance to relax in these untouched spots away from crowds. Keep in mind, the duration at each swim stop isn’t very long, so come prepared with your gear and a towel if you want to maximize your time in the water.

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Additional Details

• Snorkeling masks are included, so you can explore under the water, which adds a fun element if you love snorkeling.
• Fresh water is available on board for hydration.
• The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure.
• The tour does not include snacks, so you might want to bring some water or a light snack if you need it.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The tour is priced at $47 per person, which is reasonable considering the length and inclusions like snorkeling masks and water. The boat is described as cozy and safe, making it suitable for most travelers who are comfortable on the water.

One thing to note is that the tour is conducted in Italian, so if you don’t speak the language, you might miss some of the storytelling unless you’re comfortable with basic understanding or are used to tours in foreign languages. Also, cancellation is free if you cancel up to 24 hours ahead, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Timing-wise, you’d want to check the availability for your preferred departure, as it varies, but morning and afternoon options are generally offered.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the price and what’s included, this tour seems to be good value for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience on Marettimo’s waters. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and swimming without the need for a strenuous activity.

The caves and coves are undoubtedly the highlights, and the guide’s storytelling adds a layer of interest—making the experience more memorable than just a boat ride. However, keep in mind that the cave visits are weather-dependent, so if that’s a priority, it’s worth considering how sea conditions might affect your experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience would suit those who crave an intimate look at Marettimo’s wild coast, enjoy storytelling, and want to spend time swimming in quiet, beautiful spots. It’s not overly adventurous but offers enough exploration and scenic beauty for a memorable half-day outing. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate relaxed activities centered around nature, this could be a perfect choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the relaxed nature and inclusion of swimming suggest it can be suitable for older children and teens comfortable on boats. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What languages will the guide speak?
The tour is conducted in Italian, so non-Italian speakers might miss some stories unless they understand the language.

Are snacks included during the tour?
No, snacks are not included, but fresh water is provided.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, and possibly a light snack if you want to extend your time in the water.

Is the boat comfortable and safe?
Yes, the vessel is described as comfortable, cozy, and safe for a relaxing cruise.

Will I see all the caves?
Cave visits depend on sea conditions, so some caves may be skipped if the weather isn’t suitable.

What are the best spots for swimming?
Cala Bianca, Scalo Maestro, Punta Troia, and other secret coves depend on the day’s sea conditions.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size and scenic nature make it a good choice for solo adventurers seeking a peaceful day on the water.

Final Thoughts

If you’re drawn to the idea of exploring Marettimo’s rugged coastline, enjoying quiet coves, and discovering sea caves, this boat tour offers a relaxed way to do so without breaking the bank. The combination of scenic views, storytelling, and swimming makes for a well-rounded half-day escape from more crowded tourist spots. While weather can influence the cave visits, the overall experience seems thoughtfully designed for those who appreciate natural beauty and a slower pace.

For travelers who want a genuine taste of the island’s wild side—without the fuss of complicated logistics or intense activities—this tour could be just the right fit. Just keep your expectations flexible with the cave visits, and you’ll likely come away with some lovely memories of Marettimo’s stunning coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: