Polignano a Mare: Boat Tour with Prosecco and Snacks – A Warm Review

If you’re planning a trip to Apulia and looking to see the stunning coastline from the water, this boat tour around Polignano a Mare might be just what you need. From what we’ve gathered from traveler reviews and the tour description, it offers a lively, scenic, and relaxing way to explore some of Italy’s most picturesque sea caves.

What really catches the eye about this experience is how it combines spectacular views with a laid-back vibe—think swimming in the clear waters, snapping photos of famous caves, and enjoying a glass of Prosecco with local snacks. Plus, you’ll get a chance to learn about the area from knowledgeable skippers who seem to genuinely love sharing their stories.

A small downside? Since the tour lasts just 1.5 hours, it’s a quick glimpse rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re someone craving a longer or more private experience, you might find this a bit brief. But for most visitors, especially those on a tight schedule or traveling with a group who enjoys a lively, social atmosphere, it hits the sweet spot.

All in all, this tour appears best suited to travelers who want a fun, scenic, and reasonably priced way to see Polignano a Mare from the water—perfect if you love picturesque views, a good dose of sunshine, and a relaxed vibe.

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Key Points

Short and sweet: The 1.5-hour duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary.
Scenic cave views: Stops at famous caves like Grotta Palazzese give you incredible photo opportunities.
Relaxing swim: A dedicated stop for swimming allows you to cool off and enjoy the sea.
Onboard treats: Prosecco and taralli are included, adding a festive touch.
Expert skipper: Guides are praised for their safety and knowledge, making the trip informative and fun.
Great value: Many reviews highlight this tour as a worthwhile, affordable way to experience the coastline.

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The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Layout

The tour kicks off right in front of La Veranda di Giselda in San Vito Port, Polignano a Mare. It’s a straightforward meeting point, and the boat departs on time, according to many reviews. You’ll be greeted by a professional skipper, often fluent in English and Italian, who sets the tone for a friendly, engaging ride.

The Itinerary and Stops

The real charm of this trip lies in its carefully curated stops. You’ll explore the Lama Monachile Beach, a striking cove framed by cliffs and famous for its dramatic setting. Just five minutes here is enough for some photos and a quick look at this iconic spot.

Next, you visit the Grotta Palazzese, the most famous cave, which is renowned for its stunning interior and dramatic setting. Many travelers mention how this cave is a must-see, often stopping for a photo or just to marvel at the natural rock formations. One reviewer said, “The trip was perfect. 1h30 is long enough to see most of the caves and also have a refreshing dive into the water.”

The highlight for many is the Grotta Ardito, where you’ll get a chance to swim. Many reviews rave about the opportunity to jump into the sea and cool off, describing it as a relaxing and refreshing moment. The water here is clear, and the boat’s design makes it easy to hop in and out.

Other caves you’ll pass include Grotta Azzurra, Grotta delle Rondinelle, Grotta delle Monache, and San Paolo Island. Each offers different shapes and formations, and the guide usually shares interesting tidbits about their history or nature—which many reviews appreciated, calling their guides “informative” and “funny.”

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The Swim and Relaxation

The pool stop is a favorite part of the tour for many travelers. You can take a swim, sunbathe on the boat, or just relax with a drink. The boat offers shaded areas so you can avoid too much sun exposure, which is appreciated on hot days.

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The Aperitif and Snacks

The onboard Prosecco is a big hit. Many reviews highlight how much they enjoyed the complementary drinks and snacks—taralli, a typical Apulian snack, being a local touch that adds flavor to the experience. Some reviewers mention how the drinks and snacks topped off the day perfectly, creating a festive, communal atmosphere.

The Skipper and Crew

Skippers like Francesco and Elisa are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel safe and comfortable. Several reviews mention how skillfully Francesco navigated the caves and how he kept the mood lively with stories and music.

One reviewer said, “Francesco the skipper was an excellent driver and I felt so safe.” Others appreciated the helpfulness and warmth of the crew, making the experience feel personalized rather than just a generic tour.

The Value

Many travelers note that this tour offers excellent value for the price. Seeing the key caves from the water, with a swim, Prosecco, and snacks included, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Polignano a Mare visit. Though brief, the trip packs enough highlights and fun to justify its cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience without spending hours on the water. It’s ideal if you’re visiting Polignano a Mare and want to see the caves from close-up, have a quick swim, and enjoy some local drinks.

It’s especially suited to travelers who enjoy a social, lively atmosphere—many reviews describe a fun, engaging vibe created by the crew. Families with older children might find it a good choice, especially if they love being on the water. Keep in mind, the tour is quite short, so if you’re after a deeper exploration or private experience, you might want to consider other options.

Practical Details

Duration: 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity along a packed itinerary.
Starting Point: La Veranda di Giselda, in San Vito Port.
Availability: Check the schedule as starting times vary.
Group Size: Small groups or private options available, which can enhance the experience.
Languages: Guides speak Italian and English.
Cost: Good value, considering the caves, swimming, drinks, and snacks included.
Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for your plans.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the reviews don’t specify age restrictions, the tour’s short duration and swimming stops suggest it could be suitable for older children who are comfortable on boats and in the water. Always check with the provider if you have young children or special needs.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Not necessarily. You can enjoy the boat trip and scenery even if you don’t swim, but if you want to take advantage of the swimming stop, being comfortable in water is recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen and hats, your swimwear, towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone. The boat offers some shade, but during the open water, sun exposure can be intense.

Is there alcohol included?
Yes, the tour includes a glass of Prosecco and typical Apulian snacks. The drinks add a festive touch to the cruise.

How big are the groups?
The tour offers private or small group options, which means you’re not stuck with a large, crowded boat. Many reviews mention enjoying a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, which makes booking with confidence easier.

Ready to Book?

Polignano a Mare: Boat Tour with Prosecco and Snacks

4.8

(244)

“The trip was perfect. 1h30 is long enough to see most of the caves and also have a refreshing dive into the water. A dont forget the nice prosecco!”

— Michiel, June 12, 2025

Final Thoughts

This boat tour around Polignano a Mare offers a snapshot of Italy’s stunning coastlines in a fun, relaxed way. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with the joy of being on the water—complete with the bonus of Prosecco and snacks. The stops at iconic caves like Grotta Palazzese, along with the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters, make it a memorable experience.

The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip not just scenic but also engaging. While the 1.5-hour length might feel a bit brief for some, most reviews suggest it’s enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

If you’re after a lively, social, and visually stunning boat trip that won’t stretch your budget, this experience is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited if you love a good mix of scenic views, light adventure, and local flavors.