Polignano a Mare: Boat Trip, Swim & Cave with Aperitif

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the beauty of Italy’s coast, a boat tour around Polignano a Mare might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t taken this particular trip ourselves, but based on lots of reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a fantastic way to see the area from a different perspective. It’s perfect if you love natural wonders, scenic views, and a touch of relaxing luxury.

What really appeals to us about this experience is the chance to explore hidden sea caves that are only accessible from the water—something you just can’t see from land. Plus, the refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters is a real highlight, especially when combined with a glass of Prosecco and some local snacks. That said, it’s a relatively short trip at 1.5 hours, which means it’s a good option if you’re short on time or want a quick taste of the coast’s beauty.

One thing to consider is that the tour is weather-dependent—rough seas can make for a bumpier ride and might affect the experience, but that’s beyond the operator’s control. It’s also not suited for those with mobility issues, as getting on and off the boat might be challenging. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic coastal views, enjoy a relaxed pace, and want a taste of Italy’s stunning coastline without a long day on the water.

If you’re seeking a lively, engaging experience with friendly guides, beautiful sights, swimming opportunities, and a laid-back vibe, this trip is likely to tick those boxes. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even as a solo traveler looking to meet others on a small group outing.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery: Offers gorgeous views of Polignano a Mare and its cliffs.
• Accessible caves and grotto exploration: Visit a variety of sea caves beautifully illuminated by sunlight.
• Relaxing swim stop: Enjoy swimming in very clear waters, perfect for floating and cooling off.
• Tasty refreshments included: Sip on Prosecco and enjoy traditional Apulian snacks like taralli.
• Small group size: Max 10 participants, which keeps the experience intimate and friendly.
• Good value: Priced at about $40 per person for 1.5 hours, with plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

Your adventure kicks off at the lively harbor of Polignano a Mare, where a friendly crew welcomes you aboard the charming boat, Dorino. The size of the group is limited to just 10 people, which means you’re not crammed in with a crowd but rather sharing a cozy, more personal experience.

The boat itself is described as comfortable, spacious, and well-maintained. Many reviews highlight how the crew made everyone feel at ease and shared interesting facts about the region, adding a cultural layer to the journey.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is packed with stops that showcase the area’s natural and cultural highlights. While the full itinerary includes numerous stops, the core experience revolves around:

• Exploring the sea caves (“grotte”): These caves are sculpted by centuries of waves and illuminated by sunlight streaming in, creating mesmerizing turquoise and emerald hues. Reviewers describe the caves as “fabulous” and highlight how the sunlight inside the grotto makes for stunning photos.

• Swimming in the clear waters: After exploring the caves, the boat anchors at a tranquil spot for a swim. Reviewers rave about the water’s clarity—some mention how extraordinary it is to see fish and float effortlessly. Be prepared to get a little wet, as this is part of the fun.

• Savouring Prosecco and snacks: As you relax on the boat, you’ll be served a chilled glass of Prosecco, Italy’s favorite sparkling wine. Many reviews point out how refreshing and well-chosen the drinks are, perfectly complementing the scenery. The traditional Apulian taralli give a nice local flavor, perfect for snacking while enjoying the views.

• Panoramic views and cultural tidbits: As the boat cruises back to the harbor, you’ll take in the postcard-perfect scenery of whitewashed houses perched on cliffs, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The crew shares tidbits about the region, enriching the experience.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The caves are often highlighted as the main attraction—the way sunlight penetrates the turquoise waters inside creates an almost magical atmosphere. Multiple reviews mention how the caves are “beautiful” and provide excellent photo opportunities. The boat’s ability to access these hidden spots gives you a perspective that you simply can’t get from land.

Swim stops are another highlight. Reviewers have appreciated the opportunity to cool off in the incredibly clear waters, with some describing it as “otherworldly” to see underwater formations and fish while floating in the sea.

The guide’s role cannot be overstated. Many reviews praise the guides for their attentiveness, humor, and knowledge. For example, one reviewer notes how their guide was “really attentive and entertaining,” making the experience more engaging and fun.

Prosecco and snacks add a touch of indulgence. This isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s also about unwinding, sipping on bubbles, and enjoying local flavors, which many travelers appreciated as “great value for the money.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Duration and Group Size

At just 1.5 hours, the trip is short enough to fit into a busy day but long enough to see some of the area’s best sights. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures an intimate atmosphere, with plenty of opportunity for questions and conversation.

Price and Value

At around $40 per person, this tour offers a fair price point considering what’s included. For the price, you’re getting a boat ride with a knowledgeable guide, access to stunning caves, a swim in pristine waters, and drinks/snacks. Travelers consistently mention that it’s “great value” and that they feel they got their money’s worth, especially given the beautiful scenery and personal attention.

Weather and Practical Considerations

The experience is weather-dependent. Several reviews mention that rough seas can make the ride bumpier, and the weather can influence the visibility and safety of the swim stop. It’s wise to check the forecast before booking.

Since the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, you’ll need to arrive at the starting point at the designated meeting spot—look for Ludovica under the beach bar or the lifeguard tower in the woods. Be sure to bring sunglasses, a camera, and beachwear, and prepare to get a little wet.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for those who love scenic coastal landscapes and are comfortable on the water. It’s perfect for travelers who:

• Want a short, memorable experience of Polignano a Mare’s coastline.
• Appreciate natural beauty and unique geological formations like caves.
• Enjoy relaxing with a drink and local snacks in a casual, friendly atmosphere.
• Are looking for good value without sacrificing quality.
• Seek an activity that combines sightseeing, swimming, and cultural insights in one package.

It’s probably less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer longer, more extensive tours. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, you might want to consider the weather conditions.

The Sum Up

This boat tour around Polignano a Mare excels at delivering a beautiful, intimate look at the region’s stunning coast and sea caves. For about $40, you get a quick yet immersive experience—exploring caves, swimming in clear waters, and sipping Prosecco—all with a friendly guide leading the way. The small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, making it perfect for those who want a relaxed, personal outing.

Travelers who value beautiful scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a touch of indulgence will find this tour worthwhile. It offers a great way to see the coast from a unique vantage point and enjoy some well-earned downtime in between.

If you’re after an activity that’s fun, scenic, and feels authentic, this tour is worth considering. Just be prepared for the weather, and that you may get a little wet—but that’s part of the charm. Highly recommended for couples, solo travelers, or small groups looking for a memorable coastal adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the tour involves a boat ride with some swimming and walking. It’s best suited for older children comfortable with boat trips and water activities.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a great quick outing if you’re short on time but want a taste of Polignano’s coast.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get the boat ride, a guide, snorkeling masks, and refreshments including Prosecco and traditional taralli.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, beachwear, and possibly a towel. Be prepared to get wet during the swim stop.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the tour guides speak English, Italian, and French, ensuring good communication for most travelers.

If you’re targeting an experience that combines stunning scenery, a relaxed vibe, and a splash of adventure, this boat trip offers a memorable way to enjoy Polignano a Mare from the water. It’s a lovely balance of sightseeing, leisure, and local flavor—definitely worth considering for your trip to Apulia.

You can check availability for your dates here: