Sorrento: Day Trip to Ischia and Procida by Private Cruise

If you’re exploring the Amalfi Coast or Sorrento and craving a day on the water, a private cruise to Ischia and Procida sounds pretty tempting. This tour promises a relaxed way to encounter two of Naples’ beautiful islands, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snap photos, and enjoy local flavors. We’ve looked into what makes this experience tick and what you can expect, so if you’re considering it, read on!

Two things we really like about this trip: First, the personalized nature of a private group, which means fewer crowds and more flexibility. Second, the chance to explore both islands at your own pace, with stops for thermal baths, swimming, and sightseeing. The only catch? It’s an 8-hour outing, so it’s not ideal if you’re after a quick glance — you’ll want to set aside a decent chunk of your day. This trip suits travelers who love a relaxed, scenic adventure and enjoy a mix of cultural spots and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Private group experience offers intimacy and flexibility.
• Includes snacks, drinks, towels, and snorkeling gear, making it a convenient all-in-one day.
• Expert guides enhance understanding of the islands’ sights and history.
• Ideal for those who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and thermal baths.
• Coverage of both Procida and Ischia in one day, with plenty of time for exploration.
• Beautiful views of Naples’ bay, especially the Aragonese Castle from the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This experience is a sweet escape from the busier, more commercial tours. It’s designed for those who want a personalized, scenic, and relaxed day on the water. The fact that it’s a private cruise means you’re not sharing the boat with strangers, which can make a big difference in comfort and flexibility. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, drinks, towels, and snorkeling gear saves you from packing too much or worrying about equipment.

The itinerary offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. You’ll start by cruising from Sorrento to Procida, a tiny island famous for its colorful houses and laid-back vibe. Then, you’ll head to Ischia, known as the “island of eternal youth” — famed for its thermal waters, gardens, and historical sights.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Sorrento and First Stop: Procida

Your day begins in Sorrento, where you’ll be picked up and set sail toward Procida. This island is the smallest in the Naples bay but packs a punch in charm. The fisherman village atmosphere is incredibly authentic, with sun-kissed streets and vibrant houses. Tourists often find this part of the trip the most picturesque, thanks to spots like Marina Corricella and the medieval Terra Murata.

Many reviews mention how much they loved the colorful houses and peaceful streets, which make fantastic photo opportunities. “We loved escaping the crowds and wandering through the tiny streets,” one traveler shared. You’ll also find local restaurants here, perfect for a relaxed lunch break if you decide to stay longer.

Highlights on Procida

• Colorful houses and sun-kissed streets that feel like stepping into a postcard.
• The Marina Corricella, a charming working harbor filled with seafood restaurants.
• The medieval Terra Murata, a hilltop village with historical significance.
• Chiaiolella Beach, where you can take a quick swim or just relax on the sand.

A word of note: Some guests mention that the island’s small size means it can get crowded if you visit during peak season, but the boat allows you to avoid this by exploring early or late.

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Next Stop: Ischia, the “Island of Eternal Youth”

After Procida, your cruise will take you to Ischia, famous for its thermal spas, lush gardens, and picturesque castles. The island is larger and more diverse, offering landscapes from vineyards and forests to thermal waters and beach resorts.

We loved the way the guide explained Ischia’s history and the significance of sites like the Aragonese Castle. The tour includes a chance to stop and swim in mineral-rich thermal waters, which many found both fun and soothing. The thermal spas are volcanic, so the waters are warm and mineral-laden, perfect for relaxing tired muscles.

Sights and Activities on Ischia

• Thermal water swims, which are included and a highlight for many.
• Exploring Maronti Beach or enjoying free time to stroll through gardens and vineyards.
• Viewing the Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning views.
• The bay of San Montano, perfect for a peaceful swim or sunbathing.

Many travelers mention the knowledgeable guides who shared interesting tidbits about the island’s volcanic origins and local culture. One reviewer wrote, “The guide’s stories made everything come alive, making the experience more meaningful.”

Return Journey and Final Views

On the way back, you’ll cruise past the Aragonese Castle from the water, offering great photo opportunities. As the sun sets, you’ll get a last glimpse of the coast, rounding off a day full of scenic views, swimming, and cultural insights.

What To Expect: Practical Details

Duration: 8 hours, which gives enough time to enjoy both islands without feeling rushed.

Transport: A private boat ensures comfort and intimacy, ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed setting.

Includes: Transfers from and back to Sorrento, snacks, drinks, towels, and snorkeling equipment. This setup simplifies planning and allows you to focus on the experience.

Guides: Live in English and Italian, so language is usually not a barrier. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude.

Group Size: Private groups mean you control the pace and itinerary a bit more, which adds to the comfort level.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Sun protection is vital, especially if you plan to stay in the water or sunbathe.

Booking Flexibility: Fully flexible with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, which is a big plus if your plans shift unexpectedly.

The Value of the Experience

When you consider the cost, this tour offers a lot: private transport, guided commentary, snorkeling gear, and access to thermal waters. For those wanting a personalized day, it’s a good investment. Compared to larger, crowded tours, this setting allows for a more intimate experience and less waiting in lines or jostling for space on the boat.

The snacks and drinks onboard keep you refreshed as you glide between islands, and the included snorkeling gear opens up an extra dimension of fun — many reviews highlight how much they enjoyed swimming in the mineral-rich waters.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who value comfort and privacy, and who want to see both islands without feeling rushed. It’s suitable for those interested in relaxing swims, scenic views, and learning about local sights without a large group. If you enjoy a laid-back pace, natural beauty, and cultural spots, you’ll get a lot out of this experience.

If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer self-guided exploration, you might want to compare this with other options. But for a balanced, scenic day on the water with some cultural highlights, it’s a solid choice.

The Sum Up

This Sorrento to Ischia and Procida private cruise offers a charming way to spend a day exploring two of Naples’ most picturesque islands. The combination of customized experience, scenic views, thermal waters, and local culture makes it appealing for travelers who want to relax and learn. The addition of snacks, snorkeling gear, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a convenient and enjoyable package.

While it’s not a whirlwind tour, it’s perfect for those who prefer a slow, scenic, and intimate experience on the water. Whether you’re into swimming, photography, or simply soaking up the views, this trip is likely to leave you with wonderful memories and plenty of stories.

It’s most suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and a mix of relaxation and sightseeing. If that sounds like your kind of day, this cruise could be well worth it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the boat’s relaxed pace and snorkeling options can appeal to older children and teenagers. Always check with the provider if you have very young kids, as they might need to be comfortable in the water.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transfers, snacks, drinks, towels, and snorkeling equipment. No extra charges are typically expected unless you choose to purchase additional food or souvenirs.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How long do we spend on each island?
While the exact timing can vary, the day is structured to give you ample time to explore both Procida and Ischia, with stops for swimming, sightseeing, and relaxing at your own pace.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel. Optional items include waterproof camera or phone case if you want to capture the scenery.

Is there a guide on board?
Yes, live guides speak English and Italian, and they share insights about the islands’ sights and history, enhancing the experience.

How big is the private group?
The tour is conducted in a private group setting, which can be tailored to your preferences.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Generally, tours run in most weather but may be canceled or rescheduled in case of storms or unsafe conditions. Check the weather forecast before your trip.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Although it’s a private group, solo travelers can book and enjoy a peaceful, personalized day on the water.

Hopefully, this deep dive helps you decide whether this private cruise fits your travel style. It’s a wonderful way to see some of the best sights around Naples, enjoy the sea, and relax in thermal waters — all in a day.

You can check availability for your dates here: