Taranto: History and Mar Piccolo Boat Tour + Cheradi Islands Swim

If you’re pondering a visit to the southern coast of Italy, especially the charming region of Apulia, this Taranto boat tour offers a blend of scenic sailing, historic sights, and a refreshing swim in crystal waters. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your travel style.

What immediately appeals to me about this experience is how it combines stunning views of Taranto’s old town and iconic bridges with the chance to relax on the Cheradi Islands. Plus, the idea of spotting dolphins or catching a glimpse of the navy ships adds a dash of maritime adventure. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite compact at only three hours, so it’s best for those who want a quick but immersive taste of Taranto’s maritime charm. It’s especially suited for travelers who love the sea but also want a touch of culture and history.

A possible consideration is that the tour is only in Italian, which might be a hurdle if you’re not familiar with the language. Also, the group size is limited to just six people, which can be a plus for intimacy but might make spontaneous bookings tricky if you’re planning last minute. Overall, if you’re looking for a balance of comfort, scenery, and culture in a short window, this trip has plenty to offer.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views of Taranto’s old town, bridges, and islands that change colors with the sunlight.
• Swim stop: One hour to enjoy crystal-clear waters on the Cheradi Islands—ideal for a refreshing break.
• Cultural highlights: Pass by the Aragonese Castle, the military naval base, and scenic bridges that tell stories of the city’s past.
• Relaxed pace: The trip is designed for comfort, with elegant sailing and scenic passages without rushing.
• Dolphin spotting potential: Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and local mussel beds.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to six participants, making for a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail in Taranto: What to Expect

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The adventure kicks off at Molo Sant’Eligio, a lively spot right next to the “Il Mletto” bar. The meeting is straightforward—just meet your guide and fellow travelers here. From the moment you step aboard the Chez Black sailing yacht, you’ll notice the elegant, comfortable design that blends style with practicality. It’s a cozy, intimate setting that’s perfect for leisurely sailing and enjoying the sea breeze.

Navigating Taranto’s Waters

Once underway, the real magic begins. Your boat serenely glides past the Old Town, where the Aragonese Castle stands proudly. This historic fortress, dating back centuries, is a highlight and offers great photo opportunities. As the boat moves, you’ll also get views of the Stone Bridge and the Punta Penna Bridge—each with their own stories and picturesque charm.

The captain or guide will point out the Italian military naval base, where ships and submarines are often visible. Although you won’t get a detailed tour of the base, it’s an interesting contrast—modern military might against the backdrop of classic Mediterranean scenery.

The Cheradi Islands and the Swim Stop

One of the trip’s highlights is the one-hour swim stop on the Cheradi Islands, especially San Pietro. If you love swimming in clear waters, you’ll find this moment pure relief. The water here tends to be calm and inviting, with visibility that encourages relaxing floatation or a quick splash. Travelers who’ve done similar tours mention how rejuvenating the experience can be, with some quoting, “The water was so clear, we couldn’t resist staying in longer than planned.”

The islands offer more than just a swim—they’re a slice of paradise where the sky meets the sea in a way that makes you forget the world’s worries. Expect stunning views that shift in color and intensity as the sun moves across the sky. The setting is perfect for photos or just soaking in the quiet beauty.

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Passing by Key Landmarks

After the swim, the boat heads back toward Taranto, passing landmarks like the Ponte San Francesco di Paola—a scenic bridge with a regal air—and the old town once more. Your guide will likely share tidbits about the city’s history and its relationship with the sea, making the experience not just visually stimulating but also culturally enriching.

Optional Guided Tour of Aragonese Castle

Once ashore, if you opt for the included guided tour, you’ll explore the Aragonese Castle. While the tour duration is short (around 30 minutes), it gives a glimpse into Taranto’s layered past, from medieval fortifications to modern military use. The views from the castle are particularly striking and provide a great backdrop for photos.

How the Tour Is Structured

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize scenic beauty while keeping the pace relaxed. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Start at Molo Sant’Eligio
• Speedboat ride (~1 hour): A smooth sail past the old town, bridges, and naval base.
• San Pietro Island Sunset (~30 minutes): Time for photos and enjoying the scenery.
• Return sail (~1 hour): Heading back with scenic views and optional commentary.
• Guided tour of Castello Aragonese: Optional but recommended for history buffs.
• Back at Molo Sant’Eligio

This schedule ensures you experience key sights without feeling rushed, with plenty of time to relax, soak up the views, and even swim.

The Experience Provider: BOAT SHARING PUGLIA

This tour is offered by BOAT SHARING PUGLIA, a company specializing in small-group excursions. The tours are limited to six participants, ensuring a personalized experience. You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind when planning your trip.

Is This Tour Worth It?

When weighing the value, consider the price in relation to what you get: a well-curated boat journey with scenic sights, a swim stop, and a hint of Taranto’s naval and historical sites. It’s a relatively short trip, but one that offers a lot of visual appeal and a taste of local life on the water.

Travelers often comment on how peaceful and elegant the experience feels, with some mentioning the views as “breathtaking” and the boat as “comfortable and stylish.” The small group setting also means more intimate conversations and a relaxed atmosphere—something many travelers cherish.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy scenic cruises, history buffs interested in the old town and castle, and anyone looking for a quick, refreshing escape into the sea. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with a small group or seeking a more exclusive, personalized outing.

Considerations

If you don’t speak Italian, be prepared for a tour in Italian only. Also, the trip is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year. For those who love marine life, the possibility of spotting dolphins adds a fun bonus, though it’s not guaranteed.

Final Thoughts

The Taranto: History and Mar Piccolo Boat Tour + Cheradi Islands Swim offers a well-rounded slice of coastal life, blending scenic sailing, historic sights, and a relaxing swim in the crystal waters. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a taste of the Mediterranean’s beauty without committing to a full-day tour.

While it’s not a comprehensive deep dive into Taranto’s history, it does offer enough highlights and stunning views to make it memorable. The small-group approach ensures that you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and the elegant yacht adds a touch of class to your day.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and culturally interesting sea experience during your stay in Apulia, this tour should be on your list. Just remember to bring your camera, your swimwear, and a sense of curiosity for the stories the sea and city have to tell.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically geared toward families with very young children, especially since it excludes babies under 1 year. It might be suitable for older kids who can enjoy the boat ride and swimming, but check the specifics with the provider regarding children’s ages.

Do I need to bring my own swimming gear?
Yes, since there’s a swim stop, bringing your swimsuit, towel, and perhaps a mask or snorkel will enhance your experience.

Is the tour available in English?
The tour is conducted in Italian, so if you don’t speak the language, you might find it helpful to have some basic knowledge or a translation app, especially for the guided parts.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, from start at Molo Sant’Eligio to return.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

Will I see dolphins?
Spotting dolphins is a possibility but not guaranteed. Travelers have noted the chance to see marine life adds an exciting element.

What is the group size?
Limited to just six people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What should I wear?
Bring layers suitable for the weather, sunglasses, and sunblock. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended for the walk around the castle if you choose to do the guided tour.

This trip offers a lovely combination of scenery, culture, and relaxation. If that sounds like your idea of a perfect afternoon in Taranto, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: