Gallipoli: 3-hour boat tour with aperitif, snorkeling, music, and SUP offers a delightful mix of scenic views, fun stops, and authentic Italian leisure. For just $47 per person, you’ll enjoy a well-paced cruise departing from Gallipoli’s historic fishermen’s harbor, visiting beautiful spots like Sant’Andrea Island and Punta Pizzo, and indulging in a tasty aperitif aboard. The tour lasts around 3 hours, includes two swimming stops, and is perfect for those looking for a relaxed, engaging way to experience the coast.
What we particularly love about this tour is the professional guidance (Vincenzo gets high praise for his friendly, attentive approach) and the variety of activities—snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming—plus the chance to savor wine and local snacks while enjoying the sea breeze. The boat is comfortably equipped with cushions, an awning for shade, and a freshwater shower, making the experience both enjoyable and comfortable.
One possible consideration is that the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or motion sickness, so if you’re prone to seasickness or have specific mobility needs, this might require some planning. Also, the boat’s capacity is limited to 11 guests, which keeps things intimate but might mean booking well in advance during peak season.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic coastal scenery, relaxed excursions with plenty of swimming and lounging, and those who love a good local aperitif. If you’re looking for a friendly, fun, and informative way to explore Gallipoli’s marine environment without hustling around, this is an excellent choice.
Key Points
- Intimate group size of up to 11 guests ensures personalized attention.
- Beautiful stops at Sant’Andrea Island and Punta Pizzo offer excellent snorkeling and swimming.
- All inclusive: wine, focaccia, fruit, and music create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.
- Easy to join: depart from Gallipoli’s historic harbor; no complicated logistics.
- Equipment provided includes paddleboards and snorkeling gear, adding variety.
- Professional skipper (Vincenzo) is noted for ensuring a fun, safe experience.
A Relaxed Way to Discover Gallipoli’s Coastline
Stepping aboard the boat, you’ll immediately notice how well the experience is curated for comfort and enjoyment. For just under fifty dollars, the 3-hour tour offers a surprisingly comprehensive taste of Gallipoli’s seaside charm. Departing from the historic center, the boat glides smoothly past old Gallipoli as it recedes into the distance—providing a lovely perspective of the city’s atmospheric coastline.
One of the highlights is the visit to Sant’Andrea Island, a natural park dominated by a tall lighthouse. This is where you’ll find the most vibrant marine life, making it an inviting spot for snorkelers and swimmers alike. The clear waters and abundant fish—described as “beautiful” in reviews—make for a memorable underwater experience, even for those new to snorkeling. We loved the way the boat’s platform and ladder made for easy in-and-out access, especially after a refreshing swim.
The second stop, Punta Pizzo, offers a different kind of charm: a sandy inlet that creates a natural swimming pool. Here, the seabed is shallow, and the inlet’s protected environment means calmer waters—perfect for beginners or families wanting a safe, relaxing swim. Bring your beachwear and towel, as you’ll likely want to linger a bit before heading back to the boat for the next segment.
A real bonus is the aperitif—a generous spread of focaccia or friselle, tarallini, fresh fruit, and a good selection of local wine. According to reviews, the snacks are plentiful, and guests enjoyed the opportunity to sip wine as they took in the scenery. The music adds a lively touch, helping everyone relax and feel like they’re on a floating Mediterranean party.
Throughout the trip, the skipper Vincenzo is repeatedly praised for his attentiveness and friendly guidance, making sure everyone’s needs are met. His enthusiasm and knowledge seem to elevate the experience from a simple boat ride to a genuinely engaging outing.
The boat itself is well-equipped with soft cushions, a shade awning for those hot days, and a freshwater shower for rinsing off salt and sand. These thoughtful touches make the tour suitable for a wide range of travelers seeking comfort, fun, and a touch of adventure.
What Makes This Tour Special?
The combination of scenic beauty, engaging stops, and the convivial atmosphere makes this trip stand out. It’s neither rushed nor overly crowded, and the small-group size ensures a more personal experience. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and paddleboards gives those interested a chance to try something active without needing to rent equipment separately.
Many travelers comment on the professionalism and friendliness of Vincenzo, which creates a welcoming environment. As one guest summarized, “The water and the stops to swim and snorkel are beautiful, but captain Vincenzo is the best part of the tour.” This kind of personal touch can make all the difference in turning a good trip into a memorable one.
Practical Details and What to Expect
Meeting and Departure
The tour departs from Gallipoli’s historic fishermen’s harbor (Piazza M.R. Imbriani), near Bar Martinucci. It’s best to arrive a little early so you can identify your skipper, who wears a white shirt with the BlueTourGallipoli logo. The boat’s small size—holding up to 11 guests—means you’ll enjoy a cozy, friendly vibe.
More Great Tours NearbyDuration and Itinerary
The 3-hour itinerary is well-paced, with two main swimming stops:
– Sant’Andrea Island: Marine-rich, ideal for snorkeling.
– Punta Pizzo: Sandy, shallow, and perfect for lounging or splashing around.
You’ll spend about an hour at each stop, leaving ample time for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just relaxing on the boat.
What’s Included
- Snorkeling gear and paddleboards: included for added fun.
- Aperitif: focaccia or friselle, tarallini, fresh fruit, and wine.
- Music and a freshwater shower: for comfort and entertainment.
What to Bring
- Swimwear and towel
- Sunscreen and beachwear
- An adventurous spirit and a smile
Restrictions and Tips
- Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or motion sickness.
- Children under 1 year are not permitted.
- Consider booking in advance, especially during peak season, since places are limited.
Payment and Cancellation
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before departure, with a full refund.
Authentic Experiences and Real Guest Feedback
Guests consistently highlight how much they appreciated the knowledgeable guides—particularly Vincenzo, whose friendly demeanor and local insights elevate the experience. One reviewer noted, “He ensures you have a great experience and lots of fun,” which speaks to the personal touch that makes this tour stand out.
The stops at Sant’Andrea are especially praised for the crystal-clear waters and abundant fish, making snorkeling a highlight. Several guests mentioned how they enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, the plentiful snacks, and the good wine—a perfect way to unwind after swimming.
Some reviews mention that the view of Gallipoli from the water is stunning, especially as the old town recedes into the distance. This scenic perspective is a perfect reason to choose this tour—especially if you enjoy a leisurely boat ride with opportunities to take photos.
A few guests, however, found that the swimming spots were somewhat unremarkable—“just a beach and some fish”—but overall, the consensus remains positive, emphasizing the fun, friendly guide and beautiful waters.
The Sum Up
This Gallipoli boat tour strikes a wonderful balance between scenic sightseeing, light activity, and relaxing indulgence. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the coast without the hassle of planning multiple excursions or renting gear. The inclusion of snacks, wine, music, and paddleboarding offers excellent value, especially considering the small group size and attentive skipper.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a small group, this experience offers a friendly, authentic way to connect with Gallipoli’s marine environment. It’s especially suited for those looking for a laid-back, fun day out—whether you want to snorkel in clear waters, lounge on the boat, or just sip wine and soak up the views.
In short, if you value personalized guidance, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere, this trip could be the highlight of your stay in Apulia. Just be sure to book ahead and prepare for a memorable day on the water.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children under 1 year old are not allowed. The tour is relaxed and family-friendly, but consider your child’s comfort with boat rides.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended. Bring your camera and a good mood for fun.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including two swimming stops and time for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the aperitif with focaccia or friselle, tarallini, fresh fruit, and wine are included. You can enjoy them onboard while taking in the scenery.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
What is the group size?
The boat accommodates up to 11 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and paddleboards are included.
Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended, especially during peak season, as spaces are limited. You can reserve now and pay later.
This thoughtfully curated boat tour offers a genuine taste of Gallipoli’s coastal charm with plenty of opportunities for fun, relaxation, and discovery—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic and enjoyable day on the water.
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