My Wave tour Monopoli Polignano a Mare

A Practical Look at the My Wave Tour from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare

Starting from the charming, ancient port of Monopoli, this $59 boat trip offers a quick escape to the famous seaside town of Polignano a Mare, famed for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and breathtaking views. During just over two hours, you’ll glide along sparkling waters, enjoy a swim, and take in some of the most photogenic coastlines in Apulia.

What we especially like about this tour is the luxurious upper deck with comfortable sofas and leather sunbathing mattresses, perfect for lounging while soaking up the sun. The diving platform at 3 meters invites thrill-seekers to take a leap into the sea, adding a dash of adventure to the trip. Plus, the ample space for walking and moving around ensures that even in a group, you won’t feel cramped or isolated.

However, a consideration worth noting is that some travelers have expressed disappointment with the lack of detailed commentary or guide during the trip, making the experience more about the scenery than about learning its stories. This tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxing, scenic cruise rather than an educational or highly interactive experience.

If you’re after a laid-back day on the water with excellent views and don’t mind a simple approach, this trip might be just right. It’s particularly good for couples, small groups, or families looking for a calm, scenic outing rather than an action-packed adventure.

Key Points

• Scenic coastline between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, perfect for photo opportunities
• Comfortable upper deck with sofas and sunbeds for relaxing
• Swimming stop for a quick dip in clear waters, with a diving platform for added fun
• Informal atmosphere with light refreshment and optional sunbathing
• Limited guidance or commentary, focusing more on the scenery than the history or stories
• Good value for the price, especially considering the included swim and refreshments

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect on the My Wave Tour

From the moment you arrive at Monopoli’s historic port, you’re greeted with a sense of old-world Italy. The port, at the foot of the Charles V castle, adds a touch of history and charm as the backdrop for your departure. Once aboard, you’ll notice the well-designed boat, equipped with plush sofas and leather sunbeds on the upper deck, making it clear that comfort is a priority.

The two hours and fifteen minutes of the tour are split between cruising along the coast, stopping for a swim, and enjoying a light aperitif featuring drinks and local taralli — a simple but tasty snack. The timing is fairly relaxed, allowing plenty of time to take in the views of the cliffs, caves, and the famous Hermit’s Rock in Polignano a Mare, a colossal natural formation that’s become a symbol of the area.

The Scenic Cruise and Key Stops

The Departure from Monopoli: As you leave the port, you’ll immediately notice the crystal-clear waters and the impressive coastline. The boat’s design allows for excellent views from multiple vantage points, but the upper deck is particularly favored for panoramic photos. The crew is generally friendly and helpful, though some reviews note a lack of detailed commentary, so don’t expect much storytelling—this is more about the scenery.

Polignano a Mare: Approaching the iconic Hermit’s Rock signals that you’ve reached the town’s famous cliffs. Here, you’ll see the rugged shoreline, with its caves and caves, carved over centuries by the sea. The views of the whitewashed town perched above are spectacular, especially from the water.

Swimming Stop: Between Monopoli and Polignano, there’s a designated swimming spot where you can jump into the inviting, transparent waters. While the stop lasts only about 15 minutes, you’ll enjoy a chance to cool off and relax. The diving board at 3 meters adds a bit of excitement for those wanting a splash of adrenaline.

Refreshments: On board, you’ll find a small aperitif with drinks and typical taralli, offering a taste of local snacks. No Prosecco or artisanal treats here, but it’s enough to keep you refreshed in the warm sun.

The Pros and Cons Based on Real Experiences

Many travelers rave about the stunning views and friendly staff—some describing the atmosphere as fun and lively, with music playing and a relaxed vibe. As one reviewer put it, “The music was playing in front of the statue of the singer… great atmosphere…” Others appreciated the large, comfortable spaces which make the trip feel more like a relaxing outing than a crowded tour.

However, not everyone’s experience is positive. Several reviews highlight disappointing aspects, such as lack of guidance (“no explanation about anything,” as one reviewer said) and short swimming stops with no snorkeling gear or buoys. A common complaint is that the cost does not seem fully justified when compared to the minimal commentary or limited activity options, especially for those expecting a more comprehensive tour.

The Bottom Line on Value

At $59 per person, this cruise offers decent value if you’re mainly interested in the scenery and relaxing on the water. The included swim and refreshments add to the experience, but if you’re looking for an educational tour or a more interactive experience, you might find this lacking.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those seeking a relaxing day on the water with beautiful views of the coast and a chance to cool off with a swim. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, no-fuss experience without a lot of talking or guided commentary. Families with children might appreciate the swimming opportunity, and couples looking for a romantic escape will find plenty of beautiful photo moments.

If you’re a solo traveler or a small group wanting a calm, scenic experience, this could be just the ticket. That said, if you’re hoping for a more educational or active adventure, or if you’re expecting detailed commentary on the area’s history, this might not meet those expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a two-hour and fifteen-minute cruise, a swimming stop, a small aperitif with drinks and taralli, access to the toilet inside the boat, and a diving board at 3 meters.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring beachwear such as swimsuits, towels, and sun protection like sunscreen and hat. While not provided, these will help you enjoy the trip comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is just over two hours, with the actual cruise and swimming time included.

Is there a guide or commentary?
No, the experience is mostly visual and relaxing. There is little to no commentary or guided explanation, so you’ll want to enjoy the scenery on your own.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, and most bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions on swimming or diving?
The tour offers a swimming stop with a diving board at 3 meters, but no snorkeling gear or buoys are provided. Be cautious if you have health issues or are not comfortable swimming in open water.

Is the boat suitable for people with limited mobility?
The boat has comfortable spaces and a toilet, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to inquire beforehand if you have special needs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is canceled if weather conditions are unsafe, and you can usually reschedule or get a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours.

Final Thoughts

This boat trip from Monopoli to Polignano a Mare offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see some of the most beautiful coastlines in Apulia without too much fuss. The comfortable setup on the boat and the scenic views are its biggest selling points, especially if your goal is to relax, take photos, and enjoy the water.

While it might lack detailed narration or a long swimming stop, it delivers a peaceful, scenic escape that fits well into a relaxed Italian itinerary. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who value comfort and views over guided storytelling or action-packed activities.

If you’re happy to go with the flow, enjoy the sun, and take in the coast from the sea, this tour is a solid pick. Just keep your expectations in check if you’re hoping for a highly interactive or educational experience.

To sum it up, the My Wave tour provides a cost-effective, comfortable, and beautiful way to explore the coast between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. It’s ideal for those wanting a laid-back day with memorable scenery, especially if you’re traveling with family or a partner. To get the most out of it, come prepared with your beach gear and a sense of adventure — and leave the detailed narration expectations behind.

You can check availability for your dates here: