Castro Puglia is a small but lively town on Italy’s southeastern coast that shines when it comes to boat tours. Its rugged coastline, dramatic sea caves, and crystal-clear waters are best appreciated from the water — and luckily, there are several options to suit different interests. Whether you’re after a relaxing sunset drink, an adventurous cave exploration, or a scenic boat ride with swimming stops, Castro offers something memorable. We especially like the Boat trip from Castro to Malepasso with aperitif on board. It combines sightseeing, swimming, and a tasty aperitif, making it a well-rounded experience.
If you’re curious about the coast’s geological formations, the Boat trip to Santa Cesarea Terme from Castro offers stunning scenery with a shorter time commitment. For those eager to explore multiple caves in one go, the CASTRO-MALEPASSO: 3H CAVES BOAT TOUR WITH APERITIVE stands out for its in-depth look at the area’s famous caves. And if you’re after a special, atmospheric end to a day, the Sunset Aperitif on a Boat – Castro promises a memorable mix of views, music, and local bites. Below, we break down each tour to help you decide the best fit.
1. Boat trip from Castro to Malepasso with aperitif on board
At number 1, this tour combines a scenic cruise with a relaxed, social vibe. You’ll explore the exterior of the caves of Castro, with a focus on the stunning Zinzulusa Cave, renowned for its stalactites and stalagmites. The trip lasts about 3 hours, during which you can enjoy two swims in Porto Miggiano and Malepasso, both known for their clear waters perfect for a quick dip. The boat cruise offers fantastic views of the coastline stretching from Castro to Malepasso, making it ideal for landscape lovers.
What sets this tour apart is the aperitif on board, where you get to sample local wines and snacks while soaking in the sea breeze. The guide shares insights about the caves and the area’s history, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. The reviews are excellent—rating 4.8/5 from 57 travelers—highlighting the friendly crew and good value at $47 per person. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of gentle exploration, swimming, and socializing.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced blend of sea cave sightseeing, swimming, and a relaxed aperitif, making it a great choice for those seeking a well-rounded, scenic outing.
2. Boat trip to Santa Cesarea Terme from Castro
Number 2 on our list is a slightly shorter trip—lasting around 2 hours—that takes you along the dramatic coast to Santa Cesarea Terme, famous for its thermal springs and striking rock formations. Starting from Castro, you’ll see the exterior of the caves and learn about the area’s geological features, with the opportunity to admire the rugged coastline from the boat.
This tour emphasizes sightseeing and swimming, with a stop at Porto Miggiano, where the waters are ideal for a refreshing dip. Rated 4.7/5 from 66 reviews, travelers appreciate the friendly crew and the chance to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the area. The trip’s shorter duration makes it a good option if you’re tight on time but still want to enjoy a scenic boat ride with a touch of adventure.
Bottom Line: A perfect quick getaway to see the coast’s natural beauty, ideal for travelers who want a light, scenic experience with some swimming—and perhaps a glimpse of Santa Cesarea’s unique rocks.
3. CASTRO-MALEPASSO: 3H CAVES BOAT TOUR WITH APERITIVE
This tour is a standout for its comprehensive exploration of three famous caves: Zinzulusa, Palombara, and Romanelli. Starting at Durlindana Noleggio, it’s a 3-hour cruise that focuses on cave discovery, scenic views, and swimming. The guide shares detailed stories about each cave’s formation and history, adding depth to the experience.
What makes this tour really special is the chance to swim in the Adriatic’s clear waters after visiting the caves—and to enjoy a local aperitif and wine onboard. Reviewers give it a perfect 5/5, praising the knowledgeable guide and the intimate, small-group atmosphere. The boat ride also offers stunning coastal vistas, making this an ideal choice for lovers of geology and nature.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an in-depth cave exploration with added cultural insights and a relaxing boat ride, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
4. Sunset Aperitif on a Boat – Castro
Last on our list is the Sunset Aperitif, which captures the magic of Castro’s coastline at dusk. This 2-hour cruise begins at Via Scalo delle Barche, with a quick 20-minute speedboat ride to Porto Miggiano. Once there, you’ll enjoy prosecco, fried fish, local products, and music against a stunning sunset backdrop. After about 80 minutes of relaxing, swimming, and savoring the scenery, the boat returns to the starting point.
Rated 5/5, this experience is perfect for travelers seeking a romantic or memorable evening. The combination of crystal-clear waters, sunset views, and laid-back music creates a unique atmosphere. It’s a shorter, more intimate option compared to daytime tours, making it ideal for couples or those celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: For a memorable evening with beautiful views, good food, and a relaxed vibe, this sunset cruise is hard to beat.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding which boat tour to book, consider your interests, available time, and budget. If you want a full exploration of caves combined with swimming and aperitifs, the CASTRO-MALEPASSO: 3H CAVES BOAT TOUR WITH APERITIVE offers the most comprehensive experience. Planning a shorter outing? The Boat trip to Santa Cesarea Terme provides a scenic glimpse of the coastline without taking too much time. For a romantic evening, the Sunset Aperitif combines gorgeous views with local bites.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about your preferences—do you want a full cave adventure, or simply a relaxing cruise with swimming and a drink? The choice ultimately depends on what kind of seaside memory you want to bring home.
Final Thoughts
Castro Puglia offers a wonderful array of boat experiences — from exploring caves and coastline to enjoying a sunset with local flavors. For those seeking an in-depth adventure, the CASTRO-MALEPASSO: 3H CAVES BOAT TOUR WITH APERITIVE is a top pick. If your focus is on leisure and scenery, the Boat trip from Castro to Malepasso with aperitif on board makes a fantastic choice.
Travelers with limited time might prefer the shorter trips, but no matter which you pick, these tours promise a memorable taste of Castro’s stunning coast. We recommend booking early, especially in summer, to ensure the best experience. Whatever your style, enjoy the sea, the views, and the relaxed pace of life that makes Castro Puglia truly special.