Exploring Alberobello and Locorotondo by boat offers a fresh way to experience Puglia’s stunning coastlines and charming seaside towns. These areas are known less for their beaches and more for their dramatic sea caves, colorful inlets, and charming small ports, making boat tours a perfect addition to your trip. For instance, a shared Gozzo boat tour to the Polignano caves is popular among travelers for its lively atmosphere and the chance to see Polignano a Mare from the water, with its famous Grotta Palazzese inside a cave. A more intimate experience, like the private boat from Monopoli with an aperitif, offers personalized service and a chance to relax in style. Whether you’re into quick scenic rides, swimming stops, or fishing adventures, these boat excursions let you see the coast in a way that’s both practical and memorable.
Quick Overview
The list below covers a variety of boat tours and cruises that showcase the best of Alberobello and Locorotondo’s waters. From shared trips with lively crews to private charters with luxurious amenities, each offers a different way to enjoy the sea. Dive into options like the Polignano caves tour or the fishing expedition, tailored for different interests and budgets. Read on to find the one that fits your style.
1. Monopoli Shared tour by Gozzo boat to the Polignano caves
At number 1, this shared Gozzo boat tour offers a lively, small-group experience for around $58.05 per person. The trip lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, starting from Monopoli’s port. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to sail along the coast in a traditional motorized gozzo, giving you an authentic feel of the sea. You’ll visit iconic spots like the Grotta Palazzese, famous for its restaurant inside a sea cave, and the Lama Monachile, the postcard-perfect beach with a high cliff backdrop.
What’s unique here is the mix of natural beauty and historical sights, as the crew shares stories about the caves’ background. Reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the overall enjoyable atmosphere. One traveler noted, “Beautiful tour and great guides. I would highly recommend this boat tour in Puglia.” The price includes visits to the main caves and the charming statue of a local singer, with a meeting point at Molo Margherita. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a fun, relaxed outing with excellent views and plenty of photo ops.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value with a friendly crew, plenty of scenery, and a lively atmosphere. Ideal for small groups or families wanting a memorable coastal adventure.
2. 2 hours tour on boat to Polignano a mare
Ranked second, this 2-hour boat tour offers a quick but comprehensive look at the coast for about $53.41 per person. Starting from Monopoli’s port, the boat heads toward Polignano a Mare, giving you a chance to admire the Hermit’s Rock legend and the caves that line the coast. During the journey, travelers often stop for a refreshing swim, making this trip ideal for those wanting a combination of sightseeing and relaxation.
The highlight is the visit to the Grotta Palazzese, with a quick stop at the Lama Monachile, where diving competitions are held. The crew is praised for being friendly and attentive, providing a genuine local experience. One review mentions, “It was a lovely trip up the coast to the caves and grottos of Polignano a Mare,” emphasizing the personal touch.
This tour is best suited for those short on time but eager to see the key sights. The price includes a swimming stop and a small aperitif, making it a good value for a quick coastal escape.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the highlights, including swimming and cave views.
3. Boat tour from Monopoli to the caves of Polignano a Mare
Number 3 on our list is a 2-hour experience priced at around $47.43. It offers a streamlined tour that covers the ancient port of Monopoli, with stops at the sea caves of Polignano a Mare, and the iconic Grotta Palazzese. This tour also includes a visit to the Lama Monachile beach and the famous Domenico Modugno statue, all from the water.
Guests praise the tour for its thorough coverage and the small group size, which keeps it intimate. One reviewer wrote, “The guides were lovely and very attentive,” highlighting the friendly atmosphere. The tour includes a brief swimming stop in one of the most evocative parts of the coast, plus opportunities to take photos of the dramatic cliffs and caves.
While the tour doesn’t include a fancy meal, the natural scenery more than makes up for it, especially for those who appreciate efficient sightseeing with a relaxed vibe. It’s well suited for travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and beautiful scenery at a reasonable price.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a comprehensive, no-fuss tour of the coastline with a friendly guide and some swim time.
4. 3 Hours Private Boat Fishing Tour
In fourth place, this private fishing tour offers a personalized 3-hour experience for about $93.09 per person. It’s tailored for travelers who want to combine relaxation with fishing in the clear waters off Monopoli. The tour departs from Monopoli’s port, heading toward the coast of Polignano a Mare.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on deep-sea fishing with a local crew experienced in catching species like red snapper and mackerel. Along the way, you visit the famous Hermit’s Rock and the Lama Monachile inlet, enjoying the scenery and listening to stories about the area’s legends. The tour includes an excellent, fresh aperitif—a real highlight, according to reviews. One guest shared, “We caught 20 fish! This whole experience is amazing and different than usual Italian tours.”
Best suited for fishing enthusiasts or those wanting an active, personalized day on the water. The luxury boat features a spacious deck, Bluetooth stereo, and shower, making it a comfortable choice for a small group or family.
Bottom Line: A unique, tailored experience for anglers and those seeking a private, immersive day on the water with excellent views and fresh seafood.
5. PRIVATE boat tour from Monopoli 3 or 5 hours with Skipper and Aperitif
Finally, for those wanting complete exclusivity, this private tour can be customized for 3 or 5 hours at a cost of $636.25 for up to 9 people. The boat is a spacious Blu & Blu 7 m, equipped with a large sundeck, shower, radio, and stereo, designed for maximum comfort and fun.
Starting from Monopoli, the skipper will take you along the coast to Polignano a Mare’s caves, Lama Monachile, and back, with multiple stops for swimming or just relaxing on deck. You can also explore the sea beds or enjoy the panoramic views of the seaside towns from the water. The experience includes stops at GROTTA PALAZZESE, the iconic Domenico Modugno statue, and other scenic spots. Reviews mention how spacious and well-equipped the boat is, making it perfect for celebrating events or just enjoying a luxurious day with friends.
This option is best for travelers seeking total flexibility, privacy, and comfort, especially for special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays. Keep in mind, it’s on the higher end price-wise but provides a tailored, high-end experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups wanting exclusivity, a customized itinerary, and maximum comfort on the water.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour for You
When selecting the right boat experience, consider your budget, group size, and what kind of activities you prefer. If you want a lively, social adventure, the shared Gozzo tour is a great option. For a quick, scenic overview, the 2-hour boat to Polignano a Mare offers excellent value. If you’re after luxury, privacy, or fishing, the private options are worth the extra investment.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about whether you prefer a group experience or a private charter. Also, consider if you want to combine your cruise with swimming, sightseeing, or fishing to maximize your time on the water.
Final Thoughts
From lively shared adventures exploring caves and beaches to exclusive private charters with personalized itineraries, the options for boat tours and cruises in Alberobello and Locorotondo are diverse. If you want a fun, social outing with stunning scenery, the shared Gozzo tour is hard to beat. For a luxurious, customized experience, the private boat with skipper promises comfort and flexibility.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance and planning around the weather will ensure you get the best out of your time on the water. These tours provide a wonderful way to see Alberobello and Locorotondo’s coastlines from a unique perspective, making your trip truly unforgettable.