From Trapani: Egadi Islands tour with lunch on board

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Lunch Experiences In Sicily? Our Top 15 Picks.

From Trapani: Egadi Islands tour with lunch on board — A detailed look

Imagine a day spent cruising the sparkling waters of the Egadi Islands, jumping from dramatic cliffs and hidden coves to charming fishing villages, all while enjoying a typical Trapani-style lunch. For around eight hours and about $52, this tour whisks you from Trapani’s port to the stunning islands of Favignana and Levanzo. With a balance of sightseeing, free exploration, and relaxing swims, it’s a good pick for travelers craving authentic island scenery without fuss.

We love how the tour offers access to exclusive spots only reachable by boat, along with a taste of local culture through free time and a typical Sicilian meal. The stunning coastline views and the chance to swim in the Mediterranean are definite highlights. Plus, the onboard lunch—featuring pasta alla Trapanese, fresh fruit, and local wine—adds value to the experience.

One thing to keep in mind: the group size can reach up to 150 people, which might feel busy on the boat and during free times. It’s also a full-day outing, so travelers should be comfortable with a fair amount of moving around and some limited time on each stop. Overall, if you’re eager to see these islands in a compact, well-organized trip, this tour is a solid choice—especially for those who enjoy a mix of scenic sailing, cultural stops, and good food.

Key takeaways

• Authentic experience: Visit Favignana and Levanzo, two of Sicily’s most beautiful islands, with on-the-water exploration and free time.
• Value-packed: For about $52, you get a full day’s journey, including lunch, drinks, and swimming opportunities.
• Comfort and convenience: The boat is equipped with restrooms, and the itinerary is designed for smooth transitions between stops.
• Limited time on islands: Expect around 2 hours in Favignana and 1 hour in Levanzo, which is enough for a quick look but not deep exploration.
• Spectacular scenery: Stunning coastlines, caves, coves like Cala Rossa, and cliffs carved by nature.
• Mixed reviews: Some travelers find the boat crowded or wish for longer island visits, but most praise the views, guides, and value.

The detailed scoop on this Egadi Islands tour

Starting point and initial cruise

The adventure begins early at Via Ammiraglio Staiti in Trapani, with the tour departing promptly at 9:30 am. You’ll want to arrive about 30 minutes early to check in and settle in—boarding is straightforward and the vessel usually accommodates up to 150 travelers. The journey kicks off with a scenic 40-minute sail along the coast, passing by the Colombaia of Trapani and the small Island of Formica—famous for their rugged beauty and iconic lighthouse views.

Among the highlights is the chance to see Favignana’s coast drawing nearer, with the boat offering sweeping vistas of rocky cliffs and hidden inlets that are not easily accessible by land. The vessel is equipped with restrooms and offers a comfortable setting for the day’s adventure.

Favignana: The jewel of the islands

Arriving around 10:20 am, you’ll have about two hours to explore Favignana, Sicily’s largest and most famous Egadi Island. The free time is a real boon—perfect for a quick walk through the inhabited village, a bit of shopping, or a visit to the Ex Stabilimento Florio Museum—a former tuna processing plant turned exhibit of local history and industry.

What makes Favignana special are the stunning beaches and hidden coves. The tour takes you along the coast to see Scogliera Di Cala Rossa, celebrated for its striking red cliffs, and other notable spots like Cala Azzurra and Bue Marino. You can swim in designated spots—the water is often praised for its clarity—and many reviews highlight the swimming opportunities as a major perk.

Lunch and cruising along the coast

Around 12:30 pm, it’s time to return to the boat for a typical Trapani lunch, served onboard by the captain. The meal features pasta alla Trapanese, a local specialty, followed by fresh fruit and local wine—a thoughtful inclusion that enhances the Sicilian experience. Many travelers comment positively on the quality of the meal, considering it an excellent value for the price.

After lunch, the boat continues along the coast, stopping at coves like Scalo Cavallo for a photo opportunity and a quick swim. The scenery here is mesmerizing—cliffs, caves, and crystal-clear water create a perfect backdrop for relaxation.

Levanzo: A smaller, quieter island

Post-lunch, the boat heads to Levanzo, where you’ll have about one hour to walk the tiny village or simply enjoy the views. This island is less developed and offers a more authentic fishing village vibe, with narrow streets and colorful boats.

The boat tour around Levanzo features a visit to Faraglione di Levanzo, an iconic sea stack, and stops at coves like Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola—great for photos and quick swims. Reviewers note that these visits are brief, but the scenery makes every moment worthwhile.

Wrapping up and return to Trapani

The journey back to Trapani is usually scheduled to arrive around 5:00 or 6:00 pm, giving you a full day of island beauty, swimming, and fresh air. The boat ride overall is well-paced, though some reviews mention the crowded conditions on the boat and the short time at each island, which might leave travelers wanting more.

What travelers are saying

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly crew and stunning scenery as top highlights. For example, Anne mentions a “fabulous day” with “stunning scenery” and “great service,” noting the time to visit the museum and take a train tour in Favignana as a bonus. Domingo calls the trip a “spectacular adventure,” emphasizing the swim in the Mediterranean and local cuisine as unforgettable experiences.

However, not everyone is thrilled—Karla describes the overcrowded boat and limited time to swim or explore, calling it a waste of time and money. Some suggest that more time on land or fewer stops would improve the experience, especially for those who want to explore in depth.

Why it appeals

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive taste of Sicily’s Egadi Islands—especially those who enjoy scenic sailing, caves, and coastal views. The lunch on board is an authentic touch that many find adds to the value, and the free time allows for some personal exploration. It’s suited for families, couples, or solo travelers comfortable with a full day of activity and some crowded moments.

Considerations

If you’re a traveler who prefers longer island visits or quiet beaches, this might feel rushed. The group size can be large, and the short stays mean you’ll see the highlights but not delve deeply into each island’s culture or history. Be prepared for a full day, but know that some reviews suggest the experience is more about scenery and quick visits than in-depth exploration.

Who should consider this tour?

If your goal is to see Sicily’s coastline with ease, enjoy a scenic boat ride, and sample local cuisine without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings, this trip is ideal. It’s especially suitable if you’re okay with shorter visits and crowded conditions—many travelers praise the friendly crew and stunning views that make up for the brief island stops.

This tour is less ideal if you’re seeking peace and quiet or in-depth cultural visits. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and eating—offering enough variety to satisfy most island explorers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, from departure at 9:30 am to return around 5-6 pm.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, lunch (featuring pasta, fruit, and wine), restroom access onboard, and free time in Favignana and Levanzo.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, there is a €5 entrance fee per person payable before boarding, which covers some of the island visits and museums.

Is it suitable for children or families?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially those who enjoy boat trips and short island visits. Make sure children are comfortable with some crowds and the full-day schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, water, and perhaps a small towel. Comfortable shoes for walking in Favignana and Levanzo are also recommended.

Is the boat crowded?
Some reviews mention that the boat can be quite full, especially during peak season, which might affect comfort during the trip.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, several stops are designated for swimming, but some reviews note limited spots or small areas—be prepared for some crowded water.

How much time do I have on each island?
Expect about 2 hours in Favignana and 1 hour in Levanzo, which allows for quick exploration but not deep diving into each locale.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, beach-appropriate attire is fine—think hats, sunglasses, and light clothing.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund, making it flexible if weather or plans change.

Final thoughts

This full-day boat tour from Trapani to the Egadi Islands offers a practical and scenic way to experience some of Sicily’s most gorgeous coastal landscapes. While it’s not a day for deep exploration or solitude, it excels in delivering stunning views, authentic local food, and a taste of island life all in one package. Perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural snippets without the hassle of planning every detail.

The friendly crew, well-organized itinerary, and beautiful scenery make it a popular choice—judged highly by most travelers, with some room for improvement in terms of crowd management and time on land. If you’re ready for a full-on maritime adventure that hits the highlights and offers a taste of Sicily’s coastal charm, this tour is well worth considering.

Whether you’re seeking picture-perfect coves, local Sicilian flavors, or simply want to soak in spectacular scenery, this tour provides a memorable day on the water and the islands. Just pack your sense of adventure and a smile—you’re about to discover some of Sicily’s most beautiful sides.