From Trapani: Favignana and Levanzo Boat Tour

From Trapani: Favignana and Levanzo Boat Tour offers an accessible and affordable way to experience two of Sicily’s most captivating islands. Priced at around $39.86 per person, this 8-hour excursion takes you from the bustling port of Trapani to the wild beauty of Favignana and the crystal-clear waters of Levanzo. Expect a mix of island sightseeing, swimming stops, and a taste of local life — all in a day that’s designed to be both relaxed and engaging.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the 4 hours free time on Favignana gives you the chance to wander at your own pace, whether that’s exploring the charming streets, renting a bike, or sampling Sicilian delicacies. Second, the coastline tour and bathing stop on Levanzo lets you enjoy some swimming in scenic coves, with the chance to snorkel or just soak up the sun.

However, one notable point to consider is that some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with the actual experience, especially regarding the promised time on Levanzo. As one review pointed out, “They didn’t let us on Levanzo,” which could be disappointing if you’re eager to explore the island itself rather than just pass by. This highlights the importance of managing expectations and understanding that weather or operational issues might affect the itinerary.

This cruise appeals most to travelers seeking a cost-effective, scenic day trip that combines boat rides, island views, and a splash of swimming. It’s best suited for those comfortable with flexible timing and who enjoy quick island visits rather than in-depth exploration.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and free time
• Affordable price point around $40, providing good value for a full-day tour
• Scenic boat ride exploring the coastlines of Favignana and Levanzo
• 4 hours on Favignana for independent exploration and local tasting
• Potential for schedule changes due to weather or operational issues
• Includes transportation and bathing stops, but not lunch or marine protected area fees

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Favignana and Levanzo Boat Tour

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

Starting from the busy Port of Trapani, you’ll board a boat that takes roughly 40 minutes to reach your first destination: Favignana. This island, often called the “big butterfly on the sea,” is Sicily’s largest in the Egadi archipelago. Its landscape is famously barren and wild, with a coastline that invites exploration by foot or bike, plus plenty of chances to relax on its beaches.

Once you arrive, you’ll have a solid 4 hours free to do as you please. Many travelers choose to stroll through Favignana’s quaint town, soaking in the local atmosphere, popping into small cafes, or sampling typical Sicilian food and wine. Some may rent bikes or scooters to explore the coast, while others prefer to lounge in a beachside tavern, enjoying the fresh seafood. The emphasis here is on independent discovery — so you get to tailor your time to your interests.

After your Favignana visit, the boat heads toward Levanzo, a smaller island renowned for its crystal-clear waters and distinctive coastline. The main appeal here is the bathing stop in a scenic cove, perfect for swimming or snorkeling. You’ll also get to admire the coastline, which offers dramatic cliffs and unspoiled coves.

What’s Good About This Tour?

Two aspects stand out as particularly valuable. First, the 4 hours on Favignana is more generous than many other short island excursions, offering a real chance to get a feel for the island’s charm. Whether you’re wandering through narrow streets or sitting with a glass of local wine, this free time is a real highlight.

Second, the coastline tour and swimming stop on Levanzo provide a refreshing break from the boat ride. The opportunity to dive into clear waters and enjoy natural scenery is exactly what many travelers look for in a Sicilian island trip.

What Could Be Improved?

The main concern from past visitors is that the actual experience may vary from what was initially promised. One reviewer, Howard, lamented, “They didn’t let us on Levanzo,” and was disappointed that their time on the island was limited to a brief swim from the boat. Others felt that the schedule was rushed or altered, especially when the boat had to return to Favignana to pick up more passengers.

This points to the importance of flexibility — weather or operational constraints can result in less time on the islands or a change in plans. It’s wise to stay aware that your experience might be more limited than advertised.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience fits travelers who prioritize affordability and scenic boat rides over deep exploration. It’s great for those wanting a quick taste of Favignana’s beauty, combined with some relaxing swimming in Levanzo’s waters. It’s also ideal for travelers with limited time in Sicily who want to cover multiple islands in one day without breaking the bank.

However, if you’re expecting a full island tour or detailed exploration, you might find this trip somewhat superficial. It’s more about enjoying the views and the water than in-depth sightseeing or culture.

Why This Tour Offers Value

For a cost-conscious traveler, this tour offers a reasonable balance between price and experience. The 8-hour duration means you get significant time on the water and some free exploration, without the expense of private boat rentals or guided island tours. Transportation included in the price makes logistics simple, and the swimming stop adds a fun element.

That said, the lack of lunch inclusion means you’ll need to plan a meal either before or after the tour, which adds a small extra cost. Also, the marine protected area fee of €5 per person must be paid in cash, which is a small but important detail to remember.

The Experience Environment

The boat ride itself is likely to be a highlight — expect scenic views of the coastlines and possibly some wildlife or seabirds. The group size isn’t specified but can vary, which can influence the intimacy or crowding during the trip.

Practical Tips

• Bring cash for the marine protected area fee and any snacks or drinks you want on board.
• Wear comfortable clothes and sun protection — hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essentials.
• If you want to explore Favignana thoroughly, consider renting a bike early to maximize your free time.
• Check the weather forecast before booking, as adverse weather might cause cancellations or schedule changes.

Review Insights

While most travelers seem satisfied with the overall concept, some have expressed disappointment in the execution. Howard’s review highlights that not all promises may be kept, especially regarding the full experience on Levanzo.

This underscores the importance of managing expectations and understanding that external factors like weather can influence your day. The tour offers a good overview rather than an in-depth journey, which is vital to keep in mind when planning your day.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This boat tour from Trapani to Favignana and Levanzo is a solid choice for travelers seeking a budget-friendly day trip with scenic views, swimming opportunities, and a taste of island life. It’s particularly suitable if you’re comfortable with some flexibility in your schedule and are looking for a leisurely, social experience rather than a detailed exploration.

If your goal is to spend several days truly discovering Sicily’s islands, this might be a brief introduction rather than the full story. Nonetheless, it offers a great snapshot of the Egadi archipelago’s natural beauty and provides enough free time to enjoy a few memorable moments on Favignana and Levanzo.

Just be prepared for possible changes or limited time on the islands, and you’ll find this tour a worthwhile, affordable addition to your Sicilian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is included in the tour?
Transportation to and from the islands, 4 hours of free time in Favignana, a coastline tour of Levanzo, and a bathing stop in a cove are included. Lunch and the marine protected area fee are not included but are payable separately.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Trapani to Favignana takes approximately 40 minutes. The total tour duration is around 8 hours.

Is there a chance I won’t get enough time on Levanzo?
Yes, based on past reviews, some travelers found that they didn’t get to stay on Levanzo for long, or the boat only passed by its coast for a quick swim.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, you’ll need cash for the €5 per person fee to access the marine protected area, paid at the ticket office before departure.

Can I explore Favignana on my own?
Absolutely. The 4 hours of free time allow you to stroll, rent a bike, or enjoy local eateries independently.

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You should plan to bring your own or enjoy a meal on Favignana after the tour.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour provider’s primary language is Italian. It’s worth considering if you need a language guide or translation.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Adverse weather conditions could result in cancellation or schedule changes. It’s good to check the forecast and be flexible.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for families, especially those interested in scenic boat rides and swimming, but it’s best to check if the group size or schedule suits young children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if needed.

In short, this boat tour offers a scenic, affordable way to experience the natural beauty of Sicily’s Egadi Islands, with some caveats around schedule flexibility. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick taste of island life, enjoy swimming, and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability.

You can check availability for your dates here: