Polignano: Coastline Tour With Prosecco And Taralli & Swim

Explore the breathtaking coastline of Polignano a Mare with a boat tour that combines scenic views, natural grottos, and a relaxed atmosphere. For just $41 per person, this two-hour cruise delivers a memorable experience along Italy’s beautiful Apulian coast, with stops at the most picturesque spots, a refreshing swim, and a taste of local snacks and Prosecco. The tour is operated by Blue Moon Escursioni, using modern boats with ample space, cushions, and safety gear, making it accessible and comfortable.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the opportunity to see the coast from the water’s perspective—a vantage that reveals the town’s characteristic overhanging houses and rugged cliffs—and the chance to relax and unwind while enjoying local treats like taralli and sparkling Prosecco. The brief, well-organized itinerary ensures you get a taste of both natural beauty and cultural charm, all within a compact timeframe.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour departs from San Vito’s harbor, which is about a 50-minute walk from Polignano a Mare’s town center. This means if you’re staying in the main town, you’ll need to plan for transportation or a leisurely walk. Also, as with all outdoor activities, the boat ride and swimming depend on sea and weather conditions, so flexibility is advised.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, natural caves, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially suited for those wanting a taste of the coast’s best without a full-day commitment, and for anyone interested in photographing the iconic houses overhanging the sea or simply enjoying a refreshing dip in clear waters.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastline views and a chance to see Polignano from the water.
• Visits to main grottos and caves, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Includes a swimming stop in pristine, clear sea waters for a refreshing break.
• Enjoy local snacks of taralli and Prosecco during the cruise.
• Operates with modern boats equipped for comfort and safety.
• Departure from San Vito’s harbor, requiring some planning if staying in Polignano.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Polignano Coastline Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Boat Ride

Starting at San Vito’s harbor, right beneath the medieval XII-century abbey, you’ll board one of Blue Moon Escursioni’s sleek boats—either the Arabesque or Elegance model—both comfortably accommodating up to 8 people. The atmosphere is laid-back, with cushioned seats, tables, and ladders for easy water access. We loved the way the boats are prepared for a relaxed outing, with safety gear for all ages.

The first part of the cruise features a gentle sail along Polignano’s coast, giving you a unique perspective of the town’s famous overhanging houses—a photograph-worthy sight. As the boat glides past, you’ll see the main grottos and caves, which are often the highlight for many visitors. Several reviews mention how the guide’s detailed commentary added to the experience, with insightful information about the area’s geology and history.

Visiting the Grottos and Caves

During the tour, you’ll have the chance to sail into two notable caves, a favorite among travelers according to reviews. The visual impact of these caves is striking—the way the sunlight filters through openings and the water’s clarity makes for fantastic photos. This part is especially engaging for those who love natural formations, and it’s worth noting that the guides are knowledgeable in sharing the stories behind these geological features.

The Swim Break: Refreshing and Authentic

A key feature is the stop for swimming in the crystal-clear sea. As one reviewer pointed out, “We sailed into two caves and later, swam in the very nice, clear water.” The water here is often described as pristine, inviting a splash or a leisurely float. You’ll want to bring your swimwear, towel, and perhaps some goggles. The boat’s ladders make getting in and out easier, and you’ll appreciate the chance to cool off while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

More Great Tours Nearby

Prosecco and Taralli: A Taste of Italy’s Simple Delights

Midway through the cruise, there’s a short break for Prosecco and taralli, a local snack of crunchy, breadstick-like treats. Several travelers, like Shawn and Salvucci, highlight the quality of the drinks and snacks, noting that “the prosecco was fresh and top-notch.” It’s a lovely touch that balances the scenic journey with a taste of local flavors.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

After the swim and snacks, the boat gently returns to San Vito’s harbor, ending the tour where it began. The overall vibe is relaxed, with plenty of time to chat with fellow travelers or soak in the scenery. Many reviews mention how the guide’s friendly and professional demeanor made the experience even more enjoyable.

Price, Value, and Practical Tips

At $41 per person, this tour offers good value—especially considering the included guide, the boat, snacks, and the swimming opportunity. It’s a brief but comprehensive way to see some of the coast’s most striking features without the commitment of a full-day cruise. The limited capacity ensures a more intimate experience, which we find enhances the enjoyment.

However, keep in mind that the tour’s timing and comfort depend on sea conditions. If weather proves unfavorable, the activity might be canceled or postponed, so flexibility is wise. Also, as it departs from San Vito’s harbor, travelers staying in Polignano a Mare should plan for a 50-minute walk or local transport.

Accessibility and Booking

The tour is available in Italian and English, making it accessible for international visitors. You can reserve online with the option to pay later, allowing flexibility in planning. Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments, given the boat’s setup and the walking involved.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Perspectives

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the stunning scenery. Zuzanna remarked, “Our guide was really knowledgeable and told us interesting stuff,” which adds depth to the scenic cruise. Others appreciated the clean and modern boats, and the chance to swim in clear waters—a highlight for many.

Some reviews hint at the value-for-money aspect; while most felt the price was fair, a few thought it could include more Prosecco or snacks. Still, the overall consensus is that this tour provides a memorable slice of the coast’s natural beauty, especially for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and scenic vistas.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who enjoy beautiful coastal scenery, natural caves, and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking for a short but scenic escape, with plenty of opportunities to photograph and swim. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a mix of natural wonders and local flavors, this tour hits the spot.

It’s also well-suited for visitors who prefer small group experiences, where they can get more personalized commentary and a quieter ambiance. Those seeking a full-day excursion or extensive cave exploration might want to consider more comprehensive options, but for a quick taste of Polignano’s coast, this tour offers a lot of value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start?
It begins at San Vito’s harbor, right under the XII-century abbey, which is a scenic spot with clear waters and traditional fishing boats.

How long does the tour last?
It is approximately two hours in total, including the boat ride, stops at caves, swimming, and snacking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothes for the boat ride.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the activity may be affected by sea and weather conditions, so flexibility is advised.

Is it suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is suitable for children, as life jackets are provided, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to walking and boat access.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot online and choose to pay later, which adds flexibility to your planning.

What language is spoken during the tour?
The tour is offered in Italian and English.

What is the maximum group size?
The boats accommodate up to 8 people, making for a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This Polignano coastline tour provides an ideal way to combine natural beauty, local flavors, and a relaxed pace. With a knowledgeable guide and a well-organized itinerary, you’ll get to see the caves, enjoy a swim in clear waters, and sip Prosecco with taralli—an authentic taste of Apulia in a small-group setting.

If you’re someone who loves photographing dramatic coastlines, appreciates small, personal tours, or simply wants a refreshing break from sightseeing, this trip hits the mark. It’s an affordable, enjoyable way to experience one of Italy’s most photogenic and charming coastlines without overcommitting your time or budget.

For travelers seeking more extensive cave exploration or a full-day adventure, there are other options listed in similar experiences, but for a quick, scenic, and authentic taste, this cruise offers excellent value and genuine moments of connection with Italy’s coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: