Ponza is a perfect place for boat tours and cruises. With its rugged coastline, turquoise waters, and stunning sea caves, it’s not just about looking at the scenery — it’s about experiencing it firsthand from the deck of a boat. Whether you want to swim in crystal clear waters, explore caves, or just relax with a drink at sunset, Ponza offers a variety of options. We particularly like the Ponza: Palmarola & Ponza Island Cruise with Swimming & Lunch because it combines a scenic tour with a delicious onboard meal. If you’re into snorkeling and natural beauty, the Ponza Island 5-Hour Boat Tour is an excellent choice. For a more flexible day, the Ponza/Palmarola boat tour with lunch on board offers a laid-back vibe with options for small groups. And for those looking to end the day with a view, the Sunset boat cruise at Chiaia di Luna is truly spectacular, especially with music and a drink in hand.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find four fantastic boat experiences in Ponza. From full circumnavigation tours to sunset cruises, each offers something unique:
– The Ponza: Palmarola & Ponza Island Cruise with Swimming & Lunch provides a complete island visit with swimming stops and onboard lunch.
– The Ponza Island 5-Hour Boat Tour is a comprehensive, guided circumnavigation with snorkeling and cave visits.
– The Ponza/Palmarola boat tour with lunch on board offers a flexible 6-hour tour with delicious onboard food and a relaxed pace.
– The Sunset by boat with aperitif at Chiaia di Luna lets you enjoy the beautiful evening scenery with music and a cocktail.
1. Ponza: Palmarola & Ponza Island Cruise with Swimming & Lunch
This tour is a standout for combining scenic beauty with relaxation. It lasts about 5.5 hours and includes stops at both Ponza and Palmarola, two of the most photogenic islands in the area. You’ll get to swim in crystal-clear waters and see iconic features like the Faraglioni rock formations and the southern cave, which can be entered by boat. The natural arch, known as Spaccapolpi, is another highlight. The tour offers a hearty onboard lunch, making it perfect for those who want a full day of sightseeing combined with good food.
What makes this trip special is its focus on natural beauty and comfort. The boat is well-equipped, and the crew is attentive. Reviews mention the experience as “well done” with many noting the friendly and professional staff. Since it includes swimming and a delicious meal, it appeals especially to travelers who want a balance of adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive experience of Ponza’s islands with swimming and great scenery, all wrapped into a half-day trip.
2. Ponza Island 5-Hour Boat Tour
At number 2 we have the Ponza Island 5-Hour Boat Tour, a guided circumnavigation that offers between 5 and 13 hours of exploration, depending on your choice. For around $67.97, the tour provides a chance to see Ponza’s most stunning rocky beaches, coves, and sea caves. It’s perfect for those who love snorkeling and exploring. The tour departs from three different locations, giving flexibility for travelers staying in different parts of Ponza.
What sets this tour apart is the expert commentary in English that provides insights into Ponza’s fascinating geology and history. The five swimming and snorkeling stops are carefully selected at the most scenic spots, including blue grottos and coves. The onboard lunch, prepared by the captain with fresh pasta, water, white wine, and espresso, adds to the authentic feel. Guests rave about the incredible caves and the chance to see colorful fish while snorkeling.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to see as much of Ponza’s coastline as possible in a day, and who enjoy snorkeling or swimming in beautiful waters.
Bottom Line: If your priority is covering lots of ground with a knowledgeable guide and enjoying multiple swim stops, this guided circumnavigation offers great value.
3. Ponza/Palmarola boat tour with lunch on board
This 6-hour tour is a flexible, smaller-scale option that focuses on relaxed exploration of Ponza and Palmarola. Perfect for smaller groups or those who prefer a slower pace, it emphasizes swimming and enjoying the stunning scenery. Participants range from just one person to fifty, meaning you can join solo or with a larger group.
The itinerary includes a guided tour of the Pontine Islands, with time to swim and relax at notable spots like the Natural Arch of Ponza. The crew is praised for being friendly and attentive, and the lunch on board is described as delicious, with the crew taking care of all preparations. The trip’s flexible cancellation policy makes it a good choice for travelers unsure about the weather or schedule.
Reviewers highlight the “beautiful day” and the “friendly crew,” with many recommending it as a repeatable experience. Its laid-back style makes it suitable for families or travelers looking to avoid the crowds.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a more intimate, leisurely way to enjoy Ponza and Palmarola, especially if you prefer a smaller group and flexible timing.
4. Ponza: Sunset by boat with aperitif and swim at Chiaia di Luna
Number 4 on our list is the Sunset by boat with aperitif at Chiaia di Luna, a three-hour cruise designed to give travelers a magical evening experience. It departs in the late afternoon, offering the chance to admire the red-tinged bay of Chiaia di Luna as the sun sets. The cruise includes a first cocktail, with music, swimming, and relaxation as the sky turns shades of orange and pink.
What makes this tour special is its focus on atmosphere and scenic beauty. You’ll be able to bathe in the calm waters at sunset, with the iconic cliffs of Chiaia di Luna as a stunning backdrop. The combination of music, a drink, and the natural environment creates a relaxed, almost celebratory mood. It’s perfect for travelers who want a memorable evening without a long day on the water.
Reviews note the beautiful scenery and friendly crew, and many mention how magical the sunset views are. This cruise is best suited for couples or anyone wanting to add a romantic touch to their Ponza visit.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a short, scenic, and atmospheric experience to end your day, this sunset cruise offers a peaceful, picturesque escape.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Ponza
Choosing the right boat experience depends on your interests and schedule. If you want a full-day adventure with swimming and a hearty lunch, Ponza: Palmarola & Ponza Island Cruise is ideal. For a guided exploration with snorkeling, the Ponza Island 5-Hour Boat Tour offers great value. Those seeking a relaxed, intimate trip should consider the Ponza/Palmarola boat tour with lunch on board. And if a romantic sunset with music and a swim sounds perfect, the Sunset by boat with aperitif will not disappoint.
Think about your budget, how much time you have, and what kind of experience appeals most — whether it’s snorkeling, sightseeing, or relaxing at sunset. Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Ponza offers a variety of boat tours that suit different tastes and schedules. For those wanting a full-day adventure with swimming and lunch, the Palmarola & Ponza Island Cruise is a top choice. If you prefer guided exploration with plenty of snorkeling, the 5-hour circumnavigation delivers. For a quieter, small-group experience, the Ponza/Palmarola tour is perfect. And for a memorable sunset, the Chiaia di Luna cruise provides a peaceful, scenic conclusion to your day.
No matter which you pick, these tours open up Ponza’s stunning coastlines and sea caves in a way that’s simply not possible from land. Be sure to book early, and prepare for a memorable day on the water.