Imagine gliding over the calm waters of the Tuscan coast aboard a classic gozzo boat, with the scent of salt in the air, sun warming your face, and the promise of pristine beaches ahead. For those craving a personalized day on the water, the Private Boat Excursion to the Calette di Scarlino offers just that. Starting at around $107 per person, this experience lasts roughly 4 to 8 hours—enough time to relax, snorkel, and enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the Maremma region, including Cala Violina, Cala Martina, Cala Civette, and Punta Ala.
What we love most about this trip is its flexibility—the itinerary is tailored to your preferences and sea conditions, ensuring a relaxed, personalized adventure. The second highlight is the quality of stops, which feature some of the most scenic, less crowded beaches that are perfect for swimming, photos, or simply soaking up the sun.
A potential consideration is that the experience relies on good weather, as it’s outdoors and weather-dependent. If the sea turns rough, the itinerary may shift or reschedule, so checking the forecast is wise.
This tour suits travelers who want an intimate, authentic experience with a focus on relaxation and natural beauty—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to escape the crowds and enjoy Tuscany’s coast from a boat.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Private tour tailored to your preferences and sea conditions.
- Uncrowded Beaches: Stops at some of the most beautiful, less accessible beaches like Cala Violina and Cala Martina.
- Relaxation & Snorkeling: Opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying aperitifs at sunset.
- Flexibility & Comfort: Duration varies from 4 to 8 hours, with the possibility of group discounts.
- Cost-Value Balance: At around $107 per person, it offers a high-end, intimate experience that’s worth the price for the right traveler.
- Weather Dependence: The trip requires good weather for the best experience.
The Itinerary: What You’ll Discover
The tour kicks off at Lungomare Giuseppe Garibaldi in Puntone, providing a scenic starting point near public transportation—perfect for those staying locally or arriving by train or bus. Once aboard your classic Tuscan gozzo, the adventure begins.
The first stop is Cala Violina, often called the jewel of the park of coves. Its crystal-clear, shallow seabed makes it ideal for swimming close to the boat, even meters from the shore. The gentle sand and inviting waters are perfect for families or anyone wanting a relaxed start. As one reviewer put it, the “beautiful beaches” are a highlight, with the shallow seabed allowing safe swimming and floating.
The second stop, Cala Martina, is the most wild and untouched. Its vegetation reaching down to the water’s edge offers fantastic scenic views, and it’s a hotspot for snorkeling—a favorite activity for many travelers. It’s less accessible from land, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy nature, swim, or just lounge with a drink. One guest described it as “the wildest of the coves”, perfect for those desiring tranquility away from crowds.
Next, the boat heads to Cala Civette, which might be lesser known but equally stunning. The sandy beach is backed by lush pine forest, giving it a secluded, natural vibe. The rocky north side provides excellent snorkeling, and it’s a great place to take photos or enjoy a quiet break. As one reviewer noted, it’s “worth a stop” and offers a peaceful retreat.
The final stop is the Spiaggia di Punta Ala, a stretch of coastline starting from Cala Civette and leading to the town of Punta Ala. The most beautiful section, called the shoals of barbers, provides a calm, almost meditative environment, even when the sea is slightly rough. This stop is ideal for watching the sunset with an aperitif, making for a memorable end to the day.
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What to Expect on the Boat
The boat itself is a classic Tuscan gozzo, known for its stability and charm. The experience is private, so you won’t share the boat with strangers—just your group, whether friends, family, or a romantic couple. The crew, including captain and possibly guide, is described as friendly and knowledgeable. Many reviews mention the “super nice captain” who made everyone laugh and feel at ease, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Timing can be flexible — you might spend around 40 minutes at each stop, which balances enough time for swimming, relaxing, or enjoying snacks and drinks. The lunch or aperitif is a highlight: imagine sipping local wine or bubbly, surrounded by spectacular scenery, with the salty breeze accentuating every sip.
Authentic Experiences & Value
One of the best parts of this tour is how it emphasizes authenticity. The beaches visited are genuine hidden gems, not overrun tourist spots, offering a sense of quiet discovery. The free admission to each spot means only the boat’s cost and optional food/drinks are expenses—making this a good value for such an exclusive experience.
Traveler Feedback & What It Means for You
Reviews confirm the tour’s quality, with 19 reviews averaging a perfect 5 stars. Comments like “nice experience,” “beautiful coastlines,” and “snorkeling was a highlight” show how well the trip delivers on its promises. The overall tone suggests a fun, relaxed day that balances adventure with comfort.
Booking & Availability
The tour is available via mobile ticket, with confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. It’s suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for pregnant women beyond the seventh month.
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Pricing & Value
At $106.81 per person, the cost includes private boat access, stops at some of the most beautiful beaches in the area, and the potential for a tailored experience. Considering the personalized nature, private setting, and scenic stops, this price offers excellent value for anyone seeking a special day on the water.
Weather & Cancellation
The trip is weather-dependent—poor weather could mean rescheduling or refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.
This boat excursion works best for those who prefer personalized experiences over crowded tours. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want to enjoy Tuscany’s coastline with the flexibility of a private boat. If you’re a nature lover who enjoys snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing in quiet coves, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also perfect if you want a luxurious yet authentic escape—without the hefty price tag of luxury cruises.
This private boat trip to the Calette di Scarlino offers a fantastic way to enjoy Tuscany’s coast at your own pace. The stops at Cala Violina, Cala Martina, Cala Civette, and Punta Ala combine stunning scenery with peaceful, less crowded beaches, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The experience’s flexibility, friendly crew, and beautiful stops make it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a special day on the water.
While weather can impact plans, most travelers find that the breathtaking views, snorkeling opportunities, and sunset aperitifs justify the expense. It’s a perfect choice for those craving a personalized, authentic Tuscan seaside adventure—a memorable way to see the coast from a different perspective.
How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 4 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and sea conditions.
What does the tour include? It includes private boat transportation and stops at four beaches, with options for lunch or aperitif. The stops are free of charge, apart from optional food and drinks.
Is this suitable for children or families? Yes, especially if kids are comfortable swimming in shallow waters, as Cala Violina has a shallow seabed. Always consider the weather and your child’s swimming ability.
What should I bring? Bring swimwear, towel, sun protection, and maybe a light jacket for later in the day. Snacks or drinks are optional, but most tours include some.
Can I customize the stops? The program may vary based on sea conditions and your preferences, so some flexibility is built-in.
Is the tour available year-round? The data doesn’t specify, but as it’s weather-dependent, good weather seasons are best—typically late spring to early fall.
How much does it cost? Around $107 per person, offering a good balance of privacy, scenic stops, and a relaxed atmosphere.
What language is the tour available in? The reviews and booking info suggest the primary language is likely Italian or English; check with the provider for other language options.
What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
This boat excursion is a well-balanced, authentic, and scenic way to experience the best of Tuscany’s coast. Perfect for those looking to combine relaxation, natural beauty, and a touch of luxury in a private setting.