A Private Escape to Ischia & Procida: What You Need to Know
Imagine cruising along the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Naples, with only your group aboard a sleek Gozzo Apreamare 35ft boat. This private tour, offered from Sorrento for around $2,094 per group (up to 8 people), takes you for an approximately 8-hour journey to two of Italy’s most enchanting islands—Ischia and Procida. The adventure includes opportunities for swimming in hidden coves, admiring historic landmarks like Castello Aragonese, and strolling through colorful seaside villages.
What we particularly love about this experience is the personalized touch—a private boat means you set the pace, whether you want to relax onboard with drinks and snacks or hop off to explore charming towns. Plus, the luxury of a dedicated crew ensures a smooth, stress-free day. One standout feature is the inclusion of snorkeling gear, making it easy to get up close to the vibrant marine life. On the flip side, a potential drawback for some travelers might be the cost, especially if you’re used to more modest day trips, but the exclusivity and tailored experience more than justify the price.
This tour is ideal for travelers who value authentic, personalized experiences—those who want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer a flexible, intimate day on the water. If you’re seeking scenic beauty, local culture, and a touch of luxury, this private journey hits the mark.
Key Points
- Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring privacy and flexibility.
- Stunning Island Views: See iconic landmarks and enjoy swimming in pristine waters.
- Charming Villages and Local Flavors: Opportunities to explore colorful towns and savor fresh seafood.
- All-Inclusive Comfort: WiFi, soft drinks, snacks, towels, and snorkeling gear are provided.
- Ideal for Relaxation & Adventure: Mix of leisure onboard and exploration ashore.
- Weather-Dependent: The tour relies on good weather; cancellations due to poor conditions may occur with full refunds or rescheduling.
An In-Depth Look at the Private Ischia & Procida Tour
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Setting Sail from Sorrento
Starting from the Ristorante Ruccio in Sorrento, this tour kicks off with a sense of anticipation. The meeting point is conveniently close to public transportation, making it easy to reach without stress. The full-day trip lasts about 8 hours, which provides ample time to explore both islands comfortably without feeling rushed.
The boat—a Gozzo Apreamare 35ft, known for its classic Italian style—is the jewel of this experience. It’s designed for comfort and style, offering a smooth ride along the coastline. The private nature means you won’t be sharing space with strangers, and the crew, including Massimiliano, is praised for their outstanding communication and friendly service.
Exploring Ischia
Once on Ischia, the major highlight is the thermal waters. Known for their natural hot springs, these waters are both relaxing and therapeutic. You might find yourself soaking in mineral-rich hot springs, a true treat after a morning of cruising. The tour also features visits to the iconic Castello Aragonese, a fortress perched on a rocky islet connected to the main island by a causeway. The views from here are breathtaking, offering sweeping vistas of the sea and the nearby coastline.
We loved the way the tour balances sightseeing with leisure. The flexibility to stop and swim in secluded coves allows for a personalized experience, especially if you’re fond of snorkeling or simply floating in calm waters.
Visiting Procida
Next on the itinerary is Procida, Italy’s lesser-known gem famous for its pastel-colored houses, narrow streets, and authentic atmosphere. It’s a photographer’s paradise, and walking through the tiny streets feels like stepping back in time. You can choose to explore at your own pace, whether that’s enjoying a leisurely lunch at a seaside trattoria or relaxing on the pristine beaches.
The tour’s flexibility shines here: you can disembark and stroll, or stay aboard to enjoy the cruise along the coast. The option to indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries adds a delicious touch to the day.
Water Activities & Comfort
Throughout the tour, snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy to explore beneath the surface of the clear waters. Many reviews mention how the waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with hidden coves offering a sense of adventure. Plus, complimentary drinks and snacks onboard keep everyone refreshed, and beach towels and WiFi add to the comfort.
While the price might seem high to some, the value lies in the personalized, all-inclusive nature of the experience. You’re paying for exclusivity, comfort, and the chance to create your own island-hopping adventure, away from crowds.
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Practical Details & Considerations
- The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather can lead to cancellations, but with full refunds or rescheduling offered.
- The group size is limited to 8, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.
- The cost covers insurance, snorkeling gear, towels, WiFi, and soft drinks, which are significant savings compared to organizing similar activities independently.
- Fuel and taxes are not included, but these are standard for private boat tours and are part of the overall experience.
Authentic Experiences Cited in Reviews
One reviewer praised the outstanding customer service, noting that Massimiliano answered all questions and made the process smooth, even amid travel uncertainties. Though they couldn’t take the tour due to COVID-19, their positive comments about communication and professionalism suggest that this experience is well-managed.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who values privacy and flexibility, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or families who want a luxurious yet intimate day on the water. It suits travelers who enjoy snorkeling, exploring charming villages, and soaking in thermal waters. While the cost may be higher than a typical group tour, the personalized service and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?
This private boat trip offers an authentic glimpse into the beauty of the Gulf of Naples, combining scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and relaxing water activities. The expert crew and tailored itinerary mean you’ll get a more personal and memorable experience than larger group tours.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate luxury and exclusivity without sacrificing authentic local charm. If you’re seeking a day of leisure mixed with adventure, with the comfort of knowing you’re in good hands, this tour is a compelling choice.
While the price is above average, the value lies in the flexibility, personalized attention, and the chance to escape the crowds, making your trip to the Amalfi Coast and nearby islands even more special.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The package includes beach towels, full insurance, snorkeling gear, WiFi, soft drinks, and soft snacks. It’s designed to keep you comfortable and entertained throughout the day.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 8 hours, giving enough time to explore both islands at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ristorante Ruccio in Sorrento and returns to the same location at the end of the day.
Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group only, allowing for a personalized itinerary and flexible timing.
Can I change the date?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. However, it’s available for booking from March 2025 to June 2026, and weather cancellations are fully refundable or reschedulable.
Are there activities onboard?
Absolutely. Expect swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in scenic coves. You can also disembark to explore villages or beaches on each island.
What about meals or specific culinary experiences?
The tour mentions a gourmet lunch stop upon request, but specifics aren’t detailed. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties ashore.
Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might want to check if they can comfortably disembark and explore villages. The tour is weather-dependent, so check conditions before booking.
This private tour combines the best of luxury, authenticity, and adventure, perfect for those wanting a tailored, memorable day around Italy’s stunning islands.
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