Sperlonga isn’t just about its charming old town and stunning beaches; it’s also a wonderful base for boat tours and cruises that reveal the area’s natural beauty and ancient ruins from the sea. Whether you’re eager to swim into the famous Blue Grotto, explore rugged coastlines, or simply relax on a boat with a glass of local wine, Sperlonga offers a variety of options. We especially like the Mini Cruise at the Blue Grotto, which combines a lively boat ride with the chance to cool off in crystal-clear waters, plus learn about Roman history along the way.
If you’re after a quick, budget-friendly adventure, the smaller tours like the Boat Trip and Swim at the Blue Grotto in Sperlonga are great for a half-day escape. For those wanting to spend a little more on a longer, more inclusive experience, the Sperlonga: Boat Tour to Gaeta with Pizza and Drinks blends sightseeing with delicious local food. For a flexible, private option, the Joker Boat Coaster 470 rental offers independence and fun with a boat you can take out yourself. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you pick the best Sperlonga boat experience.
1. Tour – Mini Cruise at the Blue Grotto
This 1.5-hour boat ride is an ideal starting point for anyone eager to see Sperlonga from the water. The tour kicks off with a cruise along the Riviera di Ulisse Regional Park, where you’ll pass the Grotta di Tiberio and learn about the Roman emperor’s villa from your guide. The highlight is reaching the Blue Grotto, a must-visit sea cave famous for its glowing, light blue waters. After a brief historical commentary, you’ll have time to swim, snorkel, or simply marvel at the cave’s stalagmites and cliffs.
What makes this tour stand out is how it balances informative narration with free time for swimming. The boat is well-rated, with 209 reviews giving it a perfect 5.0/5, and travelers rave about the clarity of the water and the friendly crew. The cost of around $44 per person offers great value for such an immersive experience. Many reviews mention how swimming in the Blue Grotto felt like a highlight of their trip.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a short, fun, and informative boat trip that ends with a refreshing swim. It’s especially good if you prefer a small-group experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
2. Sperlonga: Boat Cruise to the Blue Grotto with Swimming
At around 1.5 hours, this popular cruise offers an excellent way to see Sperlonga’s coast and enjoy a swim in crystal-clear waters. The tour departs from Via del Porto and takes you past notable sights like Villa di Tiberio, Bazzano Beach, the Grotta delle Bambole, and Torre Truglia. The guide shares stories about the medieval towers, Roman ruins, and the historical significance of Tiberius’ villa.
What makes this trip unique is its combination of scenic coastal views, cave exploration, and snorkeling opportunities. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, like Vincenzo, who provide a bilingual commentary in English and Italian. The trip’s affordability, about $43 per person, paired with the ability to swim at different stops, makes it a well-rounded experience for families and solo travelers alike.
The itinerary’s flexibility and the chance to photograph Sperlonga from the water are key draws. The trip is especially suited for those wanting a longer, more comprehensive look at the coastline while having the freedom to swim in protected waters.
Bottom line: This tour offers good value, combining sightseeing, history, and swimming, and is ideal if you want to maximize your time exploring Sperlonga’s scenic coast.
3. Sperlonga: Boat Tour to Gaeta with Pizza and Drinks
For those looking to enjoy a longer and more indulgent outing, this 4.5-hour cruise from Sperlonga to Gaeta is a fantastic choice. You’ll explore the coastline, visiting highlights like the Montagna Spaccata, Monte Orlando Marine Reserve, and several caves along the way. This tour offers multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing—plus the chance to relax with pizza and drinks on board.
A standout feature is the detailed itinerary, which includes stops at Grotta delle Bambole, Pozzo del Diavolo, and the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi. The guide shares insights on the historical sites, making this a more immersive experience. Reviews mention the friendly crew, the “beautiful scenery,” and the “fantastic water for swimming,” with some travelers noting it’s a good value at $89.50 for the extended experience.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full day of excursions, scenic views, and local cuisine. The longer duration and multiple stops make it ideal for families, groups, or anyone eager to explore Gaeta’s coast in depth.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, leisurely cruise with options for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying regional food—perfect for those wanting a full-day experience.
4. Boat trip and swim at the Blue Grotto in Sperlonga
This short experience is perfect for travelers on a tight schedule or those wanting a quick taste of Sperlonga’s coast. Departing from Via del Porto, the tour takes you through Roman coves, giving a chance to see Grotta di Tiberio and Bazzano Beach while enjoying snorkeling and swimming in clear waters.
Rated 4.7/5 from 3 reviews, this tour emphasizes snorkeling in unspoiled nature and exploring secret coves. It’s a relaxed outing, focusing on the Blue Grotto and nearby caves, with an experienced crew guiding the way. The brief 1.5-hour trip is ideal for families or travelers who want to combine a boat ride with some quick swimming.
While it’s a smaller operation, reviews highlight the friendly team and the beautiful waters. The key advantage here is the intimate atmosphere, letting you enjoy a personalized experience without the crowds.
Bottom line: Great for a quick, relaxing cruise that emphasizes snorkeling and exploring Sperlonga’s coastal beauty, especially if you’re short on time.
5. Rubber dinghy to rent Joker Boat Coaster 470 40CV (Without License)
For travelers seeking independence, this 8-hour boat rental offers the chance to explore Sperlonga and nearby areas on your own terms. The Joker Boat Coaster 470 is suitable for those with a boating license or willing to rent it without one, since it’s designed to be accessible and manageable.
This option is ideal if you want total flexibility—spending a day sunbathing, swimming, or discovering secluded spots at your own pace. The fleet is regularly maintained, with satellite GPS onboard for safety and location tracking, giving peace of mind while you explore. The cost is roughly $83, making it a competitive choice for a full-day private adventure.
Reviews are limited but positive, emphasizing the reliability of the boats and the easy booking process. This rental is best for experienced boaters or confident explorers who want a custom day on the water without the constraints of a group tour.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for independent travelers or seasoned boaters wanting a flexible, private day at sea.
How to Choose Your Sperlonga Boat Tour
When selecting the right boat experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If a short, lively swimming trip appeals, the Mini Cruise at the Blue Grotto offers great value. For a more comprehensive day with multiple sightseeing stops and regional food, the Gaeta cruise with pizza is ideal. Those with a sense of adventure and confidence in boating might prefer the private rental option for a fully customizable day.
Timing can also influence your choice—if you want to visit during peak summer months, booking early ensures availability. In shoulder seasons, smaller tours or rentals might be more flexible. Keep in mind that some tours, like the Blue Grotto cruise, tend to sell out, so advance reservations are recommended.
Final Thoughts
Sperlonga’s coastline offers a rich variety of boat tours suited for different interests and budgets. For a quick taste of sea caves and swimming, the Mini Cruise at the Blue Grotto hits the mark. If you’re after a full day of exploring, scenic views, and regional food, the Gaeta cruise makes a memorable outing. And for those wanting privacy or flexibility, the Joker Boat rental puts you in control.
No matter which option you choose, Sperlonga’s waters promise a lively, beautiful experience that will surely enhance your Italian trip. Just remember to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on the most popular trips. Happy sailing!