Ponza Island is a highlight of Italy’s Tyrrhenian Sea—not because it’s hard to reach, but because once you’re there, exploring by boat is the best way to see what makes this island special. The rock formations, hidden grottoes, and crystal-clear waters are best experienced from the water, and no tourist trip to Ponza would be complete without a boat tour. Whether you’re after a personalized adventure or a lively day exploring the coast, Ponza’s boat options deliver authentic, memorable experiences.
Our favorite? The Ponza, boat trip on board the Zannone 1954. It’s a fully customizable private tour that offers flexibility, luxury, and the chance to avoid the crowds—perfect for those who want a tailored experience. Meanwhile, the Ponza Island 5 hr Boat Excursion with Swimming Stops and Lunch offers a lively, family-friendly adventure with plenty of swimming and scenic highlights. And for those who want a full day of island discovery, the Full-Day Island of Ponza Cruise Trip from Anzio including Lunch combines ferry travel with a comprehensive boat tour, making it ideal for travelers with a full day to spare.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of the top three boat tours in Ponza, each offering a different style of adventure:
– A customizable private boat trip with local wines and champagne (Ponza, boat trip on board the Zannone 1954)
– An energetic, 5-hour group outing with swimming, grotto visits, and lunch (Ponza Island 5 hr Boat Excursion with Swimming Stops and Lunch)
– A full-day trip from Anzio combining ferry and boat exploration (Full-Day Island of Ponza Cruise Trip from Anzio including Lunch)
1. Ponza, boat trip on board the Zannone 1954
At number one, this private boat tour offers a level of flexibility rare among boat trips. It’s perfect if you want a highly personalized experience on the water. The tour is entirely customizable—you can choose where to depart from (on Ponza itself), your preferred times, and the itinerary, weather permitting. The boat is a beautifully restored vessel, with the option to enjoy local wines, fresh fruit, and champagne aboard—on request, of course.
The tour typically lasts 5 to 9 hours, giving plenty of time to explore secluded swimming spots, visit grottoes, and enjoy the island’s coastline at your own pace. Tour guide Claudio is praised in reviews for his calm navigation and hospitality, especially amid rough waters. Many travelers say this was “a perfect dream,” with a focus on quiet swimming areas away from crowds. The customization aspect means it’s ideal for honeymooners, small groups, or anyone wanting a luxurious, private escape.
Bottom Line: For those seeking exclusivity, flexibility, and personalized service, this private boat trip delivers. It’s worth the price for the bespoke experience and the chance to tailor your day.
2. Ponza Island 5 hr Boat Excursion with Swimming Stops and Lunch
Second on our list is a group tour that offers a lively, shorter adventure perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a taste of Ponza’s coast. For around $70 per person, this 5-hour excursion includes multiple swim stops, grotto visits, and a delicious onboard lunch—making it an excellent value. The tour circumnavigates the island, with five stops where you can swim, snorkel (bring your gear), and snap photos of the dramatic rock formations.
Highlights include the Grotte di Pilato, famous for its connection to Pontius Pilate, and the Chiaia Di Luna cliff, which legend says is named for its moon-like shape. If sea conditions permit, you’ll even get a chance to swim through the Capo Bianco grotto, where sunlight creates stunning blue reflections—definitely one of the trip’s most memorable sights. Mara, the guide, gets rave reviews for her friendly attitude and her knowledge of the island’s history.
The tour also includes a lunch on board with pasta and local wine, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy Ponza’s scenic coastline with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a fun, scenic day with a knowledgeable guide and a lively group.
Bottom Line: This tour balances affordability with an immersive experience of Ponza’s coast, perfect for those who want to see the highlights and enjoy some swimming without breaking the bank.
3. Full-Day Island of Ponza Cruise Trip from Anzio including Lunch
Finally, the full-day cruise from Anzio is the most comprehensive option, ideal for travelers who want to combine a scenic ferry ride with a day-long exploration of Ponza. Starting early, you’ll take a ferry from Anzio—about a 1.5-hour ride—before hopping on a shared 5-hour boat trip around the island.
This tour offers ample time to visit grottoes, swim in crystal-clear waters, and relax on deck. Included in the package is an onboard pasta lunch with wine and espresso, plus time to explore Ponza’s colorful seaside streets after the boat excursion. The trip is well reviewed for its organized nature, friendly crew, and the chance to see Ponza from both sea and land. Some reviews note the ferry ride adds extra travel time, making it a longer day overall, but one filled with diverse experiences.
This tour suits travelers with a full day to spare who want to combine the ferry journey with a comprehensive boat tour, giving a deep dive into Ponza’s rugged scenery and water-based attractions.
Bottom Line: If you’re staying in Rome or nearby and want a full immersion into Ponza’s coast, this trip offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to see a lot in one day.
How to Choose Your Perfect Ponza Boat Tour
Picking the right boat trip depends on your budget, available time, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you crave a luxury, private adventure tailored specifically for your group, the Ponza, boat trip on board the Zannone 1954 is your best option, especially if you want champagne and a completely customizable itinerary. For a budget-friendly, lively day with swimming and grotto visits, the Ponza Island 5 hr Boat Excursion hits the mark—perfect for families and groups. And if you want a full-day experience combining ferry and boat, the full-day cruise from Anzio offers an all-encompassing look at Ponza’s dramatic coast.
When planning, consider seasonality—summer months are best for swimming and outdoor activities—and book early, especially for private trips, as they fill up fast.
In summary, Ponza Island offers a variety of boat tours to suit different interests and budgets. For a bespoke, intimate experience, the private Zannone 1954 trip is unbeatable. If you prefer a guided group outing with swimming and grottoes, the 5-hour excursion offers great value and fun. For those with a full day to spend from Rome, the full-day cruise from Anzio combines ferry rides with scenic exploration.
No matter which you choose, a boat tour in Ponza promises a memorable way to see one of Italy’s most captivating islands. Book early, and enjoy the water adventures that make Ponza a true gem of the Mediterranean.