Polignano a Mare is a captivating coastal town located in the picturesque region of Puglia, Italy’s famous boot.
It’s a small destination, boasting dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a charming old town that will make you fall in love with it instantly. It happened to me!
Polignano a Mare is one of the best towns in Puglia to base yourself, as it offers easy access to the rest of the region, which is very much worth exploring. My favorite way to see the area? From the water!
In this guide, I’ve compiled the most amazing Polignano a Mare boat trips, as I think it’s the best way to discover the region, admiring the rugged cliffs and the perched towns as you sail past them.
There’s everything from thrilling catamaran rides to tranquil sailboat trips, so you should be able to find just the experience that best suits your interests.
Why should you trust me? I was born and raised in Bologna, Italy, and I’ve been visiting Puglia in the summer holidays many times since I was a kid. Well before Puglia became an Instagram sensation!
This region of Italy has changed over the years, but it still remains one of my favorite places in Italy. It’s authentic, the food is divine, and it’s still affordable compared to other destinations in Italy.
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
OUR PICK: The BEST Polignano a Mare Boat Tour
▶️ Explore hidden caves and boat-accessible coves with this thrilling Polignano a Mare Speedboat Cruise to Caves with Aperitif. It’s a quick, 2-hour tour that will show you the best view of Polignano a Mare as you zip past its incredibly, rugged coastline.
You can choose between a private or shared tour, and get comfortable on the speedboat that will take you sailing along 7 miles of shoreline. You’ll see the city built on top of the cliffs, grottoes, and hidden coves, which are only accessible by boat.
Some of the attractions you’ll pass by are Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Ardito, and Grotta delle Monache, as well as Hermit’s rock formation, the Cave of Pigeons, and Cala Port’Alga. As you can see, it’s a lot of sights for such a short trip!
Arguably the most enjoyable part of the tour will be jumping into the shimmering sea, getting to swim in the fresh, crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. It’s a real treat on a hot summer day!
After the swim, bask in the sun on the deck, which is quite spacious for a speedboat, and indulge in a traditional Italian aperitif of appetizers and Prosecco.
You can choose between a great selection of departure times, from early in the morning to the afternoon, to best fit your schedule.
Why is this the top Polignano a Mare boat trip? It takes you to the indisputable best locations and hidden gems along the coastline, offering the full experience. You’ll see grottoes and coves, swim, sunbathe on the boat, and eat a traditional aperitivo, all in one.
Read what the reviews say:
“It was the best part of our trip!!! Giuseppe created fantastic atmosphere during the cruise and showed us beautiful caves. I highly recommend it! My note 20/10. Because of this 2 hours on the motorboat this city will be remembered as the best of Puglia.”
Kinga – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Boat trip, aperitif, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Great Cave Tours by Speedboat
▶️ The Polignano a Mare: Boat Cruise to Scenic Caves with Prosecco is a 1.5-hour trip that takes you sailing along the enchanting coastline. Aside from admiring the views, you’ll have the opportunity to jump in the sea for a refreshing swim, and toast with a glass of Prosecco onboard.
Visiting coastal caves and hidden coves is also part of the deal. Plus, the tour is capped at 10 participants for a more intimate experience.
This tour includes: A boat trip, Prosecco, life vests, swimming stops, soft drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Set sail on a small-group Polignano a Mare Boat Tour: Emotions, Caves, Diving, and Appetizers and experience the Adriatic in style. Marvel at the breathtaking Grotta Azzurra, bathed in mesmerizing blue hues from skylights, and dive into the emerald waters of Grotta Piana, embraced by pristine natural beauty.
While cruising, Dorino, a charismatic historical figure, will share fascinating tales of the area’s rich history. Finally, savor an onboard aperitivo, immersing in Lama Monachile’s magnificent ambiance.
This boat trip includes: Boat tour, snorkeling equipment, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Catamaran Tour in Polignano a Mare
Set sail on a sensational Polignano a Mare: Catamaran Tour with Aperitif and Local Food to admire the striking coastline while savoring delectable local delicacies and a refreshing drink.
Take the plunge into the Adriatic Sea and grab a paddleboard to glide along the crystal-clear waters for a more relaxing experience.
This catamaran tour offers it all: stunning sights, an Apulian aperitif, and plenty of aquatic fun.
This boat tour includes: A boat tour, paddle boards, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Boat Tours in Polignano a Mare
▶️ Join this Polignano a Mare Private Cruise with Champagne to experience a magnificent day out with your significant other or group of friends.
You’ll get to choose the duration of the tour, from two to eight hours, and marvel at Polignano a Mare as you cruise along it.
You’ll enjoy swimming stops with flotation devices, visit astounding grotte, and indulge in a traditional aperitif with a bottle of champagne onboard. The boat is fully equipped with restrooms and a shower, a deck, and shaded areas.
This tour includes: Boat trip, food, a bottle of champagne, and flotation devices. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Polignano a Mare: 2-Hour Sea Cave Exploration Private Cruise lasts 2 hours. You’ll sail along the astounding coastline of Polignano a Mare, discovering sea caves and towering cliffs, and swimming in the crystal-clear sea. The cruise is reserved for your group of up to eight people.
This tour includes: A private cruise with a skipper and itinerary. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Private Catamaran Tour in Polignano a Mare is a half-day adventure that takes your group of 10 to the sea. You’ll sail along the staggering coastline, jump into the water for a swim, sunbathe on the yacht’s deck, and relish Apulian specialties and drinks onboard.
This tour includes: Polignano a Mare boat hire, snacks, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Sailboat Trip to Polignano a Mare from Monopoli
Set off on a thrilling adventure with this Monopoli: 2.5-hour Guided Boat Tour to Polignano a Mare Caves. You’ll explore various caves and coves, including Grotta Palazzese and Lama Monachile, stop to swim in the pristine sea, and sunbathe on the deck.
An Apulian aperitivo will be served on board so you can relax with a drink, music, and the views.
This tour includes: A guided boat excursion, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
2-Day Tour of Polignano a Mare with Boat Ride
Get ready for a delightful adventure with this Two Days Tour Including Boat Ride in Polignano. No need to stress about transportation or accommodations since it’s all taken care of. You’ll start your trip in Bari, where you’ll explore the historic center with a local guide.
Then, head to Polignano for a walking tour and a tasty lunch followed by free time. The next day, brace yourself for an epic sail along the coastline, visiting the caves and marveling at the sea grottoes and turquoise beauty.
Afterward, enjoy another mouthwatering lunch before being dropped off at your desired location.
This tour includes: Boat trip, accommodation, breakfast and 2 lunches, and sightseeing tours. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
