Da Trapani: Escursione alle isole Egadi Favignana & Levanzo

Introducing the Egadi Islands Boat Tour from Trapani

If you’re looking for a way to experience Sicily beyond its mainland, this 8-hour boat tour to Favignana and Levanzo offers an authentic slice of the Mediterranean. From the moment you set off from Trapani’s marina, you’re in for a day filled with spectacular scenery, crystal-clear waters, and charming island villages. This experience is designed for travelers eager to explore the lesser-known corners of the Egadi archipelago, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy real Sicilian flavors along the way.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with cultural discovery. First, you get to visit some of the most breathtaking beaches and sea caves, known for their vibrant turquoise waters. Second, the inclusion of delicious Sicilian food and drinks—ranging from local wine to appetisers and a traditional lunch—adds a genuine taste of local life. However, keep in mind that the tour runs around 8 hours, so it’s a full day, which might be a bit long if you prefer more relaxed or shorter trips.

One small consideration is the logistics—this trip doesn’t include transfers by car, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point. Also, since the itinerary is weather-dependent, it’s worth noting that the schedule might shift or get canceled if sea conditions aren’t ideal. But overall, the value packed into this tour makes it a fantastic choice for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized sea adventure.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning coastal stops: The tour highlights some of the most beautiful beaches and caves, like Cala Rossa and Grotta degli Innamorati, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Authentic Sicilian cuisine: Enjoy a Sicilian culinary experience, complete with local appetisers, wine, and a traditional lunch prepared by the skipper.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Exclusive access: Reach bays and caves that larger boats can’t access, making the experience more intimate and special.
• Beautiful island villages: Time to explore charming towns like Favignana, with their narrow streets, colourful houses, and local museums.
• Relaxing and scenic: From the deck, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the islands, with a sunset over the Mediterranean to cap off the day.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Via dei Gladioli in Trapani, at the Marina Vento di Maestrale. The tour duration is around 8 hours, with availability depending on the day, so it’s best to check ahead. The boat’s size, capped at 12 guests, guarantees a cozy, friendly environment—think of it as a day out with friends rather than a crowded cruise.

While transport to the meeting point isn’t included, the location is straightforward to reach if you’re staying in Trapani or nearby. Just factor in a bit of extra time to get there in the morning. The tour operates with a live guide speaking Italian, English, French, and Spanish, which adds a layer of comfort and clarity, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

The Itinerary in Detail

The journey starts with a swift 30-minute speedboat ride to Pelican Harbor Marina. Here, you’ll get your first glimpse of Favignana’s coast and the chance to snap some photos. The guide emphasizes the importance of this shot because the views from the water are truly stunning.

Next, the boat anchors at Presa La Soledad for about an hour. This stop is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the sea caves. The crew provides masks, goggles, life jackets, and floats, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the underwater scenery. According to reviews, the crew’s snorkeling gear is well-maintained, and the guides are attentive to safety, making it suitable even for those new to snorkeling.

Following that, Scalo Cavallo offers another quick visit for more exploration and relaxation. Throughout these stops, the crew offers insights into the local geology and marine life, adding educational value to the fun.

Most Memorable Stops: Cala Rossa & Isolotto del Previto

The first major highlight is Cala Rossa, renowned for its vivid turquoise and emerald waters. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to pull out your camera and just stare for a while. The water’s clarity and the surrounding tufa rocks are what make it so photogenic.

Moving on, Bue Marino gives a glimpse into the island’s history—an old tuff quarry that’s now a point of interest. It’s a reminder of how these islands have been shaped by both natural forces and human activity.

Cala Azzurra stands out with its sandy beach and intense blue waters, perfect for a leisurely swim. The shallow seabed also makes it a safe spot for children and less experienced swimmers.

Favignana’s Isolotto del Previto feels like your own private paradise, with pristine waters ideal for snorkeling. As one review states, this is a “crystal-clear sea and coastlines characterised by hidden coves and sea caves, perfect for snorkelling and diving.” It’s worth noting that this is a true highlight for lovers of marine flora and fauna, with Posidonia meadows and colourful fish to spot beneath the surface.

Exploring Favignana’s Village

After a few hours at sea, the tour includes a visit to Favignana’s charming town. Expect narrow winding streets, blue and white houses, and a lively central square with cafes, shops, and a few historic sites like the Mother Church and the Museo del Mare. The Tonnara Florio, an old tuna factory turned museum, gives insight into the island’s traditional fishing industry—an authentic experience that adds cultural depth.

Cruising to Levanzo & Its Wilderness

The latter part of the day takes you to Levanzo, described as a “paradise for sea and nature lovers.” The highlight here is Cala Calamaro, accessible only by boat, where the unspoilt landscape feels untouched. It’s a quiet, wild spot to relax, swim, or snorkel. The majestic Faraglione di Levanzo, a striking sea stack, provides a stunning backdrop for photos and a moment to appreciate the island’s rugged beauty.

Cala Fredda offers a refreshing dip with crystal-clear waters, while Cala Minnola, the final stop, boasts untouched coastlines and abundant marine life. Many reviewers mention that the untouched, wild feel of Levanzo’s waters is what makes this part of the trip special.

The Food and Sunset Finale

A real perk of this tour is the culinary experience. While cruising, you’ll enjoy Sicilian appetisers, local wine, and an aperitif. The skipper’s food offerings, as noted in reviews, are delicious and authentic, giving you a taste of Sicily’s rich culinary traditions.

As the day winds down, the boat drops anchor for a sunset over the Mediterranean. Watching the sun dip behind the islands is a peaceful, almost meditative moment—an ideal way to conclude a day of exploration and relaxation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing, swimming, and culture. It suits those who appreciate beautiful scenery, authentic local flavors, and a small-group atmosphere. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a more intimate experience will find this tour very appealing.

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of adventure and leisure, and you don’t mind a full day on the water, this trip provides excellent value—covering multiple islands, snorkeling gear, meals, and drinks. However, if you prefer shorter excursions or travel with mobility challenges, you might want to consider other options.

Price and Logistics

The tour’s price includes skipper, fuel, drinks (water, cola, iced tea, beer, spritz, wine), Sicilian appetisers, a traditional lunch, and snorkeling gear. That’s quite comprehensive, especially considering the small group size and inclusion of meals and drinks, which usually add up separately.

While not including transportation to the meeting point, the overall value comes from the convenience of a guided day with all logistics handled, plus the chance to explore multiple spots efficiently. Remember, you’ll want to dress comfortably, bring sun protection, and prepare for a full day of outdoor activity.

Final Thoughts: Is This Worth It?

If you’re after a day of stunning scenery, authentic Sicilian flavors, and a chance to see the Egadi Islands from the water, this tour hits the mark. It provides a balanced mix of leisure, adventure, and cultural insight, all wrapped in a small-group setting that feels personal rather than commercial. The experience’s highlight—sailing past crystal-clear bays, exploring sea caves, and enjoying local Sicilian cuisine—will stick with you long after the day ends.

This trip is ideal for travelers who want an immersive, scenic, and delicious day out, especially if they value good company and authentic experiences. Just be prepared for a full day, and don’t forget your sunhat and swimwear!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s small group and inclusion of floats, life jackets, and snorkeling gear make it accessible for children, provided they’re comfortable in the water.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your passport or ID, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Everything else—like snorkeling equipment and drinks—is provided.

Does the itinerary change due to weather?
Yes, the schedule might vary depending on sea conditions. If weather isn’t suitable, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes Sicilian appetisers, wine, aperitifs, and a traditional lunch, all served onboard.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Italian?
Absolutely. The guides speak multiple languages—English, French, Spanish, and Italian—making it accessible for international travelers.

Is the tour accessible for disabled travelers?
Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the boat’s physical setup and the nature of the stops.

How big are the groups?
The experience is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a more relaxed and personalized adventure.

In summary, this boat tour offers an authentic, scenic, and delicious way to explore the Egadi Islands from Trapani. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of natural beauty, culture, and great food, all wrapped in a small-group setting that feels more like a day with friends than a commercial tour.