Polignano a Mare: Boat Cruise to Scenic Caves with Prosecco

A Thrilling Sea Adventure with Unmatched Views and Hidden Caves

If you’re visiting Polignano a Mare, a boat cruise to explore its famed coastal caves is not just a popular activity—it’s a highlight you shouldn’t miss. This experience offers a quick yet packed 1.5-hour journey along the rocky shoreline, giving you the chance to see caves inaccessible from land. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic beauty, a touch of luxury with prosecco, and the thrill of speeding along the coast in a speedboat.

Two things I really like about this cruise are how close you get to the caves, especially the famous Grotta Palazzese, and the chance to relax in the crystal-clear waters for a swim. It’s a small-group adventure, often feeling more like a private trip with a knowledgeable skipper at the helm, which really enhances the intimacy and safety of the trip.

One potential drawback is the tour’s timing—at just 1.5 hours, it’s more a quick highlight reel than an in-depth exploration. For those wanting more time at each stop or a more leisurely pace, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, the meeting point is a short walk or drive from the town center, which could be tricky if you’re lugging around luggage or traveling in the heat.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Unique access to caves: Only by boat can you see the Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Azzurra, and others up close, many of which are not accessible from the beach.
• Expert skipper: Guides like Nico are praised for their skill and charm, making the trip safe and engaging.
• Sea and scenery: Expect panoramic views of Polignano a Mare from the water, offering a different perspective than from land.
• Relaxation and fun: Stops for swimming in clear waters and enjoying prosecco make this a balanced mix of activity and leisure.
• Small group feel: Many reviews mention the intimate, private vibe, even with larger groups, thanks to the boat’s size.
• Convenient add-ons: Optional pick-up and drop-off services are available, helpful if you’re short on time or staying outside walking distance.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at Each Stop

The tour begins at Cala Ponte Marina, a charming harbor just a quick five-minute ride or walk from the heart of Polignano a Mare. From here, the skipper takes you on a scenic 12 km journey along the coast, revealing some of the most stunning caves and viewpoints in the area.

Grotta Azzurra is the first major stop. Its name means “Blue Cave,” and true to its moniker, the waters here are strikingly clear and inviting. This is a great spot for a quick photo and a peek into the cave’s interior—most tours allocate around 10 minutes for this visit, enough to snap some pictures and soak in the view.

Next is the Grotta delle Rondinelle, known for its bird-shaped formations and unique rock shapes. Again, about 10 minutes are spent here, giving you a snapshot of this natural wonder. Many reviews highlight how close you can get to the caves, thanks to the expert guiding of the skipper, often a point of praise.

The Grotta Ardito is the next highlight, where you can enjoy a short stop for local snacks, tea, or wine. This adds a nice touch of local flavor and relaxation, with around 10 minutes to explore and enjoy.

The tour then takes you to a scenic viewpoint—a perfect place for photos, with a quick break to relax and soak in the coast’s beauty. Many travelers find these moments of pause valuable, as they allow you to appreciate the landscape from different angles.

The most famous stop is the Grotta Palazzese, often called the “cave of lovers” for its dramatic interior. Here, the boat usually stays for about 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to admire the interior, take photos, and even enjoy a Prosecco while marveling at the surroundings. Several reviews mention how unforgettable this spot is—”the caves were fantastic,” as one traveler put it.

Additional hidden gems and secret stops follow, each offering more photo opportunities, a chance to swim, or simply enjoy the scenery. The tour concludes back at Cala Ponte Marina, closing out a vibrant, scenic adventure.

What It’s Like on Board: Comfort, Atmosphere, and Extras

The boat itself is often described as comfortable and well-kept, with leather seats and a sunshade to shield you from the sun during the ride. The crew, especially guides like Nico or Giuseppe, receive high praise for their professionalism and friendliness. Many reviews mention how they make you feel like part of a small, exclusive group, even if there are several people onboard.

The prosecco is included, along with soft drinks, which balances nicely against the exhilarating speed and the salty sea air. You’re also equipped with life jackets and scenic spots for swimming, making the experience both fun and safe.

Timing-wise, the tour is well-paced, with about 10 minutes at each cave and scenic stop, plus a longer 20-minute stay at Palazzese. If you’re looking for a deep dive into the caves or a longer experience, this may seem quick, but most find it enough to get a real taste of the coast’s beauty.

Logistics, Pricing, and Who Should Consider This Tour

At $46.12 per person, this cruise offers excellent value for the opportunity to see Polignano a Mare from a unique vantage point. The tour’s price reflects its focus on quality—small group size, guided commentary, and a relaxed pace with swimming stops.

Getting to the meeting point at Cala Ponte Marina is straightforward—just a short walk or drive from the town center. Parking is available, but it’s public and can fill up, so plan accordingly. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, but the short travel from the town makes it accessible for most travelers.

This experience suits those who appreciate spectacular scenery, enjoy a bit of adventure, and want to combine sightseeing with relaxation. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families with older children who can handle a boat ride. Keep in mind that wheelchair users might find it less accessible.

Who Will Love This Tour? And Who Might Want More?

If you’re after stunning coastal views, close-up cave explorations, and a splash of Italian luxury with prosecco, this tour is perfect. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the small group feel, which enhances the experience.

However, if you prefer longer, more in-depth tours or are traveling with very young children or those with limited mobility, you might find this experience a bit rushed. Also, those wanting hotel pickup or a more comprehensive day-long activity should look elsewhere.

In terms of value, at just over $45, it’s a cost-effective way to see some of Apulia’s most famous caves without the hassle of organizing your own boat trip. The inclusion of swimming stops and prosecco adds to its appeal, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

Final Thoughts: A Memorable Coastal Experience

This boat cruise to the caves of Polignano a Mare is a lively, scenic, and well-reviewed way to spend an afternoon. You’ll gain a fresh perspective on the town’s dramatic coastline and get up close to caves that are otherwise off-limits from land. The combination of expert guides, beautiful scenery, and a touch of Italian indulgence with prosecco makes for a well-rounded experience.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value small-group intimacy, scenic beauty, and a fun, active outing. If you’re looking for a quick but authentic taste of the coast’s hidden treasures, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for a fast-paced itinerary and bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable way to see the coast, this tour offers a great mix of natural beauty, local flavor, and genuine fun.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with stops at various caves and scenic spots.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off. You meet at Cala Ponte Marina, a short walk or drive from the town center.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. Life jackets and sunshade are provided onboard.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming stops are included, giving you a chance to enjoy the clear waters of the coast.

Are the guides fluent in English?
The guides, such as Nico and Giuseppe, speak both Italian and English, ensuring clear explanations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for older children who can handle a boat ride, but very young kids or those with mobility issues may find it less comfortable.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress is required—just wear comfortable clothes, swimwear underneath, and sunscreen.