If you want Lampedusa by sea, this is the way. The Zorro boat trip turns a long day into a simple rhythm: depart in the morning, swim and explore coves, then eat like you’re on a local family outing. You’ll get the island’s coastline views from the water, including north-coast caves, plus a proper meal that’s more than a snack.

Two things I really like: first, the careful pacing—you’re not rushed, so each stop actually feels like a stop. Second, the food. Gianni and his son handle it with real attention, from appetizers to cannoli, coffee, fennel, and fruit, and the lunch is served onboard. One consideration: this trip is weather dependent, so you’ll want a little flexibility in your plans.

Key highlights at a glance

• A full day at sea (about 8 hours) with time to swim and explore coves
• North-coast cave route, weather permitting, with multiple named stops
• Lunch included onboard: appetizers, first course, coffee, cannoli, fennel, and fruit
• Gianni’s communication and hosting—fast replies by WhatsApp are a recurring theme
• Comfort-focused boat experience, with a calm, family-style feel
• Possible dolphin sightings, if conditions and luck line up

Getting on the Zorro Boat in Lampedusa (and why timing matters)

You start at Gita In Barca Zorro Lampedusa, Via Alessandro Volta, 92010 Lampedusa AG. The trip usually leaves around 9:30 and comes back in the late afternoon, roughly 4:30 pm. In practice, that timing is smart. Morning light helps the water look its best, and the caves on the north side are easier to enjoy before the day gets too hot and busy.

This isn’t a “quick hits” tour. The schedule is built for breathing room: a series of coves and swim opportunities, then lunch in the middle of the day, and finally more coastal exploring in the afternoon. If you’re the type who hates sprinting from one stop to another, you’ll appreciate the flow.

You also get a mobile ticket, which keeps things easy at the start of the day. No planning gymnastics.

The day’s route: tobacconist stop, coves, and a real midday meal

The morning portion begins with a few specific stops. First up, you leave the port and make a quick call at a tobacconist. The most practical way to think about this: it’s a short break early in the trip, so you should come ready to settle in for the day rather than expecting a big detour.

After that, the itinerary moves into the fun part—coastline highlights around Lampedusa:

Cala Pulcino and the “Acque” swimming pool area

You’ll head to Cala Pulcino and then the Acque swimming pool area. The “pool” nickname makes sense once you’re on the water and see how some of these spots act like natural basins. For you, that usually translates to calmer water conditions and a more relaxed swim stop—less about frantic movement and more about floating, wading, and enjoying the view.

If you’re traveling with kids or anyone who doesn’t want a tough swim, these kinds of protected areas are often the best fit. If you’re a strong swimmer, you’ll still enjoy the clarity and the easy-to-repeat swims.

Lunch on board: appetizers through cannoli

At midday, lunch is served onboard with a sequence that feels genuinely old-school. You’ll have:

• appetizers
• a first course
• coffee
• cannoli
• fennel
• fruit

And from what’s consistently described in the feedback, the lunch isn’t the “we handed you something to keep you quiet” kind. It’s presented carefully and served with an unhurried attitude. Several guests specifically praise that Gianni prepares and manages it closely, and that the portions feel generous.

This is a big reason the $116 price can make sense. You’re not just paying for boat time and a few minutes of coastline. You’re also paying for a full onboard meal at the level people remember—meaning less money spent on lunch later and less stress during the day.

Afternoon cave-hopping on the north coast

Then, weather permitting, the boat continues around the island to see more of the caves along the north coast. You’ll make additional stops including:

• Mare Morto
• Cala Creta
• Cala Francese
• and then you head back toward the port

This part of the day is where Lampedusa feels most cinematic. Caves and rocky formations look completely different from the water than they do from shore. Your best bet is to stay flexible with your camera and simply enjoy the moment as the boat positions for views and short swim pauses.

One note that comes up in the feedback: a stop called Tabaccara is often singled out as a favorite. If it’s part of your route that day, treat it like your “save your energy” moment—arrive hungry for beauty.

Dolphins: possible, not guaranteed

Some days include dolphins sighted up close, when conditions line up. It’s not promised, but it’s absolutely a nice “bonus” to keep an eye out for while you’re cruising between coves.

What the boat experience feels like: comfort, hosting, and a safe rhythm

A boat trip can feel chaotic or cozy, depending on the operator. With Zorro, the tone is consistently family-run and calm. Guests mention super comfortable setup and a clean, well-kept feeling, and they also highlight the way Gianni and his son manage the day.

Here’s what that means for you on the water:

• You get a consistent plan, not random stops.
• People handling the boat are present and attentive.
• If something is confusing—timing, where to go, what happens next—there’s usually a clear answer.

Communication seems to be a standout, too. People praise how quickly Gianni responds by WhatsApp, especially useful if you’re traveling in low season and trying to confirm what’s running.

Price and value: is $116 a good deal?

For $116, you’re buying a private boat experience for your group, with an 8-hour day and lunch included. The question isn’t only the ticket price—it’s what you avoid.

You avoid:

• paying separately for a full lunch and dessert
• spending energy searching for food later
• dealing with a crowded, fast-moving group schedule

You also get value through the day’s structure: multiple coastal stops and a north-coast cave run, not just one swimming bay and a return trip.

The one big variable is group size. Because it’s private (only your group), you’ll likely feel the value most if you’re traveling with family or friends and can split the cost comfortably. If you’re solo, it can still feel worth it if you place a high value on a full meal, a calm pace, and a more personalized day on the water.

Who this trip suits best (and who should think twice)

This boat trip is a great match if you want:

• a sea day built around swimming stops you can actually enjoy
• a relaxed schedule with a serious onboard lunch
• a more personal feel where the hosts take care of details

It also fits families well, based on how the trip is described as safe and enjoyable, including for children.

You might think twice if:

• you don’t handle delays well due to weather dependence
• you want lots of shore time, shopping, or long walking breaks (this is mostly a boat-and-water day)
• you’re counting on private transportation from your hotel, because private transport is not included

If you’re staying near public transportation, that part is easier since the meeting point is close to it.

Practical tips so your day runs smoothly

These are the small choices that make the day better, especially on a boat:

• Plan to be ready early. A 9:30 departure means you’ll want to arrive with time to settle in.
• Treat lunch as a centerpiece. Eat steadily during the day, since you’re getting appetizers, a first course, cannoli, coffee, fennel, and fruit onboard.
• Bring what you need for sun and a casual sea day. The itinerary centers on swimming and time on the water, so sunscreen and a hat-type setup can make the day more comfortable.
• Keep your schedule flexible for weather. If conditions change, the operator will adjust (typically by offering another date or a refund).

Also: service animals are allowed, so if you’re traveling with one, you can plan with confidence.

Should you book Boat trips with Zorro?

If you’re choosing between a random boat rental and an organized sea day, I’d lean Zorro—because the experience is built like a full outing, not just transportation to a view.

Book it if:

• you want multiple coves and a north-coast cave route
• you care about getting a proper lunch included (not an afterthought)
• you like the idea of a calm, family-run team led by Gianni, with quick communication before you go

Consider skipping or changing plans if:

• your trip dates are locked down and you can’t handle possible weather-driven changes
• you mainly want shore sightseeing and long walking tours instead of a water-focused day

Overall, Zorro works best when you want Lampedusa the classic way: from the sea, with time to swim, and food that makes the day feel complete.

FAQ

What time does the Boat trips with Zorro tour start and end?

The tour generally leaves the port at 9:30 and returns around 4:30 pm (about 8 hours total).

How long is the experience?

It lasts approximately 8 hours.

What’s included in the price?

The tour includes lunch onboard.

Is private transportation included?

No. Private transportation is not included.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s listed as private, meaning only your group participates.

Do I need a paper ticket?

You’ll use a mobile ticket.

What happens if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.

If you tell me your travel month and group size, I can help you decide whether the timing and private format will feel like the best value for your exact day in Lampedusa.