Caves and calm coves beat crowds. What I really like is the chance to snorkel at Grotta del Bue Marino and enjoy complimentary wine and soft drinks while the boat shuffles from cove to cove. One thing to plan for: the water can feel colder than you expect, and the included snorkel gear is fairly basic.

This is a private 8-hour boat day built for small groups, up to 12 people, leaving from Trapani at 10:00 am and returning to the same meeting point. You’ll get multiple anchored swims, plus a proper break in Favignana where you walk through the maritime village by the old tuna-fishing site.

There’s also a practical detail: private parking inside the marina isn’t included, so if you’re driving you’ll want a quick plan for where to park before you head to the dock.

Key things to know before you go

• Private boat, up to 12 people means you’re not squeezed into a big group schedule
• Snorkeling time at Bue Marino gives you a real chance to enjoy the caves and sea color
• Wine, soft drinks, bottled water are included, so you can keep things easy onboard
• Two Favignana swims plus two Levanzo swims keeps the day moving without rushing land time
• Favignana village walk near the tonnara area adds culture between water stops
• Bring your own mask if you’re picky since the provided gear is described as basic

A private Favignana and Levanzo boat day from Trapani

If you want a day that feels like it was designed around the water first, this route makes sense. You start in Trapani, then spend the day island-hopping between Favignana and Levanzo with several anchored swim stops. The “private” part matters here: the boat is for your group only, so you can enjoy a calmer rhythm rather than watching everyone file in and out.

The schedule is also built to fit a full day without turning into a marathon. You’re on the water for the long stretches, then you get land time when it counts—especially the Favignana village visit near the old tuna-factory complex.

This tour is offered in English, and you’ll use a mobile ticket. It’s a good pick if you like structure (named stops and clear timing) but still want freedom to enjoy each swim at your own pace.

First stop: Cala Azzurra and its easy in-water start

Your first swim stop is Scogliera Cala Azzurra, at the cove that takes its name. The idea is simple: you get an early taste of the island sea, so the day starts on a high note. You’ll have a short window labeled for snorkelling practice—about a minute—plus entry time to enjoy the water right away.

Why I like this stop for most people: it helps you settle in. If you’re a confident swimmer, you’ll just enjoy an easy warm-up. If you’re less comfortable, the short “practice” moment is a low-pressure way to get your bearings before the longer snorkeling breaks later.

A small reality check: early in the day, you may be tempted to assume the water is warm. Don’t bet on it. In the same season, the sea can still feel cool once you’re in. Think swimsuit plus comfort gear, not bravado.

Grotta del Bue Marino: the cave stop that drives the day

The tour’s signature moment is Grotta del Bue Marino. Here you stop for about an hour, anchored in water known for its striking tones—turquoise contrasted with darker blue hints—surrounded by old tuff quarries. You’re not just doing a quick swim; you’re spending enough time to actually enjoy what you came for.

What makes Bue Marino worth your time is the setting. The caves and rock walls change how the water looks as you move, and that visual effect is a big part of why people love this stop. Add snorkelling equipment included on board, and you can spend your hour focusing on the sea instead of logistics.

One more practical note from real-world experience on this route: I’d treat the included mask and snorkel as a convenience, not a custom fit. If you care about comfort or seal quality, bring your own mask and snorkel so you can adjust once and stay happy for the full day.

Cala Rossa: anchored swimming with fish you can actually see

Next up is Scogliera di Cala Rossa. Once the boat is anchored, you get about an hour again for snorkelling. This stop is described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, and the promise here is clear: crystal-clear water and fish you can spot while you swim.

This is the kind of stop where time matters. If you spend only a few minutes in the water, you might miss the moments when the visibility is best or when the fish are most active. With a full hour, you can float, breathe, and move at your own tempo.

Tradeoff: Cala Rossa is scenic and lively, but it’s still a swim stop. You’ll want to keep an eye on the boat schedule and not turn the hour into an all-day picnic. Bring a quick sense of timing so you can enjoy it without feeling rushed when it’s time to head back.

Favignana port break: walking the old tuna-fishing area

After the second swim stop, you shift from sea time to land time at the port of Favignana. You’ll be moored near the Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica, and from there you can walk through Favignana’s maritime village streets.

You get about 2 hours here. That’s enough for a calm stroll, a snack stop, and some time to look at the industrial waterfront in daylight. The tonnara area is especially interesting because it connects the island to the sea in a different way than snorkelling does. One side is the water you enjoy for fun; the other is the water that historically drove the economy.

A small tip for this land break: wear footwear that’s fine for uneven stones. You’re not doing a museum route with smooth flooring, so comfort matters more than style.

Sailing toward Levanzo: a short transfer, a big change of pace

When you leave Favignana, the day slows just enough to reset. You relax and enjoy the view while the boat moves away from Favignana on the way to Levanzo. The arrival is expected after about 20 minutes of navigation.

That short transfer is a good design choice. It gives you a breather after multiple water stops, but it doesn’t stretch into a long, tiring ride. You’ll arrive ready to move again.

If you like the simple rhythm of boats—seat, view, sea air—this is a nice stretch of the day because you’re not forced into any hard activity. You’re just along for the ride.

Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola on Levanzo

Levanzo gets two major swim stops, each about one hour.

First is Cala Fredda, described as a swimming stop and snorkelling time. This is a chance to slow down again, look around, and get into the water without feeling like you’re repeating the exact same scene. Different coves mean different light and different swim vibes.

Then comes Spiaggia di Cala Minnola, also a snorkelling stop with about an hour allotted. The appeal here is straightforward: more clear water and more time to enjoy what’s under the surface.

Here’s the key for both stops: don’t treat snorkelling as a single task. Think of it as a loop. Enter the water calmly, let your eyes adjust, snorkel slowly, then drift back when you need air. With one-hour blocks, you can actually do that without panic.

On-board extras: wine, water, toilets, and what that means for you

One of the smartest parts of this tour is what’s included without turning the day into a “party cruise.” You’ll have bottled water, soda, wine, and soft drinks onboard. There’s also a restroom on board, plus snorkeling equipment.

That combination matters. It helps you stay comfortable between swims, especially if you’re taking breaks between water time. And since the day is about enjoying the islands rather than squeezing in extra stops, having basic comforts available keeps the whole experience smoother.

What I’d bring to make the day better:

• Your own mask/snorkel if fit matters to you
• A lightweight layer for after swims (the sea air can feel cool once you’re out)
• Sunscreen and a hat you don’t mind reapplying

Also, pack for a boat day: things like a dry bag for your phone and easy-to-rinse swim gear.

Price and value: a group day that can be worth it

The price is $1,724.51 per group (up to 12) for about 8 hours. That pricing is how you know this isn’t built for solo travelers—it’s built for families, friends, and small groups who want privacy and a clean schedule.

Here’s the value math that matters: if you fill the boat with the full 12 people, that comes out to roughly $145 per person. If your group is smaller, the per-person cost climbs, but you’re still paying for private timing, included snorkeling gear, and included drinks.

Where the value shows up most:

• Multiple snorkelling blocks, including a longer hour at Bue Marino
• Included equipment and drinks, so you’re not paying extra for basic comfort
• Private format, which usually makes boarding and pacing feel more relaxed

If you’re comparing this to bigger boat tours, the question isn’t just price. It’s how much you want control over your day and how much you value having the boat to yourselves.

Weather, water temperature, and safety habits that help

This experience runs when conditions are good, so weather plays a role. The good news is that if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Now for the part you can control: water comfort. One practical tip I’d take seriously for this route is that the water can be around 18°C in June. That’s not “panic cold,” but it can feel chilly once you’re floating for a while, especially if you’re sensitive. If you run cold easily, consider bringing a thin wetsuit or a warmer swim setup to keep the day enjoyable.

Safety is also part of what makes private boat days work. The best captains on this route keep the swims organized and make everyone feel steady getting in and out of the water. With an hour at Bue Marino and multiple anchored stops, that kind of organization is what helps the day feel smooth rather than stressful.

Who should book this Favignana and Levanzo boat tour

This is a smart match if you want:

• Snorkelling as the main event, not a side activity
• A private boat experience for up to 12 people
• A balance of water time and a real Favignana walk (about 2 hours near the Ex Stabilimento area)
• Included drinks and simple onboard comfort like bottled water and a restroom

It may not be your best fit if:

• You only want minimal time on the water and prefer longer time on land
• You’re traveling alone and can’t share the group cost (price is per group)
• You dislike the idea that snorkelling gear may be basic and you might want your own

Should you book this private boat day?

I’d book it if your ideal Sicily day looks like anchored swims, clear water, and a little island wandering without turning into a long bus tour. The combination of Bue Marino’s cave stop, two Levanzo swim hours, and the Favignana tonnara-area walk hits a strong balance.

Before you go, do two quick things:

• Plan for cool water comfort in the season you’re visiting
• Bring your preferred snorkel mask if you care about fit

If that sounds like your kind of day, this private route from Mare and More is a solid choice.

FAQ

What’s the total duration of the private boat tour?

It lasts about 8 hours.

How many people can join the private boat?

The group size is up to 12 people.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Via Ammiraglio Staiti, 18, 91100 Trapani TP, Italy and ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the tour begin?

The start time is 10:00 am.

Are drinks and wine included onboard?

Yes. Bottled water, soda (including Coke), and alcoholic beverages (wine) are included.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment is included, along with a restroom onboard.

What stops are included during the day?

The tour includes stops at Scogliera Cala Azzurra, Grotta del Bue Marino, Scogliera di Cala Rossa, the Ex Stabilimento Florio delle Tonnare di Favignana e Formica area in Favignana, plus Cala Fredda and Spiaggia di Cala Minnola in Levanzo.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, the tour is offered in English.

Is there free cancellation, and what if weather is bad?

Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is private parking included at the marina?

No. Private parking inside the Marina is not included.