1.5-Hour Boat, Aperitif Included

1.5-Hour Boat, Aperitif Included, 1.5 hours, rated 4.6 across 2,406 traveller reviews.

Overview

A speedboat leaves the port of San Vito, near the Abbazia di San Vito, and works its way along the coast of Polignano a Mare. The boat calls at a string of caves and coves: Grotta Azzurra, Grotta Piana, Cala Paura, Grotta Palazzese, Grotta dell'Arcivescovado, Hermit's Rock and Cala Port'Alga. Each stop is short, built for photos and a close look at the rock from the water rather than long exploration on foot.

Swimming is on the agenda, with ladders and floats provided for adults and children, and there is shade on deck under a parasol for anyone who prefers to stay dry. A Prosecco-based aperitif with local snacks is served on board.

The whole outing runs about 1.5 hours and suits travellers who want the Polignano coastline from the water without committing a full day. Reviewers repeatedly praise the captains' skilful handling of the boat in tight grottos, and several describe the crew as friendly and professional. Note the two starting-location options: the meeting point depends on the option selected, so confirm the details before setting out.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at San VitoThe activity has 2 meeting points and the departure point depends on the option selected. Check the current details for the exact location and time.
2. Abbazia di San VitoDeparture area with a photo stop, aperitif, guided commentary, a swim and local snacks, about 5 minutes.
3. Grotta AzzurraPhoto stop at one of the coast's best known caves, about 5 minutes.
4. Lama Monachile BeachPhoto stop at the beach below the old town, about 5 minutes.
5. Grotta PalazzesePhoto stop at the sea cave, about 5 minutes.
6. Grotta dell'Arcivescovado and Hermit's RockTwo further photo stops, each about 5 minutes, plus Cala Port'Alga.
7. Grotticella Sella swimBreak time with swimming and local snacks, about 5 minutes, using the boat's ladders and floats.
8. ReturnThe tour ends back at the departure point, with 2 drop-off locations depending on the selected option.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help you get the most from a short trip like this.

• What to bring. Comfortable shoes are suggested, and a swimsuit and towel make sense given the swimming stop. Sun protection helps too, since deck time is split between open sun and parasol shade.
• Swim stop. There is a swim break at Grotticella Sella, with ladders and floats for adults and children. One reviewer called jumping off the boat for a swim a highlight of the trip.
• Crew and pace. Reviewers often mention friendly, professional crew and a skipper who handles the caves skilfully. One described the guide as experienced, good-humoured and full of local history. The pace is relaxed rather than rushed.
• Drinks and snacks. A Prosecco-based aperitif and local snacks are included in the price. These are served on board during the cruise and at the stops.
• Getting there. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, though they can be arranged on request. Allow time for traffic, as one group ran late but the operator stayed in contact until they arrived.
• Photos. Nearly every stop is built around a photo opportunity, from the Grotta Azzurra to Hermit's Rock. Keep your phone or camera reachable rather than buried in a bag.

Common issues. The most common complaint in the review summary is unclear pre-departure communication about meeting points and timing, so confirm the exact location with the operator before you travel. Hotel transport is not part of the package unless requested separately. Smoking and oversize luggage are not allowed on board.

Common Questions