Boat Tour Marettimo Reserve

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $40 per person and lasts 4 hours, with morning and afternoon options available.
• Highlighting the Caves: You visit several caves, including the Camel Grotto, Cave del Tuono, Cave della Pipa, and the Grotto of Lovers, with opportunities for swimming at various stops.
• Small Group Experience: The tour is limited to 12 people, providing an intimate and personalized boat experience.
• Passionate Guide: Walter, the guide, is known for his deep love for Marettimo and shares this enthusiasm, making the excursion engaging.
• What’s Included: The package covers skipper services, fuel, and snorkeling gear, but lunch is not included and photography inside caves is not allowed.
• Timing Flexibility: Two departure times are offered—morning at 10:30, returning at 2:15 pm, and afternoon at 15:00, returning at 18:15.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Marettimo with Walter’s Boat Tour

The Boat Tour Marettimo Reserve offers a compact yet memorable journey exploring the natural beauty of the Egadi Islands‘ most scenic spots. Starting at $40 per person, this 4-hour excursion allows visitors to experience stunning caves and the crystal-clear waters surrounding Marettimo. The tour is perfect for those seeking an intimate, personalized experience with a passionate guide who truly loves the island.

Walter, the guide, leads the tour with a genuine affection for Marettimo, making each trip feel special. The small group size of 12 people ensures that everyone can enjoy the scenery and receive attention. The boat is equipped for snorkeling, allowing guests to explore underwater at several stops, adding an active dimension to this scenic cruise.

Meeting Point and Tour Options

The tour departs twice daily, giving flexibility depending on your schedule. The morning departure starts at 10:30 am, returning by 2:15 pm, while the afternoon departure begins at 15:00, with the return at 18:15. This setup caters to different travel plans, whether you want to start your day early or prefer an afternoon adventure.

Guests should arrive prepared with a camera and water, but it’s important to note that photography inside the caves is not permitted. The tour involves respecting the natural environment, with stops designed for swimming and relaxing. The boat’s itinerary respects the port of departure, ensuring a smooth and coherent experience.

Exploring Marettimo’s Famous Caves

The main highlight of this boat tour is visiting several extraordinary caves along the coast of Marettimo. The Camel Grotto, Cave del Tuono, and Cave della Pipa are some of the initial stops, each offering a different perspective of the island’s rugged coastline. During the cruise, the guide points out notable features and shares insights about the geology and history.

The Grotto of Lovers is a particularly popular stop, where visitors are encouraged to swim through the passage—an activity that adds a sense of adventure. Other caves include the Perciato Cave, Fotaredda, Cave del Nativity, and Cave della Palma. The route also includes the Bombarda Grotto and the Marine Fennel, with opportunities for additional swimming and snorkeling.

Swimming and Snorkeling Opportunities

Several stops are dedicated to swimming in beautiful spots. The Lebanon bathroom offers a refreshing break, while Cala Bianca stands out as one of the most picturesque areas of Marettimo. The Grotto of Lovers invites daring visitors to swim through the passage, making this tour especially appealing to those who enjoy water activities.

The snorkeling kit included in the tour allows for underwater exploration at multiple stops. However, since lunch is not included, guests should come prepared with their own snacks or beverages if desired, especially if they wish to extend their time in the water.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience with Walter as a Guide

Walter’s love for Marettimo is evident and contagious. He shares his passion by explaining the landscape and the significance of each cave, enhancing the overall experience. The boat ride offers a panoramic view of the Egadi Sea, with Walter customizing services such as sunset aperitifs or exclusive excursions for small groups.

While the experience is generally appreciated for its scenic stops and intimate setting, some reviews mention service issues. One reviewer noted difficulty in locating the boat due to unclear instructions and experienced language barriers, as their tour was not conducted in French as expected. Others appreciated the skilled navigation of the skipper and the comfortable boat.

Practicalities and Recommendations

Guests should arrive with a camera and water, prepared for a 4-hour tour that involves some swimming and climbing around caves. Since lunch is not included, bringing snacks is advisable. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personal interactions with the guide and boat crew.

It’s also worth noting that photography inside caves is not allowed, likely to preserve the environment and respect the natural settings. The tour includes fuel, snorkeling gear, and a dedicated skipper, ensuring a smooth, well-organized trip.

Limitations and Considerations

Although the tour offers a rich exploration of the Marettimo coastline, some reviews highlight shorter durations than advertised. One account mentions a less-than-4-hour experience, lasting about 2.5 to 3 hours, due to logistical issues. Plus, language barriers may arise if the guide does not speak your preferred language—calling ahead to confirm language arrangements is recommended.

The service quality can vary, with some guests feeling the experience could be more polished. Still, the stunning caves and beautiful waters largely compensate, especially for those seeking a small-group, scenic boat trip.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This boat tour suits adventurous travelers, water lovers, and those eager to explore Marettimo’s caves in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s ideal for small groups who appreciate personalized service and are comfortable with swimming and snorkeling. The tour may be less suitable for those seeking a fully organized, multilingual guide experience, given some of the challenges noted.

Final Thoughts on the Marettimo Reserve Boat Tour

The Boat Tour Marettimo Reserve offers a cost-effective, scenic escape into the natural beauty of Marettimo. Despite some logistical hiccups noted in reviews, the tour excels in providing stunning views, caves exploration, and small-group intimacy. It’s a great choice for visitors who want a relaxed, water-based adventure with a guide passionate about the island’s wonders.

For those prepared for a flexible schedule and some minor uncertainties, this tour delivers a memorable glimpse into the volcanic landscape and hidden coves of Marettimo. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and the chance to swim in pristine waters makes it especially appealing to water enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the boat tour?
The tour costs $40 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The scheduled duration is 4 hours, with morning and afternoon options.

What are the main stops or attractions?
Stops include the Camel Grotto, Cave del Tuono, Cave della Pipa, the Grotto of Lovers, and other caves like Perciato and Fotaredda.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, a snorkeling kit is provided for underwater exploration.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch is not included, so bring snacks if needed.

Can I take photos inside the caves?
No, photography inside caves is not allowed.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a camera and water; avoid bringing large bags.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 12 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if I don’t speak Italian or French?
The tour is offered in English, Italian, and French, but check if your language is available before booking, or call ahead.

How do I handle booking and cancellations?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby