Cruise Favignana – Levanzo

Exploring Sicily’s Aegadian Islands: A Full-Day Cruise to Favignana and Levanzo

Imagine cruising across sparkling waters, surrounded by rugged coastlines and vivid blue seas, all while skipping the hassle of planning transportation and logistics. That’s essentially what the Cruise Favignana-Levanzo tour offers—a seamless, relaxed way to explore two of Sicily’s most beloved islands without the pressure of navigating yourself. This guided boat trip from Trapani packs in plenty of time to soak up the sun, explore charming villages, and enjoy a delicious onboard lunch.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is its blend of organized convenience and free exploration. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of island life without sacrificing comfort or a sense of adventure. That said, the group size and the limited time at each stop might not suit travelers craving a deeply immersive experience. But if a day of laid-back island hopping sounds perfect, then this tour offers serious value.

It’s worth noting, however, that the tour’s success hinges on weather conditions—poor weather can lead to cancellations, so keeping an eye on the forecast is wise. This experience suits those who love scenic boat rides, quick island visits, and a straightforward way to see Sicily’s coastal gems without the fuss of self-organized travel.

Key Points

• Easy access to Favignana and Levanzo via a well-organized boat tour from Trapani
• Relaxing cruise experience with guided commentary and plenty of sunshine
• Flexible free time to explore, swim, and enjoy local sights
• Good value for money with lunch, water, and restroom facilities included
• Small group potential for a more personalized experience, but can be larger during peak times
• Weather-sensitive—cancellations are possible if conditions are poor

A Detailed Look at the Sicily Island-Hopping Cruise

Setting out from Trapani: An Organized Start

The tour begins at the Egadi Escursioni ticket office in Trapani at 9:00 am, a location near public transportation, which makes it easy to access. The check-in process is straightforward, and with a mobile ticket, you avoid unnecessary paper fuss. We love the efficiency of this setup, especially if you’re already exploring Sicily’s west coast. The boat departs promptly, and within about 30 minutes, you’re sailing out into the open sea, leaving behind the busy port of Trapani for the tranquility of the archipelago.

Cruising to Favignana: The Main Attraction

Favignana, often called Sicily’s “tuna fishing island,” is the first major stop. The tour provides roughly two hours of free time, which might seem brief but is enough to get a feel for the island’s charming vibe. You might want to explore the town’s quaint streets, snap photos of the historic tuna warehouses (called “Tonnara”), or simply relax on the beach.

From reviews, it’s clear that many travelers appreciate the well-organized stop. One shared that it was “about 2 hours of free time,” giving enough room for a quick stroll and a snack. A common highlight is the chance to swim in the warm waters, which, depending on the weather, can be incredibly inviting. Some travelers have noted that the overall organization is good, with plenty of time to enjoy Favignana’s scenic coves and local eateries.

The Journey to Levanzo: A Short but Sweet Visit

After Favignana, the boat heads to Levanzo, a much smaller and less developed island but equally captivating. The stop here is about one hour, so you need to prioritize what to see. Many opt for a quick walk around the tiny village or a dip in the sea. From reviews, it’s clear that the guides or skippers often make the experience memorable, with some travelers praising the friendly and knowledgeable guides who enhance the trip with local insights.

The limited time means you won’t get a deep dive into Levanzo’s history, but you’ll have a chance to enjoy its rugged coastline, turquoise waters, and relaxed atmosphere.

The Onboard Experience: Food and Comfort

Included in the tour is a lunch served on board, which is a real bonus. From the reviews, it seems the meal is satisfying, and you also get bottled water and restroom facilities onboard, making the day more comfortable. One reviewer mentioned eating the “best cunzato bread in Sicily”—a local specialty—highlighting the quality and authenticity of the food offered during the cruise.

The Return Journey and Overall Flow

The boat returns to Trapani around 6:00 pm, making for a full, well-paced 8-hour day. Having a mobile ticket and clear instructions ensures smooth logistics, and the round-trip format means no worrying about transportation back to your accommodation.

The Authenticity and Visitor Experience

One of the highlights from travelers is the guides and skippers—notably Captain Giuseppe, Nino, and Rosario—who are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to entertain. Their local insights seem to add a layer of authenticity that travelers value, making the trip more than just a scenic cruise.

For example, a review mentions that Captain Giuseppe played multiple roles—from cook to guide—which hints at a personal touch that elevates the experience. Another reviewer appreciated skipper Nino’s politeness and smart demeanor, indicating that the crew genuinely cares about guest experience.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While most reviews are positive, it’s important to note some criticisms. A few travelers mention the larger group sizes (up to 70 people), which can make the experience feel crowded, especially during peak times. One reviewer also pointed out some organizational issues, such as not being on the list initially or a chaotic lunch scene with people eating in standing positions. These hiccups, however, seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

Weather can also impact the trip—poor conditions might lead to cancellation or rescheduling, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast and book with some flexibility.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Price: At around $62.47 per person, this tour is generally good value, considering the included lunch, water, and transportation. It offers a hassle-free way to visit two islands without extra costs or planning.
• Duration: With approximately 8 hours from start to finish, it’s a full day trip suitable for most travelers, especially those with a flexible schedule.
• Group Size: While the maximum is 180 travelers, the actual experience can vary based on the day’s bookings. Smaller groups tend to lead to a more intimate experience.
• Booking in Advance: On average, travelers book this tour about 41 days ahead, indicating its popularity.
• Child Policy: Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it family-friendly.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance gives peace of mind, especially if weather conditions change suddenly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an easy, guided way to see some of Sicily’s most beautiful coastal islands, this cruise fits the bill. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed day on the water, enjoy free time to explore at their own pace, and appreciate local guides with genuine knowledge. It suits those who don’t mind a group experience and are comfortable with a structured schedule.

This tour is also ideal for people seeking value for money, as it includes lunch and facilities, plus the convenience of round-trip transport from Trapani. However, if you’re after a deep cultural dive or in-depth guided tour, you might find the limited time in each location a bit restrictive.

Final Words: Is It Worth It?

For most travelers interested in Sicily’s coastal beauty, this cruise offers genuine value. The boat ride itself is scenic and relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to swim and sunbathe. Exploring Favignana and Levanzo on a single day allows you to tick two islands off your list without the hassle of organizing multiple transport modes or accommodations.

The boat’s crew and guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, bring warmth and authenticity to the experience. The included lunch, especially if it features local specialties like cunzato bread, adds to the sense of a local, genuine adventure.

While it’s not a highly immersive experience—given the limited stop times—it’s a wonderful, straightforward way to enjoy Sicily’s coast and islands. If you value an easygoing, scenic day with friendly guides and a bit of adventure, this cruise is a fine choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided boat cruise, lunch, bottled water, and onboard restroom facilities. It’s a straightforward package designed for comfort and convenience.

How long is the entire experience?
The full-day trip lasts around 8 hours, from the departure at 9:00 am to return in the late afternoon or early evening.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Egadi Escursioni ticket office in Trapani and ends back at the same location.

Is there any extra cost I should be aware of?
You’ll need to pay a €5 fee to enter the Marine Protected Area of the Egadi Islands if you wish to go ashore, but this is optional and paid locally.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much time do we spend on each island?
You get about 2 hours in Favignana and 1 hour in Levanzo, enough for quick exploration, swimming, and photos.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials such as sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, and possibly a camera. The tour provides bottled water and facilities onboard.

What is the group size?
While the maximum can be up to 180 travelers, actual group sizes vary, with some reviews mentioning around 70 people during peak times.

This Sicily island cruise offers a straightforward, scenic way to enjoy two stunning islands with friendly local guides. It’s a solid choice for those who want a no-fuss, authentic experience packed with sun, sea, and a taste of local life.