From Trapani: Egadi Islands tour with lunch on board

This full-day boat tour from Trapani promises an exploration of some of Sicily’s most breathtaking islands—the Egadi archipelago, including Favignana and Levanzo. It’s designed for travelers seeking a combination of scenic cruising, island hopping, and authentic local experiences, all wrapped into about 8 hours. With a friendly crew, a well-curated itinerary, and a generous onboard meal, it’s a tempting way to see the islands beyond the usual tourist spots.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the balance between sightseeing and leisure. You get enough time on each island to soak in the atmosphere, visit local museums or enjoy a swim, without feeling rushed. The lunch on board, featuring local Trapani cuisine, is another highlight—giving you a taste of Sicily while still enjoying the sea views.

However, a potential consideration is the group size and time constraints. Some reviews mention that the limited time on Favignana can feel a bit hurried, especially if you want to explore in detail. The boat can get crowded, and the stop for swimming is limited to one small cove, which might not satisfy everyone’s swimming or sunbathing expectations.

This tour suits travelers looking for a value-packed, scenic day trip that combines boat travel, island visits, and good food—a perfect choice if you’re eager to see the Egadi Islands without the hassle of organizing multiple trips yourself.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and unique cave formations along the coast.
• Flexible island stops in Favignana and Levanzo for sightseeing or relaxing.
• Onboard Sicilian lunch including water, wine, and fruit.
• Comfortable boat with restroom facilities and a friendly crew.
• Limited swimming opportunities due to the small stop and crowded conditions.
• Pre-booked tickets tend to sell out about 3 weeks in advance, indicating popularity.

An In-Depth Look at the Egadi Islands Tour

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at the Trapani port at 9:30 am, with a short 40-minute sail across the Mediterranean to Favignana. The boat departs from Via Ammiraglio Staiti, a location accessible via public transportation, which makes planning your morning straightforward. Arriving about 30 minutes early is recommended for boarding, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the anticipation of a day at sea.

The Scenic Voyage

As the boat sets sail, you’ll immediately notice the views of Colombaia of Trapani and the tiny Island of Formica. The ride itself is part of the experience—smooth, comfortable, and offering stunning vistas of Sicily’s rugged coastline. Expect to be captivated by the natural beauty, with cliffs and caves that look like they’ve been sculpted by the sea itself.

Favignana: The Heart of the Tour

Arriving in Favignana around 10:20 am, you’ll be dropped off in the main inhabited village. The free time here typically lasts about two hours, which, according to reviews, can feel a bit rushed for some travelers. You may choose to explore the Ex Stabilimento Florio museum, stroll through the colorful town, or relax on the beach just in front of the port.

One reviewer, Anne H., appreciated having enough time to visit the museum and take a quick train tour of the island, highlighting that the tour offers good value for exploring Favignana’s main sites. Conversely, others have pointed out that the limited duration can hinder a more leisurely exploration, especially if you want to visit more remote spots or spend extended time on the beach.

The Coasts and Coves of Favignana

After returning aboard around 12:30 pm, the boat begins a scenic cruise along Favignana’s coast, passing iconic coves such as Cala Rossa and Bue Marino. These spots are noted for their striking rock formations and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a quick dip. The boat stops at Cala Rossa for a swim—an experience many found memorable, though some felt the small, rocky swimming area was not ideal for all.

The lunch service onboard is a highlight. The captain and crew serve a typical Trapani meal—pasta alla Trapanese, fresh fruit, water, and wine—while you enjoy the views. Reviewers like Anne appreciated the quality of the meal, describing it as “good” and part of the overall value.

Moving to Levanzo

Post-lunch, the vessel heads to Levanzo, a smaller, quieter island offering a more intimate vibe. You’re allotted about an hour to explore the village, with some reviews noting that this short window is the main downside—it’s just enough time for a quick walk or to grab a coffee. The boat tour of Levanzo includes views of the Faraglione di Levanzo and coves like Cala Minnola and Cala Fredda, which adds to the scenic appeal.

Returning to Trapani

After your island visits, the boat departs Levanzo around 4 pm, returning to Trapani by 5:30-6 pm. Throughout the day, the crew’s friendly service and the stunning scenery make for a memorable journey.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The Scenic Beauty and Unique Coastal Formations

Travelers consistently praise the spectacular views and the chance to see unusual caves and cliffs—nature’s own sculptures. The rocky coves like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, with their striking shapes, are perfect for photography and truly evoke the wild, untouched charm of the Egadi Islands.

The Authentic Taste of Sicily

The onboard lunch offers more than just sustenance; it’s a chance to experience local flavors. The pasta, wine, and fruit bring a taste of Trapani’s culinary tradition, which many reviewers found to be a satisfying addition.

The Balance of Free Time and Guided Sightseeing

While the stops allow some freedom to explore, the tight schedule means you won’t get hours on each island. However, for most, the short visits add to the sense of adventure and variety—slightly rushed, but still worthwhile for the value and scenery.

The Crew and Boat Comfort

The vessel is generally described as comfortable, with restroom facilities and an attentive crew. Reviews highlight the friendliness of the staff, with some reviewers mentioning knowledgeable guides who made the trip engaging. The boat’s capacity of up to 150 travelers means it can feel lively but also a little crowded, especially during peak season.

Price and Value Analysis

At around $52.33 per person, this tour offers significant value. The price covers the boat ride, visits to two islands, and a wholesome local meal with drinks. Compared to organizing similar trips independently, which could involve ferry tickets, meals, and transportation on your own, this package simplifies everything and provides a convenient, all-in-one experience.

Some reviews mention an entrance fee of €5, payable before boarding, which adds a small extra cost but is standard for visits to certain sites. The tour’s flexibility and the quality of the scenery and food make the price quite reasonable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking natural beauty without the hassle of self-organizing transport and activities. It’s suited for those who enjoy boat trips, scenic views, and short island explorations. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this tour engaging, especially if you’re okay with a somewhat busy schedule.

If you’re looking for luxury or extended exploration time, this might not be the best fit. But if your priority is seeing the islands’ highlights efficiently, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Egadi Islands tour from Trapani offers a well-rounded combination of scenery, local flavor, and island life. You’ll get to marvel at rugged coastlines, enjoy a delicious Sicilian meal, and experience two charming islands—Favignana and Levanzo—within a single day. The friendly crew and stunning views elevate the experience, making it a good choice for those wanting an authentic slice of Sicily’s maritime beauty.

While the schedule can feel a bit tight, especially on Favignana, most reviewers agree that the value and scenery outweigh the minor inconveniences. Perfect for travelers eager to tick off Sicily’s iconic islands with ease, this tour is an accessible, enjoyable way to embrace the charm of the Egadi archipelago.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers, including families, find this tour accessible. The boat is equipped with restrooms, and the itinerary offers activities suitable for all ages.

How long is the boat ride from Trapani to Favignana?
The sail takes approximately 40 minutes, providing plenty of time to enjoy the sea views and relax onboard.

What can I expect during the island visits?
You’ll have free time to explore Favignana’s town, visit museums like the Ex Stabilimento Florio, or relax on the beach. On Levanzo, you’ll mainly see the small village and scenic coastlines.

Is the lunch on board local and authentic?
Yes, the onboard meal features typical Trapani dishes, including pasta alla Trapanese, with water, wine, and fresh fruit—giving you a taste of Sicily’s culinary traditions.

Are there opportunities to swim?
Yes, there’s a stop for swimming at Cala Rossa in Favignana, though some reviews mention the small, rocky area might not be ideal for everyone.

How early should I book?
Booking about 3 weeks in advance is recommended, as the tour often sells out, especially during peak season.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled less than 24 hours ahead, a full refund isn’t available, but weather-related cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled.

To sum it up, if you’re craving an affordable, scenic day exploring Sicily’s iconic islands, with the convenience of an organized boat trip and delicious local food, this Egadi Islands tour is a worthwhile choice. It balances natural beauty, cultural sights, and good value, making it a memorable part of your Sicilian adventure.