Polignano a Mare: Boat Cruise with Prosecco

Imagine cruising along the dramatic coastline of Polignano a Mare, with crystal-clear waters lapping against your boat, caves glowing in the sunlight, and a chilled glass of Prosecco in hand. That’s exactly what this boat cruise experience promises — a blend of scenic beauty, fun, and relaxation packed into 1.5 hours. Offered at an accessible price of around $47 per person, this tour has garnered a stellar 4.7-star rating from over 690 reviews.

What makes this trip particularly appealing is its focus on uncovering hidden coastal caves accessible only by boat. Plus, the opportunity to swim in inviting waters while enjoying a refreshing drink makes it a favorite for many visitors. One thing to note: it’s a relatively short trip, so if you’re after an in-depth exploration or a full day on the water, you might want to look at longer tours.

This experience suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of adventure — ideal for couples, small groups, or families. If you love picturesque views, a bit of history, and a good splash of fun, this cruise should be on your shortlist.

Key Points

• Stunning coastline: Enjoy panoramic views of Polignano a Mare from the water.
• Caves exploration: Visit famous caves like Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Azzurra, and Grotta delle Rondinelle.
• Swimming opportunity: Relax in crystal-clear waters during stops.
• Prosecco included: Sip Italian bubbly while soaking in the scenery.
• Expert guides and smooth operation: Recognized for knowledgeable skippers and friendly crew.
• Great value: 1.5 hours of scenic adventure for under $50.

What to Expect from the Boat Cruise

This tour is designed for those wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, fun, and relaxation. Starting at Cala Ponte Marina, you’ll meet your skipper and crew, often described as friendly, professional, and engaging. The boat itself is noted for being spotless and well-kept, with comfortable leather seating and a sunshade for shade-seekers.

Your journey kicks off along the 12 km stretch of coast, where the crew will navigate through the most enchanting caves only accessible from the water. Many reviews highlight the skill of the captain — notably Nicola, who’s praised for his expert handling of the boat and making the trip both safe and exciting. You’ll get a chance to see caves like Grotta Palazzese, famed for its spectacular interior, and others like Grotta delle Rondinelle, Grotta Azzurra, and Grotta Ardito.

The Cave Stops

Each stop typically lasts around 10 to 20 minutes, giving ample time for photos, exploring, and enjoying the natural beauty. The Grotta Palazzese is a standout — not just for its beauty but also because it has become a symbol of Polignano a Mare’s charm. According to reviews, the crew often give informative commentary, making the experience both visually and culturally enriching.

Swimming and Refreshments

A significant part of the appeal is the swimming stops. The water in this part of the Adriatic is often described as crystal-clear and inviting. Reviewers mention enjoying bathing in the calm, clean waters directly from the boat, which enhances the trip’s laid-back vibe. Many appreciate the prosecco and soft drinks on board, with some reviews noting the crew even offered local snacks and regional food during stops.

The Scenic Viewpoint and Hidden Gems

Along With caves, you’ll stop at scenic viewpoints and some hidden gems along the coast, often praised for their breathtaking vistas. These spots are perfect for photo opportunities, allowing you to capture the rugged cliffs and sparkling water bathed in sunlight.

The Detailed Itinerary

The tour begins at Cala Ponte Marina, a charming port just a short drive or tuk-tuk ride from the heart of Polignano a Mare. The boat departs and immediately sets a lively and friendly tone, with a crew that many reviews describe as warm and attentive.

Your first stop is a photo and quick sightseeing session at Cala Ponte, giving you a taste of the coast’s natural beauty. Then, your route takes you through a series of caves: Grotta Azzurra, Grotta delle Rondinelle, and Grotta Ardito. Each of these caves offers something unique, from glowing blue waters to interesting rock formations.

About 10 minutes at each cave allows for photos and a short explanation from your skipper, who might share some tidbits of local lore or geological facts. Some reviews mention the crew’s willingness to go into caves closely, almost daring, which adds an element of thrill that many find exciting.

The next stops are at scenic viewpoints and hidden gems that are not always accessible from land. These moments are perfect for taking in the coast’s rugged beauty and snapping some memorable pictures.

The highlight for many travelers is the visit to Grotta Palazzese, where you can swim and relax for around 20 minutes. It’s often described as the “must-see” cave because of its striking interior and historical significance.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a secret or lesser-known cave and scenic stop — giving you a feeling of discovering something special before heading back to Cala Ponte Marina.

The Experience: What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, with many praising the captain Nicola (or other crew members) for their professionalism and humor. Multiple travelers mention how the crew went above and beyond — some even helping with children, offering shade for babies, and ensuring everyone had a safe, comfortable experience.

The Prosecco gets high marks, with numerous reviews noting how refreshing it was to sip bubbly while admiring the views. One traveler said, “The boat was beautiful, and the views outstanding,” which sums up the overall aesthetic. Others loved the small group size, often just six to eight passengers, which made the experience feel intimate and personal.

The short duration of 1.5 hours is seen as perfect for a quick but memorable adventure. Many reviews mention how the speedboat ride was exhilarating, especially during the return trip when the boat sped back to port with a flourish.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Excellent value for money considering the scenic stops, swimming, and drinks included
– Skilled, friendly crew providing a safe and fun environment
– Ability to see several caves and scenic spots inaccessible from land
– Small group sizes for a more personal experience
– The opportunity to swim in clear waters and relax in natural surroundings

Cons:
– The trip is relatively short, which might leave some wanting more
– The meeting point at Cala Ponte Marina requires a short additional transfer from the town center
– No hotel pickup or drop-off included, so you’ll need to plan transport to the marina

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic escape with a dash of adventure, this cruise is perfect. It suits small groups, couples, families with children, and solo travelers who enjoy beautiful landscapes, light physical activity (swimming), and a fun boat ride. It’s especially ideal if you want to avoid crowds and see Polignano a Mare from a different perspective.

Travelers who appreciate informative guides and local insights will find this tour enriching, while those looking for a quick, memorable experience will be satisfied with its 1.5-hour length.

Final Words

This boat cruise delivers stunning views, close-up cave explorations, and a relaxing swim — all topped with a glass of Prosecco. It’s a fantastic way to get a unique perspective of Polignano a Mare’s coastline without the hassle or crowds. The small group size and expert crew ensure a comfortable, engaging experience that many reviewers say exceeds expectations.

While it’s short, the trip’s combination of natural beauty, fun, and a taste of Italy’s famed bubbly makes it well worth the price. If you’re a lover of scenic coastlines, caves, and casual luxury, this tour is a solid choice.

This experience is best suited for adventure-seekers, romantic couples, and families with children looking for a memorable, scenic outing. It’s particularly perfect if you value authenticity, comfort, and stunning photo opportunities.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many families with children have enjoyed the trip. The crew is accommodating, and the short duration makes it manageable for little ones.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
No, the tour includes a bottle of Prosecco and soft drinks. You can also enjoy local snacks if available.

How long is the boat trip?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a quick but memorable escape.

Where do I meet the boat?
At Cala Ponte Marina, which is a short walk or car/tuk-tuk ride from Polignano a Mare’s town center.

Is transportation included from the hotel?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included but can be requested.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming stops are part of the itinerary, and many reviews mention how refreshing and fun the swim in the clear waters is.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as spotless, with comfortable leather seats and a sunshade.

What language is spoken during the tour?
The guides operate in Italian and English, ensuring most travelers can follow along.

Is it safe to go into caves?
Absolutely — the captain expertly navigates the caves, and many reviews mention how skillful and careful he is.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended for comfort and sun protection.

In summary, the Polignano a Mare boat cruise with Prosecco offers an enjoyable, scenic, and comfortable way to explore the coast’s natural wonders. With friendly guides, beautiful caves, and the chance to relax in dazzling waters, it’s an experience that combines sightseeing, light adventure, and a taste of Italy’s laid-back charm. Perfect for those seeking a short but sweet coastal escape.