From Palermo center: Favignana and Levanzo Boat tour

If you’re looking to explore Sicily’s breathtaking offshore islands without the hassle of planning every detail, this boat tour from Palermo to the Egadi Islands might be just what you need. Organized by Egadi Navigazione, it offers a full day of scenic cruising, island hopping, and plenty of opportunities to soak in the views—and maybe even take a dip in those famously clear waters.

What we love about this experience is the combination of comfort and adventure. The boat is described as spacious and modern, making the 40-minute cruise from Trapani to Favignana a relaxing start to your day. Plus, the three hours of free time on Favignana allow for genuine exploration—whether you want to lounge by the coves, visit local museums, or wander around the charming town.

A possible drawback? The trip’s timing and structure mean you’ll be on a schedule, with a return to Palermo at the end of the day. For travelers seeking a relaxed, longer stay on each island, this might feel a bit rushed. However, if your goal is a quick, picturesque escape with a taste of island life, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits those who enjoy boat rides, scenic vistas, and getting a snapshot of island charm in a single day. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of guided exploration and free time, all bundled into an affordable package.

Key Points

• Comfortable boat cruise with modern vessels makes for an enjoyable start and end to your day.
• Three hours on Favignana provides ample time to explore beaches, museums, and the town.
• Scenic coast cruise offers stunning views of Favignana’s coves and beaches, ideal for swimming and photography.
• Levanzo’s fisherman’s village is a charming photo stop, adding a touch of authentic local life.
• Affordable transfer option available for €20, making the overall experience more accessible.
• Authentic Sicilian meal option on board at a reasonable price, perfect for a quick lunch.

A Deep Dive into the Favignana and Levanzo Boat Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting from Palermo, you’ll be transported via an organized shuttle to Trapani port, where the boat is waiting. The transfer costs €20 per person round trip but is optional—you can always make your own way if you prefer. The journey begins at 10:00 am from Trapani, with the boat set to depart for Favignana shortly after.

The boat ride itself is a highlight—described as spacious and modern, it makes cruising enjoyable even for those prone to seasickness. It takes approximately 40 minutes to reach Favignana, giving you plenty of time to settle in, enjoy the sea breeze, and admire the views.

Once docked in Favignana, you’ll have around 3 hours free to explore the island. Many visitors choose to stroll to Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, two of the most famous beaches renowned for their striking shades of blue and crystal-clear waters. Others might visit the Tonnara Florio Museum to learn about the island’s fishing tradition or just relax at a local café.

Exploring Favignana

Favignana is known for its dramatic coastlines and historical sites. The free time allows you to do as much or as little as you like—whether that’s lounging on the beach, snorkeling, or wandering through the quaint town. Several reviews mention how the island is stunning and worth the visit, but also note that the 3-hour stay could be a little brief, especially if you want to see more than just the beaches.

Back on the boat, the crew takes you on a scenic cruise around the island’s coast, approaching coves like Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, and Bue Marino. These spots are perfect for photos and swimming, with their shades of turquoise and crystalline waters. Many travelers, as one reviewer notes, find these beaches ideal for swimming lovers who want to beat the traffic and crowds on their own.

The Lunch and Scenic Views

Midday, the crew offers the option to purchase Sicilian “trapanese” pasta with water for €4.99. This is a great way to enjoy an authentic local meal without leaving the boat. The pasta is simple but satisfying, especially after a morning of swimming and sightseeing. The meal’s price point makes it a good value considering this is an all-in-one day trip.

The Island of Levanzo

After returning to the boat, you’ll sail towards Levanzo, a tiny fishing village famous for its charm and picturesque views. The stop here is brief—a photo opportunity to capture the village’s colorful houses and winding streets. Reviewers appreciate this stop as a genuine glimpse into local life, although some wish the visit could be longer.

The Return Journey

The boat departs Levanzo at around 3:15 pm, heading back to Trapani. After disembarking, the shuttle will take you back to Palermo at approximately 6:45 pm, making this a long but fulfilling day out. The timing allows for ample sightseeing, without feeling rushed, but it is a full schedule.

The Practical Side: Pricing, Group Size, and Tips

The tour’s listed price mainly covers the boat cruise, free island time, and the scenic coast tour. The round-trip transfer from Palermo is an add-on at €20 per person, which many find convenient but is optional.

The group size varies, but reviews highlight the helpfulness of staff and guides, like the known helpfulness of crew members, which can make the experience smoother. The boat is described as spacious and modern, accommodating a comfortable ride even with a sizable group.

What to Bring

Travelers should pack swimwear and a towel—both essential for enjoying the beaches—and perhaps a camera or smartphone for photos. There’s limited time for eating on the islands, so bringing snacks or water for the journey might be wise, though the on-board meal option keeps things simple.

Timing and Duration

With a total duration of roughly 10 hours (including transfer time), this trip is best suited for those who want a full day dedicated to island exploration without too much hassle. Check the availability for starting times as they may vary, but generally, you’ll be on the water by late morning and back in Palermo by early evening.

What’s Our Take?

This tour is a solid choice if you’re craving a taste of Sicily’s Egadi Islands without the fuss of planning transportation, ferries, or guides yourself. The organized transfer and fully guided boat cruise remove many logistical headaches, making it appealing for travelers who prefer an all-in-one package.

The three hours on Favignana offers enough time to appreciate the island’s key sights and beaches, though some might find it a tad rushed. The scenic boat cruise, with stops at coves like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, is a real highlight, especially if you enjoy swimming and photography.

The visit to Levanzo adds a touch of charm and authenticity, allowing you to capture photos of a classic fishing village. Reviewers mention the helpful staff and the friendly guides, which enhance the overall experience.

Cost-wise, the €20 transfer fee is reasonable for the convenience, and the €4.99 meal option provides good value. This tour offers a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and cultural flavor, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those short on time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see the Egadi Islands in a single day, combining scenic cruising with island exploration. It’s ideal for those who love boat rides, picturesque beaches, and authentic local villages. If you’re after a leisurely, guided experience that provides a taste of Sicily’s offshore beauty, this tour delivers.

However, if you prefer longer stays on each island or more personalized exploration, you might want to consider other options or extend your time. The trip’s schedule is fixed, and the short free time on Favignana means you’ll need to prioritize your interests.

In summary, if you’re after excellent value, scenic views, and a taste of island life, this tour is a dependable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the starting point?
You can join the organized transfer from Palermo’s designated pickup points for €20 round trip, or make your own way to Trapani port if you prefer.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the boat cruise, three hours free on Favignana, a scenic coast tour, and a photo stop at Levanzo.

Can I buy food on the boat?
Yes, you can purchase Sicilian pasta with water on board for €4.99, which is recommended if you want a quick, authentic meal without leaving the boat.

How long is the free time on Favignana?
You’ll have about 3 hours to explore the island, which is enough to visit beaches, museums, or the town.

What does the scenic boat tour include?
The boat approaches the most beautiful coves like Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, and Bue Marino, perfect for swimming, photos, and relaxing.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews describe the vessel as spacious and modern, making the cruise pleasant even for longer durations.

What’s the typical return time?
You’ll leave Levanzo at around 3:15 pm and arrive back in Trapani at roughly 5:15 pm. The shuttle then returns you to Palermo by approximately 6:45 pm.

Who is this tour not ideal for?
Those seeking longer, more flexible island stays or personalized guided experiences might find this schedule a bit too tight.

To sum it up, this Favignana and Levanzo boat tour from Palermo is a well-rounded option for travelers wanting a scenic, hassle-free day out. It combines the beauty of Sicily’s coastline with authentic island charm, all at a reasonable price point. With helpful guides, stunning views, and just enough free time to feel like you’ve truly experienced the islands, it’s a trip that offers real value—especially if you’re eager to tick these spots off your Sicilian bucket list.