3 hours Costa Viola Boat tour: Scilla-Bagnara-Cala Janculla

If you’re eyeing a quick yet memorable way to experience Calabria’s coast, the Costa Viola Boat Tour might just fit the bill. This three-hour excursion promises a lively ride along the stunning shoreline of Scilla, with stops at charming fishing villages and intriguing caves. While some might find it a bit short, many travelers find it offers plenty of scenery, a splash of adventure, and a chance to connect with the sea.

What makes this tour attractive? For us, the scenic views of Chianalea’s stilt houses and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters stand out. Plus, the trip’s family-friendly vibe, with masks and float tubes provided, makes it a relaxed way to enjoy the coast. The only real caveat? If you’re prone to seasickness or have limited mobility, this might not be your best pick. Otherwise, if you’re after a fun, affordable way to see Calabria from the water, this tour is worth considering.

This experience works best for travelers who want a taste of the coast without committing to a full-day outing. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups looking for a casual marine adventure that combines history, nature, and some well-earned relaxation.

Key Points

• Short but scenic: A 3-hour tour that highlights key coastal sights and caves.
• Family-friendly: Masks, float tubes, and swimming opportunities make it accessible for children and non-swimmers.
• Authentic views: Enjoy the charming fishing village of Chianalea and scenic caves like San Sebastiano and the Mermaids.
• Wildlife potential: There’s a chance to see dolphins or manta rays if luck is on your side.
• Inclusive extras: One drink per person and a detailed explanation of local history add value.
• Limited mobility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or prone to seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Off from Scilla: What to Expect

The adventure begins in the small port of Scilla, a picturesque fishing village famous for its stilt houses reflected in the sea. From the moment you step onto your long-tail boat, you’ll notice the friendly, laid-back atmosphere—perfect for relaxing while taking in the views.

The First Leg: Chianalea and Its Unique Houses

Your journey starts with a scenic ride along the coast, where you’ll get a close-up look at Chianalea, the old fisherman’s quarter. The houses on stilts seem to cling to the shoreline, and their reflections dance on the water. Many reviews praise this part of the trip, with Victoria noting, “Die Aussicht und die Buchten an denen man hält um zu baden/schnorcheln sind super schön!” (The views and the bays where you stop to swim/snorkel are really beautiful!)

Stops for Refreshing Swims

The boat makes a planned stop at Favazzina, a quiet little spot perfect for a dip. Here, you can cool off and enjoy the sea, with masks and floating tubes available on board, making snorkeling and floating easy even for beginners. The tranquility of Favazzina provides a peaceful escape, and it’s a favorite among families looking to get their feet wet.

Exploring the Caves of Bagnara

Next, the tour heads to the coast of Bagnara Calabra, where the highlight is exploring a series of enchanting natural caves. These include notable formations like the Cave of San Sebastiano, the Arch of Ajax, the Cave of the Mermaids, and the Cave of the Swallows. Each offers a glimpse into the rugged beauty of Calabria’s coastline, with the chance to marvel at the natural formations sculpted by wind and sea over centuries.

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The Scenic Drive and Guided Commentary

Throughout the boat ride, your skipper provides an informative commentary, sharing stories and explanations about the area’s history and geology. This adds a layer of context that helps you appreciate the scenery even more—especially if you enjoy learning about local traditions and legends connected to the caves and villages.

Cala Janculla: Perfect for a Relaxing Break

The tour’s highlight is a stop at Cala Janculla, a small, breathtaking bay with clear waters. Here, you’re free to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax on the boat with a refreshing drink included in the ticket price. Many reviews mention the beautiful waters and the relaxing atmosphere, with Marlene noting that the snorkeling and cave tour, which includes this stop, is a delightful experience.

Returning to Scilla

After about 30 minutes at Cala Janculla, the boat heads back to the port of Scilla, completing a well-rounded, scenic loop. The return trip is a good chance to soak in the last views and maybe spot some marine life—dolphins or manta rays could occasionally make an appearance, thanks to the natural environment.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers fuel, a professional skipper, masks, float tubes, and one drink per person. You’ll also get detailed explanations about each stop, adding educational value to the fun. However, meals and transfers are not included, so plan accordingly if you want a full day of exploring.

Duration and Timing

With a duration of 3 hours, the tour is perfect for those on a tight schedule but wanting a taste of Calabria’s coast. It’s advisable to check availability for start times, as they may vary. The tour is conducted in Italian, so some basic understanding or a translation app might help.

Meeting Point and Group Size

Meet at the “Scilla in Barca” kiosk at the Porticciolo di Scilla, about 15 minutes before departure. The boats include Galea, Itaca, and Nerea, and the number of participants usually keeps the experience intimate and manageable, providing a more personal feel.

Important to Remember

Be sure to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and charged smartphone for photos and safety. The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues, wheelchair users, or those prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback from Travelers

The reviews reflect a generally positive impression. Victoria’s glowing praise for the landscapes and swimming spots captures the essence of what many find appealing. Meanwhile, Marlene appreciated the snorkeling and cave exploration, along with the small snack, which adds a touch of hospitality to the adventure.

While the rating of 3.8/5 indicates some room for improvement, it speaks to a solid, enjoyable experience for most. The short duration means it’s a quick hit of scenic beauty and fun, rather than an in-depth exploration. For those seeking a relaxed, family-friendly seaside outing, this tour offers good value, especially when considering the inclusions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is best suited for travelers who want a light, scenic experience of Calabria’s coast without the commitment of a full-day tour. It appeals to families, couples, or groups looking for a fun, relaxed outing that combines sightseeing, swimming, and cave exploration. Those interested in learning about the local area will appreciate the explanations provided, while others simply enjoy the chance to float, swim, and take photos in a beautiful setting.

However, it’s not ideal for individuals with mobility issues, seasickness, or very young children under one year. If you’re after a more comprehensive or active excursion, you might want to consider longer or different boat tours.

Final Thoughts

The 3-hour Costa Viola Boat Tour offers a charming snapshot of Calabria’s coast in a manageable package. It provides beautiful views, unique caves, and refreshing swims—elements that make for a memorable seaside outing. The inclusion of masks, float tubes, and a drink makes it feel relaxed and inclusive.

While it might not satisfy those seeking an in-depth exploration or a longer adventure, it’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a taste of the sea without overextending their schedule. The friendly atmosphere, scenic beauty, and the chance to spot marine life, all make this a fun addition to any Calabria itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is described as suitable for the whole family, especially since masks and float tubes are provided. Just keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for very young children under 1 year.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and a charged smartphone. These essentials will help you relax and enjoy the experience comfortably.

Can I join if I don’t speak Italian?
The tour is conducted in Italian, so some understanding or a translation aid might be helpful. However, the scenic views and the presence of masks and float tubes make the experience accessible regardless.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours. Check the available start times when booking to fit it into your schedule.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers fuel, the skipper, masks, float tubes, and one drink per person. No meals or transfers are included.

Is there a risk of seeing wildlife?
Yes, if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or manta rays during the ride, adding a special wildlife encounter to your day.

This boat tour is a straightforward, friendly way to see Calabria from the water, combining scenic beauty with light adventure. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a small group, it offers a short but sweet taste of the coast’s natural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: