Exploring the Lampedusa Boat Tour with Lunch Sapore di Mare: A Detailed Review
Taking a boat tour around Lampedusa is one of those experiences that promise a perfect blend of scenery, relaxation, and good food. This particular adventure, offered by Sapore di Mare, is highly rated at 4.9 out of 5 based on 52 reviews, and for good reason. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the island’s best spots while enjoying a tasty meal on the water. Whether you’re into swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun and taking photos of breathtaking landscapes, this tour aims to deliver.
What we really like about this experience are two key points: first, the stunning views of the coastline and the chance to visit iconic spots like Rabbit Island and Tabaccara Bay — perfect for Instagram-worthy photos. Second, the quality of the lunch, a generous 5-course appetizer spread paired with local wine, makes the day feel both indulgent and authentic.
A potential consideration is the dependence on weather conditions—since some stops are wind-dependent, your plans might shift if the weather isn’t cooperating. Still, the relaxed pace and scenic stops make this a great choice for those who enjoy a leisurely day at sea.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s especially suited for families, couples, and groups looking for a memorable day without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Comfortable Duration: A 7-hour cruise offers enough time to relax and explore without feeling rushed.
- Stunning Scenic Spots: Visit Rabbit Island (Isola dei Conigli) and swim in crystal-clear waters at Tabaccara Bay.
- Snorkeling and Swimming: Opportunities to snorkel amid vibrant marine life and enjoy swimming in picture-perfect waters.
- Authentic Food & Wine: A 5-course appetizer lunch featuring fresh fish, vegetables, fruits, snacks, and local wine.
- Family-Run Service: The operation is family-owned, adding a welcoming, personalized touch.
- All-Inclusive: Water, wine, coffee, snacks, and snorkeling gear are provided—so you only need to bring essentials like your ID, sunscreen, and camera.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lampedusa.
The Itinerary: What You Can Expect
Starting Point and Duration
Most tours last around 7 hours, with the exact start time depending on the day and option you select. You’ll meet at a designated point that might vary, and the tour concludes back at the same meeting spot. Since there’s no hotel pickup included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point—something to keep in mind if you’re staying outside central Lampedusa.
Scenic Cruise and Photo Opportunities
Once aboard, you’ll immediately notice the stunning scenery of Lampedusa’s limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The boat glides past some of the most beautiful parts of the island, with plenty of stops for photos. Many reviews mention how camera-obsessed they were, thanks to the postcard-perfect views.
More Great Tours NearbyRabbit Island (Isola dei Conigli)
This is often called the most famous of the stops—a must-see for lovers of nature and photography. It’s a UNESCO-protected site, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Depending on the weather, this stop may be wind-dependent, but when it’s possible, you’ll love the chance to walk along the soft sands and snap photos of the rugged coastline.
Snorkeling in Vibrant Marine Life
The boat provides snorkeling gear, and the reviews highlight how much fun it is to see the colorful underwater world. Several travelers appreciated the provided floatation devices and gear, making it accessible even for beginners. Expect to see schools of fish and marine plants, which make for great underwater photos.
Tabaccara Bay for Swimming
A highlight for many is the crystal waters at Tabaccara Bay. Here, you can jump off the boat into the bright blue, swim around, or simply sunbathe on deck. The calm, clear waters are ideal for relaxing and enjoying the Mediterranean scenery.
Lunch: A Feast on the Water
The 5-course appetizer lunch is served directly on the boat, offering a generous spread of fresh grilled fish, vegetables, fruits, and snacks. Accompanying this is a selection of local wines, which many reviews praise as delicious and well-paired. Several guests noted the high quality and abundance of the food, often mentioning how much they enjoyed the regional flavors and the care taken in preparing the meal.
Additional Activities
The tour includes stand-up paddleboards and snorkeling equipment, adding options for those wanting to stay active or explore more beneath the waves. Many travelers appreciated the flexibility these extras provided, allowing for spontaneous fun.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Knowledgeable Guides and Family Atmosphere: Several reviews praise the hosts for their friendliness and helpfulness. “Marino speaks passable English and the entire family that runs this trip is very welcoming,” says one traveler. This personal touch elevates the experience beyond just a sightseeing cruise.
Unbeatable Value: For around $85 per person, this tour offers a full day of scenic views, swimming, snorkeling, and a delicious meal. When considering the included equipment, drinks, and the chance to visit hard-to-reach spots, it’s a well-priced way to see Lampedusa from the water.
Authentic Experience: Unlike generic tours, this one feels like a family affair, with genuine hospitality and locally inspired foods. It’s perfect for travelers craving authentic moments rather than cookie-cutter excursions.
Practical Tips for Participants
- Bring your essentials: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, towel, and your ID or passport.
- Check the weather forecast: Since some stops are wind-dependent, be prepared for possible itinerary changes.
- Arrive on time: As the meeting point varies, ensure you check your booking details to avoid missing the boat.
- Wear comfortable swimwear and bring a camera — you’ll want to capture every stunning moment.
- No hotel pickup: Plan your transportation to the meeting point ahead of time.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This boat trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring scenic coves, and savoring regional cuisine. It’s perfect for families, couples, and groups seeking a relaxed, authentic experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and photography. Those who don’t mind a flexible schedule and weather-dependent stops will find this tour a highlight of their trip to Sicily.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to get there.
What should I bring? Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a towel, and your ID. Don’t forget your camera to capture the scenery.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.
How long is the tour? The experience lasts about 7 hours, with timing depending on the day and availability.
What is included in the price? The tour includes a live Italian-speaking guide, a 5-course lunch with wine, water, coffee, fruit snacks, sweets, and snorkeling gear.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility to adapt your plans if needed.
Final Word
The Lampedusa Boat Tour with Lunch Sapore di Mare offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the island’s stunning scenery, marine life, and delicious local flavors. It’s a great way for travelers to enjoy a full day on the water without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. The highlights—visiting Rabbit Island, snorkeling in crystal waters, and relishing a tasteful meal—are what make this tour memorable.
If you’re someone who appreciates scenic beauty, loves swimming and snorkeling, and wants to enjoy regional cuisine in a relaxed setting, this tour hits the mark. The friendly family-run atmosphere, combined with excellent reviews on customer service and value, makes it a top pick for an unforgettable day in Lampedusa.
In essence, this cruise is about celebrating the natural beauty and flavors of Lampedusa in a way that combines adventure with comfort. It’s a wonderful option for those wanting a genuine, fun, and scenic experience at a fair price.
You can check availability for your dates here: