Taranto: Private Boat Trip with Swimming, Dolphin Watching

Planning a day on the water in Italy’s Apulia region? This private boat trip from Taranto promises a blend of fun, relaxation, and a touch of wildlife magic. Whether you prefer lounging under a sun canopy, taking a refreshing swim, or trying your hand at fishing, this experience aims to cater to a variety of tastes.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the private setting means you won’t be sharing your boat with strangers, and the potential dolphin sightings add a sprinkle of excitement. Plus, the option to choose between a half-day or full-day trip helps you tailor the experience to your schedule and energy levels.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own onboard supplies. Also, since the tour depends on weather conditions, some days might be better suited for swimming or dolphin watching than others.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized coastal adventure—perfect if you’re keen on enjoying the sea at your own pace, with a good dose of relaxation and possibly even some wildlife surprises. It certainly appeals to those who love being on the water and appreciate a more intimate, tailored experience.

Key Points

• Private and exclusive experience with a maximum of 12 people, including the skipper.
• Flexible options for a half-day or full-day trip, with routes tailored to your interests.
• Multiple activities available, from swimming in shallow waters to experimenting with various fishing techniques.
• Comfort and amenities onboard include sunbathing areas, music, a sun canopy, marine toilet, and safety equipment.
• Wildlife spotting potential, such as dolphin watching, adds an extra thrill.
• Bring your own food and drinks, as they are not included in the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

If you’re imagining a day on the water along the coast of Taranto, you’ll find this tour offers a well-rounded mix of relaxation and activity. The boat itself is powered by twin Yamaha engines, capable of reaching up to 40 knots, so you’ll spend less time traveling and more time enjoying your surroundings. The boat’s amenities make it a comfortable floating base—think refrigerators, a sink, fresh water shower, and a coffee machine for those mornings when you need a caffeine boost.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour kicks off at Via Capodoglio, where the boat awaits just in front of the “Cantieri del Sud” sign. The initial 20-minute ride on a speedboat gets you out along the coast, offering your first taste of the sea breeze and scenic views. From here, the itinerary can be customized, but most routes focus on the nearby shallow waters where swimming is safe and refreshing.

Stop 1: Starting point — a familiar launching pad for many boat trips, this spot provides easy access and a chance to meet your skipper, who will be your guide and captain for the day.

Stop 2: The cruising segment — whether you’re heading toward a snorkeling spot, dolphin-watching area, or fishing zone, this part of the trip lets you settle in, enjoy the scenery, and get ready for your activity of choice.

Return: Back at Via Capodoglio — after several hours on the water, you’ll head back in, often with a few stories of dolphin sightings or fish you might have caught.

What You Can Expect on Board

The boat is equipped to handle a variety of preferences. For those looking to relax, the sunbathing area at the bow comfortably fits four people, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying some music. The sun canopy provides shade when needed, making long days on deck quite comfortable.

If swimming is on your agenda, you’ll love the chance to dip into shallow waters (around 50cm deep), with the tide level adjustable to your preference—whether you prefer the high tide or low tide. For those interested in fishing, the boat offers options like bottom fishing, vertical jigging, spinning, and trolling. The fishing equipment included has been praised for its quality, and the tour’s flexibility means you can try different techniques throughout the day.

Wildlife Watching and the Joy of Seclusion

One of the tour’s highlights is the potential to see dolphins—a rare and special sight that nature sometimes grants to lucky travelers. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the chance to be near these intelligent creatures makes the trip memorable. Several reviews note that dolphin watching can be a “magical experience,” especially when the dolphins swim alongside the boat.

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Practical Details and Value

The boat itself is well-fitted with modern electronic instruments like GPS and fishfinders, ensuring safety and aiding your fishing attempts. The skipper is dedicated to making your experience smooth and enjoyable, whether you’re throwing in a line or just relaxing with a drink in hand.

Pricing is mainly based on the duration (half-day or full-day), with fuel costs paid separately, depending on the route and activities. While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, the presence of coolers and a refrigerator means you can bring your own supplies, which adds to the flexibility and saves money.

The private group size of up to 12 people keeps the atmosphere intimate, and the option to reserve now and pay later adds a layer of flexibility for travelers planning ahead.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

The initial departure from Via Capodoglio is straightforward, with the boat ready for your adventure. The 20-minute speedboat ride is a brisk, exhilarating start, giving you a taste of the coast’s beauty and the power of the boat.

Once out at sea, you can choose various routes—some may focus on swimming in shallow waters, allowing you to float around and cool off. Others might prioritize fishing, experimenting with different techniques, which can be surprisingly fun even for beginners.

Each stop is designed to maximize your enjoyment—whether that’s capturing a dolphin sighting, catching your first fish, or simply relaxing and soaking in the scenery. The boat’s amenities ensure comfort throughout, and the marine toilet adds convenience for longer trips.

Reviews and Authentic Perspectives

Many travelers have expressed satisfaction with the personalized service. One review mentions, “The boat was comfortable, and we loved the quiet time just floating and swimming.” Others highlight the friendly skipper who went out of his way to show wildlife or help with fishing techniques.

Some reviewers note that the dolphin sightings are not guaranteed but are a definite bonus when they happen. The opportunity to try various fishing methods and the flexibility of choosing routes make this tour adaptable to different interests and skill levels.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups looking for a private, flexible marine adventure. If you enjoy swimming, wildlife, or fishing, you’ll find plenty to love here. This tour also appeals to those who prefer a personalized experience, away from crowded group trips.

However, travelers prone to seasickness or non-swimmers should consider their comfort levels, as the tour involves open sea navigation. Also, since food and drinks are not provided, bringing your own supplies is necessary for a full day on the water.

The Bottom Line

This private boat trip from Taranto offers a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and wildlife spotting. The key appeal lies in its personalized nature, the chance to swim in shallow waters, and the possibility of dolphin sightings—an experience that many find unforgettable. The boat’s amenities and flexible options make it a good value, especially for those who enjoy being on the water and want a tailored day rather than a one-size-fits-all tour.

If you’re after a quiet, intimate experience that combines scenic beauty with a touch of excitement, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to craft their own coastal adventure, whether that’s swimming, fishing, or simply basking in the sun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be comfortable in open water and should be accompanied by adults. Non-swimmers might find the swimming aspect challenging.

What should I bring onboard?
You should bring swimwear, a towel, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Since food and drinks are not included, plan to pack enough for the day.

Can I fish with the tour?
Absolutely. The tour includes fishing equipment and the chance to try techniques like bottom fishing, vertical jigging, spinning, and trolling.

Is dolphin watching guaranteed?
Dolphin sightings depend on wildlife activity and are not guaranteed. However, the chance is there, and many travelers have enjoyed seeing dolphins during their trip.

How long does the trip last?
You can choose between a half-day or full-day experience, with the full duration being around 8 hours.

Are there safety measures onboard?
Yes, all required safety equipment is provided, and the boat has modern navigation and communication tools.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own onboard, as they are not included in the tour price.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider states the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What languages are available?
Tours are available in Chinese, English, French, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What are the cancellation policies?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This private boat trip from Taranto is a nicely balanced option for those craving a day on the water with the comforts of a private, customizable experience. It promises the chance for relaxation, adventure, and wildlife encounters—all in one vessel. For travelers eager to explore Apulia’s coast in a personal way, it’s a flexible and enjoyable choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: