Favignana and Levanzo mini-cruise from Trapani with Lunch

When it comes to experiencing Sicily’s stunning coastlines and charming islands, a boat tour like this one offers a wonderful mix of scenic views, relaxing swims, and cultural exploration. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact cruise, I’ve dug into the details and reviews to give you an honest rundown of what you can expect, highlighting both the pleasures and practical considerations.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters at iconic spots like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra is definitely a highlight. Second, the free time on each island allows travelers to soak up local atmosphere—shopping, wandering, or just relaxing on the beach. Lastly, the delicious onboard lunch of pasta with pesto trapanese offers a taste of authentic Sicilian flavors that makes the trip feel truly complete.

That said, keep in mind that weather conditions influence the schedule, sometimes leading to changes in the itinerary. Plus, the tour might not suit everyone—pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with food allergies should consider the limitations, particularly regarding the physical aspects and menu.

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a full day of scenic scenery, local flavor, and marine fun. It caters well to those who enjoy a mix of free exploration, scenic cruising, and water activities, especially if you’re eager to see multiple islands without the hassle of planning separate trips.

Good To Know

• Scenic boat cruise with stops for swimming and sightseeing around Favignana and Levanzo
• Free time on each island to explore, shop, or relax
• Authentic Sicilian lunch featuring pasta with pesto trapanese included in the price
• Flexible itinerary subject to weather, with options for scenic views and photo opportunities
• Comfortable boat transportation from Trapani, with around 9 hours total
• Additional costs include a small entry fee (€5 per person) for access to Egadi Islands

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Scenic Journey: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning at the Porto di Trapani, with a meeting point at Via Ammiraglio Staiti. After a 50-minute speedboat ride, you arrive at Favignana—an island famous for its striking cliffs, pastel-colored houses, and laid-back vibe. This is your chance to wander freely for about two hours. Whether you opt to browse local shops, visit the museum, or lounge on the beaches, there’s plenty of room to tailor your experience.

The highlight for many is the coastal cruise, which takes you past Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, and other beautiful creeks. These spots are prized for their stunning natural beauty and inviting waters—perfect for a refreshing dip. Reviewers mention the crystal-clear sea and breathtaking views, with one noting, “The scenery was truly postcard-perfect—white cliffs, bright waters, and the sun shining down.”

After soaking up the scenery, you’ll stop for a swim, a chance to cool off from the sun and enjoy the marine environment. The onboard lunch is a simple yet satisfying meal—pasta with pesto trapanese, a regional specialty—offering a genuine taste of Sicily in a relaxed setting.

Next, the boat ventures along the coast towards Levanzo. With about an hour of free time on this smaller, quieter island, you can explore its characteristic white houses, narrow streets, and fishing boats. Reviewers highlight the picturesque port and colorful flowers, with one stating, “Levanzo’s quiet charm was exactly what I needed after the busy city.”

Cruising along Levanzo’s coast provides more stunning views of creeks, cliffs, and the sparkling sea, with a quick sightseeing drive that offers plenty of photo opportunities. The return trip to Trapani lasts roughly 40 minutes, giving you time to relax and reflect on what you’ve seen.

In-Depth Look at Each Part of the Itinerary

Favignana: The Heart of the Tour

Favignana is often called the ‘Queen’ of the Egadi Islands for its dramatic cliffs and azure waters. The two hours of free time here are your window to decide if you want to explore the quaint town, shop for souvenirs, or simply unwind on its beaches. Multiple reviews mention booking a visit to the local museum or enjoying a leisurely walk through the streets lined with pastel-colored buildings. The opportunity to relax on the beach and swim in the inviting waters is quite popular, so bring your snorkel gear if you have it.

Coastal Cruise & Swim Stops

The cruise along Favignana’s coast allows for admiring famous creeks like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra—both visually stunning with steep cliffs and clear waters. The stops for swimming are a big hit, with many travelers describing the waters as “crystal-clear and perfect for snorkeling.” The boat stops briefly for photos, so don’t forget your camera.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch on Board

The included meal of pasta with pesto trapanese stands out as a genuine slice of local flavor. Reviewers appreciate the simplicity and freshness of the dish, saying it’s a perfect light meal after some swimming. Some noted that the lunch is quite filling and satisfying, giving energy for the rest of the day.

Levanzo: Small but Charismatic

Levanzo is less visited but equally charming. The hour of free time allows for a quick exploration of its whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and scenic port. Travelers mention the bright colors of flowers and the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to relax and take photos. The scenic cruise along the coast offers more chances to appreciate the rugged cliffs and hidden creeks—many describe it as “a quiet, almost untouched gem.”

Scenic Views & Photography

Throughout the day, the boat provides ample opportunities for photography—crisp blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and charming village scenes. The reviews boast about the breathtaking views and the chance to capture memories of Sicily’s natural beauty.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers great scenery and experiences, a few practical points are worth noting. The schedule relies heavily on weather conditions—if it’s stormy or windy, the itinerary may be adjusted or shortened. The €5 entry fee for Egadi Islands must be paid before boarding, so have cash ready.

Group size tends to be moderate, making it easy to meet fellow travelers, and the entire day runs about nine hours, from 9 am to around 5 or 6 pm. The speedboat transport makes the journey swift and exciting, but if you’re prone to seasickness, bring medication or consider your comfort level.

Since the tour is conducted in Italian, non-Italian speakers might find it helpful to have a translation app or guide. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with food allergies, so plan accordingly.

How Good Is the Value?

The tour includes transportation, free time, swimming stops, and lunch, which makes it quite cost-effective for a full day of sightseeing and marine fun. The €5 entry fee to the islands is minimal, and the fact that you get to explore two different islands with dedicated free time ensures you’re not just on a crowded boat all day.

Reviewers mention the value for money, especially considering the scenic routes and the local dish included. However, if you’re keen on in-depth island exploration or want to avoid the possibility of weather-related shifts, you might want to plan some extra time for independent activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise suits travelers who enjoy a balanced mix of scenic cruising, free exploration, and water activities. It’s perfect for those who want to see several islands in one day without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The onboard lunch adds a touch of authenticity, making it ideal for food lovers eager to sample Sicilian flavors.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or dietary restrictions that can’t be accommodated easily. Also, if you’re looking for a relaxed, quiet day, the busy parts of the tour might feel a bit hectic.

Final Thoughts

This Favignana and Levanzo mini-cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Sicily’s captivating coastline, charming villages, and turquoise waters. The mix of free time, scenic boat rides, and authentic local food makes it a compelling choice for those wanting an active yet relaxed day out.

While weather can influence the experience, most reviews point out the breathtaking scenery and the value of seeing two beautiful islands in one trip. The inclusion of a delicious Sicilian lunch and the chance to swim in pristine waters add to its appeal.

For travelers seeking a scenic, culturally enriching day with options to relax or explore, this cruise provides a solid, enjoyable experience without breaking the bank. Just pack your camera, some sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—you’re in for a memorable slice of Sicily.

FAQs

How long is the cruise from Trapani?
The entire tour lasts around 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 5 or 6 pm.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes boat transportation, free time on Favignana and Levanzo, swimming stops, and a lunch of pasta with pesto trapanese.

Is there an additional fee I need to pay?
Yes, you must pay a €5 entry fee per person before boarding to access the Egadi Islands.

What are the main attractions at Favignana?
You’ll have free time to shop, visit the museum, or relax on beaches. The coastal cruise offers views of Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, famous for their stunning scenery.

How much free time do I get on each island?
Approximately 2 hours on Favignana and 1 hour on Levanzo, enough for a quick exploration or a relaxing break.

Is the tour suitable for non-Italian speakers?
The tour is in Italian, so non-Italian speakers might want to prepare some translation tools for better understanding.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with food allergies, as options may be limited.

What’s the best way to prepare for the day?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and cash for the entry fee. Arrive at least 30 minutes early and consider bringing your snorkeling gear for swimming stops.

In essence, this Favignana and Levanzo cruise offers a scenic, flavorful, and memorable way to experience Sicily’s treasures. Whether you’re after picture-perfect views, a taste of local cuisine, or just a relaxing day on the sea, this trip is worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: