Da Lipari: Tour in Barca Salina e Lipari (7h) PICCOLO GRUPPO

If you’re planning a visit to Sicily and want to experience the stunning islands of Lipari and Salina from the water, the Da Lipari: Tour in Barca Salina e Lipari (7h) PICCOLO GRUPPO offers an intimate, scenic adventure worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, enjoyable experience that appeals to many travelers seeking a mix of gentle exploration, local flavor, and natural beauty.

What makes this tour stand out are its small group size, the diverse itinerary, and the professional guidance from seasoned skippers. You get the chance to snorkel in pristine waters, visit iconic spots like the house from “Il Postino,” and enjoy authentic local cuisine during a land stop. That said, it’s important to note that you will need to bring your own essentials like a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen — the tour provides the experience but not the personal comfort items.

This adventure is perfect for travelers who value a personalized experience, are comfortable spending several hours at sea, and love mixing sightseeing with relaxing swims. If you’re after a lively party boat or a more extensive cultural tour, this might not be your best fit. Otherwise, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting an authentic taste of the Aeolian Islands’ natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures a more personalized and relaxed experience.
• Diverse stops include iconic sites, swimming spots, and a land visit at Lingua.
• Expert skipper and crew prioritize safety and local knowledge.
• Snorkeling equipment and safety gear are provided, making water activities accessible.
• Authentic local cuisine is available during the land stop, enhancing the cultural feel.
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind for booking.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Meeting and Departure

The adventure begins at Marina Corta dock in Lipari at 9:45 AM, giving you a chance to settle in and meet your skipper. The group size remains limited, which helps maintain a cozy, friendly vibe — perfect for those who prefer avoiding large crowds.

First Stop: Pumice Quarries

Sailing toward the Pumice Quarries sets the tone for the day. This area’s famous for its volcanic activity and natural beauty. Here, the boat makes its initial swim stop, giving everyone a chance to cool off in the intense blue waters and enjoy some light snorkeling. Reviewers mention that the water clarity is excellent, making it ideal for underwater gazing.

Salina: Capo Faro and Pollara Bay

Next, the boat cruises toward Salina, one of the more lush and scenic islands. The stops here are carefully chosen: Capo Faro provides panoramic views, while Pollara Bay is notable for its film fame — the house from “Il Postino.” Both spots promise more opportunities to snorkel and relax in beautiful surroundings. Guests describe these locations as having a peaceful, almost untouched feeling, perfect for unwinding.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Land Stop at Lingua

After several hours on the water, the boat docks at Lingua, where you get about 1.5 hours to stretch your legs. Here, travelers can enjoy lunch at local restaurants offering authentic Sicilian and Aeolian dishes. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, emphasizing the variety and freshness. During this break, visitors often take a dip in the salt lake or explore the charming village — a quiet place that offers a real taste of island life.

Lipari’s Western Coast: Lovers Cave & Faraglioni

The tour then turns toward Lipari’s western side, where the highlight is a swim at Lovers Cave. This spot is often described as magical, with stunning rock formations and the chance to float in calm, clear waters. The boat also stops by the Faraglioni, impressive sea stacks that produce perfect photo moments. From reviews, it’s clear these natural sculptures are a favorite, offering fantastic views and photo ops.

Final Swim at Praia di Vinci

The last swim stop at Praia di Vinci is often called one of the most beautiful beaches on Lipari. It’s an ideal way to wrap up the day, giving travelers more time to relax and soak in the scenery. Reviewers note that this beach’s pristine waters and soft sand make it a wonderful spot for a final dip before heading back.

Returning: Toasting the Day

On the way back to Lipari, a glass of Malvasia wine is offered, along with typical sweets — a sweet way to celebrate the day’s adventures. The tour concludes back at the dock around 5:00 PM, giving you a full seven hours of memorable experiences.

What’s Included and What to Bring

This tour offers a good value, especially considering the small group size and the variety of stops. Included are the services of an experienced skipper and crew, safety equipment, snorkeling gear, and refreshments like fresh fruit, water, biscuits, and local Malvasia wine. These extras ensure you stay comfortable and hydrated without added costs.

However, items not included are your packed lunch, beach towel, swimming suit, hat, sunglasses, slippers, and sunscreen. Pack these essentials to ensure maximum comfort, especially since you’ll be spending a good amount of time in the sun and water.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early at 9:45 AM to meet your skipper and settle in.
• Bring your own beach essentials — towel, sunscreen, and a hat are must-haves.
• Prepare for multiple swimming stops, so a swimsuit and towel are key.
• Consider bringing snacks or a small picnic if you’re picky about food; the tour provides only water and fruit.
• Remember to wear or bring some sunglasses for sun protection during the boat ride.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted in Reviews

One traveler, Andrea, describes their experience with the Tornado agency as “fantastic,” highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of the crew. They appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views throughout the day. The wine and sweets on the return trip were described as a lovely touch, perfect for toasting the day.

The small-group format was particularly praised for creating a cozy atmosphere where everyone could enjoy the scenery and water activities without feeling cramped. The stops at Pollara Bay and Lovers Cave received special mention for their breathtaking natural beauty.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, it’s worth noting that you need to bring your own essentials. Also, the 7-hour duration means you’ll spend most of the day outdoors, so dressing appropriately and applying sunscreen are smart moves. The flexible cancellation policy makes it easier to plan without anxiety — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The small-group setting tends to make the tour more intimate and flexible, but it also means spaces may fill quickly, so booking ahead is recommended.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value personalized, smaller-group excursions and enjoy water-based activities. If you love snorkeling, scenic island stops, and authentic local cuisine, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace over a jam-packed cultural itinerary.

If you’re after active exploration or nighttime adventures, this daytime boat trip might feel a bit tame. But for anyone craving a beautiful, laid-back escape with plenty of swimming and stunning vistas, it’s a solid choice.

The Sum Up

The Da Lipari: Tour in Barca Salina e Lipari (7h) PICCOLO GRUPPO offers a well-rounded, scenic, and relaxing way to experience some of the most iconic spots in the Aeolian Islands. Thanks to knowledgeable guides, top-notch water activities, and charming stops, it provides excellent value for nature lovers and those seeking a personalized touch.

The tour’s focus on small-group intimacy, combined with carefully chosen stops like Pollara Bay and Lovers Cave, makes it especially appealing. While you’ll need to bring your own essentials for comfort, the included snorkeling gear, drinks, and local treats enhance the overall experience.

This trip suits travelers who want to see the islands from a relaxed boat perspective, enjoy snorkeling, and savor authentic local flavors. If that sounds like your idea of a perfect day in Sicily, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:45 AM at Marina Corta dock in Lipari, so arriving a few minutes early is recommended.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, ending back at the starting point around 5:00 PM.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, full snorkeling gear and buoyancy aids are included, making water activities accessible even for beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimming suit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, slippers, water, and perhaps a snack if you prefer specific foods.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and water activities generally suit families, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your scheduling needs.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this boat tour offers a memorable slice of the Aeolian Islands’ natural beauty, with plenty of swimming, sightseeing, and local flavor. It’s an excellent way to see Lipari and Salina without the hassle of planning multiple transports or tours, all while enjoying the company of fellow travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: