From Erice: Minicruise Favignana and Levanzo w/lunch

Exploring Sicily’s Aegadian Islands: A Closer Look at the Minicruise from Erice

If you’re looking for a way to experience some of Sicily’s most captivating coastlines and charming island villages, this minicruise to Favignana and Levanzo from Erice offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and relaxation. Although I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary reveal a well-rounded experience that appeals to travelers craving authentic island encounters without the hassle of longer trips.

What sets this adventure apart is its stunning coastal views, the opportunity to visit two distinctive islands, and the inclusion of lunch on board—something often missed on shorter tours. Still, it’s good to keep in mind that you’ll need to organize your transfer to Trapani, and the entry fee to the islands is paid separately, which adds a small extra step.

This tour suits those who love nature, picturesque villages, and easy access to beautiful waters. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, and want a balanced day of sightseeing and swimming, this trip could be just right.

• Ideal for travelers looking for a full-day coastal experience from Erice.
• Includes visits to two different islands with free time to explore.
• Offers snorkeling and swimming opportunities in clear, blue waters.
• Lunch on board provides a local taste with pasta and pesto trapanese.
• Requires self-arranged transfers to Trapani port.
• Entry fee to the islands (around €5) must be paid separately on the day.

This experience made our article of The Top 3 Tours & Experiences In Levanzo.

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins early in the morning, with travelers making their way to Trapani port by bus, train, or car. The meeting point is conveniently located at Porto di Trapani, via Ammiraglio Staiti, about 100 meters from the bus stop—perfect for those who prefer public transport or want to avoid the stress of parking. Arriving at least 30 minutes before departure ensures smooth boarding, which is essential given the limited window for check-in.

While the tour doesn’t include transportation, the straightforward meeting logistics make it simple to organize your transfer. The shared bus ride from Erice to Trapani is a typical choice, and many reviews note that getting to the port is quite manageable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Boat and the Journey to Favignana

Once on board, you’ll start the trip at 9:30 am, heading toward Favignana. The boat itself is described as comfortable, with enough space for the group to enjoy the stunning views along the way. The duration to Favignana is approximately 2 hours, during which you can relax, take photos, or simply enjoy the breeze and salty sea air.

Traveling on a smaller boat with a group size that seems intimate enough to feel personal yet social adds to the charm. The reviews suggest that the crew, operated by EGADI LINES SNC DI VITO TORRE, is friendly and bilingual in Italian and English, making communication straightforward.

Favignana: Village Exploration & Coastal Tour

Upon arrival at Favignana, you’ll get around two hours of free time. This is your chance to wander the historic streets, browse local shops, or simply soak in the island atmosphere. The island’s charm lies in its whitewashed buildings, vibrant cafes, and the relaxed pace of life.

Next, the boat departs for a coastal tour, taking in notable sites like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra. These creeks are known for their dramatic cliffs and crystalline waters—perfect for photos and just as great for a quick swim or snorkel, with stops for a refreshing dip. Many travelers mention stopping for swimming, which is a highlight, especially as the waters are described as vividly blue and inviting.

Lunch on Board: Tasting Local Flavors

A key feature of this tour is the lunch served onboard, which includes pasta with pesto trapanese—a Sicilian specialty. The reviews highlight that the meal is straightforward but tasty, providing enough energy for the rest of the day’s activities. Having lunch on the boat means you don’t need to worry about finding a restaurant on the island, making the day more relaxed and seamless.

Visiting Levanzo: The Second Island

After lunch, you’ll cruise toward Levanzo, the smallest of the three main Aegadian Islands. The one-hour free time here allows for a quick exploration—perhaps a stroll along the harbor or a visit to the village. The island’s rugged coastline and breathtaking views make it worth a short stop.

The boat then continues to cruise along Levanzo’s coast, giving you a chance to admire the main creeks and scenic cliffs from the water. The overall experience is a mix of light exploration and plenty of opportunity for picture-perfect moments.

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Return and Optional City Visit

The journey back to Trapani is scheduled for around 5:00 to 5:30 pm, wrapping up your day of island-hopping. Many reviews mention that travelers often choose to explore Trapani’s old city center before heading back to Erice, adding a layer of cultural discovery to the day.

This tour offers a genuine look at the islands, with enough free time to get a sense of local life and natural beauty. The inclusion of lunch and swimming makes it a practical choice for those wanting a full-day experience without overspending.

However, keep in mind that entry to the islands costs €5 per person, payable on the day. Since the boat tickets are not included in the price, you’ll need to organize your transfer to Trapani, but once on board, the experience is straightforward and well-organized.

In terms of value, the tour covers boat travel, guided coastal views, free time on two islands, and a regional meal—fitting well within a day’s budget for a memorable Sicilian experience.

What Reviewers Say

While the sample review is brief—simply “BUONA”—it hints at an overall positive impression. Participants appreciate the stunning views and the easy, relaxed pace. The mention of “BUONA” suggests satisfaction with the meal, the coastal scenery, and the overall organization, even if some may wish for more free time or additional island activities.

This cruise suits travelers who want a taste of Sicily’s islands without the commitment of longer excursions. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, hopping between islands, and swimming in clear waters. Families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a relaxed, scenic day will find this trip appealing.

It’s also ideal if you’re interested in local flavors—the onboard lunch provides a simple but authentic Sicilian meal. Those not requiring wheelchair access or pregnant women should find this comfortable, as the tour is designed for general activity levels.

For anyone seeking a day of beautiful coastal scenery, island charm, and easy swimming opportunities, this minicruise from Erice hits the mark. The combination of free exploration, coastal views, and local cuisine on board makes for a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of the Aegadian Islands.

While you must handle your own transfers and pay a small island entry fee, the overall value lies in the stunning scenery, relaxed pace, and authentic touches like the regional lunch. It’s best suited for those who want an engaging yet uncomplicated way to explore Sicily’s famed islands—no fuss, just beauty.

Do I need to organize my transfer to Trapani?
Yes. The tour does not include transportation to the meeting point, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer, whether by bus, train, or car.

What time does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 9:00 am, with the boat departing at 9:30 am. Check availability for specific starting times, as they may vary.

Is there a fee to enter the islands?
Yes, a €5 fee per person is payable on the day of the cruise before boarding.

How long do we stay on each island?
Favignana has about 2 hours of free time, while Levanzo allows for about 1 hour to explore before cruising along the coasts.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour provides a simple, tasty lunch on board—pasta with pesto trapanese.

Can I swim during the tour?
Absolutely. Stops for swimming are planned, and the waters are described as blue and inviting for a refreshing dip.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, as the tour involves boat travel and some walking on the islands.

This Sicilian island cruise combines natural beauty, local flavor, and a relaxed pace—perfect for capturing the essence of the Aegadian Islands in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: