Ischia and Procida: Dinghy Excursion with Swim and Lunch Stop

Imagine spending a relaxing eight hours bobbing on the calm waters of the Gulf of Naples, exploring two of Italy’s most charming islands—Ischia and Procida. This dinghy excursion promises a mix of scenic beauty, fun swimming breaks, and a taste of local cuisine—all led by an experienced skipper who keeps things smooth and enjoyable. As a travel writer, I’ve looked into this experience, and here’s what you need to know to decide if it’s the right adventure for you.

What immediately draws us in are the crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, the opportunity to see the iconic Aragonese Castle from the sea, and the chance to capture spectacular photos of Marina di Corricella — one of Italy’s most picturesque fishing ports. The small group size (limited to 6 participants) promises a more intimate, personalized experience, ideal for those craving authentic moments away from big crowds.

A possible downside? This tour requires good weather and a bit of flexibility with timing, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more leisurely pace. Still, it’s a fantastic fit for travelers who love the sea, natural scenery, and discovering parts of Italy that feel both historic and unspoiled.

If you’re after a day that combines adventure, relaxation, and authentic coastal charm, this trip should be at the top of your list.

Contents show

Key Points

Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 participants for a more personalized touch.
Multiple Swimming Stops: Opportunities to cool off in the beautifully clear waters of Ischia and Procida.
Iconic Landmarks: See the Aragonese Castle from the water, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
Local Culture and Cuisine: Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Marina di Corricella, experiencing regional flavors.
Spectacular Views: Capture picturesque scenery of the Bay of Naples, a highlight for photography lovers.
Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a pay-later option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Naples

Departure and Start Point

The adventure begins at Piazzetta Marinari, adjacent to the popular restaurant Zi Teresa. The location is easy to reach if you’re staying in Naples, and the proximity to a well-known dining spot adds to the relaxed vibe. The tour check-in process is straightforward, and with a small group, the atmosphere tends to be cozy and friendly.

The First Leg: Sailing to Ischia

After a brief safety briefing and introduction from the skipper, you’ll set off on the dinghy, comfortably sized for a handful of travelers. The first leg, about an hour long, allows you to enjoy the sea breeze and breathtaking views of the coast. This is a good time to get your camera ready, as the scenery from the water offers sweeping vistas of steep cliffs and lush greenery.

Stop 1: Bay of Sant’Angelo

First stop? The Bay of Sant’Angelo on Ischia. This hidden gem is ideal for your initial swim — calm, shallow waters make it perfect for cooling down after the short sail. Reviewers frequently mention this spot as a highlight, with one noting, “The water was so clear, I felt like I was swimming in a pool, but with the stunning Italian coast as the backdrop.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Stop 2: The Aragonese Castle from the Sea

Next, the boat approaches the Aragonese Castle, a fortress that has watched over Ischia’s coastline for centuries. From the water, it’s especially photogenic, perched dramatically over turquoise waters. The stop here offers a chance for photos and a quick swim in the surrounding waters, which many describe as “refreshing” and “crystal-clear.” The castle’s imposing walls and historical charm make for a fascinating visual contrast with the natural setting.

There's plenty more to explore in Naples

Transition to Procida

From Ischia, the dinghy glides toward Procida, the tiny island crowned as Italy’s Capital of Culture in 2022. The ride itself reveals the vivid colors of Procida’s houses and harbor, intensifying the island’s image as a painter’s palette. It’s a scenic journey that keeps the camera busy.

Lunch Break in Marina di Corricella

On Procida, the highlight is the lunch stop in Marina di Corricella, a small fishing port famous for its colorful houses and authentic atmosphere. You’ll have about 2.5 hours here, enough time to stroll, take pictures, and enjoy regional food at a small local restaurant. Reviewers frequently comment on how the lunch provides a genuine taste of local cuisine, with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and regional specialties.

The Final Swim and Exploration

The last part of the tour involves another swim in some of Procida’s most beautiful bays. With around three hours to relax, swim, and explore, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the sun, wander along narrow streets, or simply float in the calm waters. Many guests note that this last swim offers the perfect way to unwind before heading back.

Return to Naples

By approximately 5:30 pm, the dinghy returns to the starting point, ending a day filled with spectacular scenery, authentic experiences, and refreshing swims. The trip’s length and pace are designed to maximize sightseeing while allowing ample downtime for enjoying the environment.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalized Small Group Atmosphere

With only six participants, the tour feels more like a boat trip with friends, rather than a large, impersonal group. This means more flexibility, better interaction with the skipper, and quieter, more private stops for swimming and photos.

Authentic Coastal Charm

The combination of cliffside castles, colorful fishing ports, and tranquil bays offers a quintessentially Italian experience—unfiltered by mass tourism. Many reviews mention that the local lunch and the unspoiled beauty of the islands make this a memorable cultural and natural discovery.

Spectacular Photo Opportunities

Photographers and social media enthusiasts will love the views of Marina di Corricella’s brightly painted houses, the imposing Aragonese Castle, and the sweeping coastline. The contrast of the blue waters, the historic architecture, and the natural landscape makes for plenty of share-worthy shots.

Value for Money

While not cheap, this tour packs in a full day of activity, swimming, sightseeing, and culture. The inclusion of water, soft drinks, and the guidance of an experienced skipper, plus the chance to explore two islands, makes it an overall good value for a unique, authentic experience.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
Swimwear: It’s recommended to wear or bring swimwear, as there are multiple swimming stops.
Footwear: Bring shoes that are suitable for walking on uneven surfaces, especially if you plan to explore the towns.
Lunch: Lunch is not included, so you might want to bring cash or a card to pay for your meal in Marina di Corricella.
Weather: The tour relies on good weather; check the forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling.
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, babies under 3, or wheelchair users, due to the boat and terrain.

The Sum Up

This dinghy tour of Ischia and Procida offers a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and authentic charm of southern Italy’s coastlines. The balance of swimming, sightseeing, and local culture makes it appealing for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day without feeling rushed. The small group size and professional skipper ensure a personalized touch, while the picturesque stops promise plenty of photo opportunities.

Perfect for those who love the sea, stunning views, and discovering lesser-known Italian islands, this experience delivers a memorable taste of coastal Italy. Whether you’re seeking a fun escape from busy city life or a peaceful day filled with natural beauty, this tour can be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old, and the experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Kids over 3 should be supervised, especially during swimming stops.

How long is the sailing?
The first sailing leg to Ischia lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and relax on the boat.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the boat with a professional skipper, fuel, and water with soft drinks on board. Lunch isn’t included, and guests should plan to purchase their own in Marina di Corricella.

How many stops are there for swimming?
There are at least three dedicated swimming stops: in the Bay of Sant’Angelo, near the Aragonese Castle, and in Procida’s bays, totaling around five hours of swim time.

What kind of boat is used?
The tour uses a comfortable dinghy suitable for small groups, offering plenty of space and stability for a smooth ride.

Are photos allowed during the stops?
Absolutely. Guests often mention that the views are breathtaking and perfect for capturing on camera.

Is lunch available on the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but ample time is provided in Marina di Corricella to enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, hat, camera, a change of clothes, and some cash or card for lunch or souvenirs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Weather conditions can affect the schedule, so check ahead and be flexible.

Embark on this scenic, authentic, and refreshing journey around Ischia and Procida, and enjoy a day filled with beautiful vistas, crystal waters, and local charm.