Sailing tour on Salento coast

Planning a day of sailing along Italy’s stunning Salento coast? We’ve taken a close look at a popular 7-hour sailing tour offered by ALMALIBRE SAILING TOURS, and here’s what you need to know before booking. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just after some relaxing time by the sea, this tour promises a blend of scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and gentle adventure.

What caught our eye? First, the suggestive itinerary that takes you to exclusive bays and islands only accessible by boat, second, the friendly and courteous crew that makes you feel welcomed, and third, the impeccable, comfortable boat designed to enhance your day at sea. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the boat capacity and the limited scope of the trip, which might influence your decision. This tour seems best suited for those who want a laid-back, scenic sailing experience in beautiful surroundings without the fuss of large groups or complex logistics.

This experience made our article of Gallipoli Italy’s 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours: Which To Choose?.

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Key Points

Authentic coastal experience with visits to secluded bays and islands only reachable by sea.
Small group size (limited to 6 participants), fostering intimacy and personalized attention.
Relaxing pace with plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and on-board aperitifs.
Flexible itinerary tailored by the skipper, with weather conditions influencing the route.
Comfortable boat with modern amenities and friendly crew.
Clear pricing, including drinks, fuel, and final cleaning, offering good value for a full day at sea.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Salento Coast Sailing Tour

This 7-hour tour takes you along the southeastern coast of Italy’s Apulia region, a stretch famed for its rocky coves, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Starting from the Marina Yachting Portolano, the journey is designed to balance scenic cruising with stops for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying local drinks. The tour runs daily, with departure times around 10 am, making it a flexible option to fit a day of seaside exploration into your itinerary.

The tour’s core appeal lies in its suggestive itinerary, which includes visits to the island of S. Andrea, Torre Pizzo, and other bays accessible only by sea. It’s ideal for those who want to explore lesser-known spots away from crowded beaches, with the added bonus of a relaxed sailing experience. The crew provides a brief safety briefing at the start—important for those unfamiliar with boat trips—and then you’re free to enjoy the scenery.

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Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point: Marina Yachting Portolano

All tours kick off here. As soon as you arrive, it’s advisable to call the contact number to ensure a smooth embarkation. The port is conveniently located, and the crew is available to welcome guests and assist with any questions about the day.

Safety Briefing & Gallipoli

The first official stop is Gallipoli, where the skipper will give a 30-minute safety briefing. This is a good moment to familiarize yourself with the boat and ask any questions. Many reviews mention that the crew is courteous and friendly, which helps set a relaxed tone for the day.

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Lido Pizzo: The First Swim Spot

Next, you’ll sail towards Lido Pizzo, a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The boat stays here for approximately 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to jump into the water and enjoy the beautiful coastline. You’ll love the way the boat’s design allows for easy access to the sea, making swimming and relaxing in the sun effortless. Reviewers have appreciated this stop, with one describing it as the highlight of the day.

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Second Swimming & Sailing Segment

Following Lido Pizzo, the boat continues for another 2.5 hours, with more opportunities to swim or just relax on deck. The crew often encourages participation, and some travelers have found this part to be a peaceful, stress-free experience. You might also get to enjoy an onboard aperitif, with drinks included in the price—perfect for toasting the day.

Return to Marina Portolano

The tour concludes back at the starting point, usually around 5 pm. The crew ensures the boat is cleaned before disembarking. Some reviews note that the full trip does not leave Gallipoli to explore other parts of the coast, which may be a limitation if you’re expecting to see more of the region.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour package covers the boat rental, navigation, skipper, sailor, fuel, and the aperitif tasting with drinks, providing a straightforward all-in-one experience. Plus, the boat is equipped with a Stand Up Paddle (SUP), adding some fun options for those who want more than just swimming.

However, there are some noteworthy exclusions. Snorkeling equipment is not included, so if you want to snorkel, you’ll need to bring or rent your own gear. Also, the tour doesn’t include transfer services from your accommodation, so you’ll need to arrange transport to the marina. The boat’s limited capacity—strictly six participants—is ideal for intimacy but can be cramped if more guests show up, as some reviews have highlighted.

The boat has a modern, comfortable setup, but one review noted discomfort when the boat was over capacity—eight people on a boat advertised for six. Shade might also be limited, so bringing sun protection is advised.

The Crew and Atmosphere

According to reviews, the crew is generally friendly, courteous, and eager to make the experience enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned that the skipper Diego did a fantastic job involving everyone and making the sailing fun. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that some reviewers pointed out language barriers, as the crew did not speak English during their trip. That’s worth considering if you’re not comfortable with Italian.

The tour is described as a small group experience, which allows for more personalized service and the chance to ask questions or relax at your own pace. The intimate setting is perfect for couples, small families, or friends wanting a tranquil day at sea.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Tips

Many travelers appreciate the informative briefings and the chance to learn about the coastline, even if the trip focuses more on relaxation than rigorous sightseeing. The onboard aperitif, with drinks included, offers a nice Italian touch, and the scenery provides endless photo opportunities.

What to bring? Pack essentials like sunglasses, a towel, water shoes, and sun protection. Remember, large bags or pets are not allowed, and alcohol consumption onboard has restrictions. If you’re planning to snorkel, bring your gear along as it’s not supplied.

Worth noting: The tour’s flexibility means the skipper may change the route based on weather, which is great for safety but can sometimes mean missing out on some areas if the weather is unfavorable or the boat stays in Gallipoli.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing experience is ideal for seekers of relaxation, scenic beauty, and small-group intimacy. If you enjoy being on the water without the hassle of large crowds, and you’re comfortable with a potentially limited scope of exploration, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. It’s also a good choice if you want drinks included and a chance to swim in picturesque bays.

On the other hand, if you’re after a comprehensive tour of all Salento’s coastlines or want a more active, adventure-focused experience with snorkeling equipment and flexible stops, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This sailing tour offers a peaceful, scenic way to enjoy the stunning Salento coast. The small group setting and friendly crew make it a cozy, authentic experience, perfect for those who value quality over quantity. The crystal-clear waters and exclusive bays truly stand out, making it a memorable day for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The value for money is generally good, given the included drinks, fuel, and onboard activities, though the limited scope—mainly staying around Gallipoli—might not suit travelers looking to explore further afield. If you’re after a laid-back day with beautiful views, gentle sailing, and easy swimming, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be aware of the boat capacity and weather-related route changes.

In summary, this experience suits those who want a relaxed, scenic outing on a well-equipped boat, valuing intimacy and local charm over extensive sightseeing. Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who loves the sea and wants to enjoy Italy’s coast in a comfortable, laid-back way.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 10 am and ending around 5 pm, but check availability for exact times.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Marina Yachting Portolano and finishes back at the same point.

Are drinks included?
Yes, there is an aperitif tasting on board with drinks included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Is snorkeling equipment available?
No, snorkeling gear is not included, so you’ll need to bring your own if you want to snorkel.

Can I bring large bags or pets?
No, large or rigid baggage, as well as pets, are not permitted on board.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a towel, water shoes, and sun protection. It’s also advisable to carry your own snorkeling gear if desired.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 4 years old, pregnant women, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg). Also, it may not be suitable for people over 80.

What language is spoken during the tour?
The main languages are Italian and English, but some crew members may only speak Italian.

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

In essence, this sailing tour on the Salento coast delivers a calm, scenic escape perfect for those craving authentic Italian seaside moments with a dash of adventure. Just plan ahead and enjoy the relaxing ride!