Tuscany: Cruise with Lunch and a Drink

If you’re dreaming of soaking in Tuscany’s stunning coastline from the water, the Cruise with Lunch and a Drink offered by Civitatours promises a taste of the azure sea, hidden coves, and Mediterranean beauty. While reviews are mixed, the experience provides a unique way to see some of Italy’s most captivating coastlines—if you’re prepared for a laid-back, flexible boat trip.

What stands out most? The chance to sail past cliffs, secluded bays, and iconic features like the Formiche di Grosseto. The on-board lunch of fresh, seasonal dishes adds to the relaxed vibe, and the small group format promises a more intimate adventure. Yet, some guests have found the experience a bit slow, with limited sailing time, which is worth keeping in mind.

This tour will appeal most to those who love scenic views and appreciate casual, natural settings over structured sightseeing. If you’re seeking a peaceful day on the water with good company, it could be just right. But if you prefer a packed, high-energy tour, you might want to explore other options.

This experience made our article of 4 Most Highly Rated Cruises And Boat Tours In Florence.

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Key Points

Flexible itinerary based on weather, with highlights including Cala Grande and the Formiche di Grosseto.
Small group experience limited to six guests for a more relaxed vibe.
Includes lunch and drinks, offering a taste of local cuisine alongside scenic cruising.
Departure points from Talamone or Porto Santo Stefano, depending on availability.
Limited sailing time, with some reviews mentioning extended periods of idling.
Weather-dependent experience — the captain will adapt the route for safety and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tuscany Sailing Experience

This tour is designed as a half-day escape—about 7 hours in total—starting at 10 AM from either Talamone or Porto Santo Stefano. The exact departure location depends on availability, so you’ll want to confirm your meeting point in advance.

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The Sailing Itself

Most of the day is spent cruising along the Argentario coast. The captain, whose skill and local knowledge are key to the experience, will choose the best coves and spots based on current sea, wind, and weather conditions. This means your journey is somewhat unpredictable but aims to guarantee the most scenic and safest stops.

Guests are likely to see a selection of striking locations such as Cala di Forno, Le Cannelle, Cala Grande, Cala del Gesso, and the Formiche di Grosseto. These are among the coast’s most visually appealing points—cliffs, turquoise waters, and hidden beaches that rival more tropical destinations.

Highlights of the Coastline

The Argentario coast is famous for its color contrasts—craggy cliffs, lush Mediterranean vegetation, and clear waters that provide excellent opportunities for snorkeling and swimming. Guests can expect to pass by old marine watchtowers, adding a touch of history to the scenic backdrop.

Cala Grande, in particular, is praised for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful natural surroundings. Cala del Gesso charms with its white pebbles and commanding views of a historic watchtower. The Formiche di Grosseto—three rocky islets—offer a sense of untouched wilderness, perfect for nature lovers.

The Food and Drinks

The experience includes a small aperitif with snacks like regional cheeses or charcuterie, served with Prosecco or a refreshing drink. Soft drinks are available for children—an added thoughtful touch.

Later on, a light lunch is served on board, featuring seasonal, fresh dishes such as cold pasta or rice salads, Caprese, or mixed greens. This casual meal is accompanied by water, chilled wine, and sometimes a touch of limoncello, giving you a proper taste of local flavors while enjoying the surroundings.

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The Downside? Extended Idling and Limited Sails

One of the main criticisms from past guests is that a significant amount of time—around 6 hours—was spent idling on a small, somewhat cluttered boat. A reviewer pointed out that only about 45 minutes of actual sailing occurred in an 8-hour window, which can make the experience feel sluggish.

While the captain will do their best to optimize the route, weather and sea conditions may mean less sailing time than anticipated. The boat’s size and comfort level also influence how relaxing the trip feels.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who value scenic vistas and a relaxed cruise rather than a fast-paced sightseeing tour. If your priority is to enjoy the sea, nature, and casual dining in an intimate setting, you’ll likely find this worthwhile.

However, travelers who expect more sailing or more structured stops might find the slow pace and limited sailing time disappointing. It’s also less suitable for those with mobility challenges or anyone looking for a high-energy adventure.

Practical Details That Matter

Duration: About 7 hours, departing at 10 AM (check availability for exact times).
Group size: Small, limited to 6 participants, which enhances intimacy but also means booking early is advisable.
Departure points: Talamone (Pontile Fratelli Cardosa) or Porto Santo Stefano (Domiziano Pier), depending on availability.
Inclusions: Aperitif, lunch, drinks (Prosecco, wine, beer, water, soft drinks).
Exclusions: Hotel pickup or drop-off—participants need to arrange their own transportation.
Weather conditions: The route is flexible but depends on weather; safety is prioritized.
What to bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, beachwear—be prepared for swimming or relaxing on deck.
Language: The tour is conducted in Italian, so some understanding of the language might help.
Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, offering some flexibility.

A Closer Look at the Experience from Past Guests

While some reviews express disappointment about the amount of time spent idling, others appreciate the friendly crew and the opportunity to relax in a beautiful setting. One guest noted, “Nice people but in 8 hours we spent 45 minutes sailing,” highlighting that expectations about the sailing aspect should be tempered.

Another reviewer mentioned that the views are stunning, making the trip worth it for the scenery alone, especially if you’re a fan of tranquil, natural landscapes. The casual lunch, served with local wine, was also a positive aspect for many guests.

Is This Tour Worth It?

The value depends largely on what you seek. If you’re after a peaceful day with plenty of scenic vistas and don’t mind a slow pace, this trip offers a chance to savor the coast’s wild beauty. The small-group environment and inclusive lunch make it a more personal experience, especially for those who prefer a relaxed, intimate outing.

However, for travelers craving active sailing or a more dynamic itinerary, this may fall short. The lengthy periods of inactivity on the boat and the limited sailing time have been a point of critique, so managing expectations is key.

Who Should Book This Tour?

Sea lovers who enjoy gentle cruising and coastal scenery.
Foodies looking to sample local, seasonal dishes onboard.
Those seeking a small-group experience for a more personal touch.
Travelers interested in hidden coves and untouched natural beauty.
People comfortable with weather-dependent plans and flexible itineraries.

Conversely, if you prefer more sailing or a more active day, consider other options in Tuscany.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where does the tour start?

You can meet the crew at Talamone (Pontile Fratelli Cardosa) or Porto Santo Stefano (Domiziano Pier), depending on availability.

Is transportation provided to the meeting points?

No, participants need to arrange their own transport to the departure locations.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear because the trip involves stops for swimming or relaxing on deck.

How long is the cruise?

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with departure around 10 AM; check availability for the exact start times.

Are drinks included?

Yes, the price includes Prosecco, wine, beer, water, and soft drinks, as well as snacks and a light lunch.

Is the experience suitable for children?

Soft drinks are offered for kids, but the tour’s physical aspects and boat size may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscany sailing tour offers a leisurely way to explore the coast’s most photogenic spots with a small, intimate group. The stunning views of cliffs, coves, and rocky islets make for memorable photo opportunities, especially with the inclusion of a relaxed lunch and drinks.

While some guests have felt the sailing time was limited, the casual pace and scenic beauty provide an authentic, unhurried experience that’s perfect for those who love nature and tranquil waters. If you’re a traveler who appreciates quiet, scenic moments and a good meal in a stunning setting, this cruise can deliver a peaceful, beautiful day on the sea.

For those expecting a lively, fast-moving tour, it’s worth considering whether the slow cruising and potential idle periods align with your vacation style. Overall, it’s a charming way to see Tuscany’s coast—if you’re okay with the trip’s laid-back rhythm.

Remember: Always double-check availability and meeting points, and prepare for a flexible itinerary. This is not a high-energy sailing adventure but a gentle cruise that promises some of the best coastal views Italy has to offer.