From Trapani: Egadi Islands tour with lunch on board

Traveling to Sicily often means savoring its historic sites, delicious food, and stunning coastlines. But for those craving a true maritime escape, a boat tour around the Egadi Islands offers an unbeatable blend of natural beauty, authentic local flavor, and memorable moments. We haven’t personally taken this tour ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear this experience can be a highlight of your Sicilian adventure.

What we love about this trip are the breathtaking scenery, the well-organized schedule, and the delicious onboard lunch featuring local flavors. It seems perfect for those who want a full day of exploring without the hassle of planning multiple activities. A potential drawback? Some travelers mention that the time spent on each island can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore in depth.

This tour is ideal for sea lovers, those interested in scenic cruising, and anyone looking for a value-packed day trip. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local cuisine, this trip offers a compelling option.

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Key Points

Comfortable boat experience with onboard restroom and free time on each island
Stunning vistas of coves, caves, and cliffs only accessible by sea
Authentic Sicilian lunch with local specialties included in the price
Flexible schedule with free time for shopping, sightseeing, or swimming
Affordable value with a competitive price point and scenic highlights
Potential for crowds, especially during peak season, so plan accordingly

An Overview of the Egadi Islands Boat Tour

This full-day tour departs from Trapani at 9:30 am, setting sail for the Egadi Islands, a string of islands renowned for their jaw-dropping scenery and crystal-clear waters. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore, relax, and enjoy the sea.

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Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins at the Trapani port, with a briefing about 30 minutes before departure. The boat, operated by Blu Lines s.r.l., is described as modern, comfortable, and capable of quick, smooth sailing—an important factor considering the roughly 40-minute cruise to Favignana.

On the way, you’ll get views of Colombaia of Trapani and Formica Island, adding a scenic prelude to your day. Reviewers mention the boat’s friendly crew and the fact that it’s not overcrowded, which helps keep the trip comfortable.

Favignana: The Main Island with Free Exploration Time

Arriving around 10:20 am, Favignana is the biggest highlight. The island’s charming village, local shops, and historical sites like the Ex Stabilimento Florio Museum draw many visitors. You’ll have about two hours here, which many feel is enough for a quick look around, shopping, and a refreshing swim.

One reviewer shared that they appreciated having the option to visit the museum or just relax on the beach. The main beach in front of the port is described as beautiful and perfect for a quick dip. The free time allows visitors to tailor their experience—whether that’s a stroll, some local snacks, or an island visit.

Coastal Cruise and Lunch on Board

After returning to the boat at 12:30 pm, the journey along Favignana’s coast begins. You’ll cruise past stunning coveted spots like Cala Rossa, Scalo Cavallo, Bue Marino, and Cala Azzurra. The boat will stop at one of these spots for a swim—a favorite for many reviewers.

The lunch served on board is a highlight. It’s described as a typical Trapani meal with pasta alla Trapanese, water, wine, and fruit. The crew, especially the captain, earns praise for their friendly service. One reviewer noted the lunch was good, and the juicy melon was a perfect refreshment after swimming.

Levanzo: A Small, Tranquil Island

Following the lunch, you’re off to Levanzo, a tiny island famed for its quiet charm and picturesque village. You’ll have about an hour to wander the streets, take photos, or relax before the boat tour continues.

Reviewers mention that the boat tour of Levanzo’s Faraglioni and coves, like Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola, is a true visual treat. Many find this part of the trip to be particularly scenic and peaceful, especially compared to the busier Favignana.

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Return to Trapani

By around 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, the boat heads back, returning to the port with ample time to reflect on the day’s adventures.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price of roughly $52.33 per person includes the boat cruise, onboard restroom, free time at each island, and the lunch—a good deal considering the scenic stops and local cuisine. The only extra expense is a €5 entrance fee payable before boarding, which grants access to some museums or specific sites if you choose to visit.

Reviews highlight the value for money: many appreciate the included lunch, free time, and sightseeing. Some mention that the lunch was simple but tasty, offering authentic flavors without extra cost.

The Realities of the Experience: Pros and Cons

What Travelers Love

Stunning scenery tops the list. Reviewers rave about the views of caves, coves, cliffs, and the boat’s ability to access hidden spots that are impossible to reach otherwise. The friendly crew and knowledgeable guides add a warm, personal touch, making the day feel special.

People also value the free time on each island, which allows for a flexible experience—whether shopping, sightseeing, or simply relaxing on the beach. The lunch onboard, a local specialty, is often described as delicious and satisfying, adding to the overall value.

Areas for Consideration

Some guests say that time on each island feels somewhat limited, especially if you’re eager to explore more deeply or visit specific museums. The crowd levels can be high during peak season, experienced by at least one reviewer who described the boat as overcrowded and the swimming spot as small and rocky.

Weather can impact the trip—poor weather might lead to cancellations or changes in the itinerary, so checking the forecast is wise.

How It Compares to Other Tours

While this tour is praised for its value and scenic highlights, some travelers suggest that adding extra time on Favignana or Levanzo would elevate the experience. However, given the price point, most feel it’s an excellent introduction to the islands for first-timers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Egadi Islands boat tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day out with authentic local touches. It’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate cruise-style sightseeing with varied activities—swimming, shopping, exploring.

If you’re someone who hates tight schedules or prefers deep culture, this might feel a bit rushed. Conversely, if you’re after a well-organized day of island-hopping, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price, this tour offers a serious bang for your buck—combining scenic cruising, free time, local cuisine, and beautiful islands. The friendly crew and comfortable boat make for a pleasant day, even with some inevitable crowds in high season.

While it’s not a full, exhaustive exploration of each island, it delivers a snapshot of the Egadi archipelago’s natural beauty and authentic charm. If your time in Sicily is limited but you crave a sea-based adventure, this trip provides a balanced, enjoyable experience.

Best suited for:

First-time visitors wanting a taste of the islands
Travelers seeking a relaxed day afloat
Those eager to enjoy scenic views and local cuisine
Anyone wanting good value for money without sacrificing comfort

Less ideal for:

Visitors wanting in-depth island tours or cultural visits
Those who prefer private, less crowded experiences
Travelers with limited mobility or difficulty with crowds

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience is approximately 8 hours, from departure at 9:30 am to return around 5:00–6:00 pm.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers boat transportation, onboard restroom, free time on Favignana and Levanzo, and a typical Trapani lunch with water, wine, and fruit.

Are there additional fees?
Yes, there’s a €5 entrance fee payable before boarding, which gives access to museums or specific sites if you choose to visit.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, the boat stops at coves like Cala Rossa for swimming, which many reviewers say is a highlight of the day.

Is the boat comfortable?
Most reviews describe the boat as modern, comfortable, and not overly crowded, ensuring a pleasant experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and perhaps a towel. The onboard lunch and drinks are included, but extra snacks or souvenirs are up to you.

This Egadi Islands tour from Trapani balances scenic beauty, local flavors, and relaxed exploration—ideal for travelers eager to enjoy Sicily’s waters and islands without fuss.