SciatumiaDay boat tour to Lampedusa with typical lunch

Introduction

Planning a day trip around Lampedusa? This Sciatumia Day boat tour offers an authentic way to explore the island’s most stunning spots with a relaxed, naturalistic approach. The experience promises not just sightseeing but a genuine connection to the breathtaking surroundings, topped with delicious local cuisine.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the exceptional quality of the onboard amenities, including dedicated toilets and shaded areas for comfort. Second, the sumptuous lunch based on fresh fish, served as it would be in a restaurant, making the journey feel special. Lastly, the informative and friendly guides help you uncover the secrets of Lampedusa beyond the usual tourist spots.

That said, the tour involves a fair amount of navigation, with around two and a half hours of travel between stops. This might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to boat rides. It’s best suited for those who enjoy natural beauty, snorkeling, and engaging stories from knowledgeable guides. Overall, it’s a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focused on natural beauty and learning, not just sightseeing.
• Fresh, Gourmet Lunch: Fish-based meal served at the table, mimicking restaurant quality.
• Comfort on Board: Shaded areas, separate toilets, and plenty of space to relax.
• Varied Itinerary: Stops at iconic coves, snorkeling spots, and historical wrecks.
• Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides share stories and local secrets.
• Value for Money: For under $100, you get multiple stops, food, and an unforgettable day.

Overall Experience and What to Expect

This Sciatumia boat tour is a well-rounded way to see Lampedusa’s highlights without feeling rushed. The highlight is the balance between relaxation and adventure—you get to lounge comfortably on the boat or dive into the sea at multiple stops.

Starting at 9:00 am from Via Alessandro Volta, you’ll board the boat, where friendly staff, especially the guide known as Gianfranco, set a warm tone. Guests consistently mentioned how welcoming, informative, and attentive Gianfranco and his team are, making everyone feel at home from the start. One reviewer noted how Gianfranco’s detailed explanations brought each stop to life, turning a simple trip into a memorable learning experience.

The boat itself is equipped with shaded and sunlit areas—crucial since the Sicilian sun can be intense. The onboard toilets are separate for men and women, a small but appreciated detail that enhances comfort during the 7.5-hour adventure. The group is limited to 28 travelers**, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere, which is especially helpful when the guides are sharing local lore and answering questions.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Isola dei Conigli

The tour kicks off around 9:30 am, with your first stop at Isola dei Conigli, famed for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear water. This spot is often considered one of Italy’s most beautiful beaches, and you’ll visit for about 30 minutes. Here, you can walk along the soft sands, take photos, or simply soak in the tranquility. The guide shares insights into the island’s ecological importance, especially as a nesting site for seabirds.

Stop 2: Cala Pulcino

Next, you’ll anchor at Cala Pulcino for 30 minutes of swimming and snorkeling. As one reviewer pointed out, the waters are so clear that even just floating around reveals a fascinating underwater world. Snorkel gear is likely provided, and the shallow, sheltered waters make it safe for swimmers of all levels.

Stop 3: Lampedusa Cove

The highlight is lunch on board in a beautiful cove, where a sumptuous fish-based meal awaits. The menu features homemade pasta with fresh fish, accompanied by antipasti like prawn and scampi crudités, marinated anchovies, and the famous aubergine caponata. Dessert, fruit, coffee, and digestives complete the experience. Guests find the lunch to be impressive, with one reviewer describing it as “like a restaurant quality meal, served comfortably at the table.”

Post-lunch, there’s time for swimming and snorkeling. This stop is often seen as a real treat because of the idyllic setting and the chance to cool off in the warm waters.

Stop 4: Capo Ponente

You’ll visit the wreck of a steamship, which sank over 50 years ago. Snorkelers can marvel at the rusted relic visible from the surface in the crystal-clear sea. As the engines idle, you might hear the cries of queen’s falcons, a protected species that nests nearby, adding a wild, natural element to the experience.

Stop 5: Multiple Coastal Stops

The last part of the trip involves several stops, often including Sacramento Stack, Muro Vecchio, and Punta dell’Acqua. Each offers unique scenery—like the dramatic Madonna rock and the caves of Sacramento or the pristine waters of Muro Vecchio, perfect for snorkeling.

One reviewer mentioned that Punta dell’Acqua is a spot unreachable from land, with wild ferns and natural springs flowing out of the cliffs, creating a surreal, untouched atmosphere. These stops typically last 30 minutes each, giving enough time to swim, take photos, or just relax.

The Onboard Experience

What really elevates this tour is the quality of the boat and crew. The vessel is comfortable, with shaded and sunlit zones, and the separate toilets are a thoughtful touch for a full-day trip. The size of the group—up to 28 travelers—strikes a good balance between having enough company and maintaining intimacy.

The crew, especially Gianfranco, is praised for their knowledge and friendliness. They share stories about the islands, the wildlife, and local traditions, making the journey educational as well as fun. One guest noted how Gianfranco’s detailed explanations made each stop come alive, transforming a sightseeing tour into a storybook come to life.

Food and Beverage

The lunch onboard truly stands out. It’s served at your table, reminiscent of a restaurant meal but in the open sea. The focus on fresh fish and homemade dishes makes this not just a snack but a highlight of the trip. Guests consistently rave about the food, describing it as “amazing,” and the selection of salads, seafood, and desserts adds authentic local flavor.

The inclusion of fruit, coffee, and digestives ensures that the meal feels complete, leaving you refreshed for the rest of the day.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book about 16 days ahead—due to limited spots and high demand.
• The tour starts at 9:00 am from Via Alessandro Volta and lasts about 7.5 hours.
• Dress comfortably, bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a hat.
• The boat ride involves around 2.5 hours of navigation between stops, so be prepared for some time at sea.
• Not suitable for those with health issues not in good shape, as the trip involves a fair amount of swimming and boat movement.
• The tour is mostly suitable for most travelers, but check individual physical conditions especially if you plan to swim or snorkel extensively.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for sea lovers, foodies, and curious travelers who want a relaxed yet engaging day exploring Lampedusa’s best natural sights. The focus on quality amenities, delicious local cuisine, and insightful guides makes for an experience that feels both authentic and comfortable.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy snorkeling, scenic views, and learning about local wildlife. If you appreciate having a smaller group for a more personalized experience, this tour ticks that box, too.

However, if your main priority is quick sightseeing or you’re not comfortable on boats, you might want to consider other options. But for anyone wanting to truly connect with Lampedusa’s wild beauty, this tour promises a memorable, fulfilling day.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, children should be comfortable on boats and in the water. The itinerary involves swimming and snorkeling, so supervision and comfort in the water are recommended.

Are meals included in the price?
Yes, the sumptuous fish-based lunch is part of the tour. It includes a variety of dishes, fruits, coffee, and digestives, all served onboard.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Comfortable footwear and a light jacket for the boat are also advisable.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, giving ample time for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing.

What wildlife might I see?
You might hear the cries of queen’s falcons, a protected species, and see seabirds nesting nearby. The waters are full of marine life perfect for snorkelers.

Is the boat air-conditioned?
The boat has shaded areas and open decks but not explicitly air-conditioned spaces. Expect to enjoy fresh sea breezes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing for flexible planning.

This Sciatumia boat tour offers a thoughtfully curated day of natural beauty, great food, and engaging stories—perfect for those who want an authentic, laid-back exploration of Lampedusa.