From Palermo: Daily Cruise to Favignana & Levanzo w/Lunch

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, charming island villages, and a relaxing day on the sea, this daily cruise from Palermo to Favignana and Levanzo might fit the bill. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, we’ve reviewed the details and feedback to give you an honest, comprehensive picture of what to expect.

What makes this experience attractive? First, the scenic coastal cruise offers breathtaking views of the famous creeks like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra. Second, the combination of island exploration and swimming allows plenty of downtime for enjoying the sea. Lastly, the inclusive onboard lunch featuring traditional pasta with pesto and local wine delivers good value for a full day out.

A potential consideration is the transfer logistics — since transport from Palermo to Trapani isn’t included, you’ll need to organize that separately. This might cause some planning headaches, especially if you’re not familiar with local transport options.

This tour suits travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor without breaking the bank. Ideal for those comfortable with a day-long schedule and eager to explore multiple islands in a single trip.

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Key Points

Comfortable boat cruise with scenic views of Favignana and Levanzo
Includes a traditional Sicilian lunch with pasta, fruit, and wine
Swim stops in crystal-clear waters are part of the experience
Island free time varies, with around two hours on Favignana and one on Levanzo
Not included: transfer from Palermo and island entry fee
Suitable for those looking for a full-day adventure, but not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or pets

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting early, this tour sets the tone for a full day of island hopping. The day begins with a bus transfer from Palermo to Trapani, leaving at 7:00 am, arriving around 9:05 am. It’s worth noting that the transfer isn’t included in the ticket price, so you’ll need to book your own transport — a bus is recommended, specifically Segesta Autolinee, as that’s the route most travelers seem to prefer.

Once in Trapani, the boat departs at 9:30 am for Favignana. The journey itself offers a fantastic opportunity to admire the coastline of Sicily, with the boat gliding past rugged cliffs and shimmering waters. Within an hour, you arrive at Favignana, one of the most picturesque and lively of the Egadi Islands.

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Favignana: The First Stop

You’re given approximately two hours of free time to explore the island’s charming village. Many travelers enjoy wandering through its narrow streets, taking in the pastel-colored buildings and the relaxed pace. Some reviews suggest renting bikes or scooters to maximize exploration — a tip that’s worth considering if you want to see the main coves and hidden corners.

The boat tour then continues with a coastal cruise around Favignana, giving passengers a chance to admire the island from the water. Highlights include the famous Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, renowned for their stunning colors and dramatic cliffs. These spots are ideal for photos and for appreciating the natural beauty of the coast.

Swimming & Lunch

A key highlight: a stop for swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Many reviewers mention the waters’ exceptional clarity, perfect for a quick dip to cool off. The boat crew usually assists with the swim, and you may find that some stops are brief but refreshing.

The onboard lunch is a simple but tasty offering — pasta with pesto trapanese, fresh fruit, and a glass of local wine. Comments from travelers describe it as “good value,” especially considering the included drinks and the scenic setting. It’s a great way to relax and refuel before heading to the next island.

Levanzo and Final Island Exploration

After lunch, the boat heads towards Levanzo, where you’re allocated about an hour of free time. This small, rugged island offers a different vibe — less built-up than Favignana, with more untouched landscapes and scenic coastlines. Here, you might want to take a walk around or snap photos of the dramatic cliffs and small coves.

The cruise then circles around Levanzo, showcasing its iconic creeks and rugged coastlines. It’s a visual feast for lovers of nature and coastlines alike.

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Return Journey & Optional City Tour

The boat departs Levanzo around 5:00 to 5:30 pm, heading back to Trapani. From there, you have options: either a bus back to Palermo at 6:30 pm or an opportunity to explore Trapani’s old city center — a charming area with historic buildings, local cafes, and lively squares.

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Practicalities & What to Bring

While the tour includes lunch, swimming stops, and guided views, keep in mind that transfer from Palermo is not included. It’s up to you to arrange your transport, preferably by bus, for a smooth experience.

Travel essentials include sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel, especially if you plan to swim. The tour explicitly disallows pets, alcohol, and drugs onboard, emphasizing safety and comfort for all passengers.

Authentic Feedback & Tips from Past Travelers

One of the best ways to gauge a tour’s quality is through reviews. The feedback here is generally positive, with many appreciating the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. A traveler noted, “The skippers were on time and gave us a warm welcome,” highlighting professionalism.

However, some travelers pointed out areas for improvement. For example, a few expressed disappointment at not enough swimming stops or wished for more free time on the islands. One reviewer mentioned, “I recommend renting bikes or scooters to see as many places as possible,” which can greatly enhance your experience.

A less favorable review pointed out the lack of clear information about transportation from Palermo, which caused a missed trip for some, emphasizing the importance of planning your transfer ahead.

The Value Proposition: Is It Worth It?

At around $45 per person, this tour offers a decent balance of cost and experience. For that price, you get to visit two beautiful islands, enjoy scenic coastal views, partake in a swim, and indulge in a traditional Sicilian lunch. When you consider the included lunch, the guided views, and free exploration time, it’s a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting a comprehensive island day.

The lack of transfer included is a minor inconvenience, but booking your transport separately is straightforward and allows flexibility. Remember, there’s an additional €5 entry fee to access the islands, payable on the day — so factor that into your budget.

Who Will Love This Tour

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a full-day adventure combining boat travel, island wandering, and beach time without the hassle of organizing multiple transport legs. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want to experience Sicily’s coast and islands efficiently.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic views and swimming, as well as anyone interested in tasting local cuisine in a relaxed setting. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed or customizable experience, or have mobility issues, you might find the free time limited.

The Sum Up

This Palermo to Favignana and Levanzo cruise offers a wonderful glimpse of Sicily’s stunning islands with a good balance of sightseeing, swimming, and local flavor. The included traditional lunch and guided coastal views elevate the experience beyond just a boat trip, making it a great value.

Travelers who appreciate natural beauty, straightforward logistics, and the opportunity to explore multiple islands in one day will find it quite rewarding. The tour’s flexibility, with free time on each island, allows for some personal exploration — whether that’s relaxing on the beach or wandering through quaint villages.

While the transfer logistics require separate planning, the overall experience delivers a memorable day on the water with impressive scenery and authentic touches that are hard to beat for the price. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see Sicily’s coast with a good mix of activity and relaxation.

FAQ

Is transportation from Palermo to Trapani included?
No, the tour only sells boat tickets. You’ll need to organize your own transfer, with the bus recommended for simplicity.

What is the departure time from Trapani?
The boat departs at 9:30 am from Trapani and returns around 5:00-5:30 pm.

How much time do I get on Favignana?
Approximately two hours of free time to explore the village and enjoy the scenery.

Can I rent bikes or scooters on Favignana?
Yes, some reviewers suggest renting bikes or scooters to see more of the island during your free time.

What are the main sights I’ll see on the cruise?
You’ll enjoy views of Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, and other prominent creeks while cruising along the coast.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a typical lunch with pasta con pesto trapanese, fruit, and a glass of wine is included on board.

Are there swimming stops?
Yes, there are stops for swimming in the clear waters of the islands, which most travelers find enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, swimwear, towel, and sun protection are recommended.

Is there an entry fee for the islands?
Yes, a €5.00 entry fee per person must be paid on the day of the cruise.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

This detailed look aims to help you decide if this day cruise aligns with your Sicily dreams. With stunning views, a relaxed pace, and authentic island charm, it offers a genuine taste of the Egadi Islands — perfect for a memorable day out.