Forio, on the island of Ischia, is a fantastic base for boat trips. Its strategic location along the coast means you can enjoy stunning views of sea caves, cliffs, and historical sites like the Aragonese Castle. Many of these tours include swimming stops, scenic cruising, and local cuisine — all with a relaxed, maritime vibe that perfectly complements the Italian seaside experience. One of our favorites is the Ischia by Sea: Boat Tour through Wonders, Silence Hidden Bays. It offers a full day of exploring, swimming in secluded bays, and enjoying a delicious onboard lunch, all with a lively atmosphere that appeals to families and couples alike.
While Forio’s coastline offers plenty of options, the best choice depends on what you’re seeking—whether it’s an all-day adventure, a private escape, or a romantic sunset cruise. Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the top tours, complete with insights to help you pick the right one for your trip.
1. Ischia by Sea: Boat Tour through Wonders, Silence Hidden Bays
This 7-hour full-island boat tour showcases Ischia’s spectacular coastlines from the water. Starting at Via Cristoforo Colombo, the boat heads out to explore caves, beaches, and landmarks like the Aragonese Castle. The highlight is the opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters in hidden bays that are only accessible by boat—perfect for those who love a bit of aquatic exploration. The onboard lunch includes local dishes, wine, coffee, and dessert, creating a true taste of Italy at sea.
Throughout the day, there are plenty of photo stops, including the charming Sant’Angelo and the iconic Aragonese Castle. The atmosphere is lively, with music and friendly vibes making it an enjoyable experience for families, couples, and solo travelers. Reviewers love the fabulous views and delicious food, with many describing it as a “great way to spend the day” and praising the “super host.”
Bottom Line: If you’re after a comprehensive, fun-filled day exploring Ischia’s coast with swimming, sightseeing, and a tasty onboard meal, this tour delivers excellent value.
2. From Ischia: Ischia Tour in Private Motor Yacht
This private motor yacht experience is perfect if you want exclusivity and personalized attention. With durations ranging from 3 to 6 hours, you can customize your itinerary to include diving, scenic cruising, or relaxing in thermal springs. The departure points include Ischia, Lacco Ameno, and Sant’Angelo, offering flexibility based on your location.
What sets this tour apart is the luxury and intimacy—sipping prosecco while drifting past coves and bays that are inaccessible to larger vessels. The boat visits scenic spots like Spiaggia di Citara, Baia di Sorgeto, and the Maronti Beach, with plenty of time for swimming and lounging onboard. The guide is attentive, providing insights into the area’s natural beauty and local delicacies.
Guests appreciate the quiet, relaxed pace and the chance to truly unwind. One review mentions, “Adrian and his brother made the experience memorable with their attentiveness and great food.” This tour is ideal for those who want privacy, comfort, and the freedom to choose what they see.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a tailored, high-end experience and value privacy, this private yacht tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Ischia’s coastline.
3. From Naples: Ischia Boat Tour with Cocktail and Lunch
This 11.5-hour day trip from Naples combines the convenience of hydrofoil transfers with an immersive tour of Ischia. Starting at Molo Beverello, you’ll enjoy a scenic ferry ride before exploring the island’s highlights, including La Grotta dell’Amore, where you can take a refreshing swim or snorkel.
The tour includes a delicious local lunch, featuring two pastas, fruit, and dessert, plus regional wines and homemade cake to start your day. The guided portion allows you to capture the beauty of Ischia’s coastline and historic sites, making it perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience in a single day.
Although the full-day commitment is substantial, the round-trip transfer from Naples makes it a convenient option. Reviewers mention the abundance of food and the variety of stops, with one saying, “Lots of swimming and a cave visit made this a memorable day.”
Bottom Line: For those staying in Naples but eager to see Ischia with minimal fuss, this tour offers good value and an all-in-one experience, especially if you’re short on time.
4. Exclusive tour of Ischia: sail among secret bays, thermal springs, and nature
This 8-hour private tour is tailored for lovers of natural beauty and thermal waters. It starts from Via Mergellina and includes a speedboat journey along the coast, visiting secret bays and thermal springs accessible only by boat. The itinerary features stops at San Pancrazio Beach and San Montano Bay, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax.
One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to bathe in natural thermal springs, a special treat that many find unforgettable. The crew is experienced and attentive, providing personalized service throughout. The tour’s flexibility allows for a relaxed pace and custom stops, making it ideal for nature lovers or anyone seeking peace and quiet.
Guests rave about the breathtaking scenery and thermal waters, with one reviewer describing the experience as “a unique way to enjoy Ischia’s natural wonders.” The tour’s smaller group size ensures a more intimate experience, perfect for couples or small groups.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a personalized, nature-focused experience with thermal baths and secret bays, this tour is a top choice.
5. From Sorrento: Ischia and Procida Private Boat Tour
This 7-hour private boat tour from Sorrento offers a chance to see both Ischia and Procida in one day. Starting at Via Marina Piccola, you’ll cruise past colorful houses in Marina Corricella and enjoy swimming in Sorgeto Bay’s thermal waters.
What makes this tour special is the private setting, allowing you to customize your route and spend more time in your favorite spots. The guide can take you to scenic bays, cliffs, and quiet inlets, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing onboard with a drink, and sampling fresh seafood at seaside restaurants.
Guests mention the warm, friendly service and the ability to explore at their own pace. It’s perfect for small groups or families wanting a flexible, private experience that combines sightseeing and relaxation.
Bottom Line: If privacy and customization are your priorities, and you want to combine two islands into one trip, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day afloat.
6. Sunset Dreams: Ischia by Boat with Aperitivo
This 3-hour sunset cruise is a perfect option for romantic evenings or those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience. Starting in Forio, the boat heads out as the sky begins to change color, offering spectacular views of caves, cliffs, and the Aragonese Castle.
You’ll sip on an aperitivo, enjoy local snacks, and have time to swim in the golden hour. The atmosphere is laid-back, with soft music and friendly vibes. Reviewers love the unforgettable sunset views, describing the moment as “magical” and “peaceful.”
Ideal for couples or anyone seeking a relaxing, less active experience, this tour emphasizes atmosphere over adventure. It’s also a great way to see Ischia’s coastline illuminated at dusk, with fewer crowds.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a romantic, photo-worthy experience with the chance to swim and unwind, this sunset cruise fits the bill.
7. Tour of the island of Ischia by boat
This 8-hour tour features inflatable dinghies that carry up to eight people comfortably. Departing from Via Cristoforo Colombo, you’ll explore the island via long-tail boat rides, visiting key bays and inlets, with plenty of time for swimming and sunbathing.
What makes this tour stand out is the spacious inflatable boats and the personalized service of skippers who speak fluent English. The smaller, more agile boats make it easy to access secluded spots and get close to the shoreline for photos and dips in the water.
Reviewers appreciate the friendly crew and the relaxed pace, noting it’s a great way to see the island from a different perspective. The tour is suitable for active travelers who enjoy being on the water and want a flexible schedule.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a lively, intimate boat experience with the ability to explore many bays, this tour offers excellent flexibility and comfort.
How to Choose Your Perfect Forio Boat Tour
When selecting a boat tour in Forio, think about your priorities: Do you want an all-day cruise with swimming and sightseeing? Consider the full-island Ischia by Sea. For a luxury, private experience, the private motor yacht is ideal. If you’re short on time but still want to see the highlights, the Naples day trip packs everything into a single day.
Budget travelers might prefer the island tour by inflatable dinghies, while those seeking romance should consider the sunset cruise. Think about your fitness level and comfort with water—most tours involve swimming, but some are more relaxed or private.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season (May-September), to secure your spot and preferred departure times. Many tours offer flexible schedules, so check availability early.
Final Thoughts
Forio offers a wide range of cruises and boat tours to suit every type of traveler—whether you want a full-day adventure exploring hidden bays, a private yacht for a special occasion, or a romantic sunset cruise. Top options include the lively Ischia by Sea for families, the luxurious private motor yacht for couples, and the scenic sunset cruise for those seeking romance.
To make the most of your trip, consider your time, budget, and what experiences excite you most. Booking early, especially for summer trips, will ensure you secure your preferred tour and time slot. Whatever you choose, a day on the water in Forio will be a highlight of your Italian island visit.