Polignano a Mare is famous for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming old town perched above the sea. But the best way to truly appreciate its rugged beauty and hidden corners is from the water. Whether you’re after a quick splash, a scenic glide, or a lively party on the waves, Polignano offers an impressive lineup of boat tours. We particularly love the Boat Cruise with Prosecco, which combines panoramic views, a taste of Italy’s favorite bubbly, and plenty of swimming opportunities in the blue waters. Plus, the Eco Boat Tour with Snorkeling stands out for being eco-friendly and offering a more sustainable way to explore this stunning coast.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top 13 boat tours in Polignano a Mare. From half-hour cave visits to full-day excursions with street food, you’ll find options suited for every schedule, budget, and interest. Read on to discover the best way to see this seaside town from the water.
1. Polignano a Mare: Boat Cruise with Prosecco
At number 1, this 1.5-hour speedboat cruise offers a lively and relaxed way to explore Polignano’s coastline. The tour includes visits to the most impressive caves, like Grotta Azzurra and Grotta Palazzese, with plenty of time to swim in the clear waters. What sets this tour apart is the chance to sip Italian Prosecco while soaking up the panoramic views. Many reviews highlight how smoothly it runs and how much fun it is, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from nearly 700 reviews. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a quick, lively overview of the coast with a taste of bubbly. The price is very reasonable at around $47 per person, making it a good value for a unique experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a fun, social cruise with beautiful scenery and a glass of Prosecco, this 1.5-hour speedboat tour hits the spot.
2. Polignano a Mare: Boat Tour with Aperitif and Snorkeling
Number 2 on our list is a 1.5-hour boat excursion that combines sightseeing with time for swimming and relaxing. This trip includes visits to iconic spots like Lama Monachile Beach and Grotta dell’Arcivescovado, with the highlight being an aperitif on board. You’ll explore the caves with an experienced guide, who will share local stories and insights. Many travelers rave about the friendly guide and the fun atmosphere, rating it 4.9 out of 5. Snorkeling equipment is provided, so you can enjoy the underwater sights, or simply relax on deck with a small drink.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a lively, guided experience with a snack and swim, and who appreciate a small-group vibe.
3. Polignano a Mare: Boat Tour with Prosecco and Snacks
Next up, a 1.5-hour scenic boat tour focused on exploring the coast’s most famous caves, including Grotta Palazzese and Cala Paura. The highlight here is the onboard Prosecco and snacks, making it a great choice for a relaxing afternoon. Passengers love the combination of panoramic views, the chance to swim, and the chance to see the caves from the water, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5. This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, laid-back experience without sacrificing the incredible scenery.
Bottom Line: A lovely, moderate-length cruise for those who love a good snack and scenic views, with enough time to swim and take photos.
4. Polignano a Mare: Boat Tour with Aperitif
Number 4 offers an extended 2-4 hour tour from Cala Ponte Marina that takes you past multiple caves and stunning viewpoints. You’ll enjoy a delicious Italian aperitivo while cruising past the city’s scenic coast. The itinerary includes visits to Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Ardito, and other hidden coves, plus time to swim in the sea. Many reviewers appreciate the local skipper’s knowledge and friendliness. This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a longer, more immersive experience, with a chance to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery at a leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing, swimming, and a tasty local snack in a longer, more relaxed cruise.
5. Polignano: Group Boat Tour between Caves, Prosecco and Snacks
This 105-minute group tour is a lively and budget-friendly way to see Polignano’s famous caves. It combines scenic stops at spots like Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Ardito, and Hermit’s Rock with prosecco and snacks on deck. Many reviews mention the friendly guides and the picturesque scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who want a shorter, social experience that includes plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of local treats.
Bottom Line: Short, fun, and affordable—great for travelers who want a quick, scenic taste of Polignano’s coast.
6. Polignano a Mare by Boat: Sea Caves & Apulian Aperitif
Number 6 is a 1.5-hour eco-friendly boat tour that emphasizes silent, sustainable sailing. You’ll explore the sea caves like Grotta delle Rondinelle and Grotta Ardito, with the chance to swim in the coves. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Since it’s eco-conscious, it’s especially suited for travelers looking for sustainable tourism options. The boat’s quiet nature means fewer distractions from the natural environment, making it a peaceful way to see the coast.
Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-minded travelers wanting a quiet, intimate experience of Polignano’s caves and waters.
7. Polignano a Mare: Boat Cruise, Visit to the Caves with Spritz
Number 7 offers a 1.5-hour cruise focused on exploring the sea caves, including Grotta Palazzese. The tour features an aperitif with Spritz or Prosecco on board, along with swimming and sightseeing. Many travelers comment on how beautiful the coast looks from the water and appreciate the relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s a good option if you want a shorter cruise that combines scenery, a bit of local flavor, and a chance to cool off in the sea.
Bottom Line: A short, lively tour with drinks, perfect for a quick afternoon escape.
8. Polignano a Mare: Eco Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Caves
This 2-hour eco-friendly tour is a perfect pick for those who want a sustainable way to see Polignano’s coast. The boat is silent and eco-conscious, and snorkeling gear is included for exploring underwater. Travelers note the friendly guides and the beautiful caves, with some wishing for a bit more time in the water. It’s especially ideal for environmentally aware travelers and those keen on underwater exploration.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers eager to combine snorkeling with cave exploration.
9. Polignano a Mare Half Day: Boat, Tuktuk, Street Food Tour
Number 9 is a half-day adventure blending a boat cave tour, a scenic tuktuk ride, and local street food tasting. This combined experience gives a full taste of Polignano, from its coastline to its lively streets. The reviews praise its variety and the friendly guides, making it ideal for travelers who want a multi-activity day. Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of local flavor.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a diverse, active half-day with food, sightseeing, and a bit of adventure.
10. From Bari: Day Tour to Polignano a Mare, Boat Ride and Free Time
Number 10 offers a 9-hour day trip from Bari, including a guided visit of Polignano’s historic center plus a boat tour. The boat trip explores the sea caves, giving a different perspective on the coastline. Many reviews mention the convenience of the transfer and the ample free time to explore on your own. It’s perfect for those who want a well-rounded day and prefer to keep organized.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip with easy logistics and free exploration time.
11. Polignano a Mare: Boat Cave Tour by Night
Number 11 offers a 2-hour night boat tour, letting you see Polignano’s coast illuminated by moonlight. The experience includes visiting caves like Grotta Palazzese and Grotta delle Rondinelle, with sparkling wine to toast the evening. Many visitors find the night scenery uniquely enchanting, perfect for romantic couples or those wanting a different perspective.
Bottom Line: A magical evening option for lovers of sunset and moonlight views, with a relaxing, intimate vibe.
12. Castellana Caves & Polignano by Boat from Bari and Polignano
Number 12 is a full-day adventure combining the Castellana Caves with a boat tour of Polignano’s coast. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to combine underground exploration with coastal scenery. Since it includes tickets for Castellana Grotte, it’s ideal if underground caves fascinate you and if you have a full day to spare.
Bottom Line: Best for cave enthusiasts and those wanting an all-in-one land-and-sea adventure.
13. Polignano: Half-Day Sailing Boat Tour with Drinks & Snacks
Rounding out the list, this 3.5-hour sailing tour offers a more leisurely cruise along Polignano’s coast. You’ll see caves like Grotta Palazzese and Grotta Rondinelle, with drinks and snacks served onboard. Several reviews mention the excellent skipper and the tranquil sailing experience, making it suitable for travelers seeking peace and comfort on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer a relaxed sailing experience with good company and scenic views.
How to Choose the Perfect Boat Tour in Polignano a Mare
When selecting a boat tour, consider your time constraints, budget, and interests. If you’re after a quick but lively overview, the Boat Cruise with Prosecco or the group tour are excellent. For a more immersive experience with snorkeling, the Eco Boat Tour offers a sustainable option. If you’re celebrating or wanting a romantic evening, the Night Cave Tour is ideal.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months, as these tours fill quickly. Consider your fitness level and how much swimming or walking you want to do—some tours involve a fair amount of water activity, while others focus on scenic cruising.
Final Thoughts
Polignano a Mare offers a diverse range of cruise and boat experiences, from quick scenic rides to full-day adventures. For a lively, social vibe, the Boat Cruise with Prosecco is a top pick. For eco-conscious travelers, the Eco Boat Tour combines adventure with sustainability. And if you’re seeking romance or sunset views, the Boat Cave Tour by Night offers an unforgettable experience.
Each of these tours offers a chance to see Polignano’s stunning coastline from a different perspective. Depending on your schedule and interests, you can’t go wrong—just remember to book early during the busy season. Now, all that’s left is to pick the one that best suits your adventure style and set sail for unforgettable memories.