Isola d’Ischia is a favorite among travelers for its stunning coastline, thermal waters, and lively towns. But the best way to really experience this island is by boat. Whether it’s cruising on a vintage schooner, racing along in a motor yacht, or exploring nearby Procida, these tours offer unforgettable views and authentic seaside adventures. We’ve picked out the top options, each with its own charm—like the schooner cruise that combines scenic sailing with local food, or the luxury motor yacht that’s perfect for a fun, lively day on the water. If you love exploring secluded bays, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and hearing stories about the island’s sights, these are the tours you’ll want to consider.
One of our favorites is the Tour of the island of Ischia in schooner. It combines a relaxed, traditional sailing experience with opportunities to swim and snorkel in quiet coves, away from the crowds. Plus, it includes a tasty onboard lunch featuring classic island dishes. For a more energetic day, the Tour of Ischia Island with Motor Yacht Rocca Corsa is perfect. It mixes swimming, sightseeing, and fun with drinks, music, and seafood, making it ideal for those wanting a lively day at sea. And if you’re interested in venturing farther afield, the Boat tour with lunch on board to discover Procida takes you to a UNESCO-listed island with colorful streets and amazing seafood—an excellent choice for a full-day adventure.
1. Tour of the island of Ischia in schooner
At number one, the Tour of the island of Ischia in schooner offers a serene, charming way to see the coast. This 7-hour cruise features a vintage schooner that skirts the coastline, giving you a different view of the island’s cliffs, bays, and castles. The highlight is the five stops for swimming and snorkeling, in spots like Citara Bay, Sant’Angelo, and near the Aragonese Castle—places only accessible by boat. You can relax on deck, take photos, or enjoy the crystal-clear water. The onboard lunch, featuring traditional island dishes, makes the day even more memorable.
This tour is praised for its friendly crew, relaxing pace, and beautiful scenery. People love the chance to escape the crowds on land and explore secluded coves. Many reviews mention the excellent food and the opportunity to see dolphins. It’s perfect for travelers who want a laid-back day, with plenty of time to swim and enjoy the sea. The average price is $80.57 per person, which is a good value given the experience and included lunch.
Bottom line: This is ideal if you want a peaceful, scenic sail with swimming opportunities and local food in a small-group setting.
2. Tour of Ischia Island with Motor Yacht Rocca Corsa
The Tour of Ischia Island with Motor Yacht Rocca Corsa offers a lively, fun-filled day on a spacious yacht. Starting from Forio, the trip lasts around 7 to 8 hours and features a mix of swimming, sightseeing, and socializing. The crew, including a chef, prepares seafood appetizers and fish dishes onboard, with unlimited drinks, making it perfect for those who want good food and lively company. The itinerary includes stops at Sorgeto Bay, where you can enjoy an aperitif, and the Grotta dell’Amore, a stunning natural cave with incredible blue and green lights.
Guests rave about the friendly crew, the excellent food, and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers. The boat’s relaxed vibe makes it ideal for groups of friends or couples wanting fun, music, and plenty of swimming. The reviews highlight the professional yet casual atmosphere, with many saying it’s one of the best days of their trip. The ticket costs about $77.21 per person, which includes multiple stops and onboard drinks.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a lively, social experience with good food, drinks, and stunning coastal views. It’s especially suited for active travelers who want a mix of swimming and party atmosphere.
3. Boat tour with lunch on board to discover Procida
For a full-day adventure, the Boat tour with lunch on board to discover Procida takes you further afield to the colorful island of Procida. The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, with multiple stops for swimming and snorkeling around the island’s scenic coast. You’ll see the iconic Aragonese Castle from the water and enjoy a onboard lunch featuring local specialties and Campania products. The tour also offers an optional guided land tour of Procida for an extra €15, giving you a chance to explore the island’s charming streets and vibrant harbor.
This experience gets high marks for its relaxed pace, authentic food, and the chance to see a less crowded side of the Gulf. Reviewers mention the excellent meal and the friendly captain who shares stories about the island. It’s ideal for travelers who want a combination of sea and land exploration, with a splash of culture. The cost is about $87.08 per person, making it a slightly premium choice but well worth it for the full-day experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want to combine island hopping, swimming, and a touch of local culture with a comfortable, all-inclusive day.
How to Choose Your Perfect Ischia Boat Tour
When deciding between these options, think about what kind of experience suits you best. If you love a peaceful, scenic sail with snorkeling, the schooner cruise is perfect. For lively days filled with music, drinks, and socializing, the motor yacht tour hits the spot. And if you want to see a nearby island with a bit of exploring on land, the Procida tour offers a more complete day with cultural sights.
Budget, time, and your interests are key. The schooner trip offers excellent value if you’re after a relaxing day, while the yacht tour provides a more energetic vibe, great for groups of friends. The Procida trip is a good choice if you’re curious about nearby islands and want a longer, full-day experience. Booking early is advisable, especially in the high season, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Isola d’Ischia offers a variety of boat tours that suit different tastes—whether you’re after a peaceful sail, a lively party on the water, or a full-day excursion to a colorful island. The schooner cruise is ideal for those seeking tranquility and scenic beauty, while the motor yacht tour appeals to those wanting fun and socialization. The Procida tour combines sightseeing with cultural discovery, making it perfect for travelers eager to explore beyond Ischia.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance is wise during peak months. These experiences deliver a genuine taste of the island’s charm and offer memories you’ll cherish long after you leave the Gulf of Naples.