Elba Island, a jewel off the coast of Tuscany, offers a blend of natural beauty, intriguing history, and crystal-clear waters. This full-day boat tour aboard the Motonave Principe promises a comprehensive exploration of Elba’s coastlines, from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches, all while giving you plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and soak in the scenery. While this tour is a fantastic way to see the island’s highlights, keep in mind that it’s a packed, roughly six-hour excursion that’s best suited for those who love being on the water and exploring diverse coastal environments.
What draws many travelers to this experience is the chance to see multiple distinct parts of Elba, including secret coves, historic shipwrecks, and unspoiled beaches. The tour’s flexibility to swim at several stops, along with the possibility of spotting dolphins, adds a lively and memorable touch. However, with several long stops and a busy itinerary, those who prefer a more relaxed pace might find the schedule a bit intense. This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to maximize their day on the water and capture those iconic Elba views.
Key Points
- Complete Coastal Exploration: A thorough way to see Elba’s most scenic spots in one day.
- Multiple Swimming Stops: Swim in crystal-clear waters, including famous beaches and hidden coves.
- Wild and Historic Sites: Visit Cannello Beach, the Elviscot wreck, and areas rich in marine and industrial history.
- Scenic and Educational: Explanations and stories from the guide enrich your understanding of Elba’s natural and cultural landscape.
- Potential Dolphin Sightings: An added highlight for wildlife lovers.
- Inclusive Experience: Meals and explanations are included, with the tour being wheelchair accessible.
An In-Depth Look at the Elba Island Tour
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Starting Out: Marina di Campo at 9:30 a.m.
The tour kicks off from the port of Marina di Campo, a charming seaside town with a relaxed vibe. The boat, the Motonave Principe, is well-equipped for comfort and smooth sailing, and the fact that you’re aboard a dedicated tour boat means you’re away from the crowded beaches and into the open sea.
Travelers should arrive a little early to find their spot and get settled. Since the tour is a full six hours, bringing sun protection, water, and a light jacket for the breeze is wise. The guide’s explanations are mostly in Italian, but the language barrier isn’t a big obstacle—your guide is knowledgeable about the island’s history and geography, making the journey enriching.
Cruising the Southern Coast: First Stops and Wild Cannello Beach
The first stretch takes you along the southern coast, crossing the Gulf of Lacona and Capo Stella, giving you panoramic views of Elba’s rugged shoreline. One highlight here is the stop at Cannello Beach, which feels like discovering a secret. Surrounded by the remains of industrial mining activity, including excavations and an abandoned laundry structure, the beach offers a stark contrast between nature and industrial history. The wave sounds and fresh sea breeze make for a surprisingly peaceful swim in this unusual setting.
The Hidden Costa dei Gabbiani and Beyond
Next, the boat ventures into an area accessible only by sea: the Costa dei Gabbiani. The guide points out that this coast is virtually untouched, and the landscape feels wild and unspoiled. The boat continues eastward, heading towards Porto Azzurro, a small but lively harbor town. Here, you can admire the colorful houses and maritime atmosphere.
Crossing the Rio Mines coastline, the tour reaches Cavo, a beach area dubbed the “shining coast” due to the black mining dust that glimmers in the sunlight. This area offers a glimpse into Elba’s industrial past and has a very atmospheric vibe—the kind that makes you appreciate the island’s layered history.
More Great Tours NearbyNorthern Coast: Cliffs, Marine Reserves, and Sandy Beaches
As the boat moves north, the scenery shifts dramatically. The Costa Verde begins, with white cliffs plunging into the sea, creating breathtaking vistas. Here, the water turns from deep blue to sparkling turquoise, perfect for photos or just soaking in the views. Nearby, the boat passes the Scoglietto Marine Reserve, a haven for marine life. This part of the tour is particularly appreciated by snorkelers and wildlife enthusiasts who love spotting fish and marine flora.
Before reaching Viticcio Bay, the group is treated to a pasta meal—a simple but appreciated gesture that keeps everyone energized. The next swimming stop at Sansone Beach offers pristine, unspoiled surroundings, with views of the Enfola peninsula and Monte Capanne in the distance.
Western Coast: Shipwrecks and Iconic Beaches
Moving westward, the boat sails past Chiessi and Pomonte, home to the famous Elviscot wreck, just 12 meters below the surface. Snorkelers love this part, as the wreck is a fascinating underwater relic. The tour’s fourth swim stop at Fetovaia is often praised as one of the most beautiful beaches on Elba—its fine white sand and clear, sheltered waters make it ideal for relaxing and taking photos.
Final Leg: Returning to Marina di Campo
After hours of exploring the island’s diverse coastlines, the boat heads back to Marina di Campo, arriving around 3:30 p.m. The journey back offers plenty of opportunities to chat with fellow travelers, reflect on the day, and enjoy the stunning views one last time.
What We Loved About This Tour
Diverse Coastal Landscapes: From wild beaches to white cliffs and industrial relics, each stop reveals a different facet of Elba. This variety keeps the experience fresh and visually captivating.
Swimming Opportunities: Multiple swim stops, especially at Fetovaia and Sansone Beach, allow you to enjoy Elba’s famously clear waters. Many reviews mention the pure joy of floating in such pristine conditions.
Wildlife and Marine Life: The chance of spotting dolphins and exploring marine reserves adds an exciting element that elevates the tour beyond just sightseeing.
Informative Guidance: The explanation from the guides, who are mostly Italian-speaking, brings historical and geographical context, enriching the experience for curious travelers.
Authentic Environments: Unlike crowded beaches, stops like Cannello or the Elviscot wreck feel untouched and raw—perfect for photography and reflection.
Practical Considerations and Tips
- Price and Value: At around six hours, the tour offers great value considering the multiple stops, meals, and scenic variety. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a rundown without needing to organize separate boat trips or transport.
- Timing and Pace: The schedule moves swiftly, with several swimming stops. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, be prepared for a busy day.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, water, and a towel are essentials. Snorkel gear isn’t provided but can be brought along if you want to explore underwater sites like the Elviscot wreck.
- Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for varied travelers.
- Restrictions: Alcohol and drugs are not allowed onboard, aligning with safety measures.
Who Will Love This Tour
This experience is best suited for those who want an active, full-day adventure exploring diverse parts of Elba by boat. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic views, crystal-clear waters, and marine environments, with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. The tour’s educational elements make it appealing to history buffs and nature lovers alike.
If you prefer a slow, leisurely day with less movement, this might feel a bit rushed. However, for those eager to see as much of Elba’s coast as possible in a single day, it’s a fantastic choice.
The Sum Up: Who It’s Perfect For
This tour offers a rich, varied snapshot of Elba’s coastlines, combining scenic beauty, history, and beach time. It’s a particularly good fit for active travelers who enjoy being on the water, exploring multiple beaches, and discovering hidden corners of the island. The inclusion of meals and explanations adds value, making it more than just a boat trip—it’s a well-rounded day out that captures the essence of Elba.
For families, couples, or groups of friends wanting to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this tour provides a convenient, scenic, and engaging experience. Travelers craving authentic environments—without the crowds—will find this journey both satisfying and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The full tour lasts about six hours, starting at 9:30 a.m. and returning around 3:30 p.m., depending on the day.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes explanations from the guide, a meal (pasta), and swimming stops. Bar service is not included.
Can I see dolphins during the tour?
There is a possibility of spotting dolphins, which adds an exciting wildlife element to the experience.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing a wide range of travelers to participate.
What should I bring?
It’s advisable to bring sunscreen, a hat, water, a towel, and snorkel gear if you want to explore underwater sites.
Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at Marina di Campo, the starting point.
This full-day adventure aboard the Motonave Principe offers an excellent way to see Elba’s most stunning coastlines, enjoy swimming in clear waters, and learn about the island’s intriguing history—all in one value-packed excursion. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable day on the sea, this trip is a compelling option for exploring Tuscany’s beautiful island.
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