Favignana and Levanzo mini-cruise from Trapani with Lunch

Planning a trip to Sicily and eager to explore its famed islands? We’ve looked into a popular Favignana and Levanzo mini-cruise from Trapani with lunch—and it seems like a wonderful way to see these gems without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

This nine-hour experience promises stunning coastal views, plenty of swimming opportunities, and free time to wander charming villages. The trip also includes a delicious on-board meal featuring local flavors, which helps add value to what is already a well-rounded day.

While the experience generally receives good feedback, it’s not perfect—and potential travelers should consider weather conditions and the limited time at each stop. If you’re someone who loves scenic boat rides, enjoys authentic local food, and wants a taste of Sicily’s best islands, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery and picturesque creeks like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra
• Flexible free time to explore Favignana and Levanzo at your own pace
• Swimming stops with crystal-clear waters for a refreshing dip
• Authentic lunch featuring traditional pasta with pesto trapanese
• Moderate duration ideal for a full-day adventure without feeling rushed
• Weather-dependent schedule that might shift if conditions change

You can check availability for your dates here:

What We Love About This Tour

This mini-cruise offers a great balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor. The chance to sit back and enjoy Sicily’s stunning coast from a boat is an experience in itself—there’s something magical about watching the cliffs and coves unfold around you. The free time on each island means you can choose whether to lounge on the beach, stroll through villages, or browse local shops, making each visit feel personal.

The highlight is undoubtedly the onboard lunch, which features a generous portion of pasta with pesto trapanese, a regional specialty. Reviewers frequently mention how tasty and satisfying the meal is, often paired with the lovely sea breeze and panoramic views.

Another perk is the swimming stop—the clear waters of Favignana’s coves are perfect for a quick dip, a refreshing break in the middle of a busy day exploring. Plus, the boat cruise along the coast offers photographers and nature lovers plenty of chances to snap pictures of cliffs, creeks, and boats swaying in the sun.

Despite these positives, it’s worth noting that the schedule can vary depending on weather conditions, and some might find the limited free time on each island a bit rushed if they want to explore extensively.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a full-day Sicilian adventure that combines scenic boat rides, island exploration, and regional cuisine. It’s well-suited for those who prefer a structured day with included highlights rather than planning every detail themselves. If you’re comfortable with short free periods and enjoy a mix of relaxing and active moments, you’ll find this package rewarding.

Note that it’s not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or people with food allergies, as these restrictions are not catered for on this tour.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point and Departure

The journey begins early, with guests meeting at Via Ammiraglio Staiti in Trapani around 9:00 am. From there, a quick 50-minute speedboat ride (crucial for covering distance efficiently) whisks you to Favignana, giving you your first taste of Sicily’s beautiful coastline.

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Favignana Exploration

Upon arrival, you’ll have about two hours of free time—a perfect window to explore the village’s charming streets, visit the local museum, or relax on the beaches. Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated the flexibility here, with some choosing to shop for souvenirs while others sunbathed on the sand.

One traveler notes, “The free time gave us a chance to enjoy the local vibe, and the shops had lovely handmade goods.” Since the town is small but lively, it’s a good idea to prioritize what interests you most beforehand.

Coastal Tour and Swimming

Back on the boat, the cruise continues along the coast, offering views of Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra, two of the most photographed creeks. You’ll get a chance to stop for swimming in the clear waters—an activity highly praised in reviews, with many guests remarking on how pristine and inviting the sea is.

One reviewer emphasized, “The water was so clear, I could see the bottom while floating—absolutely refreshing.” The boat’s calm pace allows for comfortable swimming and photography, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

Lunch on Board

Midday, a typical local lunch is served on the boat—pasta with pesto trapanese. Reviewers consistently say this was a highlight: “The lunch was surprisingly delicious, and the flavors felt authentic.” It’s a simple but hearty meal, well-suited to a day at sea, and provides an energy boost for the remaining stops.

Levanzo Exploration

After the meal, the boat heads towards Levanzo, where you’ll have about an hour of free time. Strolling through the island’s tiny, colorful village offers a glimpse of traditional Mediterranean life. Visitors often remark on the bright houses, blue windows, and scenic views that make Levanzo a photographer’s dream.

One guest described it as, “The kind of place that makes you want to sit and watch the boats sway all day.” The limited time means you’ll need to prioritize, but it’s enough to get a feel for the island’s charm.

Scenic Views and Final Cruise

The cruise then continues along Levanzo’s cliffs and creeks, giving you more opportunities for photos before heading back to Trapani. The last stretch involves a 40-minute speedboat ride, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

The tour starts early, with guests meeting at the Porto di Trapani around 9:00 am. The departure from Trapani is at 9:30 am, and the full day wraps up around 5:00-6:00 pm, which is reasonable for a day trip. The use of speedboats ensures quick movement between islands, maximizing your time on land.

Cost-wise, the tour includes the boat ride, free time on each island, swimming stops, and the on-board lunch. The entry fee to Egadi Island (5 euros per person) is paid beforehand, so budget for that in addition to the tour price. Most guests find the cost justified given the comprehensive experience, especially considering the included meal and multiple scenic stops.

The tour is conducted in Italian, so non-Italian speakers may want to check if guides offer language support or translations.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviews

Based on traveler feedback, the views are consistently described as breathtaking, and the lunch is notably tasty, with one reviewer saying, “It’s simple, but the pesto was so flavorful, I’d come back just for that.” Guests also appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere onboard, often mentioning the crew’s professionalism and helpfulness.

However, some mention that the schedule can be tight, especially if you wish to explore each island more thoroughly. The weather can influence the trip—if windy or rainy, the captain might adjust the route or postpone certain stops, so flexibility is key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most children enjoy the boat ride and swimming, parents should consider the boat’s size and the weather conditions. It’s best for kids who are comfortable in water and can handle a full day out.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel for swimming stops. Light snacks are not included, so pack some if desired, though lunch is provided. Also, carry cash for the island entry fee.

How scenic is the boat ride?
Very. Travelers often comment on the stunning coastlines and creeks like Cala Rossa, making the boat ride itself a memorable part of the day.

Can I explore the islands extensively?
You’ll have free time, but it’s limited (about 2 hours on Favignana and 1 hour on Levanzo), so plan your priorities—shopping, beaches, or quick sightseeing.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The trip is weather-dependent, and the schedule may change or be canceled if conditions are unsafe. Check weather forecasts beforehand and be flexible with your plans.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour includes a standard meal—pasta with pesto trapanese. It’s advisable to inform the provider about allergies or restrictions beforehand, but options may be limited.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot online, with the option to pay later. Full payment is usually required prior to the trip, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those who want to experience Sicily’s iconic islands without the hassle of planning, this cruise offers a good mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and delicious regional food. The crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages make it a memorable day, especially if you enjoy boat trips, photography, and authentic local flavors.

While the schedule is somewhat tight and weather-dependent, the overall experience seems to deliver great value for a full-day adventure. It’s especially appealing for travelers looking for a relaxed, yet active day with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and snap photos.

If your goal is a fun and scenic Sicilian escape that balances relaxation with sightseeing, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just be prepared for a busy day, and don’t forget your camera!

To sum it up, this Favignana and Levanzo mini-cruise from Trapani offers a practical way to see Sicily’s stunning coastlines, enjoy authentic regional dishes, and experience the islands at a relaxed pace. It’s a solid choice for travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, fresh sea air, and a taste of local life—making it a memorable highlight of any Sicilian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: