From Palermo center: Favignana and Levanzo Boat tour

Traveling through Sicily’s waters offers some of the most memorable sights of the Mediterranean, and this boat trip to Favignana and Levanzo is no exception. While we haven’t personally set sail on this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what you can expect. The experience combines scenic sea views, island exploration, and a taste of local culture—all packed into a manageable 10-hour adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, the organized transfer from Palermo makes getting to the port hassle-free. Second, the three hours of free time on Favignana give plenty of room to explore at your own pace or relax on the beaches. And third, the scenic boat rides around the coves and coastlines are a real highlight, especially if you’re into swimming or photography. The only potential drawback? The timing can be tight, especially if you want a longer visit on each island. Still, for travelers keen on covering the highlights in a day, this tour offers a solid dose of beauty and authenticity.

This experience suits those who want a full-day escape with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and island culture—perfect for cruise enthusiasts, beach lovers, or anyone looking to see Sicily’s Egadi Islands without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Convenient transfer from Palermo to Trapani port simplifies logistics.
• Three hours free on Favignana allow ample time for exploration and relaxation.
• Boat tour of Favignana’s coast showcases iconic coves like Cala Rossa and Cala Azzurra.
• Levanzo visit provides charming photo opportunities in a traditional fisherman village.
• Cost-effective considering boat rides, island visits, and scenic cruising.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides, as reflected in reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Transfer

The adventure kicks off with a organized shuttle service from Palermo’s designated spots, either Piazza Ruggiero Settimo or P.za Giulio Cesare, making morning pickup straightforward. The round-trip transfer to Trapani costs €20 per person and is payable either at check-in or on your own if you prefer to meet directly at the port—an option that some travelers choose to save time and skip the transfer fee.

Departure and Boat Ride to Favignana

Once at Trapani port, the large, modern boat awaits, ready to ferry you across the 40-minute journey to Favignana. The boat itself seems to impress travelers with its spaciousness and comfort, ideal for relaxing or snapping photos during the cruise. Booking reviews mention the crew as helpful and friendly, adding a pleasant vibe to the ride.

Free Time in Favignana

Arriving in Favignana, you’re granted three hours to soak up the atmosphere. This is your window to explore the island’s charming streets, visit the Tonnara Florio Museum, or simply lounge at Cala Rossa or Cala Azzurra beaches. Many reviews praise the ‘gorgeous’ scenery, with some noting how relaxing the beaches are. However, a few comments suggest that the short stay could be improved with more time, especially for those wanting to explore beyond the main beaches.

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Coastal Boat Tour and Beach Coves

Back on board, the boat sets out to cruise around Favignana, approaching coves like Bue Marino and others. These spots are praised for their turquoise waters and crystalline clarity, making them perfect for swimming and photos. The boat cruise is a highlight, with some reviewers mentioning it as the most memorable part—the chance to see hidden beaches and coastline views that are only accessible from the sea.

Lunch and Scenic Views

Midday, the crew serves a “trapanese” style pasta with water—a small but authentic touch. The cost is €4.99, a fair price considering it’s a simple, filling meal. Many travelers appreciate the onboard service and the chance to relax with a traditional Sicilian dish amid stunning scenery.

Levanzo Island

In the afternoon, the boat heads to Levanzo, a tiny fishing village that’s perfect for snapping photos of its colorful houses and quaint harbor. The brief stop offers excellent opportunities for pictures and soaking in the calm atmosphere. Reviewers mention how charming Levanzo is, albeit small, making it ideal for a quick exploration.

Return Journey

The boat departs Levanzo around 5:15 pm to return to Trapani, arriving by 5:15 pm. From there, a shuttle takes you back to Palermo by 6:45 pm, wrapping up a full day of adventures. It’s a tight schedule, but most find it well worth the effort—especially when taking in the impressive views and iconic islands.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Reviewers consistently mention the helpfulness of the staff and the beautiful scenery. Ewelina highlights the beach in Favignana as a standout, while Glikeria lauds the “amazing service” and calls the trip “worth every moment.” Paul, another reviewer, notes that the islands are gorgeous, but suggests that a longer stay would be ideal to truly enjoy the scenery and culture.

From practical perspectives, travelers appreciate the value for money, especially considering the boat cruise, island visits, and scenic routes all packed into one day. The €20 transfer fee is seen as reasonable for the convenience, and many acknowledge that the trip offers a good balance of guided structure and free time.

Practical Details and Tips

• Dress comfortably and consider bringing swimwear and a towel, since swimming in Favignana’s clear waters is one of the main highlights.
• The 3-hour free time is enough to explore or relax, but if you prefer more time on each island, consider arriving by your own transport.
• Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your spot, as the tour is popular.
• The boat cruise is suitable for all ages, with plenty of space for lounging and enjoying the scenery.
• If you’re not keen on the onboard lunch, you can skip the €4.99 meal and bring your own snacks.
• Keep an eye on the timings—the schedule is quite firm, but most reviews suggest it’s well managed.

The Sum Up

This boat tour from Palermo to Favignana and Levanzo offers an appealing blend of scenic cruising, island exploration, and relaxed swimming opportunities. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-organized day trip that hits the main highlights without the need for planning complex itineraries. The comfortable boat rides and authentic island visits are what make this experience stand out, especially considering the positive reviews about the friendly staff and breathtaking views.

While the short stay on Favignana might not satisfy those seeking an in-depth island experience, the scenic boat cruise and photo opportunities compensate well. It’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see the Egadi Islands’ beauty in a single day, all at a very reasonable price.

For those who prioritize ease, scenic beauty, and a touch of local charm, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your Sicily itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation from Palermo included?
No, the transfer from Palermo to Trapani port costs €20 per person and is payable at check-in unless you opt to meet directly at Trapani.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts around 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning by early evening.

How long do I have on Favignana?
You get approximately 3 hours of free time to explore the island, beaches, or museums.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, many coves around Favignana are perfect for swimming, and the boat cruise approaches the best beaches.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking around the islands.

What is included in the price?
The boat cruise, free time on Favignana, and the boat tour of the coast and beaches are included. Lunch is available to purchase onboard.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews mention friendly and helpful staff, with some travelers noting the guides as quite knowledgeable about the islands.

Can I join the trip if I am arriving by my own means?
Absolutely. You can meet directly at Trapani port, but the shuttle service from Palermo offers added convenience.

This tour balances scenic beauty, simple logistics, and authentic island charm, making it a practical choice for anyone eager to explore Sicily’s Egadi Islands in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: