Monopoli is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets for coastal adventures. Its crystal-clear waters, rocky coves, and historic port make it a natural hub for memorable boat trips. Whether you’re after a quick swim, a sunset sail, or a deep dive into local caves, Monopoli offers a variety of options that suit different tastes and budgets. We particularly love the 2.5-hour boat tour exploring the Polignano a Mare caves for its combination of stunning scenery and relaxed pace, perfect for snapping photos and sampling local drinks (see details here).
If you’re after a classic coastal cruise, the Boat Tour: Polignano a Mare from Monopoli offers a more intimate experience with personalized touches and includes a traditional aperitif (see details here). For those wanting to enjoy a peaceful sunset, the Polignano Monopoli: boat tour on a traditional wooden boat at sunset provides a relaxing way to wind down while learning about local maritime culture (see details here).
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the 11 best boat tours in Monopoli—each with their distinct charm and highlights—helping you pick the one that best fits your travel style.
1. Monopoli: 2.5 Hour Boat Tour to the Polignano a Mare Caves
At number 1 on our list, this 2.5-hour guided boat tour offers a wonderful introduction to the stunning caves along the Polignano a Mare coast. Starting at Molo Margherita, you’ll explore the Cala Corvino, Porto Alga, and Grotta degli Innamorati, with optional extensions up to 5 hours. The boat is equipped with sunbathing decks, perfect for catching the rays, and the crew serves traditional Apulian drinks and light bites, making it a relaxing yet scenic experience.
This tour is well-rated for its friendly crew, generous hospitality, and the chance to swim in the bright blue waters of Grotta delle Monache and Lama Monachile. Reviewers highlight how the guide Francesco shared interesting tidbits about each site, making it educational as well as enjoyable. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a shorter, high-impact trip with opportunities to sunbathe and swim.
Bottom line: A great choice if you want a manageable but comprehensive tour with a friendly vibe and plenty of photo opportunities.
2. Boat Tour: Polignano a Mare from Monopoli
Number 2 features a 3-hour boat tour that emphasizes a more personalized feel. The meeting point near Monopoli’s port is easy to reach on foot, and the experience includes enjoying a local aperitif—think olives and wine—while cruising past the dramatic cliffs and caves of Polignano a Mare.
This tour is praised for its intimate size, often tailored to your wishes, and the opportunity to swim in the sea. Reviews mention the charming host Domenico, who makes the ride relaxed and fun, even during rougher seas. The boat itself is an old-style fishing vessel, adding to the authentic atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, customizable experience with included drinks and swims.
3. Wooden Gozzo Tour with Aperitif Towards the Beautiful Coast of Polignano
The Wooden Gozzo Tour is a standout for lovers of classic boats and scenic routes. Departing from Monopoli’s ancient port, you’ll spend around 3 hours aboard a traditionally built wooden boat with modern comforts. The tour includes visits to caves, cliffside houses, and stops at Cala Port’Alga, Hermit’s Rock, and Grotta Palazzese.
What makes this trip special are the photo stops at several caves and the inclusion of an aperitif that allows you to relax and take in the stunning views. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and the peaceful atmosphere aboard the boat, making it ideal for those wanting a leisurely, picturesque outing.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and want a laid-back, scenic cruise with plenty of photo opportunities.
4. Boat tour from Monopoli to Polignano a mare
At number 4, this full-day boat experience offers a comprehensive look at the coast with the flexibility to explore caves, swim, and enjoy an onboard aperitif. The tour starts at Porto Vecchio with a 2.5-hour speedboat trip, followed by a stop at Lama Monachile Beach for swimming and photos.
What sets this tour apart is the longer duration, allowing for a more relaxed pace and deeper exploration. Reviewers mention the excitement of discovering the caves of Polignano a Mare and the fun of swimming in the clear waters. It’s great for adventurous travelers who want to spend the whole day experiencing the coast.
Bottom line: An excellent choice if you’re after a full-day adventure that combines sightseeing, swimming, and local stories.
5. Boat Tour Polignano a Mare with Swim Stop and Aperitiv
Number 5 is a 2-hour coastal cruise on a traditional fishing boat. It features a swim stop near the Hermit’s Rock, with scenic views of Polignano a Mare’s cliffs and caves. The tour includes an aperitif, often with Prosecco and local snacks, and plenty of music to enhance the laid-back vibe.
Guests enjoy the chance to relax on deck, take pictures of the caves, and swim in the clear waters. The reviews point out the friendly crew and the authentic feel of the trip. The short duration makes it a good option for travelers with limited time or those seeking a quick taste of the coast’s beauty.
Bottom line: Ideal for a quick, fun, and authentic local experience—perfect for families or couples.
6. Polignano Monopoli: boat tour on a traditional wooden boat at sunset
Number 6 features a sunset cruise aboard the Leonardo I, an authentic wooden boat from 1970. Departing from two locations—Cala Fontanella or Cala Batteria—it’s the perfect way to unwind with a glass of wine, listening to the gentle sounds of the sea.
During the 1-4 hour trip, you’ll enjoy scenic views of both Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, with ample time for a swim and to take photos as the sun sets. Reviewers love the relaxed pace and the opportunity to learn about local maritime traditions from the guide. The focus on enjoying the moment makes it suitable for romantics and anyone looking to escape the busy day.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for a romantic sunset or peaceful afternoon on a classic boat.
7. Gozzo tour along the coast of Monopoli
This short gozzo tour is perfect if you want a quick introduction to Monopoli’s coastline. Lasting only 30 minutes, it’s the most affordable and accessible option, ideal for those with limited time or families with young children.
The tour provides a focused view of Monopoli’s coves and caves, with the opportunity to hop aboard right from the port and enjoy a brief scenic walk. While it’s brief, reviewers praise the passionate guide and the chance to see the coast from a different perspective.
Bottom line: Best for a quick, budget-friendly peek at Monopoli’s coastline.
8. My Wave tour Monopoli Polignano a Mare
Number 8 is the My Wave tour, offering a 2.5-hour experience with comfortable leather sunbathing mattresses and the possibility of diving from a 3-meter height. It departs from the port of Monopoli, heading toward Polignano a Mare’s cliffs and caves.
The tour emphasizes comfort and fun, with space to move around and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers mention how the hosts make it a friendly, lively experience, perfect for those wanting a bit of adventure in a relaxed setting. The option to choose between sun deck areas adds to the personalized feel.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, slightly more active boat outing.
9. Monopoli: Boat Tour with Swim Stop in the Adriatic Sea
This 1-hour boat tour focuses on a quick, authentic experience in Monopoli’s waters. Starting at Molo Margherita, the route includes a riverboat cruise, a swim in the Adriatic, and scenic viewpoints.
Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to enjoy the sea, the tour combines a relaxing cruise with a refreshing swim in clear waters. Many reviewers enjoy the easy pace and the chance to see Monopoli’s cliffs and caves without committing a whole day.
Bottom line: Great for a quick, refreshing escape with a focus on swimming and scenery.
10. Monopoli: Sailing Tour with Aperitif, Sup and Snorkeling
Number 10 offers a 4-hour sailing experience, perfect for those who want more time on the water. With a small group (max 8), you’ll enjoy relaxing sails, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a delicious Puglian lunch and aperitif.
This trip is a true sailing adventure, not just sightseeing, and reviewers love the personalized attention and the chance to see dolphins. The tour’s inclusions of snorkeling and SUP make it especially appealing for active travelers eager to explore from every angle.
Bottom line: Suited for those wanting a longer, more involved day on the water with plenty of options to swim and paddle.
11. Sunset Aperitif Boat Tour – Monopoli
Rounding out our list, this sunset aperitif cruise is a short, 2-hour trip perfect for ending your day on a high note. The tour departs from Molo Margherita and offers spectacular views of the coastline, with a local aperitif and a swim included.
Ideal for couples and friends wanting a memorable, relaxing experience, reviewers mention how easy it is to capture photos of the sun dipping below the horizon. The focus on unwinding and enjoying the sea makes this a romantic choice.
Bottom line: Best for a laid-back, scenic end to your day, with good drinks and great views.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your boat trip in Monopoli, consider your time, budget, and what experience excites you most. If you want a quick, scenic glimpse, the gozzo tour (Tour #7) is perfect. For a more relaxed, social outing with drinks, the Boat Tour Polignano a Mare (Tour #2) hits the mark. If you’re after a full-day adventure with swimming, caves, and storytelling, the full-day Polignano a Mare experience (Tour #4) offers excellent value.
For couples or romantics, the sunset cruise (Tour #6) provides a peaceful, scenic wind-down, while active travelers will appreciate the snorkeling and paddleboarding options (Tour #10). Budget-conscious visitors might prefer the quick 30-minute gozzo (Tour #7) for a taste of the coast.
Plan your trip during the warmer months from late spring to early fall for the best weather, and always book in advance—especially for the popular sunset and full-day tours.
Monopoli’s boat tours offer everything from quick scenic glimpses to immersive days on the water. If you’re short on time, the shorter trips can still give you a taste of Italy’s spectacular coast, but for a full experience, consider the longer, more inclusive options. Whichever you choose, remember that these tours tend to fill quickly, so booking early ensures you won’t miss out on your ideal trip.