Isola d’Ischia is a slice of Italy’s coastal paradise that calls out for exploration—by land, by sea, or both. While strolling the streets of this charming island is delightful, some of the most memorable experiences come from seeing it from the water. Whether you want to sail quietly along its coast, party on a motor yacht, or hop over to the colorful island of Procida, Ischia offers options that suit different tastes and desires. We particularly like the schooner cruise for its relaxed vibe and stunning scenery, and the motor yacht tour for those craving lively fun with good food and drinks. Each experience unveils a different facet of this captivating island.
If you’re trying to decide which tour best fits your style, here’s a quick overview: from tranquil sailing adventures with plenty of swimming and local food (Tour of the island of Ischia in schooner), to upbeat party cruises on a motor yacht (Tour of Ischia Island with Motor Yacht Rocca Corsa), and even a full-day trip to the colorful Procida (Boat tour with lunch on board to discover Procida). Each offers a unique way to experience the island’s coastal beauty, local flavors, and lively spirit.
1. Tour of the island of Ischia in schooner
At number 1, the Tour of the island of Ischia in schooner is a favorite for its relaxed pace and stunning scenery. Priced at around $80.57 per person, this 7-hour cruise is perfect if you want a laid-back day on the water. You’ll set sail aboard a vintage schooner, skirting the coastline to admire picturesque spots like Citara Bay, Sant’Angelo, the Grotte, the Aragonese Castle, and Lacco Ameno. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of stunning views, quiet coves only accessible by boat, and ample time to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The stops at five different bays ensure you get plenty of swimming opportunities, with many travelers describing it as “a heavenly day.” During the cruise, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch with traditional island dishes, making it a perfect mix of relaxation and local flavor.
The crew is praised for their kindness and attentiveness, with reviews mentioning how they catered to seasickness and made everyone feel comfortable. The experience is ideal for travelers who want to escape busy land-based tours and just soak up the scenery from a deck chair. Bottom line: this tour offers an authentic, peaceful way to see Ischia from the sea, with the chance to swim in some of the most beautiful spots around the island.
2. Tour of Ischia Island with Motor Yacht Rocca Corsa
Ranking second, the Tour of Ischia Island with Motor Yacht Rocca Corsa is a lively, music-filled adventure that combines sightseeing, swimming, and plenty of social fun. For about $77.21 per person, your day begins in Forio, where you’ll hop aboard this spacious yacht. The tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours, during which you’ll enjoy local seafood and drinks, all while cruising past top spots like the Bay of Sorgeto and the Grotta dell’Amore. It’s not just about scenery; this trip is packed with activities—swimming in designated stops, sharing selfies, dancing to music, and tasting delicious local fare prepared onboard.
Many reviews highlight the friendly crew and the chef’s tasty food, as well as the festive atmosphere. One traveler described it as “incredible,” noting the plentiful food and the chance to meet other travelers. The boat’s relaxed vibe makes it perfect for those wanting a fun, energetic day on the water, with the added bonus of excellent food and drinks. Bottom line: this tour balances sightseeing with socializing, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a lively, memorable day with plenty of good eats.
3. Boat tour with lunch on board to discover Procida
Finally, for about $87.08 per person, the Boat tour with lunch on board to discover Procida offers a full day of exploring the colorful island of Procida. This 8-9 hour trip departs from Forio and includes multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the views of the island’s iconic structures. The tour stands out for its combination of scenic cruising and the chance to explore Procida’s charming streets on a guided taxi tour (for an extra €15). The boat itself is family-run, with a focus on authentic local hospitality, and reviews mention the delicious onboard meals and the opportunity to see the Aragonese Castle from the water.
The tour’s highlight is the blend of relaxing time on the boat with cultural exploration—perfect for travelers who want to both see the scenery and experience some of Procida’s unique character. Many guests describe it as “one of the best highlights,” praising the authentic atmosphere and the memorable swimming spots. Bottom line: this is an excellent choice if you want a full-day experience that combines sea, culture, and local food in a relaxed setting.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
Choosing between these options depends on what kind of day you’re after. If you prefer a peaceful, scenic cruise with plenty of swimming and authentic island dishes, the schooner tour is a perfect fit. For those who want a lively, social atmosphere with music, dancing, and generous food, the motor yacht experience offers a fun, energetic vibe. Lastly, if your goal is to explore both Ischia and Procida with an emphasis on cultural sights and excellent food, the Procida boat tour provides a full-day adventure with a splash of history and local flavor.
Think about your budget, how active you want to be, and whether you prefer relaxing silence or lively entertainment. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, since these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Isola d’Ischia offers a range of sea adventures that show off its beauty and character in very different ways. Whether you choose the peaceful schooner cruise, the festive motor yacht trip, or the cultural day trip to Procida, each experience promises unforgettable memories. For most travelers, these tours are a highlight—so pick one that matches your style and book early to secure your spot.