Egadi Islands Boat Tour: Favignana & Levanzo Small Group

Summary

Favignana swims, Levanzo strolls and Trapani’s island rhythms by boat

You’ll set sail from Trapani with a small group and local guide, diving into Favignana’s pink-tinged bays and exploring Levanzo’s peaceful harbor. Swim at Cala Rossa, stroll through Favignana town or visit its old tuna docks, then relax on deck as you cross between islands—with drinks and snorkeling gear included.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is the way our captain, Salvo, called out “Andiamo!” as we clambered onto the boat in Trapani. He grinned at my sunhat (which honestly looked ridiculous in the wind) and handed me a cold soda before we even left the dock. There were just ten of us—nobody fighting for space—and everyone seemed half-awake but excited. The Egadi islands felt close but also like another world as we pulled away from Sicily. I could smell sunscreen and sea salt everywhere.

We anchored near Favignana’s sandy bay—the water actually did have this weird pinkish shimmer over white sand. I thought it was a trick of the light until Salvo said it’s from crushed coral. Jumping in was a shock (colder than I expected), but after a few seconds it felt perfect. Some folks snorkeled right away; I just floated on my back for a bit, staring up at the cliffs and trying to remember if I’d ever seen water this clear. Maybe not. Later we drifted past Bue Marino—the tuff quarries look almost like ancient ruins, all sharp lines and pale stone against blue sea.

Cala Rossa was next—Salvo insisted it’s Italy’s most famous cove (he might be right). The cliffs there are wild shapes, and when you swim close you can see little fish darting around your feet. We stopped in Favignana town for lunch; I wandered tiny streets while some of the group went to check out the old Florio tuna factory. The smell of grilled fish from one trattoria made me wish I’d skipped breakfast.

Levanzo came after—a quieter island, with boats bobbing in water so clear you could count pebbles on the bottom. There was time for a nap during the crossing (I definitely dozed off). At Cala Fredda, swimming among silvery fish felt kind of unreal—like being inside an aquarium but warmer. Last stop was this pine-shaded cove where the sea turned emerald green; honestly, I still think about that color sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home. And then suddenly we were heading back to Trapani, hair salty and skin tight from sun.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour of Egadi islands

• Depart from Trapani by boat
• Swim at Favignana sandy beach
• Snorkel at Bue Marino cliffs
• Swim at Cala Rossa cove
• Break and lunch in Favignana town
• Travel to Levanzo island
• Swim at Cala Fredda pebble beach
• Swim at pine forest cove
• Return to Trapani

Top questions

How many people are on the Egadi Islands boat tour?

The tour runs with no more than 12 people per boat.

Does the Egadi boat tour include snorkeling equipment?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your day trip.

Where does the Egadi Islands boat tour start?

The tour departs from Trapani port in Sicily.

Is lunch included on the Favignana & Levanzo day trip?

No lunch is not included; you’ll have free time to eat at restaurants in Favignana town.

Are drinks provided during the boat trip?

Soda or soft drinks are included during your day on board.

Is this Egadi Islands day trip suitable for families?

Yes, all fitness levels are welcome; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Can I reach Trapani port by public transportation?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes soft drinks onboard, use of snorkeling gear for those turquoise swims around Favignana and Levanzo, plus all fuel surcharges—just bring your beach towel and some curiosity for what these Sicilian islands feel like up close.