Polignano a Mare: Boat Tour of Sea Caves & Swim Stop

Summary

Boat along Polignano’s rocky coast, swim in sea caves, taste Apulian snacks

You’ll glide along Polignano’s dramatic coast by boat, pause at famous caves like Grotta Palazzese, taste crisp Prosecco with Apulian taralli, and jump into clear water near Lama Monachile. Expect laughter with your small group and stories from your local guide — plus moments of quiet wonder you might remember long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We slid away from the little harbor at Polignano a Mare just as the sun started glinting off the water — you could smell sunscreen and that sharp saltiness in the air. Our guide, Matteo, grinned and pointed out the statue of Domenico Modugno right above us. He actually sang “Volare” for a second (not bad), and I swear even the seagulls seemed to listen. The cliffs looked almost too white against the blue — I kept squinting, trying to catch all those weird shapes carved by wind and waves.

The boat rocked gently as we drifted near Grotta Palazzese. Matteo told us about people dining inside that cave restaurant (I still can’t picture eating pasta with that echo). We ducked into Grotta degli Innamorati next — low ceiling, cool air, and this odd hush that made everyone go quiet for a moment. Then someone’s phone beeped and we all laughed. There was Prosecco popping open not long after; honestly, taralli taste better when your hands are still damp from swimming.

Jumping into the water by Lama Monachile was colder than I’d expected — like pins at first but then just perfect. Some local kids waved from the rocks above and tried to teach us how to say “buon tuffo.” Li laughed when I tried to say it in Italian — probably butchered it. The sun felt warmer after that dip, and I just let my feet dangle over the side while we floated for a bit… hard not to wish you could stay out there longer.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour of Polignano a Mare caves

• Admire statue of Domenico Modugno
• View panoramic Bourbon period site
• See famous cave restaurant from sea

Top questions

How long does the Polignano a Mare boat tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified in the description, but most similar tours last around 1-2 hours.

Is swimming included on this boat tour?

Yes, there is a swim break included during the tour.

Are snacks or drinks provided on board?

Yes, you’ll get bottled water, Prosecco (alcoholic beverage), and typical Apulian taralli as snacks.

Which caves will we see during this tour?

The tour includes Grotta Palazzese, Grotta Ardito, Grotta degli Innamorati, Scoglio dell'Eremita, and Lama Monachile.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you’ll need to reach the departure point yourself.

Are service animals allowed on this boat tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Is this boat tour suitable for infants or young children?

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; suitable for all fitness levels.

Will there be a local guide on board?

The experience includes guidance from locals familiar with Polignano a Mare’s coast and caves.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water for everyone on board, sparkling Prosecco poured fresh after your swim stop, crunchy Apulian taralli as snacks during the ride past Polignano’s sea caves—all shared with your small group before heading back to shore together.