Polignano a Mare: Coastal Boat Tour with Aperitif & Swim

Summary

Polignano a Mare caves boat trip with prosecco swim stops

You’ll sail along Polignano a Mare’s rugged coast by boat with a local guide, ducking into hidden caves and arches only accessible by sea. Enjoy Apulian prosecco and tarallini as you float or swim in crystal-clear water. Expect laughter, small surprises, and moments where you’ll forget your phone entirely.

What’s the experience like?

We almost missed the boat—literally. My sandal strap snapped on those uneven stones near the marina, and I had to hobble-walk the last bit. Our guide, Marco, just grinned and waved us over like he’d seen it all before. The boat wasn’t fancy but felt solid, and there was this faint smell of salt and sunscreen mixed together that somehow made me relax. We set off along the Polignano a Mare coast, engine humming low, sunlight flickering through little sprays of water.

I didn’t expect how close we’d get to the caves—some so narrow I thought we’d scrape the sides. Marco pointed out arches and told stories about smugglers (he winked; who knows if they’re true). The Peter and Paul Cave looked almost fake, like something from a painting. A couple of locals waved from another boat and shouted something in dialect—Marco laughed but didn’t translate. I still wonder what they said.

At one point he handed out tarallini—those crunchy Apulian snacks—and poured prosecco into little plastic cups. It tasted colder than I expected, maybe because my hands were still wet from dipping them in the sea. There was this moment when everyone went quiet except for the sound of water slapping against the hull and someone’s ringtone playing “Volare” (not even kidding). Swimming off the back of the boat felt unreal—the water was clearer than any pool I’ve been in, cool but not freezing. I lost track of time floating there, sun on my face.

We took photos but honestly none of them really catch how blue everything looked or how good that first bite of tarallini tasted after swimming. On the way back, Marco let us steer for a minute (I zigzagged badly; he pretended not to notice). Even now, sometimes when I hear seagulls or taste salty air somewhere else, I think about that afternoon off Polignano a Mare—how easy it felt to just drift for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour along Polignano coast

• Start tour at departure point
• Guide explains coastal stories
• See natural arches and caves
• Visit Peter and Paul Cave
• Visit Cave of the Doves
• Stop for swim and aperitif
• Enjoy prosecco and tarallini
• Relax and take panoramic photos

Top questions

Is swimming included during the Polignano a Mare boat tour?

Yes, there is time for swimming in clear waters during the tour.

What snacks are served on the coastal boat tour?

You’ll be offered typical Apulian tarallini along with prosecco as an aperitif.

Does the tour include snorkeling equipment?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included in your booking.

Are there photo stops during the Polignano a Mare boat trip?

Yes, you’ll have chances to take panoramic photos from the boat.

How long is the day trip along Polignano a Mare’s coast?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect enough time for sightseeing, swimming, and an aperitif break.

Is pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet at the marina starting point.

Are infants allowed on board?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with health issues?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular problems.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes covered up front, Italian snacks like tarallini served alongside local prosecco for an aperitif break at sea, plus use of snorkeling equipment if you want to swim or float near Polignano a Mare’s caves before heading back to port together.