Snorkeling from Ponza to Palmarola: 4 stops, lunch aboard

Four swimming stops around Palmarola in a single afternoon, with lunch and an open bar between them.

A day boat from Ponza to Palmarola with four snorkeling stops, lunch prepared on board, and an open bar throughout. The boat holds up to 48 passengers and departs at 10:45 or 11:00, returning at 5pm—practical timing for day arrivals and departures. Snorkeling equipment is provided; the route skirts Ponza's caves and lighthouse before heading to Palmarola, where the swimming stops happen around the island's perimeter. A live guide speaks English and Italian.

The Experience

The boat leaves Ponza's port at 10:45 or 11:00 and heads north, skirting the caves of Pilate and the Lighthouse of the Guard before crossing to Palmarola—about 40 minutes of navigation. Once there, the first swimming stop arrives, and three more follow as the boat works around the island's perimeter. You bring snorkeling gear (provided) and a willingness to get in and out of the water four times across the day; lifebuoys and floating pipes are on board for anyone who wants them.

Lunch is served on board—a first course, then dessert and coffee in the afternoon—with an open bar running all day. An aperitif with tomato bruschetta or pizzas and prosecco comes at the first stop. The boat itself is built for comfort: a large sundeck upstairs, shade aft and forward, and room enough that 48 people don't feel crowded. Children from age 2 are welcome; the operator notes the tour is suitable for all fitness levels, though pregnant travelers should not go.

The return to Ponza is at 5pm, which works for people catching ferries or flights the same day. The menu can be adjusted in advance if you have allergies or intolerances. Alcoholic drinks go only to travelers 21 and older; younger passengers get soft drinks.

What’s included

• Snorkeling equipment and flotation aids.
• lunch with a first course, dessert and coffee.
• an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day.
• an aperitif with bruschetta or pizzas and prosecco at the first stop.
• a live guide in English or Italian.

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by Ponzesi Per Scelta Boat

Is this one for you?Book this shared boat tour if you want four snorkel stops with meals and drinks included, and your schedule allows a morning departure and 5pm return.

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Top questions

What are the four snorkeling stops like around Palmarola?

The boat circles Palmarola's perimeter, stopping four times for swimming in the waters around the island. The operator describes the water as crystal clear and the experience as unique, though the specific features of each stop—depth, marine life, rock formations—are not detailed in the itinerary.

Is snorkeling equipment included, or do I need to bring my own?

Snorkeling equipment is provided on board. Lifebuoys and floating pipes are also available if you want extra flotation during the stops.

What time does the boat leave Ponza, and when does it return?

The boat departs at 10:45 or 11:00 from Ponza's port and returns at 5pm. The 6-hour day works for travelers arriving or leaving the island the same day.

Is lunch included, and can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Lunch is prepared on board and includes a first course, dessert and coffee. The menu can be adjusted in advance if you have allergies or intolerances; notify the operator when you book.

Can children go on this boat trip?

Children are welcome from age 2 onward. The boat is comfortable for families, with both shaded and open-deck areas. Children under 21 receive soft drinks instead of alcoholic beverages.

How many people fit on the boat?

The boat holds a maximum of 48 passengers and is designed so everyone can stay comfortable either in the shaded areas aft and forward or on the large sundeck upstairs.