Take a break from Rome's ruins to set off an an exploration of Rome's secret island: Ponza. This tiny pearl of the mediterranean has been the hideaway of Roman vacationers and celebrities for thousands of years - and its finally possibile to visit on an adventurous day trip from Rome. While the beaches near Rome are overcrowded and have poor water quality due to the nearby commercial port of Civitavecchia - Ponza benefits from it's isolated location 30 nautical miles from the closest point on shore. Crystal clear, sparkling blue and turquoise waters await you, with incredible visibility that makes Ponza a swimmer, boater and snorkeler's paradise.
This day trip from Rome kicks off near the Piramide metro stop (We meet at Cafe' du Parc ,Piazza di Porta S. Paolo, 00153 Roma RM) with a 7:00AM start. Here you'll meet your expert English-speaking tour leader. After check-in, board an air conditioned transfer to Rome's nearest port, just an hour ride away in a seaside town called Anzio. Here, we'll board a comfortable fast ferry to Ponza Island. The cost of the ferry is 50 euro per person and is not included in the tour price. The ferry tickets must be paid at check in. The ride lasts about 1.5 hours, and is a great moment to catch a brief snooze in preparation for the adventurous day ahead.
We'll arrive in Ponza at approximately 10:15AM and have a brief break to eat breakfast (own expense) or pick up any last minute items or snacks to bring on the next leg of our journey. At 11AM we'll board an excursion boat with other travellers - for the most part Italian vacationers - and begin our circumnavigation of the entire island. Our expert captain, a local Ponzan, will adjust our itinerary according to the wind and waves to get the most out of our day and stick to the calmest waters where we'll be most comfortable.
The 5 hour boat excursion will cover Ponza's most important sights -- hidden coves, spectacular rock formations and a plethora of blue grottoes which, if we're lucky -- we'll even swim inside! You Tour leader is an expert in Ponza's fascinating history and geology and will translate all commentary make by your Ponzan captain who only speaks Italian. Sights might include the Arco Naturale (Natural Arch), Lucia Rosa's cove & beach, the Guard's Light House (one of the oldest and most important in Italy) and Moon Rock Beach - the spectacular and famous "Chiaia di Luna". We'll make 4-5 stops for about 30 minutes each time to swim and snorkel at the best spots.
During the trip, our captain and his first mate will prepare a simple and delicious pasta lunch which will be served picnic-style on deck, with water, wine and even a traditional Italian espresso. Pasta not your favorie? Make sure you pick up a sandwich or snack in the morning at Ponza's port.
The boat excursion will conclude at approximately 4PM after which we'll have an hour of free time to explore Ponza's busy, colorful port with its many shops and cafe's. It's a great time to grab a gelato or even a flute of prosecco to celebrate a day well spent.
Sad to leave, we'll board the same fast ferry we took to Ponza back to the port of Anzio where our transfer back to Rome will be waiting for us. We will reach the Piramide metro stop around 8:00-8:30PM.
Don't fret about train times, ferry departures or sold out tickets - this all-inclusive Ponza Island tour takes care of everything for you so all you need to worry about is showing up! If you love the sea, or want to visit a place in Italy where you won't be surrounded by tourists - this trip is for you.
Need snorkel gear? Choose the option "with snorkel" and we will provide a set with a snorkel and mask for you to keep.
Looking to upgrade to a private experience? The private experience includes hotel pick up and drop off, a guide, a skipper, and a typical Ponzan "Gozzo" boat just for you. Lunch is not included in the option and is at your own experience. It may be purchased in advance and brought on board. Ferry tickets are an additional 50 euro per person and must be paid at check in.
