Boat tours: explore the coast of Tuscany by boat

A boat trip is the most beautiful way to discover the Tuscan coast and the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago: secluded coves that are difficult to reach on foot, swimming stops in the clear water, and views of coastal towns from the sea. Excursion boats, day sailing trips, and fishing boats with guests on board depart primarily during the season from the ports between Livorno and Monte Argentario, as well as on Elba.

Boat tours to starting point

Elba: Island tours and swimming coves

Elba offers the widest range of activities. During the season, the ports offer coastal tours, excursions to secluded coves, and glass-bottom boat trips; boats also depart from Marina di Campo to the neighboring island of Pianosa. First-time visitors to Elba can easily combine a boat trip with our tips on Elba 's most beautiful beaches . An overview of bookable tours can be found at GetYourGuide: Boat trips on Elba . Information on the ferry crossing: Getting to Elba.

Piombino, San Vincenzo and the Etruscan Coast

From Piombino , you can reach Elba by ferry in about an hour – many holidaymakers on the Etruscan Coast take a day trip to the island this way. In San Vincenzo and the Gulf of Baratti, local operators offer sailing and motorboat tours along the coast during the summer. Mini-cruises and day sailing trips are offered from Marina di Cecina, including trips to the island of Capraia . Offers and departure times change every year – it's best to inquire directly at the port or at your accommodation.

Monte Argentario: Giglio and Giannutri

Ferries and excursion boats to the islands of Giglio and Giannutri depart from Porto Santo Stefano . On Giannutri, landing is only permitted at Cala Maestra and Cala Spalmatoio. Mini-cruises that connect both islands in one day are popular. A selection can be found at GetYourGuide: Boat tours at Monte Argentario.

Pianosa, Gorgona and Montecristo: only with permission

The three islands are among the most strictly protected areas of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. Pianosa (from Marina di Campo on Elba, and in summer also from Piombino) and Gorgona (from Livorno) can only be visited with authorized, guided tours. Montecristo is only accessible via guided tours offered by the National Park: in 2026, there are 23 dates between March 21 and September 20, each with 75 places, costing €140. Participants must be at least 12 years old. Swimming is prohibited, and those using their own boats must maintain a distance of approximately one kilometer from the coast (as of 2026).

Our insider tip: Pescaturismo with Paolo il Pescatore in Talamone

A truly unique boat trip is offered by fisherman Paolo Fanciulli from Talamone on the Maremma coast. On his so-called " pescaturismo," you'll sail with him along the coast, learn how traditional, environmentally friendly small-scale fishing works, and then enjoy freshly caught fish. In the evening, he invites you to an "ititurismo" —a dinner featuring the day's catch.

Paolo Fanciulli has become known beyond the region for his years-long campaign against illegal bottom trawling off the coast. With his project "La Casa dei Pesci" (The House of Fish), marble sculptures by various artists have been sunk on the seabed to stop bottom trawls and provide shelter for fish. Information and contact details (also available in German and English): paoloilpescatore.it . Accommodation is available directly in Talamone.

Tips for your boat trip

• Best time: Most excursion boats operate during the warmer months; book well in advance during the peak summer season. Trips are cancelled in strong winds.
• Take along: Sunscreen, head covering, water, swimwear and snorkel mask.
• Whales and dolphins: The sea between Tuscany, Liguria and Corsica is part of the Pelagos protected area – more information can be found at Whales and dolphins in Tuscany.
• Rent a boat yourself: Boats up to 30 kW (40,8 hp) can be operated without a license within a 6 nautical mile radius; minimum age 16 years. More information in the article. Yacht charter in Tuscany.
• Overview: All bookable boat trips in the region can be found at GetYourGuide: Boat tours in Tuscany; Beach tips in our overview Tuscany beaches.

Frequently asked questions about boat tours in Tuscany