About this tour
A 12–13 hour boat journey to Ponza and Palmarola, two islands off the Italian coast near Rome. You'll depart Rome by private minivan to Anzio, then board a fast ferry to Ponza, where a local guide leads you past Roman cisterns and natural rock formations. Multiple swimming stops, snorkelling gear provided, and a lunch of fresh pasta with white wine served aboard. Finish with time to browse local shops before the return ferry and transfer home.
Highlights
- Roman hand-carved cisterns hidden in cliff faces
- Swim and snorkel in transparent Mediterranean water
- Boat passes through natural stone arches
- Fresh pasta and local white wine served on deck
- Visit pebble beach at Palmarola
- Local guide commentary throughout
- Private minivan transfers from Rome
What to expect
An early start with pickup by air-conditioned minivan to Anzio port, then a scenic ferry crossing to Ponza. Once there, your guide navigates the boat past submerged archaeological ruins and sculpted rock formations, stopping frequently so you can wade and dive. The water is clear and calm on most days. Lunch arrives mid-afternoon—a simple plate of pasta with wine—eaten on the boat's deck. Afterwards, you'll have an hour or so to wander the tight grid of shops near the pier before boarding the return ferry. The journey back to Rome takes most of the evening.
Good to know
Bring a towel, hat, and strong sunscreen; you'll spend much of the day on water. Ferries operate year-round but can be choppy in winter. Minimum two people per booking. Not suitable if you have serious heart or mobility issues. Tell the operator about dietary needs when you book.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original Global Hobo summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.