Spend a half-day circling volcanic Ischia aboard a 25-passenger Barca Grande, stopping for swims at Citara, Punta Chiarito and the secluded Scarrupata, and enjoying a fish-based lunch on deck before sailing past the Aragonese Castle.
Spend a half-day circling volcanic Ischia aboard a 25-passenger Barca Grande, stopping for swims at Citara, Punta Chiarito and the secluded Scarrupata, and enjoying a fish-based lunch on deck before sailing past the Aragonese Castle.
Breathe the salt and lemon-scented air as the Barca Grande slips out of Forio harbor, hull cutting blue that shifts from aquamarine to deep navy.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Enrico Maria · Forio, Campania
Breathe the salt and lemon-scented air as the Barca Grande slips out of Forio harbor, hull cutting blue that shifts from aquamarine to deep navy.
The six-hour loop circles Ischia’s volcanic rim, pausing at Citara’s thermal-influenced bays, the pebbled arms of Punta Chiarito and the quiet Scarrupata where the crew serves a simple fish-based lunch on deck. In the afternoon the boat eases past the medieval Aragonese Castle, its stone mass clinging to the islet, then drifts toward San Montano or San Francesco for a final dip.
Ischia’s story is volcanic—lava and thermal springs sculpted the island’s coves and created mineral-rich waters long prized by Romans and later Neapolitan visitors. Fishing villages around the coast retain a working character: nets, netsmen and family-run trattorie that still base menus on day’s catch.
Expect short swims from the tender or ladder entries for easy-access coves, shallow rocky seabeds under clear water and a convivial, shared-boat atmosphere for up to 25 guests. The geology rewards swimmers and snorkelers with submerged rock formations and Posidonia meadows—sensitive habitats that deserve respect.
Practical guidance: arrive with swimwear under light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for electronics. Seas can be calm but bring a wind layer for afternoon breezes; the operator provides drinks, lunch and restroom access on board. Book morning departures for clearer seas and quieter anchorages, and notify the crew of mobility needs—boarding is straightforward but involves gentle steps and ladders.
The shared tour departs from Forio and returns to the same harbor, with an afternoon finish in the Bay of San Montano or San Francesco depending on sea conditions.
Yes—lunch is served on board and is typically a fish-based meal prepared by the crew, with water and wine included.
Yes—there are five to six stops for swimming; entries are usually by ladder or shallow beach access depending on the cove.
The tour is family-friendly and notes stroller accessibility for infants, but parents should supervise boarding, ladders and open water swims.
Enrico Maria operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Breathe the salt and lemon-scented air as the Barca Grande slips out of Forio harbor, hull cutting blue that shifts from aquamarine to deep navy.
Breathe the salt and lemon-scented air as the Barca Grande slips out of Forio harbor, hull cutting blue that shifts from aquamarine to deep navy.
The six-hour loop circles Ischia’s volcanic rim, pausing at Citara’s thermal-influenced bays, the pebbled arms of Punta Chiarito and the quiet Scarrupata where the crew serves a simple fish-based lunch on deck. In the afternoon the boat eases past the medieval Aragonese Castle, its stone mass clinging to the islet, then drifts toward San Montano or San Francesco for a final dip.
Ischia’s story is volcanic—lava and thermal springs sculpted the island’s coves and created mineral-rich waters long prized by Romans and later Neapolitan visitors. Fishing villages around the coast retain a working character: nets, netsmen and family-run trattorie that still base menus on day’s catch.
Expect short swims from the tender or ladder entries for easy-access coves, shallow rocky seabeds under clear water and a convivial, shared-boat atmosphere for up to 25 guests. The geology rewards swimmers and snorkelers with submerged rock formations and Posidonia meadows—sensitive habitats that deserve respect.
Practical guidance: arrive with swimwear under light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for electronics. Seas can be calm but bring a wind layer for afternoon breezes; the operator provides drinks, lunch and restroom access on board. Book morning departures for clearer seas and quieter anchorages, and notify the crew of mobility needs—boarding is straightforward but involves gentle steps and ladders.