In Monopoli, you can find numerous boat hire options, suitable both for those who want to sail independently (without a licence) and those who want to relax with a skipper and guided tours along the coast or to Polignano a Mare. They range from dinghies, motorboats, small open boats, to yachts and larger boats for large groups.
Recommended options
Boat hire without a licence: many operators offer 5-6 metre open boats that can be driven without a nautical licence (up to 40 horsepower, for a maximum of 4-6 people). The average cost is between €180 and €340 per day, depending on the period and type.
Rental of inflatable boats: a very popular alternative for exploring the coves between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, with or without a skipper. Prices start at around €100-200 per day, but can reach €800 or more for larger, fully equipped models.
Rental with skipper: ideal for those who want to discover caves, coves and hidden beaches with a local guide. Many companies offer private guided tours lasting 2 to 4 hours or a full day, including for families, small groups or private events.
Reliable operators: among the best known in the city are Click&Boat, Punto Nautico, Monopoliboat, SamBoat, RentMe, Freedome and Naval Service. All offer online booking, clear information and boats of various sizes, some even equipped with additional services such as sunshades, ice boxes, ladders and snorkelling equipment.
What you need to know
The price depends on the season, the model and any extras such as a skipper, fuel and equipment.
Advance booking is recommended, especially during the summer months.
It is often possible to depart from the central port of Monopoli and easily reach Polignano, the caves and the most beautiful coves.
Hiring a boat is one of the best ways to enjoy the sea around Monopoli and discover hidden corners and spectacular landscapes along the Adriatic coast.
Best boat tours and recommended stops from Monopoli
The best boat tours from Monopoli depart from the Old Port (Molo Margherita) and last between 2 and 3 hours on average, offering personalised and unforgettable experiences for couples, families and groups of friends. The most recommended stops along the coast are the sea caves, coves and views of Polignano a Mare, often enhanced by stops for swimming in crystal-clear waters and small aperitifs on board featuring Apulian products.
Recommended typical itinerary
Departure from the Port of Monopoli: usually from Molo Margherita, in the heart of the historic centre.
Heading north towards Polignano a Mare: sailing along cliffs and unique panoramic stretches.
Must-see stops:
Cala Port’Alga and Scogliera Corvino: perfect for stops and dives into crystal clear water.
Grotta Palazzese, Grotta delle Monache, Grotta Ardito: among the most spectacular and well-known caves in the area.
Lama Monachile: symbol of Polignano a Mare, recognisable by its houses overlooking the sea.
Scoglio dell'Eremita (or Isolotto di San Paolo): a scenic feature steeped in legend and local stories.
Statue of Domenico Modugno: visible from the sea, panoramic viewpoint and photo opportunity.
Apulian aperitif on board: with taralli, panzerottini, focaccia, and prosecco or local beverage.
Practical advice
The boats available range from traditional fishing boats to motorboats, inflatable boats, catamarans and yachts for groups.
Most tours include an experienced skipper, commentary on the coastline and caves, and stops for swimming (bring your swimsuit, beach towel and sunscreen).
Private tours allow you to customise the stops, while shared tours are ideal for meeting other travellers and saving money.
During peak season, book in advance to secure the best seats and times.
This experience offers a unique perspective on the Adriatic coast, enriched by breathtaking views and the authentic charm of places that can only be reached by sea.
What is the Monopoly goitre? History and interesting facts
The Monopoli gozzo is a traditional wooden boat, typical of the local seafaring tradition and culture of this fishing town. Its history is rooted in the Adriatic seafaring tradition, with Venetian and Byzantine influences that have shaped its form and construction technique over time. This boat, used mainly for fishing, stands out for its practical design and resistance to the sea, capable of withstanding even difficult conditions.
Key features and interesting facts:
The Monopoli fishing boats are mainly painted blue and red, colours associated with devotion to the Madonna della Madia, the patron saint of the city (blue for the sky and red for suffering).
Traditional measurements of the gozzo are still expressed in Neapolitan palms (approximately 26 cm each), for a length ranging from 3.5 to almost 5 metres.
The construction of gozzi boats is an art handed down from generation to generation, carried out by local master carpenters who work without technical drawings but follow traditional templates and measurements. In Monopoli, the tradition is strong thanks to families such as the Saponaras and Lafronzas, who keep this craftsmanship alive.
A unique feature of the Monopoli gozzo is the horned fork, found on Saponara boats, used for rowing with a single oar that also acts as a rudder.
For several years now, Monopoli has been organising events such as “Gozzovigliando”, free boat trips with tastings of typical local products to promote this ancient seafaring tradition and enhance the cultural heritage linked to the sea.
The gozzo is not only a working tool, but also a symbol of identity for the town of Monopoli, a living link between people, history and the sea. Today, excursions on gozzi boats are one of the most authentic tourist attractions, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local seafaring culture and experience the charm of this centuries-old tradition.
In summary, the gozzo is Monopoli's boat, guardian of its fishing history and unique connection with the Adriatic Sea.