Ponza
Ponza is part of the Pontine Islands and is just a short boat ride from mainland Italy, but it really feels like a secret paradise. It has a rocky coastline with hidden coves and clear blue water which makes it ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There are gorgeous bays with calm waters where kids can safely splash around making it great for families, Cala Feola is known as being one of the island’s prettiest beaches and has shallow water and smooth rocks. When you explore Ponza by boat it lets you see parts of the island you can’t reach on foot. You can sail around the dramatic cliffs and stop at secluded beaches as some of these are only accessible by water. For a fun activity that everyone in the family is likely to enjoy you could look into booking a local boat tour, the guides share stories about Ponza’s history and its famous sea caves. If you love adding a bit of education, culture and history to your trips to educate your kids (and yourself!) then this ideal.
Elba
Elba is the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago and is absolutely full of history thanks to its connection to Napoleon (who was exiled there!) The history adds a unique touch but it’s the island’s natural beauty that makes it a dream for boaters. The coastline is dotted with beaches, rocky inlets and hidden coves.The beaches have calm, shallow waters where children can swim safely and you can also take your boat around the island to discover quiet bays where you can anchor and spend the day playing and exploring. One thing well worth popping on your itinerary is a visit to Porto Azzurro, this is a really beautiful harbour town which has colourful houses and a family friendly vibe. You can moor your boat there and go for a nice evening stroll along the waterfront, grabbing a gelato or a pizza from one of the local spots.
Procida
Procida is the smallest island in the Bay of Naples, it’s actually just a short ferry ride from Naples. It has the most amazing pastel coloured houses and narrow streets making it look like a postcard! It’s less touristy than nearby Ischia and Capri so it’s a peaceful place to stop for families.Boating around Procida lets you see its most beautiful side which is most definitely the coastline. There are little beaches and rocky coves where you can drop your anchor and enjoy a nice swim. The clear and shallow waters are perfect for paddling and having a splash around. Marina Corricella is truly one of the prettiest spots here, so be sure to make some time for wandering through the small village. It’s car free, which makes it even safe for kids to explore. The village has lots of family run restaurants with fresh seafood and homemade pasta so is a fantastic place to have a slow and relaxing lunch.
Tips for Boating with Kids Around the Islands
Travelling by boat with kids can be a fantastic experience, but as with any kind of travel with kids it helps to be prepared. The water around these islands is usually calm in summer, making it ideal for family trips. To keep the little ones happy, bring plenty of snacks, water toys and sun protection. If you’re renting a boat, check that it has a sunshade as the Mediterranean sun can get so strong, even on the water. When you’re stopping at the islands, you’ll find many of the beaches are sandy and shallow, making them safe for kids to play. Most islands also have small villages where you can dock and explore on foot. It’s a lovely way to break up the day and give kids a chance to stretch their legs. If you’re visiting Italy and want to explore these islands by boat, it’s easy to arrange. Ferries run regularly from the mainland to Elba, Ponza, and Procida. If you want more flexibility, think about renting a small boat or booking a skippered tour. If you’re looking for something more luxurious or hoping to buy your own vessel, you could even speak to Yacht brokerage specialists. They can help you find the right yacht for you- from a sleek motorboat or a family friendly sailing yacht. Lots of boat rental companies offer family friendly trips with safety gear and shaded areas. The best time to visit is between late spring and early autumn because the weather is warm and the sea is calm. The water temperature is perfect for swimming, and the longer daylight hours mean you can have more time in your day to do more!
Why Boating Is the Best Way to Explore These Islands
Visiting these islands by boat lets you experience them in a way that most tourists just don’t. You can reach the secluded beaches and swim in all of the quiet coves that are otherwise impossible to get to so everywhere is quieter and feels more exclusive too. It also gives you the freedom to create your own schedule as you can always stop wherever you like, you can have a picnic on board or just spend the afternoon in the water without rushing back to a hotel if you dont want to. With boating, it offers you a nice mixture of adventure and relaxation so is a great choice when you have a family. Kids tend to love the excitement of climbing on and off the boat and swimming in different spots, while parents can enjoy the stunning views and the peaceful sea.
