We list information about Puglia Boat Trips and Boat Rentals here but sometimes one of the Puglia boat trips stands out from the rest.
While I was researching and updating information about Puglia Boat Trips I discovered Marasciulo Charter, based in Monopoli. I liked the look of the boat trips they offer as they are a little different and stand out from the rest. You can take a short trip at different times of the day. Morning, afternoon, early evening and night time on a beautiful mahogany sailing ship. How about a “Boat and Breakfast” trip, staying on board a beautiful ship, or a private party.
There’s no better way to find out if advertised Puglia boat trips stand up to expectations than to try it yourself. So early one morning in late October (2016) we set out for Monopoli, I had booked the 9 am cruise as we thought it would be great to stroll through Monopoli historic centre and have some lunch after the trip.
Monopoli is on the Adriatic coast between Bari and Brindisi. Monopoli is easy to find but you will need good directions or GPS to find your way to via Cristoforo Columbo in the port of Monopoli. Although we were 10 minutes late arriving we received a warm welcome from the crew of the Yasemin Sultan. Late in October, we were the only people taking the morning cruise. It didn’t worry the crew at all. Clearly, they enjoy taking to the Adriatic Sea and sharing the coastline with their guests.
The day was calm, blue skies and the sun shining. Our trip took us up the coastline from Monopoli to Polignano al Mare. We were able to explore all of the facilities on the caicco (caique), nowhere was off-limits. We spent some time on the front decks, soaking up the sun and the scenery. Swimming is possible, an opportunity we declined in October. Maybe next summer!

All images courtesy of Grethic
Approaching Polignano al Mare we travelled close to the cliffs stopping to look at the famous cave restaurant, built into the cliffside and open to the sea. Eating there, something we did on a previous day out, is an experience, expensive, but the location is amazing.
Close to the edge of Polignano, we attracted a lot of interest from tourists and locals alike. The Yasemin Sultan is a beautiful vessel and worthy of the envious glances thrown our way.
Our 45 euro a head, three and a half hour Puglia boat trip included Prosecco and traditional “nibbles”. All served with a smile.
A great experience, a fabulous morning, one we will do again. Maybe a private party for our twentieth wedding anniversary next year. Next time you are in Puglia, this Puglia boat trip is highly recommended.