Good morning, ladies and gentlemen! Welcome aboard, and thank you for choosing to travel with us! The captain and the entire crew are delighted to welcome you and guide you in discovering the stunning islands of Favignana and Levanzo. Our journey begins at the port of Trapani. After approximately 45 minutes of sailing, we will arrive at Favignana, where you will have around four hours of free time to explore the island at your own pace. You will also have the option to rent a bike or scooter from one of the many rental shops on the island or join the delightful train tour departing from Favignana’s port.

 In the afternoon, once back on board, we will set sail for Levanzo, where you will enjoy a panoramic tour of the island. Weather and sea conditions permitting, the captain will choose a cove where you can stop for a refreshing swim in Levanzo’s crystal-clear waters.

We will then head back to Trapani, with an expected return to the port between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. During the return journey, a short technical stop at Favignana may be required to allow other passengers to board. Don’t worry; during this brief stop, you can remain comfortably seated on board, relaxing and enjoying the view.

In the map provided with this audio guide, you will find numbered points of historical, cultural, and natural interest. Each point corresponds to an audio segment offering detailed explanations and fascinating curiosities. We recommend listening to the audio tracks when you are near the respective locations. If you’re unsure about your position, don’t hesitate to ask a crew member. The map and audio guide include as many points of interest as possible to anticipate any changes that might occur during the boat tour. However, please note that not all the stops indicated may be visited. The itineraries of our boat tours are subject to change, so some points on the map may not be reached. We are thrilled to embark on this journey and can’t wait to show you the beauty of these enchanting islands. We wish you a pleasant day and an unforgettable adventure with us!

We are departing from the Port of Trapani, a natural harbor spanning approximately 921,000 square meters with a remarkable history. Originally established as the commercial outlet for Erice, the majestic mountain overlooking Trapani, this port has witnessed the passage of many civilizations over the centuries. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, and Arabs have all utilized its strategic location at the western tip of Sicily, making it a crucial crossroads in the Mediterranean. Beyond its historical significance, the Port of Trapani is renowned for being one of the safest ports in Italy, thanks to its natural protection from the winds. This feature has indeed made it an exceptionally reliable harbor.

The impressive structure on your right is La Colombaia, also known as Torre Peliade. Standing 32 meters tall, this fortress, consisting of four stacked floors, is regarded as one of the finest examples of military architecture in Sicily. It was built during the First Punic War by the order of the Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca. Over the centuries, La Colombaia underwent several transformations. It was rebuilt by the Aragonese in the medieval period and later converted into a prison during the Bourbon rule. It served as a prison until 1965, after which it was abandoned. Recently, it has been restored and is open for visits at certain times of the year.

Looking to the left, beyond the distinctive houses with red-tiled roofs, we can see the Salt Pans of Trapani. This area is not just a stunning landscape but a natural treasure deserving of our utmost care and attention. Today, thanks to the efforts of the WWF, the Salt Pans are a Protected Natural Reserve, a wellness oasis spanning 1,000 hectares. Here, amidst the salt crystals, the extraction continues, preserving a tradition passed down through generations. But there’s more to discover: this place is not just a scenic view, but an ideal habitat for a variety of migratory birds that stop here, finding refuge in the brackish waters and the sun’s reflections on the salt. Among them, the pink flamingo, with its delicate plumage and majestic presence, finds a peaceful oasis here during its long migratory journeys.

Welcome to Favignana, the largest island in the Egadi Archipelago. This charming island, home to around 4,000 residents during the winter months, transforms in summer, hosting up to 40,000 visitors daily. At the island’s highest point stands the Santa Caterina Castle. Once a watchtower and later a prison, it now offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the island. As you enter Favignana’s port, look to your right to spot the historic Florio factory, a former tuna processing plant that tells the story of traditional tuna fishing. Nearby, you’ll also find Villa Florio, the family’s summer residence, another fascinating glimpse into the island’s history.During your visit, don’t miss must-see spots like Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, and Lido Burrone. These stunning locations are perfect for enjoying the beaches, taking a dip, and relaxing in the crystal-clear waters that have made this destination famous. Enjoy your free time on the island! In the following audio tracks, you’ll find recommendations for key points of interest to explore on your own. Have a great visit!

Florio Palace, built in 1874 by the Florio family, is an elegant residence showcasing neo-Gothic architecture with Art Nouveau influences. Originally designed as a representation of the family’s status and prestige, it now serves as a cultural hub, hosting exhibitions and events.

The Florio Tuna Factory, dating back to the 19th century, was one of the largest and most modern facilities of its time for tuna processing. The Florio family gained fame for introducing innovative techniques, such as preserving tuna in oil. This complex is deeply tied to the tradition of the mattanza, an ancient tuna fishing method involving a system of nets guiding the fish into a “chamber of death” where they are manually caught. Today, it houses a multimedia museum that narrates the history of tuna fishing, processing technologies, and the tuna factory’s role in Mediterranean culture and economy.

Scalo Cavallo is a captivating tuff terrace that rises above the clear sea. It is an enchanting place, dotted with caves carved into the rock, representing an important testament to the ancient extraction activities that shaped this coastline. Of particular interest is the large arch carved into the rock, standing majestically. This wonderful cove is one of the least visited beaches, but no less captivating, on the island. Along the cliff, you can admire the changing hues of the water, ranging from the delicate turquoise of the shore to the deep blue of the more remote waters.

Cala Rossa is one of the most captivating and famous gems of Favignana Island, owes its name to a legend rooted in ancient history. It is said that during the First Punic War, one of the bloodiest battles took place right here, staining the waters red with the blood of the fallen. This tale has fascinated generations, adding to the mysterious allure of this place. However, recent archaeological findings have debunked this theory. In reality, the name “Cala Rossa” derives from the reddish rocks surrounding the bay. During heavy rains, these rocks release residues of material that color the water a suggestive red, offering a unique natural spectacle. Cala Rossa is famous for its crystal-clear waters and the richness of its marine flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Cala Bue Marino is one of the most enchanting spots in Favignana. This stunning cove is famous for the extraordinary architecture of its ancient tuff quarries, which give it a unique appearance. The deep, crystal-clear waters make this place ideal for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. In these areas, known as “underground gardens,” you can admire vegetables and fruit trees such as figs, almonds, pears, oranges, and prickly pears—true “hidden gardens” protected by towering rocky walls. While exploring the seabed, you can observe dark areas in the water, caused by the presence of Posidonia oceanica, a marine plant essential to the Mediterranean ecosystem. Posidonia produces oxygen, protects the coastline from erosion, and hosts hundreds of marine species that seek shelter and breeding grounds there. Once, the Mediterranean monk seal, from which the cove takes its name, inhabited these waters. Although it is no longer present today, the memory of this magnificent animal adds further charm to the location.

Cala Azzurra: a gem nestled between the stunning cliffs of Favignana! The name evokes the turquoise color of its waters. Along the coast, you’ll find impressive piles of white and dry algae – the remains of Posidonia seagrass that wash up on the shore during the winter months. Cala Azzurra is undoubtedly considered one of the jewels of the Egadi Islands, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and pinkish sandy seabed, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The towering rocks surrounding the beach protect it from winds and currents, creating an oasis of tranquility, especially on days with a north wind or a light mistral.

Lido Burrone is one of the few sandy beaches on the island of Favignana, which is predominantly rocky. This beautiful crescent-shaped beach, surrounded by flat rocks, is famous for its transparent waters and shallow seabed. The sea here is always clear and crystal-clear, providing an ideal environment for swimming and relaxation.

In front of you stands the majestic Levanzo’s sea stack, a rock formation with a characteristic pyramidal shape that broke away from the coast, creating a rocky island about 30 meters away. This area, like many others on the island, is protected by the WWF as it’s an important nesting area for seagulls. The waters around the Faraglione are crystal clear and rich in marine life, perfect for snorkeling and underwater exploration. The variety of the seabeds, characterized by fragments of Posidonia and fascinating rocky formations, provides a perfect habitat for numerous species of colorful fish, including bream, sea bream, parrotfish, and damselfish. In the background, you can admire the island of Marettimo, the third of the Egadi archipelago. Relax and enjoy this natural spectacle.

Welcome to Cala Fredda. This charming cove owes its name to the cool currents that flow through its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for cooling off on hot days and for diving and snorkeling. Characterized by a seabed teeming with fish, Cala Fredda is surrounded by a unique endemic flora, composed of around 400 rare plant species. This little paradise is protected by the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area, committed to preserving the biodiversity and natural beauty of the area.

Welcome to Cala Minnola, a captivating inlet named after a typical Mediterranean fish, the Minnola. This lovely cove is surrounded by a pine forest of maritime pines, with an area equipped by the Forestry Department with wooden tables and benches, perfect for seeking shelter in the shade. Here you can admire the remains of an ancient Roman structure used for processing and preserving fish, a testament to the importance of fishing for the local populations of that time. Cala Minnola is also an important habitat for seagulls, which choose this cove for breeding. The sea here has a dazzling emerald green color, with rocky bottoms, sand, and Posidonia meadows, creating a spectacular marine scenery. The true gem of Cala Minnola lies beneath the sea surface. In this area delimited by yellow buoys, at a depth of about 30 meters and only 100 meters from the coast, lies the wreck of a Roman cargo ship from the 1st century B.C., bearing witness to the ancient commercial exchanges that animated the archipelago in the Punic era. Amphorae, plates, and various pottery tell millennia-old stories of trade and interconnected cultures.

Welcome to Cala Calcara, named after its overlying freshwater spring, enchanting visitors with its wild beauty. Located on the eastern side of the island, this charming bay is best reached by sea, offering a unique experience for diving enthusiasts. The surrounding rocks create a perfect environment to explore the underwater wonders of this paradise corner.

Welcome to the Capo Grosso Lighthouse on the island of Levanzo. The tower, erected in 1858, stands majestically amidst the ruins of military positions from the two world wars. With its 12 meters in height, it hosts a lantern 68 meters above sea level, offering a spectacular view of the horizon and the vast sea. The lighthouse’s light, powered by solar panels, continues to guide sailors. Today, the Capo Grosso Lighthouse is also the heart of a redevelopment project involving other wonders of Sicily.

Cala Tramontana is one of the largest coves in Levanzo. It is surrounded by majestic rocky walls with reddish tones and dotted with enchanting caves, immersed in wild nature. It resembles a vast natural amphitheater, with imposing cliffs on the sides and a wide slide of limestone rock extending to the sea. Its rocky seabed here creates a safe habitat for a variety of fish, making this bay a true paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters offer the opportunity to explore a marine underworld rich in marine creatures.

We want to share with you one last truly fascinating historical tale. Imagine that right in the waters we are sailing through, the famous Battle of the Egadi took place, an epic chapter in ancient history that marked the end of the First Punic War. In that critical period, the Carthaginians were besieged in Erice without food or weapons, desperately awaiting relief from Carthage led by Annon. But fate had another plan for them. After over twenty years of naval and land conflicts between Romans and Carthaginians, this battle was decisive in determining the fate of the two great powers. Gaius Lutatius Catulus, having discovered the enemy’s plan, cunningly orchestrated the attack of the powerful Roman fleet of 120 warships right here near Levanzo, trapping the Carthaginians in a deadly ambush. Annon’s expedition went up in smoke, marking an epic moment in the history of these waters. The sea, which witnessed these events and guards their secrets, has yielded some of its most precious archaeological treasures. Among its depths, ancient amphorae, plates, helmets, and even bronze rostra mounted on the prows of ships have been found, used by ancient sailors to sink enemy vessels during combat. The presence of 120 ancient Roman anchors, now preserved in the Favignana establishment, confirms the historical accuracy of this event. The Battle of the Egadi ended with the victory of the Romans, leaving an eternal mark on the history of these islands and our identity.

Welcome back to Trapani! We hope you have had a wonderful day exploring the beauty of the Egadi Islands with us! The captain and crew thank you for choosing to share this experience with EGADI ESCURSIONI. It has been a pleasure to have you on board, and we wish you a pleasant continuation of your day!