Elba is a jewel of the Mediterranean: with 224 km² it is Italy’s third‑largest island and the biggest of the Tuscan Archipelago. It sits about 10 km off the mainland and is easily reached by ferry from Piombino in about an hour . Although small, the island has varied landscapes – fishing villages, medieval fortresses, sheer cliffs and golden beaches, with Monte Capanne reaching 1 019 m . The Gulf of Lacona in the south holds one of the most beautiful beaches and is home to Hotel Giardino, the ideal base for exploring Elba and setting out on boat excursions .
Hotel Giardino in Lacona: your home on the island
A green oasis near the sea
Hotel Giardino is a family‑run hotel immersed in a 30 000 m² park of pine trees and flowers . The hotel is only 100 m from Lacona Beach, reached via a short path through the protected dunes . Thanks to its strategic position, guests can reach the island’s main towns — Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio — in 10–15 minutes by car . Rooms offer air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, private bathroom with shower, hair dryer and safe; many have a private garden or patio . The family ambience ensures a relaxing stay .
Authenticity and comfort
Guests enjoy a generous buffet breakfast with fresh and home‑made products, and lunch and dinner featuring local ingredients with options for children and people with intolerances . Services include free Wi‑Fi, covered bike storage, agreements with diving and snorkelling centres, discounted ferry tickets, pet‑friendly rooms and a shaded car park . Rooms are cleaned daily; the pine forest provides privacy and tranquility .
Summary of services
| Service/Feature | Short description |
|---|---|
| Location | In the Gulf of Lacona, 100 m from the beach; 10–15 min drive to main towns |
| Private park | 30 000 m² park with pine trees and gardens |
| Rooms | Air‑conditioned rooms with TV, private bathroom, safe; many with garden access |
| Meals | Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner with quality ingredients and attention to children/intolerances |
| Wi‑Fi | Free Wi‑Fi in dining hall, bar and lounge |
| Bike storage | Covered space for bicycles |
| Diving & snorkelling | Partnerships with nearby diving centres |
| Ferry discounts | Discounted ferry tickets for guests |
| Pet‑friendly | Pets are allowed |
| Parking | Shaded, numbered parking |
| Family hospitality | Friendly, informal atmosphere |
This combination of location, services and warm hospitality makes Hotel Giardino a perfect base for exploring Elba by boat .
Why Hotel Giardino is the ideal starting point for excursions
Being centrally located on the south coast, Hotel Giardino allows guests to reach boarding points for boat trips and the island’s historic towns in minutes . Lacona Beach offers access to coastal paths leading to Capo Stella and Laconella, while the little port of Margidore is just down the road and is the departure point for tours of the Costa dei Gabbiani . Marina di Campo’s tourist harbour, from where mini‑cruises around the island depart, is about 15 minutes away by car . Staying near these embarkation points lets you catch early departures without long drives ; after a day at sea you return to the tranquillity of the park. The hotel staff provide updated information on schedules, prices and availability and can book tours directly, often at discounted rates .
The Island of Elba: a mosaic of nature, history and culture
Varied landscapes
In just 147 km of coastline, Elba offers sandy beaches, pebble coves, cliffs and headlands . Inland, wooded hills and mountains like Monte Capanne (1 019 m) provide panoramic views . The eastern coast is marked by old iron mines and wild coves, the western coast by the Costa del Sole and beaches such as Fetovaia and Cavoli, while the north around Portoferraio has white‑sand beaches like Le Ghiaie . The island comprises seven municipalities, each with its own character: Portoferraio with Medici fortresses and Napoleonic villas; Capoliveri on a hill with alleys and squares; Porto Azzurro with a scenic harbour; and Marina di Campo with its long golden beach and lively evening promenade .
History and culture
Elba preserves traces of many eras: the Romans exploited the iron mines; the Medici fortified Portoferraio; Napoleon lived here during his exile and built two residences . Museums and archaeological sites tell the island’s long history .
Highlights of the south: Lacona and surroundings
The Gulf of Lacona is famous for its long sandy beach, ideal for families due to shallow waters . Nearby coves like Laconella and Margidore have pebble seabeds . Capo Stella rises to the west, covered in Mediterranean scrub and offering splendid sunsets . Capoliveri, about 10 km away, is a hilltop village with restaurants and artisan shops ; Porto Azzurro, around 20 minutes by car, features a lively harbour and Spanish forts ; Marina di Campo is the starting point for many boat trips and has a long beach . Within this varied setting, a boat excursion becomes an unmissable experience .
Boat excursions on Elba: overview
Types of excursions
Boat tours reveal hidden corners inaccessible by land and showcase the diversity of Elba’s coast . Major types include:
- Half‑day tours (3–4 hours) – Usually departing from Margidore or Marina di Campo, these focus on specific coastal stretches such as the Costa dei Gabbiani or Costa del Sole and often include snorkelling stops .
- Daily mini cruises (5–6 hours) – These circumnavigate the island or cover long stretches of coastline. The “Giro Isola” is the best‑known example and includes lunch on board and multiple swimming stops .
- Thematic excursions – Such as the trip to the Pomonte wreck, allowing swimmers to explore the Elviscot cargo remains, or the South‑West Tour, which visits iconic beaches like Fetovaia and the Grotta Azzurra .
- Private tours – Renting a boat with a skipper allows you to define the itinerary and schedule. Ideal for small groups or special events .
- Naturalist outings – Guided by certified environmental guides (e.g., Baiarda Dive), these tours explore geology, flora and marine life .
Tips for choosing the right excursion
- Duration and timing: If you have children or wish to combine the tour with other activities, choose a 2–4‑hour tour. Longer mini cruises require a full day .
- Departure port: Tours to the Costa dei Gabbiani and Grotta del Bue Marino depart from Margidore; mini cruises and wreck tours depart from Marina di Campo .
- Interests: Nature lovers will appreciate guided tours with snorkelling and explanations of flora and fauna; those seeking a complete view will choose a circumnavigation; history enthusiasts may prefer tours that pass by Capoliveri’s mines .
- Season: Tours operate from April to October. Spring and autumn offer calmer seas and fewer crowds than July and August .
The following sections describe the main boat excursions that can be booked through Hotel Giardino .
Excursion to the Costa dei Gabbiani and Grotta del Bue Marino
This popular 4‑hour tour departs from the port of Margidore in Lacona and is led by environmental guides recognised by the Tuscany region and the National Park . It explores the south‑east coast known as the Costa dei Gabbiani, passing Capoliveri’s mining sites, sea caves and native flora and fauna . Guests relax on board, hear the guide’s stories and snorkel in clear waters .
Itinerary and highlights
- Departure: 09:00 from the Porticciolo di Margidore; check‑in 15 minutes before .
- Small group: Maximum 12 participants for better interaction .
- Coastal navigation: Sailing close to shore to spot wildlife such as wild goats and European shags .
- Snorkelling stops: Several stops to swim and observe marine life .
- Points of interest: Spiaggia Innamorata, Grotta del Bue Marino, Capoliveri mines (Punta Calamita and Ginepro), Islet Gemini and the rugged Costa dei Gabbiani .
- Duration: About 4 hours .
- Season: Operates April–October when at least 6 participants are booked .
- Price: Around €40 per adult; discounts for children and free entry for under‑4s .
- Includes: Environmental guide, free snorkelling kit, snack and drinks .
- Recommendations: Wear comfortable clothing and swimsuit; bring towel, sun cream, hat and camera .
Why choose this excursion?
This tour immerses guests in nature and reveals Elba’s less‑touristic coast . Certified guides explain geology, fauna and mining history. The small group allows peaceful snorkelling. Departing from Margidore, the excursion is easily accessible from Hotel Giardino on foot or by car .
Summary – Grotta del Bue Marino tour
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Departure | 09:00 from Porticciolo di Margidore, Lacona |
| Duration | ~4 hours |
| Participants | Max 12 |
| Highlights | Costa dei Gabbiani, Capoliveri mines, Bue Marino cave, Islet Gemini |
| Price | ~€40 per adult |
| Includes | Guide, snorkelling kit, snack and drinks |
| Season | April–October |
Mini cruise around the island (Magic Princess)
For those who want to discover Elba in one day, the Giro Isola mini cruise is ideal. The excursion leaves Marina di Campo at 09:30 (arrive 30 minutes early) and runs on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday . It lasts about 6 hours and includes three swimming stops . Lunch on board is typically pasta with tuna .
Itinerary
After leaving the harbour, the boat cruises past Fonza beach and the Gulf of Lacona, offering views of Lacona and Laconella beaches . It continues beyond Capo Stella, admiring beaches such as Zuccale, Barabarca, Madonna delle Grazie, Morcone, Innamorata and the Islets Gemini . The route passes the Grotta delle Capre, Capoliveri’s ancient mines and Punta Calamita with its black sand beach . The cruise then passes Porto Azzurro and Rio Marina, skirts Portoferraio with its fortresses, and sails in front of the white beaches of Le Ghiaie, Capo Bianco, Sansone and the Viticcio peninsula . It continues towards the Gulf of Biodola and Procchio, passing Spartaia and the islet of Paolina up to Marciana Marina . The boat then navigates along the north‑western coast past Sant’Andrea and the Patresi lighthouse, crosses the Costa del Sole, stops to visit the Pomonte wreck, and returns to Marina di Campo after passing Fetovaia, Seccheto, Cavoli and the Grotta Azzurra .
Practical tips
- Booking: Always recommended; arrive 30 minutes before departure .
- Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes, hat, sun cream, swimsuit; bring towel and camera .
- Variations: Itinerary may change depending on weather and sea conditions .
Summary – Giro Isola mini cruise
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Departure | 09:30 from Marina di Campo |
| Duration | ~6 hours with three swimming stops |
| Operating days | Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun |
| Lunch | Pasta with tuna included |
| Highlights | Complete tour of the island including Lacona, Zuccale, Innamorata, Porto Azzurro, Portoferraio, Pomonte, Fetovaia |
| Recommendations | Book, arrive 30 min early, sun protection |
| Operator | Magic Princess (Marina di Campo) |
| Price | ~€80–90 including lunch |
Pomonte Wreck Tour
The Pomonte Wreck Tour is a 3‑hour afternoon excursion departing from Marina di Campo at 16:00 on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday . It allows passengers to swim above the cargo Elviscot, which sank in 1972 near the Ogliera rock .
Itinerary
The trip follows the same coastal route as the mini cruise’s return leg: after leaving Marina di Campo it passes Galenzana, visits the Grotta del Vescovo and Colle di Palombaia beach , then the Grotta Azzurra and the beaches of Cavoli and Seccheto with their natural pools . It enters the Fetovaia bay and finally reaches the Ogliera rock at Pomonte, where guests snorkel among the fish and observe the wreck . The Elviscot lies at about 10 m depth and is visible from the surface .
Tips and information
- Family‑friendly: Suitable for children, who are fascinated by the wreck .
- Booking: Reservation recommended; arrive 30 minutes early .
- Equipment: Bring mask and snorkel; wear comfortable clothing, hat, sun cream and bring a camera .
- Return: Arrival back at Marina di Campo is around 19:00 .
Summary – Pomonte Wreck Tour
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Departure | 16:00 from Marina di Campo |
| Duration | ~3 hours |
| Operating days | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun |
| Highlights | Galenzana, Grotta del Vescovo, Grotta Azzurra, Cavoli, Seccheto, Fetovaia, snorkelling on the Elviscot wreck |
| Tips | Book, arrive 30 min early, bring snorkelling gear |
| Suitable for | Families and children |
| Price | ~€35–45 |
South‑West Tour
This excursion is perfect for exploring the Costa del Sole in a short time. It takes place on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons, departing at 16:00 from Marina di Campo and lasts about 2 hours . The boat visits Galenzana, Grotta del Vescovo, Colle di Palombaia, the Grotta Azzurra and passes the iconic beaches of Cavoli and Seccheto before a swimming stop in the Fetovaia bay . On the way back the boat circumnavigates the wild point of Fetovaia .
Why choose this tour?
- Short duration: Ideal for those with limited time or families with children .
- Iconic places: Provides views of the Costa del Sole and well‑known beaches such as Cavoli, Seccheto and Fetovaia .
- Convenience: Afternoon departure means you can enjoy the beach in the morning and the excursion later .
Summary – South‑West Tour
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Departure | 16:00 from Marina di Campo |
| Duration | ~2 hours |
| Operating days | Tue, Thu, Sat |
| Highlights | Galenzana, Grotta del Vescovo, Grotta Azzurra, Cavoli, Seccheto, swimming at Fetovaia |
| Tips | Book, arrive 30 min early, bring hat, sun cream, swimsuit and camera |
| Suitable for | Families with children |
| Price | ~€30–35 |
Other excursions and private options
Beyond the tours described above, many other excursions and private tours are available :
- Dolphin watching (Vista Delfini): organised by Magic Princess, this morning tour searches for dolphins between Elba’s south‑western coast and Pianosa. Sightings are not guaranteed, but the route frequently encounters pods of striped dolphins .
- Tours to Pianosa or Capraia: full‑day trips from Marina di Campo or Porto Azzurro. Pianosa, a former penal colony, is now a nature reserve and visits are regulated by the National Park .
- Private charters with skipper: Hire a boat with skipper to customise the itinerary. You can circumnavigate the island, stop in hidden coves or try water sports like kayaking, SUP or fishing .
- Kayak excursions: Ideal for sporty visitors. Departing from Lacona or Marina di Campo, they explore caves and cliffs and allow close contact with the environment .
The Hotel Giardino staff can advise you on the most suitable option and book on your behalf .
How to book an excursion with Hotel Giardino
Booking a boat trip is simple when you stay with us :
- Ask at the reception: Our staff know the schedules and availability of tours and can recommend the best excursion based on weather and your interests .
- Direct booking: We will make reservations through our partners (e.g., Baiarda Dive or Magic Princess); some tours have special rates for our guests .
- Deposit and confirmation: Some excursions require a deposit; we will provide all necessary information and confirm your booking .
- Meeting point: We will tell you the meeting time and how to reach the departure point (Margidore port or Marina di Campo). Arrive 15–30 minutes early .
- Preparation: We provide a list of what to bring (towel, sun cream, hat, water, camera, documents). Snorkelling equipment is provided, but you may bring your own .
Weather conditions can affect excursions; tours may change or be postponed due to rough seas or strong winds. Our staff will help you choose an alternative .
Practical tips for enjoying your boat trip
- Sun protection: Wear a hat and sunglasses and apply sun cream frequently; the reflected sun on the sea can cause sunburn even on cloudy days .
- Clothing: Choose lightweight clothes and non‑slip shoes or sandals; bring a swimsuit and towel; carry a light jumper because it may feel cool at sea .
- Medication: If you suffer from seasickness, take appropriate medication or natural remedies before departure; drink water in small sips and avoid heavy meals .
- Equipment: Bring a camera or action cam; many tours provide snorkelling gear, but you can bring your own .
- Respect the environment: Do not leave waste at sea or on beaches; do not take sand, shells or stones; avoid disturbing wildlife .
- Safety: Follow the captain’s or guide’s instructions; wear a life jacket if requested; ensure children have appropriate life vests .
Places to visit around Lacona
After exploring by boat, you can discover the surrounding area :
- Laconella Beach – A short walk from Lacona; smaller and wilder with clear sand and turquoise water; ideal for snorkelling among the rocks .
- Capo Stella – A promontory covered in Mediterranean scrub; a panoramic path leads to the point and offers sunset views over Lacona .
- Capoliveri – A charming hilltop village with sea views; stroll through alleys, visit the main square and enjoy local cuisine; summer events include musical festivals and historical re‑enactments .
- Capoliveri Mining Museum – Tells the history of iron extraction; visit the tunnels and learn about miners’ lives .
- Porto Azzurro – A pretty town with a tourist port; enjoy a walk along the waterfront and visit the San Giacomo fortress .
- Marina di Campo – The island’s longest sandy beach; lively in the evening with markets, gelaterias and bars; departure point for boat trips to the Costa del Sole and Pianosa .
- Portoferraio – The capital; worth visiting for the Medici fortresses, historic centre and Napoleon’s Villa dei Mulini .
- Monte Capanne – Reachable by cable car from Marciana; offers spectacular views over the archipelago .
- Trekking and MTB trails – The area between Lacona and Capoliveri has many paths through woods and along the coast; in spring, broom and cistus bloom and perfume the air .
After returning to Hotel Giardino you can relax in the garden, enjoy a fish dinner and plan your next adventure .
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- What is the best season for a boat excursion? Tours operate from April to October; July and August are busy, so book early. May, June and September offer pleasant temperatures, calm seas and fewer crowds .
- Are excursions suitable for children? Yes. The South‑West Tour lasts just 2 hours and is ideal for families . The Pomonte Wreck Tour is also recommended for children . Children under 4 travel free on the Bue Marino tours .
- Is booking in advance necessary? Booking is always recommended; for popular tours like the Giro Isola, reserve a few days ahead . Last‑minute availability may exist – ask at the Hotel Giardino reception .
- Where are the departure points? The Porticciolo di Margidore in Lacona (for Costa dei Gabbiani and Bue Marino) and the harbour of Marina di Campo (for Giro Isola, Pomonte Wreck and South‑West tours) .
- Can I bring my dog? Pets are welcome in the hotel, but not all tours accept animals. Some boats prohibit dogs for safety; check in advance and our staff will suggest pet‑friendly tours or alternative activities .
- What should I bring on a boat trip? Comfortable clothing, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses . If snorkelling, bring your own mask if you prefer . Don’t forget a camera .
- Can I cancel my booking? Many companies allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure; some have stricter policies . Ask about cancellation terms when booking.
- What happens in bad weather? Tours may be modified or cancelled if conditions are poor. Staff will notify you and you can choose another date or itinerary .
- Are there discounts for groups or families? Some excursions offer reduced rates for children and special prices for groups . The hotel has agreements with various operators; ask us for current offers .
- What other activities can I combine with boat trips? You can combine a boat excursion with trekking, mountain biking, cultural visits to villages or wine tastings; Elba is also ideal for diving and snorkelling thanks to its rich marine biodiversity .
- Can I book a private tour? Yes. You can hire a boat with skipper for a personalised trip; contact us for itineraries, prices and availability .
- Is there an age limit or physical requirements? Most tours are easy and suitable for everyone; no special physical abilities are required. However, boats may not always be accessible to people with reduced mobility, so contact us to find alternatives .
Summary of main excursions
| Tour | Departure port | Duration | Operating days/Season | Main highlights | Indicative price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grotta del Bue Marino & Costa dei Gabbiani | Porticciolo di Margidore | ~4 hours | April–October, morning departures | Capoliveri mines, sea caves, snorkelling, Spiaggia Innamorata, Islets Gemini | ~€40 per adult |
| Giro Isola mini cruise | Marina di Campo | ~6 hours | Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Complete circumnavigation of Elba; lunch on board; three swimming stops; visits to Porto Azzurro, Portoferraio, Fetovaia, Pomonte | ~€80–90 with lunch |
| Pomonte Wreck Tour | Marina di Campo | ~3 hours | Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun (afternoon) | Galenzana, Grotta del Vescovo, Grotta Azzurra, Cavoli, Seccheto, Fetovaia, snorkelling on the Elviscot wreck | ~€35–45 |
| South‑West Tour | Marina di Campo | ~2 hours | Tue, Thu, Sat (afternoon) | Galenzana, Grotta del Vescovo, Grotta Azzurra, Cavoli, Seccheto, swimming at Fetovaia | ~€30–35 |
| Vista Delfini | Marina di Campo | ~3 hours | Various mornings (summer) | Dolphin watching along the south‑west coast | ~€35–45 |
| Private tours | Margidore / Marina di Campo / Porto Azzurro | From 3 hours to full day | Custom itinerary, choice of stops, possible water sports | Prices on request |
*Prices are approximate and may vary depending on season and operator.
Conclusion: your adventure on Elba begins here
We hope this guide has given you a comprehensive overview of boat excursions on Elba and shown why Hotel Giardino is the perfect place to organise them. Thanks to our strategic location in Lacona, proximity to boarding points, experience in recommending and booking the best tours and our warm hospitality, we will accompany you on an unforgettable journey through sea, nature, history and relaxation . We look forward to welcoming you to Hotel Giardino, where we will help you discover every corner of this wonderful island, both by sea and on land .