The Marine Caves (The Marine Grottoes or Grotte Marine di Vieste) are one of the two big attractions in Vieste, located on the Garganic Coast of Italy.

The tours typically take 2-3 hours and departs from the port at different hours of the day. The boats follow the fabulous coast line of Vieste, south to Mattinata, giving the opportunity to enter fabulous marine caves and see amazing beaches along the way.

Tours are often offered complimentary by the hotels or B&B’s (especially by the end of the summer season). Otherwise, prices start around 30 usd/adult (2024 price).

The only reason I didn’t give 5 starts to the tour was that our guide spoke Italian only. We understood about 75% of what he said, but some people in the boat didn’t understand a thing.

When we left the port it was rather cloudy but the sea was calm. Unfortunately, our tour was cut short because of rain and wind. At some point, it was quite “rocky” and we didn’t make it all the way to Mattinata. Bonus points, though: we saw a dolphin on the way back to the port!

I must admit I wasn’t very impressed by the idea of this tour but it was offered as part of the accommodation package. And since I’ve only been on a boat two times before (and short rides), I’d figured I should try and see if I like it. Unsurprisingly, I loved it. And the scenery is amazing.

Before booking, please consider the environmental impact of fast boats on the fragile limestone caves.

Our rating

We took this tour in 2013. All photos by Cristina P. and may not be used without permission.
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