Question 1

What makes Ponza different from Capri or other Italian islands?

Accepted Answer

Ponza is less crowded, more authentic, and still largely undiscovered by mass tourism. Instead of waiting in lines, you’ll spend your day swimming, exploring sea caves, and relaxing on a boat.

Question 2

Is this tour suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Children of all ages are welcome. The boat tour is suitable for families and we adapt the pace and stops to keep everyone comfortable.

Question 3

Is the tour physically demanding?

Accepted Answer

No special fitness is required. The day involves walking on uneven surfaces and stepping on and off the boat, but most guests handle it without difficulty.

Question 4

How long is the bus ride from Rome to the port?

Accepted Answer

The bus ride from central Rome to the Port of Anzio is about one hour. There is no regular heavy traffic on our route and it’s a scenic ride both there and back, passing through the countryside of Latium.

Question 5

How long is the ferry ride from Anzio to Ponza?

Accepted Answer

The fast ferry crossing between Anzio and Ponza is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes depending on the boat and conditions.

Question 6

How long is the boat tour?

Accepted Answer

Our boat tour around Ponza lasts approximately 5 hours, with multiple stops to swim, snorkel, and visit hidden coves.

Question 7

Why isn’t the ferry ticket included in the tour price for the Ponza from Rome tour?

Accepted Answer

For the Ponza from Rome tour only, we separate the Ponza ferry cost to keep the overall price lower and more transparent when booking through third parties. Ferry tickets are €60 per adult, 40€ per child. If included in the booking price, they would be subject to platform commissions (sometimes up to 30%), increasing the total cost. By paying the ferry directly at check-in, 100% goes toward the actual ticket and you avoid unnecessary markups.

Question 8

What happens to the ferry cost if I don’t show up or don’t cancel in time?

Accepted Answer

For the Ponza from Rome tour only, ferry tickets are paid directly at check-in, so if you don’t show you simply don’t pay the ferry portion. Booking cancellation rules apply to the tour itself.

Question 9

Can I stay in Ponza instead of returning the same day? Can I return on a different day?

Accepted Answer

We often accommodate guests planning an overnight or multi-day stay in Ponza, and we think that’s great! We can make alternative arrangements for you — just contact us before booking and we’ll tailor the itinerary to your travel dates.

Question 10

Are there life jackets/floatation devices on board?

Accepted Answer

Life jackets are required by law on boats in Ponza and are available exclusively for emergency use. They are not intended for swimming. During the Ponza boat excursion, Open Up offers a limited number of flotation aids (noodles, rings) on a first-come, first-served basis. If needed, inform your tour leader during the excursion.

Question 11

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

Accepted Answer

Strong swimming skills are not required to enjoy the day, but you should be comfortable in open water. Always inform your tour leader of your swimming ability so they can offer the right support and stops.

Question 12

Is swimming mandatory?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. You’re welcome to relax on board and enjoy the views without entering the water.

Question 13

How many swim stops will we have?

Accepted Answer

We typically make 4–6 stops at scenic coves and grottos for swimming and snorkeling, depending on weather and sea conditions.

Question 14

Are there safety rules on board?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our captain and guide will brief you at the start. The most important rules: stay close to the boat when swimming, avoid the back of the boat when the engine is on, and always check with the guide if you’re unsure.

Question 15

Are there safety guidelines for swimming?

Accepted Answer

Yes — while swimming off the boat in Ponza we always recommend that our guests stay close to the boat, avoid the back of the boat when the engine is switched on, and always inform your guide if you’re not a strong swimmer.

Question 16

Are there jellyfish?

Accepted Answer

Like everywhere in the Mediterranean, jellyfish may occasionally appear in Ponza’s waters but are not dangerous and easy to avoid. Our boat captain will choose our swim stops to avoid areas where we might find jellyfish. Snorkel masks may help with visibility. In case of a minor sting, remedies are available on board.

Question 17

Are there sharp rocks or sea hazards?

Accepted Answer

There are some rocky areas. We choose swim stops in spots where it’s safe to enter and exit the water. Aqua shoes are not required but can be helpful if you have sensitive feet.

Question 18

Is it safe to swim near cliffs and caves?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in certain areas it is safe to swim near cliffs and in caves in Ponza — with guidance. Your tour leader will recommend avoiding climbing rocks or swimming too close to steep cliff faces. Some grottos may have currents and are only suitable for strong swimmers. If in doubt, check with your tour leader.

Question 19

Can I bring my own snorkel gear?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snorkel gear with you on the day of your Ponza tour. For convenience, Open Up offers the option of rental mask and snorkel sets during booking. If you didn’t select the option during booking, you can add a set later.

Question 20

Is this tour suitable if I get seasick?

Accepted Answer

If you suffer from severe seasickness and medication does not help you, our Ponza Island boat trips may not be the right choice for you. Otherwise, we recommend taking medication in advance and bringing what works for you, in accordance with a physician or pharmacist’s advice.

Question 21

Is lunch included? What is served?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Lunch is served on board the boat during our circumnavigation of Ponza. The meal is served picnic-style and consists of pasta with a tomato, tuna and olive sauce, served with water, white wine and espresso coffee. Alternatively, a simple plain pasta with olive oil is available.

Question 22

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Accepted Answer

We do our best to accommodate common dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free). Please let us know in advance when booking so we can prepare an appropriate option.

Question 23

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Accepted Answer

Light snacks and water are welcome. We provide a complete lunch with water, wine and espresso, so additional food is generally not needed.

Question 24

Are there bathrooms available?

Accepted Answer

Bathrooms are available throughout the day for all Ponza tour options Open Up sells. There is no bathroom during the Rome/Anzio bus transfers (about 1 hour) however bathrooms can be found on the ferry as well as on the excursion boat in Ponza.

Question 25

What Should I Bring?

Accepted Answer

Open Up recommends you bring the following items for an enjoyable day in Ponza: a swimsuit (pro tip: wear it under your clothes), a towel, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, reusable water bottle and cash. Light clothing and a change of clothes are also recommended. And don’t forget your sense of adventure!

Question 26

Can I bring a drone?

Accepted Answer

Drone laws in Italy are quite strict and can be complex. If you would like to bring a drone on your Ponza Island day trip and you have the necessary permits, licenses, registrations, and insurance required to legally operate your drone, you are welcome to bring and use it under your own responsibility.

Question 27

Can I bring luggage/a trolley with me?

Accepted Answer

If you are planning to bring anything larger than a backpack on your Ponza tour, please let us know in advance. If you are taking the ferry with us, larger bags may incur an additional ferry fee (usually around €2 each way per item). Once in Ponza, there is also the option to store luggage near the port while you are out on the boat tour. This service comes at an additional cost, which is the responsibility of the guest. Your tour leader will be happy to direct you to the appropriate luggage storage location.

Question 28

Can I cancel or change my booking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Open Up has a flexible cancellation policy for all shared Ponza day trips. We offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. Within 24 hours, changes are not possible and cancellations incur a 100% penalty. Private tours may have a different cancellation policy, which you can find on the relevant tour page.

Question 29

What happens in case of bad weather?

Accepted Answer

If conditions make the trip unsafe, we reschedule or fully refund your booking. The captain’s decision is final based on real-time sea conditions.

All your questions, answered like a friend

General Experience

Logistics & Timing

Pricing & Ferry Tickets

Flexibility & Ferry Options

Swimming & Safety

While in the Water

Sea Conditions & Wildlife

Cliffs & Grottos

Snorkeling

Seasickness

Food & Lunch

Facilities & What to Bring

Booking & Cancellation

Pick a day, pack a swimsuit. We handle the rest.