Boat Rental at Monte Argentario: Your Complete Guide

Renting a boat at the Argentario is one of the finest ways to explore this stretch of coast, among the wildest in Italy. Many of the most spectacular coves and beaches of Monte Argentario are only reachable by sea, and a day on the water lets you discover them without having to share the space with crowds of beachgoers. Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole are the two main departure points, both well equipped with rental companies for every need and budget.

Sailing around the Argentario is an experience that combines extraordinary coastal scenery, brilliantly turquoise waters and the possibility of heading towards the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago: Giglio and Giannutri are within easy reach.

Where to rent a boat at the Argentario

Porto Santo Stefano

Porto Santo Stefano is the main port of Monte Argentario, the largest and best equipped. Along the promenade and in the marina are concentrated several rental companies offering all types of vessel: semi-rigid inflatables, open motorboats, cabin cruisers and small sailing boats. No-licence rental is available for boats up to 40 horsepower, perfect for exploring the nearby coves.

Porto Ercole

Porto Ercole, smaller and more characterful, has some rental options concentrated in the small harbour. It is an ideal departure point for reaching the coves on the southern side of the Argentario, including Cala Galera, Cala Piccola and the beaches towards the Feniglia.

What to choose

For a day of exploring coves without needing to cover great distances, a 20–30 horsepower inflatable (no licence) is the most economical and practical choice. To reach Giglio or circumnavigate the Argentario, a more powerful motorboat with a cabin is recommended, available with a nautical licence.

Indicative boat rental prices

Prices vary considerably depending on the season, type of vessel and length of rental.

No-licence inflatable (5–6 metres): €80–150 for a half day, €150–280 for a full day in high season.

Open motorboat (6–7 metres, with licence): €200–400 per day in high season.

Cabin cruiser (8–10 metres, with licence): €400–800 per day.

Sailing boat with skipper: A sailing boat with skipper included for a day trip to Giglio can cost €600–1,200 for the group, split among participants. This is an excellent option for those without a nautical licence who want to make a longer and more comfortable excursion.

Prices generally include initial fuel, mandatory safety equipment and a usage briefing. Always check what is included before signing the contract.

The best routes from the Argentario

The circumnavigation of the promontory

The circumnavigation of Monte Argentario is a classic. The complete circuit takes about 4–5 hours of relaxed navigation, with the possibility of stopping at the most beautiful coves along the way. The coast is almost entirely rocky, with Mediterranean scrub reaching down to the water and very few sandy beaches. The water is clear everywhere.

The coves of the western side

On the western side of the promontory, facing the sunset, are some of the most beautiful coves reachable only by sea: Cala del Gesso, Cala Moresca, Cala delle Cannelle on the west side are accessible exclusively by boat. The absence of facilities and the difficulty of access keep them relatively deserted even in the height of summer. The water in these coves is extraordinary: shades of turquoise and emerald green that evoke the Caribbean.

The island of Giglio

From Porto Santo Stefano, the island of Giglio is about 15–18 nautical miles away. With a medium-powered motorboat it is reached in an hour. The island has a picturesque port, a perched medieval village and some of the finest beaches and seabeds in the Mediterranean. Beaches like Campese and Cala delle Cannelle on Giglio are reachable both by sea and by land. A day trip is possible, but with a cabin it is even better to spend the night there.

The island of Giannutri

Giannutri is the southernmost of the Tuscan Archipelago islands, about 25 miles from Porto Santo Stefano. It is almost uninhabited, with very few tourist facilities, and its seabeds are among the most beautiful in the archipelago: a protected marine reserve that attracts divers from across Europe. The Imperial-era Roman villa is partly open to visitors.

Practical tips for boat rental at the Argentario

Booking: In July and August boats are taken quickly, especially at weekends. Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance in high season.

Documents required: For no-licence inflatables no specific documentation is needed beyond an identity document. For boats with engines over 40 horsepower a nautical licence within 12 miles is required.

Weather: Always check the wind forecast before setting out. The south-westerly wind (libeccio) is the predominant summer wind at the Argentario and can pick up rapidly in the afternoon. Plan longer trips for the morning.

What to bring: High-protection sunscreen, polarised sunglasses, a hat, windproof clothing even in summer, plenty of water, snacks and snorkelling equipment.

Fuel: Check whether fuel is included or extra. It is often paid on return based on litres consumed.

Where to stay

Tramonto Dorato in Montiano is about 30 minutes by car from the Argentario, both from Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole. The distance is convenient for organising early-morning boat trips, with the option of loading the car the evening before and setting off fresh at dawn. On return, the panoramic portico with views over the Argentario is the perfect place to end the day.

Related property: Homelink Argentario · Tramonto Dorato Link: /tramonto-dorato/