Seeing Monte Argentario from the water is an entirely different - and arguably the best - experience. The coastline is studded with hidden coves, sea caves and rocky inlets that are impossible to reach by land. Renting a boat gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, anchor in turquoise bays and swim in water so clear you can see the seabed five metres below. Boat rental at Argentario is straightforward, with several operators offering everything from small dinghies to skippered luxury yachts.
Renting from Porto Santo Stefano
Porto Santo Stefano is the main departure point for boat trips around Argentario. Several rental companies along the harbour offer small motorboats (5–7 metres) that don't require a licence, as well as larger vessels for those with qualifications. A typical no-licence boat costs between €100 and €180 per day depending on the season and engine power, with fuel usually extra. Most companies provide a brief orientation, a map of recommended stops and a full tank at departure. Book at least a few days ahead in July and August, as boats sell out fast.
Renting from Porto Ercole
The smaller harbour of Porto Ercole also has reliable rental options and tends to be slightly less busy. From here you can quickly reach the stunning southern coast of Argentario, including Cala del Gesso, the Argentarola islet and a series of secluded bays accessible only by sea. Some operators in Porto Ercole also offer guided tours with a local skipper who knows every hidden corner of the coastline - an excellent option if you prefer to relax and let someone else navigate.
Day Trip to Isola del Giglio
One of the most popular boat excursions from Argentario is the trip to Isola del Giglio, a beautiful island about 15 kilometres offshore. Regular ferries run from Porto Santo Stefano (about one hour each way), but renting your own boat allows you to explore Giglio's coastline freely - including the famous Campese bay, isolated swimming spots and underwater caves. If you have a full day, combine Giglio with a stop at the smaller Isola di Giannutri, a nature reserve with Roman ruins and exceptional snorkeling.
Excursion to Giannutri
Giannutri is the southernmost island of the Tuscan Archipelago and a protected marine sanctuary. Access is regulated, but boat trips allow you to swim in the designated zones and admire the island's dramatic cliffs from the water. The seabed here is extraordinarily rich - expect encounters with grouper, moray eels and schools of colourful fish. Guided excursions to Giannutri typically depart from Porto Santo Stefano and last half a day.
Hidden Coves by Boat
The real magic of a boat rental at Argentario is discovering coves you'd never find otherwise. Along the western coast, a string of tiny inlets is reachable only by sea - drop anchor, dive in and enjoy complete solitude. The eastern coast between Porto Ercole and Cala del Gesso is equally spectacular, with high cliffs plunging into deep blue water. Pack a cooler with local Maremma wine, fresh bread and pecorino cheese, and you have the ingredients for a perfect day on the Tyrrhenian Sea.
After a day on the water, head back to our apartment in Montiano - just 15 minutes from both Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole - for a well-deserved rest before your next Argentario adventure.
