Cruise the north coast of Vieste to see centuries-old trabucchi up close—wooden fishing platforms perched on limestone outcrops. This private boat tour pairs calm coastal sailing with local stories about traditional fishing and family life on the Gargano.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A small harbor eases the boat away from Vieste and the Adriatic opens like a page. Salted wind pushes the bow toward a line of wooden fishing platforms — trabucchi — perched on rocky points. Up close you can hear the ropes whisper and the pine poles creak as the skipper eases alongside, telling names, dates and which family still tends each frame.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—must be able to step on/off a small boat and stand for short periods.
Wildlife
History
Trabucchi (trabocchi) are traditional Adriatic wooden fishing platforms—constructed from Aleppo pine and driven by communities from the 18th–19th centuries to harvest funneling fish.
Conservation
The Gargano coast includes protected marine and coastal areas; avoid anchoring on seagrass, pack out trash, and respect local fishing gear to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Experiences and views of trebuchets with private boat today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring sea-sickness remedies
The tour runs on open water; if you’re prone to motion sickness, take preventative medication and sit mid-boat where motion is least felt.
Sun protection matters
Reflected sun off the Adriatic is intense—use sunscreen, sunglasses and a brimmed hat even on overcast days.
Wear non-slip footwear
Boarding and short dockings require steady footing on wet surfaces—light deck shoes or grippy sneakers are best.
Ask before touching trabucchi
These are fragile historical structures; don’t climb or handle nets and beams unless the skipper invites you.
Non-slip boat shoes
Provide grip boarding and on wet decks.
Light waterproof wind shell
Wind and spray can be cool even on sunny days.
spring
Sunglasses with polarized lenses
Reduce glare and improve visibility of nets and underwater features.
summer
Motion-sickness tablets or bands
Helpful for those sensitive to rolling in open water.