The Volcano from the Sea
Seeing the explosions from the summit is powerful, but watching the glowing rocks roll down the Sciara del Fuoco into the sea is magical.
A boat tour around Stromboli is not just a relaxing day out; it is an essential part of understanding the island's geology. The cone you see above water is just the tip of a massive submerged volcano.
Daytime: Strombolicchio & Ginostra
Most day tours leave the port of Scari around 10:00 AM or 2:00 PM. The first stop is almost always Strombolicchio, the volcanic plug that sits about 1.5km offshore.
The Lighthouse Legend
Strombolicchio is actually the ancient volcanic neck of the original Stromboli volcano, which eroded away over 200,000 years. On top sits a lighthouse (powered by solar panels). It is a marine reserve, so while you can't climb up, the snorkeling around its vertical walls is the best on the island. The water is a deep, electric cobalt blue.
Nighttime: The Sciara del Fuoco
The highlight of any trip. Boats depart at sunset (around 18:00 - 19:30 depending on the season) to position themselves in front of the Sciara del Fuoco (Stream of Fire).
From the safety of the sea, you watch the crater erupt. On a good night, glowing lava bombs are ejected hundreds of meters into the air, rolling down the black slope and hissing as they hit the water. It is a silent, hypnotic spectacle, broken only by the "boom" of the explosions which reaches you seconds after the visual flash.
Types of Tours
Group Boats
Larger wooden boats (20-50 people). More stable in waves, cheaper (€25-35), but less flexible. Good for families.
Private Gozzi
Traditional small fishing boats. You can rent one with a skipper for a private tour (€150+). Allows you to stop where you want and stay longer at the Sciara.