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This week on Hegelo, we’re taking you on a truly unique, intense, and authentic journey: a fishing tourism experience on Elba Island, Italy, aboard La Barca dei Matti, led by the legendary Captain Gaetano – a fisherman for over 40 years and the beating heart of this seafaring adventure.
Hop aboard and get ready for a day like no other. Here, you laugh, you fish, you eat like royalty, you swim in hidden coves, and you listen to stories seasoned with salt and life.
What Is Fishing Tourism, Really?
This is the real deal – a hands-on experience aboard a working fishing vessel, where (if you feel like it) you can become a fisher for a day. With La Barca dei Matti, fishing tourism isn’t just about watching – it’s about participating, connecting, and syncing with the rhythm of the sea.
Every morning (weather permitting), the boat departs from Marina di Campo between 9:00 and 9:30 AM. But this isn’t a scenic cruise – you’ll actually help pull up the nets or traps dropped the night before, following traditional fishing routes shaped by nature and old-school knowledge. salpare le reti o le nasse calate la sera prima, seguendo le vere rotte di pesca, quelle dettate dalla natura e dalla tradizione.
Meet Gaetano – Fisherman, Chef, Local Legend
Gaetano isn’t just a name on Elba – he’s an icon. With over four decades at sea, he’s the kind of person who stays with you: straightforward, kind-hearted, funny – and unstoppable. He’ll greet you onboard, guide you through the day, tell incredible stories... and then cook your lunch.
That’s right – when it’s time to eat, the captain swaps his fishing gear for an apron.
There’s no Michelin-star chef here, but there is something even better: incredibly fresh fish,: pesce freschissimocooked right on the boat, literally straight from the sea to your plate.
The menu changes daily depending on the catch, but it always includes:
🥂 A fresh aperitif,
🍝 A seafood starter and main,
🍉 Fruit,
☕ Coffee,
🍷 Drinks included.
A Day of Sea, Relaxation & Fun
After the fishing part, the boat anchors in one of Elba’s most stunning coves – often wild, untouched spots unreachable from land, chosen each day based on weather and sea conditions.
While Gaetano prepares lunch, you’re free to:
- Dive into crystal-clear waters
- Soak up the sun in a shaded corner
- Snorkel with gear provided onboard
- Or simply relax with a drink and let the sea be your soundtrack
Lunch is shared with a small group (max 12 people), creating a cozy, laid-back atmosphere without any crowds.
The Adventure Continues: Afternoon & Sunset Cruise
Once lunch and some downtime are over, it’s off to another beautiful cove for a second swim and a new glimpse of Elba’s coast. Before heading back, the nets are dropped again – completing your full cycle as a fisherman.
Prefer a later start? You can also choose the afternoon-evening option: departure around 5:00 PM, return by 9:30–10:00 PM. The sunset over the sea becomes the backdrop to a magical dinner aboard. Romantic, peaceful, unforgettable.
Yes, you can even fish with a rod if you like – just like the real deal.
Is Fishing Tourism on Elba Island Right for Everyone? Absolutely!
One of the best things about La Barca dei Matti is that it’s made for everyone.
Whether you’ve fished a thousand times or never held a line, you’re welcome. All you need is curiosity, a desire to enjoy the moment, and a love for the sea.
Kids are more than welcome – and according to Gaetano, they’re often the most excited of all.
Want to get involved? Help haul the nets or clean the fish for lunch. Want to just chill? Go ahead – no pressure. It’s your day, your rhythm, your sea.
Unforgettable Views, Unfiltered Memories
👉 Vuoi vivere anche tu il vero pescaturismo sull’Isola d’Elba con il comandante Gaetano e La Barca dei Matti?
Clicca qui per accedere alla scheda completa dell’esperienza con tutte le info, le foto e il form per chiedere disponibilità:
🔗 Click here to view the full experience, browse photos, and check availability.
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