Setting Sail from Monopoli

The sun was just beginning to cast its golden glow over the ancient port of Monopoli as I boarded the charming gozzo boat. The gentle hum of the motor was a comforting reminder of the many train journeys I’ve taken across Europe, where the rhythmic clatter of wheels on tracks would lull me into a state of serene anticipation. Here, the sea was my track, and the horizon my destination.

As we set sail, the ancient walls of Monopoli receded into the distance, their stories whispered by the sea breeze. The boat was filled with a delightful mix of fellow travelers, each bringing their own tales and laughter to the journey. It reminded me of the camaraderie found in a train carriage, where strangers become friends over shared views and experiences.

The captain’s commentary was just the right touch, offering insights into the history and legends of the area without overwhelming the senses. It was like a gentle guidebook, much like the ones I used to pore over during my train travels, marking the places I longed to see.

Discovering the Caves of Polignano a Mare

As we approached Polignano a Mare, the cliffs rose majestically from the sea, their rugged beauty a testament to the passage of time. The caves, hidden within these cliffs, were like secret compartments in an old train carriage, each holding its own mystery and allure.

The Grotta Palazzese was a highlight, its natural grandeur enhanced by the knowledge that a renowned restaurant lay within. It was a reminder of the hidden gems one might find along a train route, where a seemingly ordinary stop reveals an extraordinary experience.

We sailed past the statue of Domenico Modugno, his iconic song “Nel Blu Dipinto di Blu” playing softly in the background. It was a moment that transported me back to my youth, when music and travel were intertwined in a dance of discovery and nostalgia.

A Toast to New Adventures

The boat paused in a tranquil cove, inviting us to dive into the crystalline waters. It was a refreshing interlude, much like the stops along a scenic train journey where one can stretch their legs and breathe in the fresh air of a new locale.

Back on board, we were treated to a taste of Apulian tradition with taralli, focaccia, and olives, accompanied by a flute of Prosecco. It was a feast for the senses, akin to the simple yet satisfying meals enjoyed in a train dining car, where the landscape outside becomes part of the dining experience.

As we made our way back to Monopoli, the sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. It was a fitting end to a journey that had captured the essence of slow travel, where the joy lies not just in the destination, but in the journey itself. Much like my beloved train travels, this boat tour was a reminder of the beauty found in taking the time to savor each moment, each view, and each story shared along the way.