Cruise in Brindisi: 10 Mistakes to Avoid During Your Stopover

1. Relying on dockside taxis during double-call days

Many passengers disembark assuming a line of taxis will be waiting. However, when two large ships dock simultaneously, demand far exceeds supply. Brindisi doesn't have hundreds of taxis like Barcelona or Civitavecchia. If you haven't booked, you risk waiting hours in the sun or spending the day in the industrial port area.

The solution is simple: reserve a private transfer in advance. With Transfer Brindisi, your driver is already at the terminal, regardless of port traffic. This way, you don't lose a single minute of your precious shore time.

2. Underestimating travel times on the state road in summer

The SS16 and SS379 are Puglia's main arteries. While the drive to Lecce usually takes 40 minutes, this can double on Saturdays or Sundays in July and August due to local beach traffic. Many underestimate this buffer and panic when returning to the ship.

A professional driver knows the backroads through the countryside. We always plan our return trips so that an unexpected road closure won't result in you missing the ship. Punctuality is not a luxury for us; it's a standard.

3. Planning Matera with a short stopover

Matera is spectacular but is a 2-hour drive from Brindisi. A round trip alone takes 4 hours of pure driving time. If your ship is only in port for 6 or 7 hours, there is hardly any time left for the Sassi. A short stay doesn't do the city of culture justice and is logistically risky.

We recommend a day trip to Matera (€320 for 9 hours) only for long stays of at least 10-11 hours. For shorter stops, Ostuni (45 min drive) or Lecce (40 min drive) are much safer and more relaxed alternatives.

4. Relying on local public transport

Buses and trains in Puglia are known for irregular schedules, especially on Sundays. Brindisi's train station is not located at the cruise terminal. Combining the shuttle to the port exit, a city bus to the station, and a regional train to Lecce can easily take 90 minutes each way.

A private transfer offers a massive advantage over public transport and even organized ship excursions. While the cruise line's large buses have to gather 50 people, you leave immediately with us. You see more, wait less, and travel in air-conditioned comfort.

5. Not fixing the price in writing beforehand

A common mistake is getting into a vehicle without clarifying the final price for the whole group, including all extras. This often leads to unpleasant discussions upon arrival. At Transfer Brindisi, our prices are transparent and calculated per vehicle, including VAT and waiting time.

For example, a private van for up to 8 people to Alberobello costs €220 for a 6-hour tour. Divided by 8 people, that's less than €30 per head – often cheaper than the ship's bus ticket, but with the comfort of a chauffeur.

6. Confusing 'All Aboard' time with departure time darkness

This is the most dangerous error. The ship departs at 18:00, but 'All Aboard' is usually at 17:30. Those who arrive at the dock at 17:40 often see the ship from the outside. We always ask our customers for the official 'All Aboard' time and plan the arrival at the terminal at least 45 minutes prior.

7. Not having an Italian contact number

Communication is everything in a foreign port. If you get lost in the alleys of Ostuni, you need to reach your driver. Many rely only on unstable port Wi-Fi. We communicate directly via WhatsApp (+39 351 90 82 843), allowing for a constant connection. This way, we can react flexibly if you wish to return to the ship earlier.

8. Carrying unnecessary luggage on excursions

Many passengers drag large bags that only hinder them in the narrow streets of Polignano a Mare. Leave everything unnecessary on the ship. Our vehicles are secure, and you can leave small purchases in the car during the tour while you visit the sights. This significantly increases comfort.