Santa Restituta’s Sea Procession: a Unique Event to Experience by Boat in Ischia
Every year, on May 17th, the island of Ischia pauses to honor its patron saint, Santa Restituta, with one of the most heartfelt and scenic events of the year: the sea procession. This religious and cultural celebration blends faith, tradition, and landscape, turning the waters between Lacco Ameno and Casamicciola into a breathtaking stage where the sacred meets the Mediterranean beauty.
Joining the sea procession is a one-of-a-kind experience that goes beyond mere observation. It means becoming part of an ancient ritual, sharing emotions with locals and fishermen, sailing alongside dozens of boats escorting the statue of the saint to the San Montano Bay, surrounded by prayers, hymns, and the sound of a marching band.
In this context, renting a private boat allows you to enjoy the event with greater comfort, space, and freedom. The skippered boats offered by Giosymar provide the perfect vantage point to follow the entire procession, stress-free and in full respect of the tradition.
An Island-Wide Celebration
The day begins with a religious ceremony in Lacco Ameno, followed by the boarding of Santa Restituta’s statue on a decorated ferry, accompanied by crowds of worshippers. Surrounding the main boat, dozens of private and fishing boats form a maritime procession that follows all the way to the picturesque San Montano Bay, one of the island’s symbolic spots.
Along the way, moments of silence alternate with liturgical songs and the music of the local band playing onboard. The resulting atmosphere is hard to describe: a blend of spirituality, local pride, and stunning scenery.
Many visitors choose the month of May to visit Ischia specifically for authentic experiences like this—away from the high season crowds, yet immersed in genuine local traditions.
The procession ends with the statue’s return and celebrations that animate the entire town of Lacco Ameno. Streets are filled with music, lights, the scent of local dishes, and heartfelt participation from the community.
How to Join the Procession by Boat
If you want to take part in the sea procession, several options are available. Giosymar Ischia Charter offers private boat tours departing from Ischia Porto, Casamicciola, or Forio, adjusting the route according to your location and the event’s schedule.
The fleet includes Fratelli Aprea gozzi and Itama and Tornado speedboats, ideal for enjoying the procession with comfort, stability, and a privileged view. All boats come with a skipper, drinks, snacks, and beach towels: perfect for a day that’s intense but serene.
For an even more exciting experience, you can book a boat for the whole day and combine the procession with a panoramic cruise along Ischia’s northern coast, from San Montano to Zaro and the shores of Lacco Ameno.
Santa Restituta: Symbol and Devotion
Santa Restituta is venerated as a Christian martyr and has become the patron saint of Lacco Ameno and a spiritual icon for the entire island.
Her cult has deep roots in local tradition, and the sea procession is its most impressive expression—a moment that brings together the community and fascinates all visitors.
Experiencing Ischia’s Most Authentic Events
Besides the Santa Restituta procession, Ischia hosts several other religious and cultural events that are equally beautiful to experience from the sea. From the Feast of Sant’Anna with fireworks in Cartaromana Bay, to the evocative San Michele procession in Sant’Angelo, each event offers a window into the island’s soul.
During these celebrations, experiencing them by boat is a truly special way: quiet, intimate, away from the crowd, yet fully immersed in the emotion. This is why the Events section on our website is a valuable resource for living tradition in a new light.
Explore more options during special occasions – Boat Experiences
Useful Info for Attending by Boat
If you want to attend the Santa Restituta sea procession on a private boat:
- The best time to book is between April and early May
- Departures are available from Ischia Porto, Forio, or Casamicciola
- No boating license is needed (all boats have a skipper)
- You can add extras like aperitifs, photo services, or full-day tours
Request a custom itinerary – Private Tours
To enjoy the event from a truly privileged perspective—without compromising comfort or safety—choose a skippered boat. It’s a meaningful, memorable way to join one of Ischia’s most exciting yearly traditions. Discover Ischia.
