Originally Posted by
corporate-wage-slave
Alternatively you could consider going to Rome instead and taking the train from there to BRI, similar argument about costs but again BA won't agree to that ahead of travel.
I would be giving serious considideration to this - probably the FRECCIARGENTO 8315 leaving Roma Termini at 1455, with arrival into Bari at 1855. There are first class tickets available for €53 per person. Although you have still effectively lost a day, these trains are comfortable and you will at least see something of Italy through the window and will still be able to have dinner in Bari in the evening. The modest extra amount for first class is probably worth it for the extra bit of space on these trains as they can be busy.