Sicily Boat Tours: the 20 best boat rides

If you are looking for a boat excursion to Taormina, don't miss the opportunity of this boat tour to sail along the Sicilian coastline and delve into all its most renowned bays and caves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Lovers' Grotto. 

Sailing departs from Spisone Beach.

The excursion with tasting includes visits to the Taormina Caves, ala Baia delle Sirene, Scoglio dell'Elefante, Mazzarò Beach, Isola Bella and Giardini Naxos. In addition, the tour will be accompanied by a tasting of three different types of wine (prosecco, white wine and red wine), paired with a board of typical Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses.

The boat tour è suitable for everyone and you can decide to swim or relax on the beaches near the caves you will visit, so you can have a totally relaxing time.

Maximum capacity: 24 people.

The Taormina boat tour and aperitif includes a skipper who will accompany you to the most beautiful places telling you myths and legends that characterize this land, along the coast of Taormina and Naxos gardens.

We recommend that you bring your swimsuit, flip-flops, beach towel, lotion and a sun hat.

During the excursion you will be provided with a tasting of wines and typical products by boat in Taormina. You will take an evocative tour of the bays and caves of Taormina and Giardini Naxos, enjoying a selection of typical Sicilian wines and liqueurs accompanied by locally produced cold cuts and cheeses. 

The boats are equipped with all comforts, and while sailing, the skippers will tell you the history and anecdotes of the place. Don't miss this unique opportunity to visit the Taormina coast in company!

Visit the Bay of Taormina aboard a wooden gozzo boat that will transport you to the most striking beauty of the Mediterranean, passing by Sicily's most fascinating caves and coves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Grotta degli Innamorati.

The excursion departs from Giardini Naxos and will have you explore the Isola Bella Marine Reserve, the Blue Grotto, the Grotta degli Innamorati, and the Grotta dei Coralli. You will also discover the bays of Mazzarò and San Nicola, cruising the Sicilian coast around Taormina.

During the navigation you will be offered an aperitif on board based on typical Sicilian products. In addition, during the different stops you will be able to swim in the waters of the Reserve and snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Maximum capacity: 24 people.

Visit the Bay of Taormina aboard a wooden gozzo boat that will transport you to the most striking beauty of the Mediterranean, passing by Sicily's most fascinating caves and coves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Grotta degli Innamorati.

The excursion departs from Giardini Naxos and will have you explore the Isola Bella Marine Reserve, the Blue Grotto, the Grotta degli Innamorati, and the Grotta dei Coralli. You will also discover the bays of Mazzarò and San Nicola, cruising the Sicilian coast around Taormina.

During the navigation you will be offered an apericena on board based on typical Sicilian products.

During the navigation you will be able to search for and spot dolphins, with a little luck. You can finally take a dip in the water during one of the stops on the itinerary.

Maximum capacity: 24 people.

The shared boat tour from the port of Giardini Naxos allows you to enjoy a unique experience along the Taormina coastline with friends or family.

The excursion lasts about 2 hours and a swimming stop is planned.

The first stop is the Grotta della Conchiglia, famous for its distinctive shape and turquoise waters.

You will then sail to the Faraglioni of Capo Taormina, imposing rocks that provide breathtaking scenery.

The navigation will continue to the famous Isola Bella, the heart of the nature reserve: here you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the bay.

The next stop is the magical Blue Grotto, where the filtering light creates striking blue reflections.

Before returning to the port of departure you will skirt the Bay of Mazzarò, one of the most fascinating stretches of coastline.

Embark on an excursion off the Sicilian coast starting from the port of Giardini Naxos on this 2-hour shared boat tour with dolphin spotting.

The first stop is Isola Bella, an authentic jewel set in the bay, connected to the coast by a romantic tongue of sand.

Navigation will then continue to the striking Blue Grotto, where lights and reflections provide a unique spectacle of blue hues.

Afterwards, you will push out to sea for an exciting dolphin watching moment: in the hours near sunset, dolphins swim free in small groups.

The tour will end with a sunset aperitif in the middle of the sea, surrounded by the Sicilian coast and with Mount Etna in the background.

Half-day sailing excursion from Palermo to Mondello Bay or Capo Zafferano

Set sail aboard a comfortable sailboat that can accommodate up to 10 people.

Depending on the weather conditions, you will head for Mondello Bay or Capo Zafferano.

In the first case, you will pass by the striking caves of Villa Igea, which can be reached by tender for a refreshing swim.

In the second route, you will land at Capo Zafferano, where you can swim at the beach of the Frenchmen or in the crystal-clear waters of Lido del Carabiniere.

Day trip by sailboat to the Gulf of Mondello from Palermo.

Board a comfortable sailboat that can accommodate up to 10 people and be guided by an experienced skipper, who will share with you stories and trivia about the places you will visit.

Sailing to Mondello Bay you will pass through the fascinating caves of Villa Igea, which you can reach by tender for a refreshing swim.

During the day you can explore the coast by SUP or engage in snorkeling, admiring the colorful seabed and crystal clear waters of Sicily.

The day will be enhanced by a lunch on board with typical products.

If conditions permit, on your return you can enjoy a picturesque sunset over the sea before returning to port.

Discover Mondello aboard a shared or exclusive boat departing from Palermo and guided by an experienced skipper.

You will make your first swim stop at Marina di Villa Igea with a visit to the Queen's Grotto. You will then continue in the direction of Vergine Maria beach, doing an initial tasting.

You will then depart again heading towards Mondello beach with the second stop for swimming in the sea and here you will then enjoy an excellent lunch with tasting of typical Sicilian products.

The third stop will be at the Capo Gallo nature reserve with a stop for snorkeling and an afternoon aperitif.

You will return to the port of La Cala around 6 pm.

For the exclusive excursion, you can choose between two options: Gull II (accommodating up to 8 people) and Wells (accommodating up to 12 people).

The half-day mini-cruise allows you to discover Mondello on board a shared or exclusive boat departing from Palermo and guided by an experienced skipper.

This experience is perfect for spending a relaxing day with friends or family.

You will sail to Mondello making a few stops for swimming in the sea. During the outing you will visit the most beautiful coves on the coast and receive explanations from the skipper who can answer your curiosities about the area.

Before returning you will be offered an aperitif with prosecco, chips and bruschetta.

For the exclusive excursion, you can choose between two options: Seagull II (accommodating up to 8 people) and Wells (accommodating up to 12 people).

In case of food allergies and intolerances you can contact the facility after booking.

Discover the Gulf of Palermo and Marina di Villa Igea at sunset aboard a boat guided by an experienced captain.

Leaving from Palermo, you will sail to Marina di Villa Igea, a location where you can relax while watching the sunset.

During the outing, which lasts a couple of hours, you can enjoy an excellent aperitif of Sicilian products, offered by the boat captain.

For the duration of the outing you will be accompanied by a skipper who will know how to tell you the best anecdotes about the area.

For the exclusive excursion, you can choose between two options: Seagull II (accommodating up to 8 people) and Wells (accommodating up to 12 people).

We recommend appropriate clothing for the evening weather.

This catamaran excursion to Palermo allows you to view the Sicilian coastline from the sea and choose between a morning and an afternoon trip with an overnight stay.

Swimming stops in protected marine areas are provided during the cruise. You can freely use the equipment provided by the facility (snorkeling gear, masks, canoes, sup, water scooters and dinghy).

Between a dip and a swim you can enjoy an authentic dining experience with fresh seasonal fruit, a lunch of typical Sicilian dishes and an open bar always available.

This experience is perfect for getting in touch with the culinary culture of the area while experiencing new flavors and tasting Sicilian wines, fresh fish, cruditè and Palermo finger food.

You can also practice sport fishing and try to catch tuna, amberjack, sea bream, lampuche and many other species that reign in this area of the Mediterranean.

You can choose from 2 options.

Morning excursion with lunch

This 6-hour tour gives you a unique experience among the most striking bays of the Palermo coast. Departure is scheduled at 9 a.m.

You will visit:

•    Mondello
•    Natural Reserve of Capo Gallo
•    Grotta dell'Olio
•    Barcarello/Sferracavallo
•    Natural Reserve of Isola delle Femmine

Lunch, drinks and water games are included.

Afternoon excursion and overnight stay

If you choose this option, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive experience aboard a floating resort with an all-inclusive formula that includes:

•    breakfast
•    lunch
•    dinner
•    drinks

Three cabins are available (1 double for single or couple use and 2 triple) and departure is scheduled at 4:00 pm.

In case of food allergies and intolerances you can contact the facility after booking.

The boat excursion to Favignana and Levanzo departing from Marsala is the perfect opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable day discovering the Egadi Islands.

You’ll board a comfortable boat equipped with a restroom and shower, with a maximum capacity of 25 people to ensure a relaxed and pleasant experience throughout the day.

The trip begins at the Marsala Tourist Port, where you’ll be welcomed with breakfast on board before setting sail towards Favignana.

Once you arrive on the island, you’ll stop at some of its most beautiful spots: Cala Rossa, Bue Marino, Cala Azzurra, and the Lovers’ Cave. Here, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters.

Back on board, a traditional lunch will be served, featuring seafood pasta and a selection of drinks (water, cola, iced tea, and wine).

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Levanzo, with more swimming stops planned at Cala Minnola and the Faraglioni. Snorkeling equipment is available for guests who wish to explore the underwater scenery.

Before returning to Marsala, fresh seasonal fruit will be offered to end the day on a sweet note.

When booking, you can choose between a group tour or a private excursion. The private option allows you to customize the itinerary in agreement with the skipper.

This day trip by group boat departing from Marsala allows you to admire Favignana and Levanzo.

Departure is scheduled from Marsala marina at 9:00 am. Once embarked, you will be served a breakfast of various croissants and coffee.

The first scheduled stop is in Favignana. Here you can relax with a refreshing swimming or snorkeling break in two bays: Cala Azzurra and Cala Rossa.

Next you will reach the port of Favignana for a free tour of the town lasting about 1 hour.

On your return to the ship, you will enjoy an aperitif of mixed bruschetta with matarocco, olive patè and sun-dried tomato patè accompanied by chips, pretzels and a local prosecco.

Following that, you can enjoy a lunch consisting of:

•    Antipasto (eggplant caponata, seasoned local olives, seafood salad, slices of local pecorino cheese, sun-dried tomatoes)
•    1 first course (seafood pasta or fish or vegetable couscous)
•    seasonal fruit
•    water
•    wine
•    Coca Cola
•    coffee

The next stop will be the nearby island of Levanzo. Here a swimming and snorkeling stop is planned in a bay (Cala Fredda or Cala Minnola).

Before returning to the port of departure, a final swimming stop is planned in a bay on the island of Favignana (Grotte Marine or Bue Marino).

Return to the Marsala marina is scheduled for about 5:30 pm.

During the return navigation to Marsala, a typical Sicilian dessert (Cannolo di ricotta) accompanied by a typical fortified wine (Zibibbo or Passito) will be offered.

The itinerary and times may be modified and agreed with the group according to needs and weather conditions.

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

Bark on a not-to-be-missed excursion in a motorboat equipped with every comfort and experience a mini cruise in the crystal clear waters of Sicily.

Departing from Trapani, you will visit the best-known caves and enjoy a typical lunch on board.

During the excursion to Marettimo you will visit the pebble beaches on the slopes of Punta Troia and other sandy coves such as Cala Bianca and Cala Nera. With a bit of luck, you may spot rare Mediterranean monk seals.

The excursion lasts a full day and includes an onboard lunch of typical Sicilian products.

The excursion to Marettimo è guaranteed upon reaching a minimum of 40 participants.

Don't miss a unique opportunity to swim in the Mediterranean waters and visit the Egadi Islands as a group or as a couple.

Maximum capacity: 185 people.

Discover the most striking bays of the Egadi Islands with an excursion aboard a spacious, fully equipped boat.

Departing from Trapani, the excursion will guide you along the picturesque Sicilian coast, stopping at hidden coves such as Cala Azzurra, Bue Marino and Cala Rossa, before reaching the village of Levanzo. Here, you will enjoy a swim stop in one of the coves. Next, you will set course for Favignana for another swim stop.

On board, a full lunch with Trapani specialties and fresh fish will be served. After lunch, you will have free time to explore Favignana, enjoy Sicilian granita and visit the Grotta degli Innamorati before returning to Trapani.

Two embacations are available: the Egadi Star and the Luxury Shalimar IV. Both carry a maximum of 30 passengers on board. The Luxury Shalimar boat will give you a luxury experience in a mini-cruise equipped with a larger size for a totally relaxed excursion.

Maximum capacity: 30 people. It is mandatory to pay the ecological fee of €5 at the ticket office before departure.

Discover Favignana on a day or sunset excursion accompanied by a skipper.

You can choose from 3 different tours:

Daily tour

The itinerary for this tour includes:

•    Departure from marsala for 9:00 a.m.
•    Arrive in Favignana with visit to Cala Azzurra and Cala Rossa 
•    Landing on the island of Favignana for 12:30 and lunch stop
•    Departure for Levanzo at 2 p.m. and swimming stop at the Faraglioni 
•    Swimming stop at 15:00 at Cala Fridda and subsequent swimming stop at Cala Minnula at 16:00 
•    Aperitif to end the day on a high note
•    Arrive in Marsala for 17:30

The excursion is guaranteed with a minimum of 6 participants.

Sunset tour to Favignana

The itinerary for this tour includes:

•    Barking and departure from Marsala for 6:30 pm
•    Arrival in Favignana, music and aperitif on board in Cala Rotonda from 7:00 to 9:00 pm
•    Arrive in Marsala for 21:30

Sunset tour to the Stagnone Lagoon

•    Barking and departure from Marsala for 6:30 pm
•    Arrive at the viewpoint, music and aperitif on board while watching the sun set
•    Arrive in Marsala for 9:30 p.m.

For each tour you will be accompanied by a skipper who will know how to tell you the best anecdotes about the area.

An aperitif will be served on board, but not lunch. You can bring a packed lunch or eat on the island of Favignana, where you will stop from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm.

In case of bad weather the excursion could be cancelled or the itinerary and its duration could be changed.

embark on a not-to-be-missed excursion in a motorboat equipped with every comfort and experience a mini cruise in the crystal clear waters of Sicily.

Leaving from Trapani, the motorboat trip will take you to different destinations, visiting the most famous caves and enjoying a typical lunch on board.

During the excursion to Favignana and Levanzo you will skirt the most beautiful and suggestive coves of Favignana such as Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra. There are also two shore stops: a 2-hour stop in Favignana and a 1-hour stop in Levanzo.

You will be scheduled to have lunch on board before reaching Levanzo. Here you will visit Cala Fredda, Cala Minnola and the small fishing village.

Don't miss a unique opportunity to swim in the waters of the Mediterranean and visit the Egadi Islands as a group or as a couple.

Maximum capacity: 185 people.

Discover the Sicilian coast thanks to this 3-hour group boat excursion departing from Marzamemi.

This evocative tour will allow you to immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters and admire unique landscapes, thanks to stops at the most striking destinations: Capo Passero Island, Marzamemi, Vendicari Nature Reserve.

You will be accompanied by an experienced skipper who will tell you stories and curiosities of the area.

During the excursion you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products accompanied by a glass of wine, water or soft drinks.

You will board a comfortable boat equipped with seats with cushions, sunshade awning, bluetooth speaker and freshwater shower.

Morning boat excursion, leaving from Avola and skirting the beaches and coves to Marzamemi.

You will leave by about 9:00 a.m. and visit from the sea Noto Marina, Calamosche, the Vendicari Nature Reserve, San Lorenzo and Marzamemi until you arrive at Capo Passero Island. Return is scheduled for 1:30 pm.

There will be several stops for swimming in the sea and you will be able to use the equipment on board for snorkeling.

In addition, you will be served an aperitif on board based on typical Sicilian products accompanied by prosecco.

For this experience you can choose from 3 options with the same itinerary:

•    Excursion shared with other participants on board a raft, for a maximum of 12 people
•    Private excursion with the entire raft exclusively, for up to 10 people
•    Private excursion aboard a boat, for a maximum of 5 people

In each of these cases, an experienced skipper will accompany you throughout the outing and can assist you with any of your needs.

The group experience is guaranteed with a minimum of 6 participants.

Boat excursion until sunset, departing from Avola with a stop in Marzamemi.

You will leave for about 3:30 pm and visit from the sea Noto Marina, Calamosche, the Vendicari Nature Reserve and San Lorenzo.

Once you arrive at Marzamemi you will make a stop and get off the boat to visit the small town. You will then get back on the boat until you arrive at Capo Passero Island.

Return is scheduled for 8:00 pm.

During the outing you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products accompanied by prosecco to be consumed on board.

In addition, there are several stops to swim in the sea and you will be able to use the equipment on board to snorkel.

For this experience you can choose from 3 options with the same itinerary:

•    Shared excursion with other participants aboard a raft, for a maximum of 12 people. The boat must carry at least 6 people on board.
•    Private excursion with the entire raft exclusively, for a maximum of 10 people
•    Private excursion aboard a boat, for a maximum of 5 people

In each of these cases, an experienced skipper will accompany you throughout the outing and can assist you with any of your needs.

Embark on a unique excursion to Marzamemi and enjoy an aperitif or lunch on board in excellent company, overlooking Sicily's most fascinating beaches. You can choose from two tours:

Sightseeing Tour (4 hours)

After visiting Tafuri Castle, you will head to the enchanting island of Capo Passero and then return to Marzamemi to explore its quaint old harbor. Afterwards, you will dive into the waters above the ancient Roman columns, then end the day with a refreshing swim at Vendicari Island.

Delicious bruschetta with Pachino cherry along with fresh seasonal fruit, local wine and water are offered on board to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Snorkeling equipment is also provided.

Exclusive (6 hours)

You may also choose to have lunch or dinner on board. The itinerary remains the same and the menu includes:

•    bruschetta with Pachino cherry tomatoes
•    grilled fresh fish
•    peperonata
•    Pachino salad
•    seasonal fruit, local wine, water

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change. The menu is subject to change related to seasonal availability.

Dinghy excursion starting from Avola and sailing up north to discover the Island of Ortigia.

Departing from Avola, you will sail north and skirt the coast visiting the most beautiful coves and caves such as Fontane Bianche beach, the tower of Ognina, Arenella beach, Capo Murro di Porco and Punta della Mola until you reach the island of Ortigia.

During the outing, some stops will be made to swim in the sea and you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products.

You will, in addition, be accompanied for the duration of the excursion by an experienced skipper who can guide you along the coast and tell some anecdotes about the area.

For this experience you can choose between 2 options with the same itinerary:

•    Private excursion with the whole boat exclusively. Duration is about 5 hours, you can choose between morning and afternoon and maximum 6 people can participate.
•    Group excursion with the boat shared with other participants. The duration is about 6 hours and the maximum number of participants is 12 people.

Sail to Portopalo di Capo Passero starting from Avola aboard an inflatable boat guided by an experienced skipper.

You will depart from Avola, either by 9 a.m. or 2 p.m., and sail south. You will skirt Calamosche Beach and the Vendicari tuna fishery until you reach Marzamemi. At this point you will dock and disembark to visit the village. Once back on board you will continue to Portopalo di Capo Passero.

During the trip, some stops will be made to swim in the sea and you will be served an aperitif of typical Sicilian products.

You will, in addition, be accompanied for the duration of the excursion by an experienced skipper who can guide you along the coast and tell some anecdotes about the area.

For this experience you can choose between 2 options with the same itinerary:

•    Private excursion with the whole boat exclusively. Duration will be about 5 hours with a maximum of 6 participants
•    Group excursion sharing with other participants in the morning with departure for 9:00 am and duration of 6 hours for a maximum of 12 participants
•    Group excursion sharing with other participants in the afternoon with departure for 2:00 pm and duration of 5 hours for a maximum of 12 participants