The 10 best Boat Tours in Palermo

Embark on a relaxing excursion along the coast of Taormina and the bay of Giardini Naxos with views of the striking beaches, caves and coves that characterize the area.

Departing from the port of Giardini Naxos, you will visit the Isola Bella nature reserve, the Grotta degli Innamorati, the Grotta Azzurra, the Grotta del Corallo, where coral colonies can be observed, the Bay of Mazzarò and the Bay of the Sirens. The tour will be accompanied by music and the captain's explanations of the history of the caves and bay you will explore.

There will be a swim stop during the navigation and you will be offered a snack of "almond paste," a local dessert, along with fresh fruit and prosecco. If you choose the tour with snorkeling, you will also snorkel along the coast and view the marine flora and fauna with equipment provided directly by the captain.

The boat is equipped with sun shades so you can enjoy the experience in total relaxation. The tour is organized on a shared or exclusive basis and is suitable for everyone. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Maximum capacity: 17 people. Two boats are available.

Enjoy a romantic moment on the Taormina coast by visiting the most fascinating caves and Naxos Gardens in the company of your other half. With any luck, you may spot dolphins playing and chasing each other.

The boat tour departs from Spisone Beach the itinerary touches all the area's most renowned bays and caves, such as Grotta Azzurra, Grotta dell'Amore and Isola Bella. The navigation also touches on destinations such as Cape Taormina and Giardini Naxos.

The excursion takes about 2 hours and includes some bathroom stops during which you can dive into the crystal clear waters and snorkel with the equipment provided by the facility. You will also enjoy a delicious sunset aperitif with local products and views of Mount Etna.

The experience can be arranged on a shared or exclusive basis. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stages may change.

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

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

You will have a choice of two boat tour options in Taormina. In each case, the boat tour departs from Spisone Beach.

With aperitif (2 hours)

The excursion with aperitif will have you visit the Bay of Sirens, Scoglio dell'Elefante, Mazzarò Beach, Isola Bella and many other destinations, including the well-known Giardini Naxos. You will have the opportunity to take a dip in the waters of the bays and practice snorkeling.

During the boat tour you will be offered an aperitif on board with beer, wine, prosecco and drinks, accompanied by snacks and typical Sicilian products.

With tasting (3 hours)

The excursion with tasting includes the same itinerary as the excursion with aperitif, with a visit to the Taormina Caves 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 Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses.

Both boat tours are 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.

If you are a dolphin lover and want to enjoy a romantic moment on a boat at sunset, this experience is a unique opportunity to admire the marine flora and fauna of the Mediterranean while enjoying an aperitif of Sicilian specialties.

Departing from the port of Giardini Naxos, the excursion will take you along the coast of Taormina so you can take in the beauty of the area including Isola Bella, and caves such as the Blue Grotto and the Lovers' Grotto.

Bathing stops are provided during which you can dive into the Mediterranean waters or search for dolphins at sea from the boat. You will be treated to an onboard aperitif of Sicilian arancini and a traditional prosecco. Upon returning to port you will be able to observe the volcano Etna rising above the bays of the coast.

The boat tour lasts 2 hours and is organized on a shared basis. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change.

Maximum capacity: 17 people.

Visit the Bay of Taormina aboard a wooden gozzo boat that will transport you to the most striking beauty of the Mediterranean, passing Sicily's most fascinating caves and coves, such as the Blue Grotto and the Lovers' Grotto. You can choose between two tours:

Classic (2 hours)

This 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.

Evening (2 1/2 hours)

The evening boat tour has the same itinerary as the classic tour and includes an apericena, based on typical Sicilian products. During the cruise you will also 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.

Sailboat excursion with aperitif from Catania, a private or group experience that will allow you to discover the coast of Sicily from a different perspective.

An exciting sailing adventure that celebrates nature, a sustainable lifestyle and the art of sailing. A sporting experience rich in discovery, aboard a comfortable and safe yacht.

3-hour tour

We begin with a short meeting at Caffè del Porto, then set sail from the Catania Nautical Club and open the sails along the volcanic coastline, admiring the Cyclops Island, linked to Etna.

During the sailing, you will learn how to sail and enjoy sports activities. You will prepare an aperitif on board to celebrate, toasting with a glass of prosecco or white wine.

Finally, you will have the opportunity to go for a swim near the Cave of Ulysses or the Riviera of the Cyclops. 

Tour available

•    in the morning: from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
•    at sunset: 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
•    .

6-hour tour

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You will enjoy a Full Day sailing experience enhanced by a delicious pasta lunch, and refreshing drinks and fresh fruit will be provided during the cruise.

You will have the opportunity to bathe in front of the fascinating Ulysses Caves, the impressive Medieval Castle of Acicastello and the majestic Faraglioni of the Isole Ciclopi Nature Reserve.

You will explore the beautiful coastline of Catania and can relax in a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere, with the support of the ever-helpful staff: do not hesitate to ask them to participate in running the boat, help with the sails and stop for a spontaneous dip in the deep blue waters. While sailing, it will be essential to all work together to experience the pleasure of "going with the wind".

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.

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, visiting the best-known caves and enjoying a typical lunch on board.

Departing from Trapani, the motorboat trip will take you to several destinations, depending on the itinerary you choose, and you will have a choice of two routes.

Favignana and Levanzo (8 hours)

During the excursion to Favignana and Levanzo you will skirt Favignana's most beautiful and picturesque coves such as Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra. Lunch will be provided on board before reaching Levanzo. Here you will visit Cala Fredda, Cala Minnola and the small fishing village.

Marettimo (9 hours)

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 luck, you may spot rare Mediterranean monk seals.

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

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

Maximum capacity: 185 people.

Daily excursion by dinghy from Trapani to explore the islands of Favignana and Levanzo.

You will set sail from the port of Trapani at 10:00 am and head to Favignana. The first stop will be Cala Azzurra, one of the most beautiful coves on the island, and then go to Bue Marino and Cala Rossa. Once you arrive at the Lovers' Grotto you can dive into the sea and swim in the crystal clear waters.

At 1 p.m. you will stop on the island of Favignana where you will enjoy a lunch of typical products in an affiliated restaurant (included in the price) and visit the village of Florio.

In the afternoon you will continue the excursion to Levanzo. You will go to see Cala Fredda and Cala Minnola where you can make other stops for swimming in the sea.

You will then return by 18:00 to the port of Trapani.

Throughout the excursion you will be accompanied by a skipper who can tell you the history of the area and answer all your questions.

The boat is equipped with a mini bar to keep drinks such as prosecco, wine and soft drinks cool.

Day trip to explore Favignana and Levanzo perfect for spending a day with friends or family.

The itinerary for this excursion includes:

•    departure from the tourist pier of Favignana for 10:30 a.m.
•    visit inside the Grotta degli Innamorati by swimming
•    continuation to Levanzo and visit to the stacks with another swimming stop
•    docking at the fishing village of Levanzo and visit for 30 minutes
•    docking at a quiet cove and lunch served on board
•    return to Favignana with explanation of the wonderful quarries and swimming stop
•    continuation to Cala Rossa, sea ox to Cala Azzurra where snorkeling is available

Lunch includes a traditional Sicilian pasta dish and a sampling of various bruschetta, with water and fresh local white wine.

The boats are equipped with both a sun and shade area with sunshades. In addition, there is snorkeling equipment on board available to all boat guests.

The staff, always on board, can answer your questions and assist you with any of your requests.

Discover the wonderful island of Favignana through a sailing boat tour and experience direct contact with the sea.

The sailing excursion is held by a licensed skipper and is intended both for beginners who are approaching sailing for the first time, and for those who have already taken a basic sailing course in the past and want to take a tour of the 'enchanting island of Favignana, followed by a trained and competent instructor.

During the excursion you will visit Cala Rossa, Bue Marino and Cala Rotonda, with swimming and snorkeling stops. On your return, the captain will offer you a tasting of typical Favignanese products, water, coffee and snacks.

Get ready to discover the whole island of Favignana with its fantastic crystal clear waters and famous coves directly from the sea.

This excursion allows you to have a unique experience in the Egadi Islands admiring Favignana and Levanzo.

At 10 a.m. you will set sail from Trapani. After about 30 minutes of navigation, you will reach the island of Favignana, where all the swimming stops in the most beautiful areas of the Egadina island will be carried out under the coast and in total safety.

You will visit all the main attractions, such as the islet of Preveto, Cala Azzurra, Cala Rotonda, Grotta degli Innamorati and Palazzo Florio.

At around 13:00 we will stop in town, where we will have a lunch break. Alternatively, you will be able to have lunch on board the’boat and provide your own packed lunch or, upon request, ask the facility to provide lunch on board.

Once the lunch break is over, it will be possible to visit the island.

At about 15:00 you will leave with direction Levanzo Island; also there you will explore under the coast and in total safety the beautiful Cala Tramontana (the largest cove of the Egadi Islands, an evocative place full of anecdotes of the famous battles of the Egadi Islands).

Following this, you will visit the Grotta del Buco, the Faraglione, Cala Camaro and make a short scenic stop in the village and then conclude the Tour on Cala Fredda, Cala Minnula, Cala Calcara and Capo Grosso.

Each passenger will be offered a welcome toast consisting of prosecco “La Gioiosa” and local products, all accompanied by good music and lots of merriment on board!

The return is scheduled for about 6:30 pm. 

You can also enjoy various services on board for free, such as beverages (water, tè, coke, coffee), snorkeling accessories, underwater flashlights, underwater camera and a video/photo “souvenir” service included in the price that will be sent to you at the end of each tour. 

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

The group dinghy excursion to the Zingaro Reserve is an unmissable opportunity to visit the Sicilian coast from San Vito to the most fascinating coves such as Cala Bianca and Cala Rossa, as well as the renowned Faraglioni of Scopello.

Departing from the Diporto Nautico Sanvitese, the sailing continues to the Zingaro Reserve where you can admire the Saracen tower of Sciere, the Tonnara del Secco and other typical local attractions. Once in the reserve, stops are planned at Cala Tonnarella dell'Uzzo and the museum of maritime activities.

On the way, you will pass several coves, including Cala Marinella and Cala Berretta. The second stop is at the Faraglioni of Scopello, while the third stop is in Castellammare del Golfo, to explore its charming village. This is followed by final stops at Cala Bianca, ideal for snorkeling, and Cala Rossa. The tour includes an on-board lunch of Sicilian specialties.

The facility will directly provide you with the appropriate equipment to snorkel and admire the marine flora and fauna of Sicily.

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

Experience a unique Mediterranean experience in Sicily aboard a gulet, exploring the Zingaro Nature Reserve and enjoying an on-board lunch of typical Sicilian products.

Leaving from San Vito Lo Capo, the sailing will take you to visit the Nature Reserve and the Bay of Scopello, where you will be served a lunch of appetizers, fresh fish entrée, fruit, water and wine.

During the excursion there will be several swimming stops, during which you can take a dip in the sea or snorkel with the equipment provided directly by the facility. 

The gulet trip can be half-day or full-day in duration and is an unmissable opportunity to explore the beauty of the Mediterranean with friends.

The half-day trip runs in May, June and September, while the full-day excursion is available in July and August.

Maximum capacity: 40 people.

Get ready to discover the most striking bays on the west coast of Sicily, sailing between the Zingaro Nature Reserve and the Faraglioni of Scopello.

Departing from the port of San Vito Lo Capo, the itinerary includes numerous stops and stops to dive into the crystal-clear waters and practice snorkeling with the equipment mess provided by the captain. You'll begin the sailing with a stop at the Tonnara del Secco, and then head to the Zingaro Reserve, one of Sicily's most popular destinations.

The sailing continues to Scopello to admire its famous Faraglioni rocks and snorkel in the turquoise waters. You will make 3 bathroom stops of at least 30 minutes between Cala dell'Uzzo, Cala del Varo and the Faraglioni, chosen by the captain to avoid overcrowded places. Each stop will be accompanied by light refreshments on board, with sweets, pane cunzatu, pizza and drinks.

The boat trip lasts 4 hours and can be arranged on a shared or exclusive basis. Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may vary.

Maximum capacity: 20 people.

Discover San Vito Lo Capo and the Zingaro Nature Reserve aboard a boat equipped with a skipper, who will tell you the story of Sicily's most hidden and fascinating coves and places.

The excursion departs from San Vito Lo Capo and the itinerary covers several stops. Along the way, you will pass by the old Tonnara of San Vito Lo Capo and Cala Firriato, with a stop at Lake Venus. Your first bathroom stop will instead be at Cala dell'Uzzo, to explore the Lovers' Cave.

You will continue through the coves of the Zingaro Nature Reserve to the Tonnara di Scopello with its renowned Faraglioni rocks. Here there will be another swim stop where you can snorkel among the marine flora and fauna with equipment provided directly by the facility.

The boat trip lasts half a day and can be done in the morning or afternoon. Also included in the tour is an aperitif on board based on local specialties such as cunzato bread, olives, cheese and wine.

The excursion takes place on board the boat Chicca, which is equipped with all comforts and has a maximum capacity of 22 people.

Half-day group boat excursion from San Vito Lo Capo to the Zingaro Nature Reserve and Monte Cofano.

This experience is perfect for spending a relaxing time with friends or family while admiring the Sicilian coastline from the sea.

You will board the wooden boat "Sabiha" which offers a large sun-protected walking area, ideal for a comfortable and safe sailing experience.

The first scheduled stop is the ancient Tonnara dell’Uzzo, witness to stories of sea and fishermen, and then continue along the spectacular Zingaro Nature Reserve, rich in wild cliffs and crystal clear waters.

Finally, you will reach the picturesque Tonnara di Scopello. Here you can relax and be won over by the authentic flavors of Sicily. You will be offered a refined aperitif, accompanied by local food and wine excellences, which will celebrate the marriage of sea, nature and tradition.

During the cruise, swimming stops are planned and they will allow you to cool off in the crystal clear waters. You can also explore the seabed grasie the snorkeling equipment provided by the facility.

Explore the Zingaro Nature Reserve and Tonnara dello Scopello on board a boat with friends and family and swim in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean to Sicily's most fascinating and hidden caves.

Departing from San Vito Lo Capo, you will visit the Saracen Towers, the Tonnara del Secco, and the Laghetto di Venere, with first swim stop at Cala 'Mpiso. Next, you will explore the Zingaro Nature Reserve and a second swim stop will be provided at Cala Dell'Uzzo. You will then continue to the historic Tonnara di Scopello with its Faraglioni rocks.

On board, typical fig cookies accompanied by almond marsala will be offered. Upon reaching Scopello, you will be served cunzato bread accompanied by white wine.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may change. The experience can be done in the morning or afternoon.

Maximum capacity: 12 people.