The sun-kissed coast of Taormina is best explored by boat, with several excellent tour options available. The standout half-day sailing excursions give travelers a perfect mix of swimming, coastal views, and relaxation. I especially love the Isola Bella boat tours – they provide intimate access to the "Pearl of the Mediterranean" and its hidden grottoes. For movie buffs, the combination Godfather and boat tours effectively pair cultural sightseeing with maritime adventure. The Dolfin 2-hour cruise is my top pick for families and time-conscious travelers, offering the right balance of sightseeing and comfort. Let’s explore the most rewarding boat tours around this Sicilian gem.
Key Points
Taormina and Isola Bella Day Tour offers a comfortable air-conditioned bus and boat tour around the picturesque Isola Bella.
Half Day Sailing Tour Taormina Bay provides an intimate experience with Sicilian appetizers, local wine, and snorkeling equipment.
Godfather Tour From Messina Cruise Terminal takes travelers to historic film locations with a private tour and lunch.
Godfather Private Tour and Taormina Boat Tour With Lunch combines Godfather filming sites and a Taormina boat tour with hotel/port pickup and traditional lunch.
Taormina Dolfin 2-Hour Boat Tour offers a wheelchair-friendly, 2-hour tour along the picturesque coastline with soda, skipper, and fuel provided.
Taormina and Isola Bella Day Tour Including Boat Tour
For the Taormina and Isola Bella Day Tour Including Boat Tour, travelers can expect a comprehensive excursion showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
Priced from $123.87 per person, this tour takes visitors by air-conditioned bus to explore the picturesque town of Taormina and the stunning Isola Bella.
The tour includes a boat tour around the island, as well as live commentary from a professional guide.
With positive reviews highlighting the beautiful scenery and knowledgeable guides, the tour is recommended for travelers with a moderate fitness level.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly.
Travelers should be aware of potential weather-related changes to the itinerary and ensure they’ve the necessary items, such as swimwear and sunscreen.
Half Day Sailing Tour Taormina Bay
This half-day sailing tour in Taormina Bay offers travelers a chance to explore the picturesque bays of Spisone, Mazzarò, and the Blue Grotto, as well as the stunning Isola Bella.
With 91% traveler recommendation based on 114 reviews, the tour provides an intimate experience for up to 9 guests. Included are rustic Sicilian appetizers, local white wine, and snorkeling equipment.
The knowledgeable skipper shares insights into sailing basics and local culture. While the meeting point is easy to access, transportation to the dock isn’t provided.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, but the departure time may vary depending on organizational needs.
Godfather Tour From Messina Cruise Terminal to Savoca and Forza DAgrò
Departing from the Messina cruise terminal, the Godfather Tour transports travelers to the historic villages of Savoca and Forza D’Agrò.
Over 3 hours, the private tour explores the settings used in the classic Godfather films. Guests are ferried in an air-conditioned vehicle, with bottled water and lunch included.
The experience is wheelchair-accessible and infant-friendly. With a perfect 5-star rating from past travelers, the tour is available daily from 7 am to 6 pm through June 2025.
Highlights include wandering the quaint streets and admiring the scenic backdrops that made these villages iconic filming locations.
Priced from $193.88 per person, the Godfather Tour offers an immersive movie-themed experience just a short drive from the Messina cruise port.
Godfather Private Tour and Taormina Boat Tour With Lunch
Travelers can embark on a Godfather Private Tour and Taormina Boat Tour with Lunch, an immersive experience that combines visits to iconic filming locations from the classic Godfather films with a scenic boat tour along the Taormina coastline.
The tour, priced from $263.89 per person, includes hotel/port pickup, a personal English-speaking driver/guide, and a walking tour of Savoca, where key scenes were filmed. Guests will also enjoy a traditional lunch and a boat tour of Taormina Bay.
While the boat tour may be canceled due to rough sea conditions, the tour operator makes alternative arrangements for safety.
Taormina Boat Tour
Although the Taormina Boat Tour received only a single review, it offers travelers a chance to explore the picturesque coastline and caves surrounding the charming town of Taormina.
The tour departs from the Porto di Giardini Naxos and includes Prosecco and seasonal fruit. Snorkeling is also available, though equipment is limited to 2 masks for 5 participants.
The lone reviewer, Melissa_D, noted issues with the boat’s slow speed, lack of communication from guides, and unmet expectations for the promised amenities.
However, the tour operator acknowledged the concerns and emphasized efforts to accommodate guests.
Taormina Dolfin 2-Hour Boat Tour
The Taormina Dolfin 2-Hour Boat Tour whisks travelers along the picturesque coastline of Taormina, offering a chance to marvel at the town’s natural splendor from the sea.
This 2-hour excursion accommodates up to 24 participants and includes soda, a skipper, and fuel. The tour departs from the Porto di Giardini Naxos, located opposite Angelina restaurant, and returns to the same meeting point.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate, and the surfaces are wheelchair-friendly.
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the tour starts at 4:30 PM.
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tours and cruises allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or prefer that you purchase items on board.
What Is the Policy for Children on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour policies welcome children, though they may require minors to wear life jackets and be supervised by an adult. Discounts or free tickets are often available for children on these excursions.
Are the Boat Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Many boat tours offer wheelchair accessibility, but it’s best to check with the specific tour operator beforehand. Some may have limited space or accessibility features, so travelers should inquire about accommodations when booking.
Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Boat Tours?
Passengers can generally take photos and videos during the boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or rules regarding the use of cameras and recording devices on the boats.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Boat Tours?
The cancellation policy varies by tour operator, but many offer flexible options. Customers should check the specific policy when booking to understand any fees or deadlines for cancellations or changes to their reservation.
The Sum Up
Taormina offers a variety of boat tours and cruises to suit different interests. From day tours of Taormina and Isola Bella to half-day sailing trips and Godfather-themed excursions, there’s something for all. With options ranging from 2-hour boat tours to full-day experiences, visitors can explore the stunning coastline and discover the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.