Sicily’s boat tours range from small-group excursions to private charters, offering the best mix of comfort and authentic experiences. The standout routes include Taormina’s crystal-clear bays, Ortigia’s historic waterfront, and the pristine Egadi Islands. I’m especially fond of the intimate 12-person tours around Taormina, where you can swim in hidden caves and enjoy fresh-caught seafood lunches.
The half-day trips from Syracuse’s Ortigia district are another favorite, combining ancient Greek ruins with secluded swimming spots. For the most memorable experience, consider the sunset cruises that include local wine and traditional Sicilian appetizers.
Check out our carefully selected tours below, each tested and approved for quality, value, and authentic local experiences.
Key Points
- Sicily offers a variety of intimate small-group boat tours to popular destinations like Taormina, Isola Bella, Ortigia, Egadi Islands, Lampedusa, and Cefalù.
- Many tours feature activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and local refreshments, with high traveler ratings and positive feedback.
- Boat excursions range from half-day to full-day experiences, with both private and specialized tours catering to diverse traveler preferences.
- Accessibility varies, with some tours offering wheelchair access and stroller-friendly options, while others may pose challenges for certain travelers.
- Boat tour operators often provide convenient pickup/drop-off locations and flexible rescheduling or cancellation policies to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Boat Tour Giardini Naxos Taormina Isola Bella Blue Grotto
A small-group boat tour departs from Giardini Naxos, providing visitors an opportunity to explore the stunning coastline of Taormina and the nearby Isola Bella.
The tour includes a visit to the Grotta dell’Amore, Capo Taormina, Grotta delle Sirene, and Scoglio dell’Elefante.
Travelers can swim in the crystal clear waters off Isola Bella and enjoy Sicilian sweets and Prosecco.
The boat tour accommodates a maximum of 20 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
Inclusions feature Prosecco, snacks, and alcoholic beverages.
The tour starts and ends at the meeting point, the Kristal Boat Escursioni in the Giardini Naxos port.
With 402 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this boat tour offers a memorable way to experience the natural wonders of Sicily.
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Small Group Boat Tour of Ortigia With Visits to the Caves and Swimming – Sicily – Cancel 24H Pr
Although the Taormina and Isola Bella boat tour offers stunning coastal views, travelers seeking a unique experience can also explore the island of Ortigia through a small-group boat excursion.
This tour provides a chance to visit sea caves and swim in the crystal-clear waters, with a 96% traveler recommendation based on over 500 reviews. Priced at $26.93 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 travelers and offers free cancellation and rescheduling.
Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, though some travelers noted difficulty understanding the English. The tour is highly recommended for families and those interested in exploring the island’s natural wonders.
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Boat Excursion to the Island of Ortigia and Sea Caves
Travelers can embark on a captivating boat excursion to explore the island of Ortigia and its remarkable sea caves. The 1-hour tour offers the chance to admire scenic rock formations, including the famous “Cave of Love.”
During the excursion, guests can enjoy a complimentary aperitivo with local wines and cheeses. With a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour receives excellent reviews for its professional communication and overall enjoyment.
However, some travelers have reported issues with service delays and lack of refreshments during peak times. The tour is suitable for adults, with a minimum age of 18 years, and accommodates collapsible wheelchairs with assistance.
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Taste of the Sea – Daily Boat Trip to Lampedusa
This 7-hour boat trip to the stunning island of Lampedusa offers travelers a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mediterranean.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour includes activities like lunch, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Priced from $80.78 per person, the tour receives excellent reviews, with 100% of travelers recommending it and a 5.0 overall rating.
Included in the tour are lunch, snorkeling equipment, final cleaning, and oil. The meeting and end point is at Lungomare Luigi Rizzo, 227, 92010 Lampedusa AG, Italy, and the tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation.
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Boat Excursion to the Egadi Islands
Exploring the stunning Egadi Islands off the western coast of Sicily, this boat excursion offers visitors a chance to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.
Priced from €100 per person, the tour is highly recommended by 100% of travelers and boasts a perfect 5.0 rating based on 93 reviews.
The tour includes bottled water, soda, all fees and taxes, fuel, and a professional skipper.
Departing at 9 am with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but welcomes infants and service animals.
Operated by MR TRAPANI TRANSFER di Ruisi Alessio S.A.S, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee.
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Sunset by Boat at the Queens Cave With Palermo in Boat
The stunning Palermo coastline sets the stage for a captivating sunset boat tour, where visitors can soak in the city’s breathtaking vistas from the comfort of a luxurious vessel.
With 117 glowing reviews and a 96% traveler recommendation, this cruise offers an unforgettable experience, complete with Sicilian aperitifs, street food, and unlimited fresh water.
Snorkeling equipment is provided, and the captain selects the boat based on the participant count.
While adults can enjoy Aperol Spritz, children are treated to Coca-Cola. Extra drinks like wine and prosecco are available for purchase, and special requests for flowers and cake can be accommodated for memorable occasions.
At $106.63 per person, this tour provides excellent value for money.
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Egadi Sail Boat Tour to Favignana and Levanzo
Setting sail from Trapani, the Egadi Sail Boat Tour offers a captivating exploration of the Egadi Islands.
Travelers embark on an 8-hour journey to discover hidden coves, swim in turquoise waters, and snorkel around Levanzo and Favignana. The tour includes stops at picturesque destinations like Cala Fredda, Cala Minnola, and Cala Rossa.
Onboard amenities like snorkeling equipment, bottled beverages, and a restroom ensure a comfortable experience. With a maximum of 12 travelers, this highly recommended tour receives excellent reviews for its knowledgeable crew, beautiful boat, and memorable activities.
Whether you’re seeking stunning scenery, aquatic adventures, or a taste of Sicily’s island life, the Egadi Sail Boat Tour is a must-try.
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Full-Day Private Boat Tour San Vito Lo Capo – Castellammare
This full-day private boat tour from San Vito Lo Capo to Castellammare del Golfo offers travelers a unique opportunity to discover the stunning coastline of northwest Sicily.
Highlights include exploring hidden inlets, swimming and snorkeling in crystalline waters, and spotting dolphins.
The well-balanced itinerary includes stops at Cala Tonnarella dell’Uzzo, Zingaro Nature Reserve, and Scopello. Guests can also enjoy 2 hours of land exploration in Castellammare del Golfo.
The spacious motorboat accommodates up to 12 passengers and provides complimentary drinks, snacks, and snorkeling equipment.
With 100% positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is an excellent way to experience Sicily’s stunning coastline.
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Boat Excursion Along the Coast of Cefalù
Travelers seeking a captivating coastal adventure can embark on a boat excursion along the picturesque shores of Cefalù, Sicily. This highly-rated 1.5 to 2.5-hour tour has received glowing reviews, with 97% of travelers recommending it.
Accommodating up to 12 passengers, the excursion provides a small aperitif of prosecco, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks while offering stunning views of the coastline. Guests praise the friendly crew, particularly the captain Mario and his daughter, and highlight the enjoyable swimming spots and historical commentary.
However, some note communication issues and the shared nature of the boat. With a 5.0 rating, this excursion promises an enchanting experience along the Cefalù coast.
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Boat Excursions Taormina Giardini Naxos Beautiful Island
Those seeking captivating boat excursions along the picturesque coasts of Taormina, Giardini Naxos, and the stunning Isola Bella can discover a highly-rated 5.0-star option.
Boasting 110 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is recommended by 95% of travelers. Priced from $37.70 per person, the excursion includes alcoholic beverages, snacks, and soda.
Departing from the Boat Trips Giardini Naxos Poseidon, the tour ends back at the same point. Positive feedback highlights the great scenery, knowledgeable crew, and enjoyable refreshments, though some note discrepancies between the advertised and actual boat.
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Half Day Boat Tour on the Syracuse Coast With Lunch
Embarking on a captivating half-day boat tour along the picturesque Syracuse coastline in Sicily, guests can enjoy the region’s natural beauty and savor homemade Sicilian cuisine.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this intimate tour offers a personalized experience, including opportunities for swimming at multiple stops and unlimited soft drinks, wine, and Prosecco.
The tour has earned a Badge of Excellence and boasts a 95% traveler recommendation. However, some guests have reported occasional overcrowding and concerns about the boat’s condition.
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Boat Excursion Taormina Giardini Naxos
This engaging boat excursion from Giardini Naxos offers travelers a scenic journey along the picturesque coastline.
Priced from $43.08 per person, the 2-hour tour accommodates up to 16 passengers and features beautiful scenery, swimming opportunities, and refreshments like prosecco and almond pastries.
While the captains are knowledgeable, some guests have reported language barriers. The tour receives excellent reviews, with 93% of travelers recommending it.
However, a few visitors encountered issues locating the meeting point or experienced jellyfish stings during swimming.
For the best experience, guests should use public transport, bring towels and snorkeling gear, and be cautious of jellyfish.
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Boat Excursion on the Island of Ortigia With Snorkeling to the Sea Caves
A scenic boat excursion awaits visitors on the island of Ortigia, offering a chance to explore the captivating sea caves through snorkeling.
Located at Via Eritrea, 2g, 96100 Siracusa SR, Italy, the excursion departs from the Ortigia island excursion office, with transportation to the boarding point included.
Accommodating up to 15 travelers, the tour provides snorkeling equipment and is wheelchair accessible.
While most can participate, those with back problems should avoid it.
Reviewers praise the friendly and knowledgeable crew, as well as the beautiful scenery and swimming opportunities.
However, some note language barriers and limited snorkeling time.
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Boat Excursion Egadi Islands
Visitors to Sicily can experience the natural beauty of the Egadi Islands through a captivating boat excursion.
Operated by Mare Azzurro, this 162-reviewed activity is recommended by 99% of travelers. The full-day tour includes an aperitif, fish-based lunch, and drinks, with fruit and coffee served as well.
The excursion departs from Via dei Gladioli, 15 in Trapani at 10:00 am, returning to the same location. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience.
Reviewers highlight the quality of the food and the stunning stops for swimming, praising the overall experience and hospitality.
This boat tour is an excellent way to explore the Egadi Islands’ natural wonders.
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Small-Group Cruise in Favignana and Levanzo
Departing from Trapani, Sicily, this small-group boat tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating islands of Favignana and Levanzo.
With a maximum of 30 travelers, the intimate cruise provides direct access to the islands, avoiding ferry delays. Guests can enjoy swimming stops, a lunch of local products, and the use of snorkeling equipment.
The tour’s 93% recommendation rate and 4.5-star overall rating reflect its popularity among travelers. While not suitable for those prone to seasickness or young children, the cruise provides a hassle-free way to experience the natural beauty of the Egadi Islands.
With a lowest price guarantee, this tour is an excellent option for those seeking an immersive island adventure.
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Boat Trips With Zorro
Zorro, the local boat captain, offers a unique opportunity to explore the waters surrounding Sicily. Based in the picturesque town of Lampedusa, his private boat tours receive rave reviews, with 98% of travelers recommending the experience.
For $75.40 per person, guests can enjoy a delightful pasta lunch featuring tuna caught during the trip, along with Genoese pesto. The tour is accessible to most travelers, though not wheelchair-friendly.
Departing from the new port, the tour returns to the same meeting point, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience. With 123 total reviews and a Badge of Excellence, Zorro’s boat trips are a must-do activity for those seeking an authentic Sicilian adventure.
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Full Day Sailing Boat Tour to the Egadi Islands
Situated along the western coast of Sicily, the Full Day Sailing Boat Tour to the Egadi Islands offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning archipelago.
This full-day excursion, recommended by 96% of travelers, allows visitors to soak in the breathtaking scenery and charm of these islands aboard a cozy sailing boat.
With a maximum of 7 travelers per tour, the experience promises a personalized and intimate adventure. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, relax on the beach, and savor a delicious lunch, all while learning about the local culture from the knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Whether seeking an authentic sailing experience or simply wanting to escape the crowds, this tour is an excellent choice for those visiting Sicily.
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Sunset Boat Tour With Aperitif and Swimming Break
As the sun dips below the horizon, Sicily’s coastline transforms into a breathtaking canvas of warm hues, setting the stage for the Sunset Boat Tour With Aperitif and Swimming Break.
This highly-rated 40-review tour offers an idyllic experience, with 100% of travelers recommending it. Enjoy an aperitif and alcoholic beverages as you sail along the coast, before taking a refreshing swim break.
The tour, which isn’t wheelchair accessible but stroller-friendly, can accommodate up to 12 travelers and departs at 5:00 PM, returning to the meeting point.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this sunset cruise is a must-do activity for those seeking a relaxing and scenic experience in Sicily.
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Half Day Private Boat Tour on the Coast of Palermo
For those seeking a more personalized and immersive nautical experience along the Palermo coastline, the Half Day Private Boat Tour on the Coast of Palermo offers a captivating alternative to the Sunset Boat Tour.
This private excursion, which boasts a 97% traveler recommendation, allows guests to explore the stunning Sicilian shores at their own pace.
Highlights include swimming, snorkeling, and savoring traditional Sicilian cuisine and drinks while admiring the breathtaking scenery.
With a maximum group size of your own party and a team of exceptional hosts, Sergio and Valeria, this tour promises an unforgettable and tailored experience along the beautiful Palermo coast.
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3 Hours Catania Morning Sailing Vibes
This half-day sailing cruise around Catania and Mount Etna allows travelers to access the stunning Coast of the Cyclops and Ulisses Grotto, vistas that are otherwise unreachable by land.
With a 5.0 rating from 131 reviews, this cruise is recommended by 98% of travelers. Onboard, guests can enjoy a lunch, snacks, Prosecco, wine, and Sicilian aperitifs, as well as the option to assist the knowledgeable crew with sailing.
The cruise departs from the Porto di Catania at 10:00 AM, with travelers meeting at the Club Nautico Catania 15 minutes prior.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise welcomes children accompanied by adults and can accommodate dietary requirements.
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Boat Excursion to Ortigia With Typical Homemade Lunch
The boat excursion around Ortigia offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque island’s coastline and discover its hidden sea caves.
During this 5-hour tour, guests can enjoy a typical homemade Sicilian lunch on board, accompanied by complimentary water, white wine, and red wine.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the experience provides an intimate and personalized setting.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants are welcome to sit on laps.
Pickup and drop-off are conveniently located, and the tour can be easily rescheduled or canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
With a perfect 5.0 rating and 98% of travelers recommending the experience, this boat excursion is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Sicily.
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One Day Guided Boat Excursion Tour to the Egadi Favignana and Levanzo
Embarking on a one-day guided boat excursion, travelers can explore the captivating Egadi Islands of Favignana and Levanzo, located just off the western coast of Sicily.
With a 5.0-star rating and 94% traveler recommendation, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. Snorkeling equipment, alcoholic beverages, brunch, and bottled water are all included.
The tour departs at 9:30 am from Via dei Gladioli in Trapani and returns to the same point. Accommodating up to 12 travelers, this excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly and near public transportation.
Positive reviews highlight the exceptional crew, led by captain Donato, who provide memorable experiences for all participants.
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Full Day on the Boat With Lunch With Palermo in Boat
Exploring the coastal wonders of Palermo from the comfort of a boat, this full-day excursion invites travelers to enjoy the captivating sights and flavors of Sicily.
With 148 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, the tour offers an exceptional value at €199.90 per person. Along with a Sicilian aperitif, street food, and a typical baked pasta lunch, the experience includes snorkeling equipment and the option to personalize with flowers and cake.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Guests can expect knowledgeable operators, Luca and Angela, to provide a memorable and well-managed journey.
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Excursion – Marzamemi and Capo Passero by Boat
This full-day boat excursion invites travelers on a captivating journey to the picturesque coastal towns of Marzamemi and Capo Passero.
Priced at $85.09 per person, the tour accommodates up to 16 guests, departing at 8:30 am.
With a perfect 5/5 rating based on 24 reviews, the excursion is highly recommended by 96% of travelers.
Certified guides lead the way, and the transportation is wheelchair accessible.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior.
Visitors can look forward to an immersive experience exploring Sicily’s stunning coastline and historic sites by boat.
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Boat Tour in Mondello Bay in Sicily
Nestled within the picturesque Mondello Bay, this boat tour invites travelers to witness Sicily’s stunning coastline from the comfort of a charming, historic fishing vessel.
With a maximum of 6 passengers, the tour offers an intimate experience, complete with a complimentary glass of wine, fruit, and sunset snacks. Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun in the crystal-clear waters.
The knowledgeable and friendly crew provides local insights throughout the 217 highly-rated tour. At $96.94 per person, this experience is a great value, with free cancellation and convenient accessibility near public transportation.
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Common Questions
Are Life Jackets Provided on the Boat Tours?
Life jackets are typically provided on boat tours for the safety of passengers. Most tour operators require passengers to wear life jackets during the excursion, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience on the water.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Most boat tour operators allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks onboard. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour company beforehand, as some may have restrictions or provide catering options.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Boat Tours?
The cancellation policy typically varies by operator, but most allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours prior to the tour. Customers should check the specific policy when booking to avoid any unexpected fees for last-minute changes.
Are the Boats Wheelchair Accessible?
Many boat tour operators strive to make their vessels wheelchair accessible. However, accessibility can vary, so it’s best to check with each company about their specific accommodations before booking a tour.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Boat Tours?
Many boat tour companies allow passengers to bring their pets, but it’s best to check with the specific operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions on the size or type of animal permitted on board.
The Sum Up
Sicily’s boat tours and cruises offer a diverse range of experiences, from exploring the island’s picturesque coastlines and caves to visiting the serene Egadi Islands. Travelers can choose from small group tours, daily excursions, and full-day adventures, allowing them to customize their nautical experiences to suit their interests and preferences. Whether seeking scenic beauty, culture, or a taste of the sea, Sicily’s boat tours provide an enchanting way to discover the island’s maritime treasures.