The sun-drenched toe to Italy’s boot, Sicily is often swept under the rug in favor of the mainland – solely to the detriment of those who choose to overlook it. Oozing flair, overflowing with dramatic volcano-carved landscapes, and seldom short of a searing sunset, this autonomous island has more than enough to keep you coming back for years.
Typically warmer, less crowded, and cheaper than its mainland Italian counterpart, there’s really no excuse to exclude Sicily from your European itinerary. From the city sights of Palermo to the white-sand beaches of Mondello, over to the explosive (quite literally) volcanoes that line the eastern side of the region (Stromboli and Etna, in particular), this surprisingly large island – the biggest in the Mediterranean Sea, in fact – beckons all kinds of curiosity-seeking travelers.
Drenched in sun, frequented by the rich and famous, and beloved by tourists, locals, and nature-lovers alike, culturally-passionate Sicily is easily one of the best places to visit in Italy, never failing to deliver when it comes to an unforgettable holiday.
And while you’ll never run out of fascinating things to do on land, from hikes to food tours, ancient ruins and oh-so-good wine, no trip to God’s Kitchen (once you try the local delicacies, you’ll understand the moniker) is complete without setting sail on at least one of the island’s many boat trips.
From luxury yacht charters in Taormina to public ferries, scuba diving adventures in Catania, sunset dinner cruises in Syracuse, and a whole lot more, there’s a Sicily boat tour for everyone – no matter your budget. So without further ado, let’s dive into what are widely considered to be the best boat trips in Sicily.
Take note: Most tours are a minimum of two hours, with prices starting at around €30 per person, but can increase depending on the duration and any extras that you might want to add on (such as walking tours with an English-speaking guide or a buffet lunch). Either way, sleep sound knowing that any Sicilian boat tour is not only picturesque, relaxing, and memorable, but informative too.
Before we dive into the best boat trips in Sicily, take a second to understand the lay of the land. Simply scroll and click on any of the numbered dots to learn more about each spot. Likewise, feel free to zoom in and out as you please.
Now that we’ve got all that out of the way, let’s get started exploring some of the best boat tours in Sicily and its surrounding islands!
Don’t feel like reading ahead? Check our full catalog of boat tours in Sicily.
From Catania
Straddling the eastern seaboard of Sicily, bustling and beautiful Catania is the second-largest city on the island (behind Palermo) and plays a role as the main departure point for some of the best boat trips in Sicily – or, on this side of the island, at least.
Flanked by imposing mountains and marine reserves, and sitting a stone’s throw from foreboding Mt. Etna, Catania is a hodgepodge of Sicilian culture, cuisine, and architecture. The city’s Duomo di Sant’Agata is an 18th-century baroque cathedral with elaborately decorated façades, while inside the church, you’ll find the tomb of Vincenzo Bellini, a famous Italian composer born in Catania.
No trip to Catania is complete without sampling some of the city’s fresh seafood. So before you hop on a boat tour to explore what the region has to offer, make sure to head to one of the many restaurants lining the seafront for a lip-smacking feed (or go direct to the source at the ever-lively Fish Market behind the Duomo.
1 – Aci Trezza
Intertwined with tales of Ulysses and the Sirens, the seafront village of Aci Trezza is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Sicily. Sitting over on the eastern side of the island, the jagged coastline and unique rock formations have been created over time by lava flow from Mount Etna – towering high above the town and the coast, the volcano (which remains one of the world’s most active volcanoes to this day) continues to be a foreboding backdrop to the landscape.
While easily accessible by car from Catania (about a 30-minute drive), the best way to explore Aci Trezza is by boat. Several companies offer day trips from Catania that include a stop at this historic locale, as well as other nearby attractions such as the stunning ‘Cyclopean Isles’ marine reserve and Ulysses’ Caves, where a striking palette of dark blue, green, and bright turquoise waters beckon (did someone say snorkeling?).
As you cruise around the coastline, your friendly and knowledgable crew and captain will point out other notable rocks and points of interest; you’ll have the chance to sail under the medieval castle of Acicastello, a Norman fortification built in the 11th century that sits on a rick high above the cobalt-blue sea.
In the castle’s foreground are characteristic “pillow lavas”, formed due to the rapid cooling of underwater eruptions – just one of the many unique geological traits of this volcano-carved region. And, depending on your tour, you might get out a little further up the coast to admire the natural archway of Grotta Isola Bella up close.
History aside, because of its unique landscape and juxtaposition with vibrant yet clear waters, Aci Trezza is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. So if you’re interested in exploring the beautiful underwater caves and rock formations, several companies offer day trips from Catania which include time to explore below the surface. Or, if you prefer to stay relatively dry, you can also hop in a pedal boat and glide around the shoreline that way!
When you’re not admiring the views from the boat’s decks, swimming with the colorful sea life, or working on the tan, you’ll be digging into a hearty lunch and sipping on local white wines. With appetizers, pasta with seafood, fresh fruit, and delicious wines included in the package to quench any thirst and satisfy any hunger pangs, a day trip from Catania to Aci Trezza is an ideal way to explore this picturesque part of Sicily.
Most Aci Trezza boat tours from Catania last about 8 hours (a full day). Prices start at around €80 per person but can vary depending on the season, the particular tour you choose, and any extras that you might want to add on (such as scuba diving, hikes around Mount Etna, or a tour of the village).
One of the most beautiful boat trips in Sicily, Aci Trezza is a surefire hit for all kinds of tourists from near and far. Whether you choose to explore by boat or by car, you’ll be amazed by the stunning scenery and fascinating legends that this place has to offer.
2 – Cyclops Islands
Steeped in mythology had hauntingly beautiful, the Cyclops Islands are a group of three small islands (although some might consider them more like giant rocks rather than your traditional island) off the coast of Aci Trezza that date back some 500,000 years.
Best known for their dramatic cliffs, rows of basaltic columns, crystal-clear waters full of marine life, and rich history, the islands – which are actually the remains of ancient volcanic eruptions – are a must-visit when in Sicily.
The largest island in the area is called ‘Isola Lachea’ and is home to a small church that’s worth checking out. With a handful of huts and homes built on the rocky facade, it makes for a great photo-op. The other island, while uninhabited and rawly natural, are equally as stunning, with high cliffs that plunge into the deep blue sea below.
And, for all of you history buffs, allegedly these isles were once formed part of the mainland of Sicily – they play a role in the age-old story of Homer’s Odyssey, one which your crew will gladly unpack.
While you can certainly admire the islands from afar, the best way to experience their natural beauty is from below the surface! Beneath the waterline lies a beautiful lavic seabed full of marine life, underwater canyons, and volcanic faults just waiting to be discovered. So, if you’re a fan of snorkeling or scuba diving, make sure to add the Cyclops Islands to your list.
Several companies offer boat tours from Catania (and other nearby towns) that will take you out to the islands for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. Prices start at around €40 per person but can vary depending on the tour operator and what’s included in the package (for example, some tours might include an authentic buffet lunch or a handful of boozy drinks on the boat).
Keep in mind: often combined with exciting journeys to the Cyclops Islands, the Timpa Nature Reserve boasts a handful of wonderful walking paths where grey volcanic rocks contrast beautifully with the lush green plant life. So pack a pair of walking shoes in case your tour includes some time on land too.
From Taormina
Sitting about halfway between Catania and Messina, on the northeastern side of this paradise island, sleepy Taormina is one of Sicily’s most popular tourist destinations – and it has been since as early as the 19th century.
While the town itself is lovely, it’s really the breathtaking views that Taormina offers of Mount Etna – Europe’s tallest active volcano – and the azure waters of the Ionian Sea that make it such a special place to visit.
And while there’s merit in taking a day or two to explore the land-based attractions (from the historic Ancient Theatre of Taormina to the leafy villa Comunale or the romantic and colorful buildings along Corso Umberto, Taormina’s main street), once you get out on the open water, another slice of Sicily awaits.
There are a handful of great boat tours that depart from Taormina, taking advantage of the town’s prime location on the Ionian coast. You can book anything from a half-day tour to Isola Bella – an uninhabited islet located just offshore from Taormina that’s home to a small but beautiful nature reserve – to a multi-day excursion that explores the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago just north of Sicily.
Prices and itineraries vary depending on the tour operator, so let’s take a look at a couple:
3 – Isola Bella
A small island off the coast of Taormina – a rare mix of rock, sand, and vegetation that’s connected to the beaches of the mainland by a slim pathway – Isola Bella is one of the most beautiful places in Sicily.
The island is home to a small but stunning nature reserve that’s perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and exploring – both on foot on the island itself, and in the ultramarine waters that surround it.
If you’re pressed for time, several Isola Bella tours are over and done in just two hours, allowing you to catch the best of the island without having to commit to a full day on the boat. These tours typically depart from the Giardini Naxos port, with prices starting at around €25 per person but can vary depending on the tour operator and what’s included in the package (lunch, for example, might be an additional cost).
On the flip side, if you’re after a more comprehensive day out, plenty of multi-activity tours set sail from Giardini too, checking off a whole host of local natural landmarks.
Camera at the ready, because you’ll cruise by picturesque spots like Cape Schisò, Cape Taormina, Cross Rock, Prickly Pears Rock, the Cave of the Mermaids, Grotta Azzurra (the Blue Grotto), the Coral Cave, the Ziu Innaru Rock, and all the wonderful swimming spots of the Bay of Mazzaro.
With dramatic views of Mount Etna the whole way through, and the option to depart from Messina (which means more time on the water to chill out and soak in that glorious sunshine), these longer boat tours are ideal for those who want to make a day of it.
If you still want to explore Isola Bella but would rather save your Sicily boat tour for something a little more comprehensive, you can access the beautiful island (which is the literal translation, by the way) by taking the cable car on via Pirandello to Mazzarò and then turning right for a quick stroll of about 200 meters.
4 – Taormina Bay
Beloved by locals for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and relatively still turquoise waters, the sparkling Taormina Bay holds its own as one of Sicily’s premier boating and snorkeling spots.
A number of boat tours depart from the port in Giardini Naxos with the express purpose of taking passengers out to enjoy a day of swimming and sunbathing in this spectacular location.
You can book anything from a two-hour tour (which should give you plenty of time to take a dip) to an all-day affair that includes stops at Isola Bella, Mazzaro Beach (another local favorite), and other nearby natural landmarks.
While you’ve got plenty to choose from (like luxury catamarans, private yachts, and budget-friendly motorboats), arguably the most popular option is by traditional sailboat. With group sizes capped to under a dozen, these small group boat tours provide a much-needed reprieve from the crowds of some of Sicily’s more popular tourist destinations.
That being said, you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy the company of your fellow passengers, as most sailboats include a large shaded area where you can sit back, relax, and soak up those incredible views.
Besides the chance to admire natural landmarks along the coast – the warm bays of Spisone and Mazzarò, the enchanting Blue Grotto, and rocky Isola Bella, to name a few – you’ll learn sailing basics from the skipper and learn all about Sicilian culture, history, and mythology along the way.
With snorkeling equipment, a range of snacks, and ice-cold drinks or locally made wine available on hand to epitomize what vacation is all about, the Taormina Bay tours make for a wonderful day out on the water.
As with Isola Bella tours, prices for Taormina Bay boat tours vary depending on the tour operator and what’s included in the package (food, drinks, etc.), but compared to some of the other boat trips, sailing puts its hand up as one of the more affordable options.
5 – Lipari and Vulcano
Ask any vagabonding traveler who has covered the eastern side of Sicily and they’ll shout it from the rooftops: the two most popular – and, arguably, the most beautiful – of the Aeolian Islands are Lipari and Vulcano.
The irregularly-shaped Lipari island – the largest of the archipelago – is home to many sheltered coves and beaches perfect for swimming, as well as a dramatic volcanic landscape that’s just begging to be explored. With a slew of stratovolcanoes, craters, and lava domes around every corner, it really is a landscape unmatched by many.
Vulcano, on the other hand, which is directly below Lipari, is where you’ll find one of Sicily’s most active volcanoes (with a name like Vulcano, which is named after the Roman god of Fire, how could it not be?). Spread across the island are four unique volcano formations: Vulcano della Fossa is the biggest, Vulcanello is the youngest, Monte Aria is the tallest, while the shape of Monte Saraceno sticks out as rather peculiar.
Two unique islands side by side, this dynamic (or should we say volcanic) duo is easily accessed from the port towns of Milazzo, Messina, or Taormina, where a range of tour companies operate regular boat services to both islands (and a few of the smaller, lesser-known ones surrounding them too.
Tours typically include stops at Panarea and Stromboli (the latter of which is one of the most active volcanoes in all of Europe), as well as plenty of time to enjoy these two natural wonders – including swimming in the waters as well as exploring the old town of Lipari and stretching the legs on land.
Lipari and Vulcano might just be some of Sicily’s best-kept secrets, but with their unique landscapes, ample opportunity for swimming and sunbathing, and active volcanoes, plus hearty lunches, drinks included, and a friendly crew who’ll go out of their way to ensure your day is one to remember, it’s no wonder they’re becoming increasingly popular tourist destinations.
Prices will vary based on the tour operator you choose, but with several affordable options available frequenting these UNESCO heritage islands, this boat trip (or bus plus boat, depending on your tour choice) should definitely sit high atop any Sicilian bucket list.
6 – Stromboli and Panarea
Following on from Lipari and Vulcano, two dramatic – and, justifiably, most renowned – of the Aeolian Islands are Stromboli and Panarea.
The first stop on this tour is usually the latter. A summertime tourist Mecca (yet, oddly enough, rather dead in the winter), Panarea is the smallest, chic-est, and most exclusive of the Aeolian Islands – for that reason exactly, it’s become somewhat of a celebrity hotspot in recent years.
That being said, it’s still quite a relaxed place with many idyllic coves and beaches to enjoy (get to Cala Junco if you can!), as well as some excellent restaurants should you find yourself peckish.
After you’ve anchored and soaked in some sun on the ship’s decks, you’ll have some time to wander around the island itself. The car-free, whitewashed streets of San Pietro make for a pleasant stroll, eventually leading to the village’s tiny church that dates back to the 19th century. And while you’re there, for a quick overview of the island’s history dating back to the Bronze Age, pop into the Panarea Museum.
Once you’ve got the lay of the land on Panarea, perhaps with a bit of sunbathing or snorkeling in the bays along the way (depends on which tour you book) it’s a short boat ride over to Stromboli – an island that’s home to one of Europe’s most active volcanoes (and has been since 1932).
Once you’ve got the lay of the land on Panarea, perhaps with a bit of sunbathing or snorkeling in the bays along the way (depends on which tour you book) it’s time to move on to Stromboli, a roaring volcanic island whose reputation precedes it as one of the most active volcanoes in all of Europe.
Often dubbed the Lighthouse of the Mediterranean for its frequent light show – that is, lava show – this bombastic Aeolian island shows off its eruptions frequently (usually around every half hour), making for a dramatic and jaw-dropping spectacle, especially after sundown.
Your captain will escort you to the best viewpoints around the island (typically Sciara del Fuoco), so be ready to capture bright explosions of hot redd lava and rocks, against the contrasting backdrop of the starry night sky.
Keep in mind: while these boat tours usually depart from the Port of Milazzo, they’ll pick you up and return you to central Taormina by bus – taking all the hassle out of planning your adventure!
From Syracuse
A hop, skip, and a jump away from the volcanic islands of northern Sicily, tucked away down in the southeast corner of the island you’ll find the city of Syracuse. One of Sicily’s – nay, one of Italy’s – most underrated tourist destinations, this historic town is home to a number of incredible archaeological sites that date back to Ancient Greece, not the least of which being the huge Neapolis Archaeological Park.
As well as being able to explore the extensive ruins of Greek temples, an amphitheater, and a necropolis in the park itself, within Syracuse’s old town – or Ortygia – you’ll find even more delights such as the Cathedral of Syracuse (housed in a former Greek temple), the Maniace Castle, and the Fountain of Diana.
On land, it’s a treat for history buffs. On the water, it’s a treat for any and every kind of traveler. That’s right, as well as being home to some of the best archaeological ruins in Sicily, Syracuse is also a great base for exploring nearby natural landmarks like the postcard-worthy Cave of Pillirina, the enormous elephant-esque Scoglio dell’Elefante rock formation, varying nature reserves, and of course, all the stunning bays and inlets that surround the UNESCO landmark that is the Città Vecchia (Old City) region.
With a number of different boat companies offering day trips from Syracuse to the islands, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to planning your itinerary. Whether you want to explore an ancient ruin, take a dip in the crystal-clear water, or simply while away a lazy afternoon on the bow of a boat, there’s an island tour for you.
7 – Ortigia
While Syracuse bout tours are a dime a dozen, you’d be missing out if you overlooked one which included a stop at Ortigia.
With its mix of history, culture, and stunning natural cliffs, caves, and beaches, there’s something for everyone in this unique city, and what better way to explore it than from the comfort of a luxury boat?
As well as being able to moor up right outside some of Ortigia’s most popular attractions, Syracuse Gulf boat tours also often stop by a handful of sea caves. With a countless list in the area, you’ll have your own little slice of paradise, full of incredible stalactites and stalagmites, away from the inland crowds.
And once you’ve got your dose of underwater action, having snapped a few pics of the dramatic coastline along the way, you’ll (likely, depending on which tour you book) have a couple of hours to wander around the old town on foot – whether that’s part of a guided tour or solo.
An undisputed highlight of the Syracuse region is browsing the vibrant open-air markets of the island’s old town, so make sure to pop by one if you can. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade ceramics, and it makes for a great place to pick up some souvenirs for friends and family back home.
When it comes to food, there are plenty of great options available. For something quick and easy, stop by one of the many pizzerias or gelaterias that dot the streets – you won’t be disappointed! If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, sit down for a leisurely lunch at one of Ortigia’s many restaurants and enjoy some traditional Sicilian cuisine.
Of course, if you prefer to have everything taken care of for you, consider booking one of the day-long tours that explores a wider range of the area and also includes a full lunch, with ample refreshing drinks to boot.
Hour-long sunset tours, dinner cruises, or full-day adventures that skirt far up and down the coast – whichever you choose, you’ll be grinning ear to ear by the time you dock.
From Cefalù
Flanking the northern Sicily coast and sitting in the shadow of a foreboding rocky butte is the medieval town of Cefalù – an eclectic mix of colorful houses, beautiful beaches, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food that’s become synonymous with Sicily and Italy as a whole.
With some of the best-preserved Byzantine mosaics in Sicily, as well as being of the world’s finest examples of Norman architecture, the UNESCO-listed Cefalù Cathedral beckons many a history-savvy traveler. Dating back to the 12th century, the stunning building is an icon of the city; yet it’s just one of the many characteristics that make this small town such a gem.
Despite being oftentimes overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Cefalù is a destination in its own right and one whose winding Mediaeval streets are well worth exploring.
From the city’s main beach, it’s a short walk to the old town – meandering through quiet streets and alleyways lined with traditional shops and restaurants before arriving at the cathedral square.
Once you’ve checked off the main island landmarks, it’s then onwards to the water where the beauty dial is turned up to eleven…
8 – Cefalù coastline
Short and sweet, usually lasting no more than three or four hours, Cefalù coastline boat tours offer curious travelers the opportunity to discover the highlights of the city’s dramatic shoreline in a relatively short space of time.
Ideal for those who want to make the most of their time on the island and see as much as possible, these tours are great value for money, with most companies including an English-speaking guide to provide commentary, fun facts, and fascinating stories along the way.
Before returning to port, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a swim and snorkel in the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea – weather permitting, of course. What’s not to love?
As with most boat tours in Sicily, the price of your ticket will usually include refreshments such as water, soft drinks, fresh fruit, and a classic Italian aperitif.
And, if you’re up for letting your hair down, some tours offer an open bar for you to really get into the vacation atmosphere before hitting up one of the city’s revered bars (Jureka Wine Bar and Quid Cocktail Bar are two excellent choices) post-tour.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key after docking, consider taking a leisurely stroll along Cefalù’s promenade – a lovely place to watch the world go by and soak up that notorious Sicilian charm.
From Trapani
Sitting on the coast in northwest Sicily, the city of Trapani is the beating heart of the province with the same name. It’s a place where time-honored traditions and heritage are celebrated, while also playing host to a more modern way of life – one that’s built on a foundation of good food, great wine, a hell of a lot of salt production (dating back to the 15th century, if you don’t mind), and even better company.
As you’d expect from a city with such a rich history, there are plenty of things to see and do in Trapani. From exploring the ancient streets of the old town to wandering around the salt flats (hence the salt production) and marveling at the views from atop Mount Erice (head up to the summit via the cable car), there’s something for everyone in this underappreciated town.
And, of course, no visit to Trapani would be complete without taking a boat trip around the stunning coastline that this part of Sicily is so renowned for. Whether you’re looking to relax on a sandy beach, swim in warm waters, or explore some of the area’s hidden coves and caves, there are plenty of boat tours to choose from.
9 – Egadi Archipelago
Sitting not too far off the western seaboard, about halfway between Trapani and the larger city of Marsala, the Egadi Archipelago is a group of five small and diverse islands that have – largely thanks to their pristine beaches – become a favorite destination for both locals and tourists alike, with Trapani serving as one of the main gateways to these verdant isles.
While each island has its own claim to fame, with unique combinations of natural and manmade attractions, two in particular – Favignana and Levanzo islands – attract the bulk of the attention.
On the former, the diversity of beaches impresses many a tourist: with hot spots like Cala Azzurra, Cala Rossa beach, Lido Burrone, Calamoni beach, and Praia beach, you’ll uncover everything from dunes to cliffs, golden sands, and rocky shores.
As the most populated of the islands, its manmade attractions are nothing to scoff at either. Namely the Tonnara of Favignana, an ex tuna factory turned fascinating museum whose exterior garners equal interest to its contents.
Meanwhile, Levanzo, which is made up almost entirely of white limestone rocks, boasts several natural caves, is relatively untouched by modern technology and feels like you’re stepping back in time into a pure slice of Mother Nature.
Whichever island you find yourself on during your time in the Egadi Archipelago — or, since you’ll be on a boat tour, likely at least a couple of them! — you’re sure to be blown away by the dramatic limestone cliffs that jut out of azure waters, the serene beaches where sunbathers lounge in blissful tranquility, and the general feeling of being a million miles from civilization. Throw in the Aragonese Castle in Marettimo, and you’ve got quite the diverse day out on the water island-hopping!
10 – Mothia and Marsala salt flats
While there’s nothing wrong with sun-kissed beaches, turquoise waters, and hill-mounted castles, sometimes it’s nice to mix things up a bit. And that’s exactly what the brightly-colored Mothia and Marsala salt flats offer.
A visit to these natural wonders is an excellent way to learn about Sicily’s long and varied history while also getting some fresh air and enjoying the great outdoors. The Mothia salt flats, in particular, are of great archaeological interest as they were once the site of an ancient city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century.
On that note, if your particular boat tour includes some free time to walk around, take some time to explore the open-air museum where you’ll find ancient ruins left by the Carthaginians, Phonecians, and ancient Greeks.
Nowadays, you can explore the ruins of this long-forgotten city and learn about its role in Sicily’s past while also taking in sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go for a swim in one of the natural pools that have formed among the ruins!
Meanwhile, at the Marsala salt flats, you can observe firsthand how salt is still produced using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.
You can also savor some of this delicious product by enjoying a meal at one of the on-site restaurants where everything from pasta dishes to desserts are made with fresh and local Marsala salt. Plus, with other islands in the area (Stagnone, Santa Maria, and Schola), you’ll walk away with a broad overview of western Sicily.
So, if you’re looking for a boat tour that’s a little bit different from the rest, with a color palette of pink salt basins, blue lagoon waters, and white salt flats, be sure to add a visit to the Mothia and Marsala salt flats to your itinerary! Since the crew takes care of all the logistics and transport for you (and throws in a few snacks and drinks along the way), you’ll be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Boat Rental in Sicily
We’ve dove into the best boat tours in Sicily, and clearly, regardless of where you’re staying on the island, there’s a tour (or ten) that suits your fancy. But what if you’re looking for something a little more hands-on? Boat rental in Sicily is the way to go!
With so many islands to explore and countless coves and beaches to anchor at for a swim or some sunbathing, renting a boat is an alternative – and fantastic – way to see Sicily at your own pace. And with boat rental opportunities located all around the island, it’s easy to find one that’s close to where you’re staying.
Whether you’re looking for a small dinghy, a quaint sailboat, or a luxury yacht with all the bells and whistles (and one which you can even sleep on overnight), there are boat rental options to suit every need and budget.
But private boat rentals are more expensive, right? Well, not necessarily. If you’re traveling in a group (or manage to make a few friends on your journeys at a hostel or night out) you can easily split the cost of a boat rental, making it much more affordable. And with all the money you’ll save on accommodation by opting to sleep on your rented vessel, it might even end up being cheaper overall!
So if you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore Sicily from a different perspective; steering off the beaten path and away from the main routes frequented by tourist ferries and cozying up in a secluded cove all to yourself, consider boat rental during your stay. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
Wondering about the options for boat rental in Sicily? You’ll find everything from budget-friendly day-hire motorboats to luxury yacht charters below.
Final thoughts
Well, there you have it, folks — some of the most popular, most underrated, and straight-up best boat trips in Sicily!
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Palermo or Taormina, looking for a new way to see Trapani’s Egadi Islands or want to explore the stunning coastline of Agrigento, there’s certainly a tour (or boat rental) on this list that’s perfect for you. And with so many amazing places to see in Sicily that can’t be accessed on wheels, it’s easy to see why boat tours are such a popular way to explore the island.
But what about you? Have you been on any amazing boat trips in Sicily that you’d like to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below! And, as always, happy travels!
Where to next? The capital city of the island, Palermo is a bustling town with a historic center, world-class museums, and an incredible food scene. You’ll find an abundance of fun things to do in Palermo – and if you’re flying in, odds are the cheapest flights will see you land in this revitalized city too.
If you wish to plan a longer trip and visit several cities, make sure to read our selection of fun things to do in Sicily, from exploring ancient ruins to sampling delicious local cuisine.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Sicily today!