The city of Palermo is situated by the Gulf of Palermo in the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is perfectly positioned for a boat tour that gives you the opportunity to view the landscape of this part of Sicily, see the imposing Mont Pellegrino and visit the nature reserve.

Departing from the ports of Addaura or Mondella, boat tours in Palermo allow you to experience the sights and see some of the local marine life while snorkeling and enjoying a refreshing swim along the spectacular coastline.

You will find below all you need to know about boat tour, one of the most fun outdoor activities in Palermo.

What are the most popular boat tours in Palermo?

Boat tours from Palermo offer similar sightseeing options. You can choose between a half-day and a full-day tour.

Half-day small group and private boat tours

Half-day boat tours and excursions are the most popular in Palermo. You can join a small group or choose a private tour to explore the beaches, marine nature reserves and islets of the Gulf of Palermo. From the water, you will be able to see the scale of Mont Pellegrino, appreciate the scenery around Palermo and note the ancient fishing villages along the coast.

Full-day boat tours in Palermo

If you would prefer a full-day boat tour, you can either choose to join a small group tour or book a boat for your exclusive use. A full-day tour provides the chance for you to sightsee, snorkel and swim or sunbathe while also having a leisurely lunch onboard.

Romantic dinner on a sailboat in Palermo

Treat your partner or special someone to a romantic dinner on the terrace of a sailboat. Cruise around Palermo, watch the sunset and indulge in a three-course meal and a bottle of wine.

How much do boat tours from Palermo cost?

A 2-hour small-group boat tour in Palermo will cost between €70 per person for a small group tour and €100 per person for a private tour. Some tours include drinks only, while others provide snacks only, as drinks will be at your own cost.

Full-day boat trips in Palermo start at €150 per person and can accommodate up to 10 people. Minimum group size may be a requirement for this price to apply to exclusive boat use. The excursion includes welcome drinks, aperitif and a light lunch.

Which places are visited with a boat tour in Palermo?

Gulf of Mondello and The Virgin Mary beach

The beaches at Mondello and Vergine Maria (Virgin Mary) are the most popular, and you will have a chance to swim in their crystal clear waters. Some tours may also include the rocky coasts of Addura, where the water has more waves to enjoy.

Capo Gallo Lighthouse

Built in 1854, the Capo Gallo lighthouse is located on the northern tip of Mont Pellegrino within the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve. After being restored by the Palermo municipality, it now serves as both a lighthouse and museum and can be visited during a landside visit or viewed from the sea.

Capo Gallo and Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserves

Capo Gallo Nature Reserve is a rugged coastal nature reserve. Its steep cliffs and caves provide habitat for owls, falcons and buzzards, preserving the surrounding coastal waters and marine life.

The adjacent Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserve encompasses the Isola delle Femmine or Isle of Women. This small reserve is mostly uninhabitable by people but is home to several unique plant and animal species that thrive in the salty habitat.

Sferracavallo

Situated within the Capo Gallo and Isola delle Femmine Nature Reserves is the tiny fishing village of Sferracavallo. Founded in the 15th century, this village was originally called Calandria. You will be able to see this village full of Sicilian history, as you sail past it on your tour of the area.

How long does a boat trip last?

A half-day boat tour is up to4.5 hours long, while a full-day boat excursion lasts for 7 hours.

Where in Palermo do boat tours leave from?

Boat tours depart from the marinas at Addaura or Mondella, and you will need to make your way there. In some instances, boats will dock at different marinas, and your tour provider will only notify you of your departure point after you have made your booking or closer to your tour date.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Palermo?

To take advantage of the good weather, late spring or summer are best for boat tours in Palermo. The months of the summer school vacations are busier than earlier in the season.

In the event of bad weather or rough seas, you may be offered a different date or a refund.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Palermo?

Travel tips

A boat tour may not be suitable if you are pregnant or have back problems.
Pack your motion sickness tablets to take with you if you are prone to sea sickness.
Bring your swimsuit if you are planning to snorkel.
Wear sunscreen if you want to sunbathe aboard the boat.
A wide-angle lens is the ideal camera accessory for capturing the landscape.

Boat Tours in Palermo