Catania is a remarkable city located on the east coast of Sicily. The area is well known for its black sand beaches, active volcanoes and presence in Greek mythology.

Visitors can take advantage of the many boat tours from Catania which visit some of the most outstanding natural attractions in the region.

From Ulysses' Cave to the Cyclops Islands and the bountiful marine life that fills the surrounding waters, you're sure to find a boat excursion exhilarating.

What are the most popular boat tours from Catania?

It's possible to explore many of the surrounding islands on a Catania boat tour.

Cyclops Islands and Timpa Nature Reserve boat tour

Some boat tours from Catania travel along the volcanic region that stretches between La Timpa Natural Reserve and the Cyclops Islands.

The area is protected and you'll jump into the water for a snorkeling experience, exploring the vibrant marine life and lava pillows that fill the waters. Among the many sea creatures you'll see, you may catch a glimpse of an octopus or a white bream.

Full-day boat trip to Acitrezza with lunch

Boat tours to Acitrezza set sail from Catania towards Ulysses' Caves, which were formed by molten lava and are filled with vibrant azure water. You'll continue on where you'll have the opportunity to visit the Cyclopean Isles marine reserve.

Acitrezza itself is a charming fishing town on the coast of Sicily, and you'll have an hour or so to wander its streets. You'll have a gourmet lunch aboard the boat and stop for a swim in the refreshing ocean before returning to Catania.

Catania sailing tour

This half-day Catania sailing excursion takes place in a small group of 10 or fewer participants. You'll receive a more personal experience because of this, and have the opportunity to learn how to sail.

The tour sails through the late afternoon, as the sun sinks low in the sky to a swimming spot on the Coast of Cyclops. You’ll also enjoy a meal on board.

Mount Etna tour with cruise

This trip starts with a drive through the Italian countryside with a tour of Mount Etna which towers over the landscape at 2,000 meters tall.

You'll take the least traveled path up the volcano, learning about its nature as you ascend to the summit. You'll discover a lava flow cave before returning to ground level and taking a cruise around Acitrezza. There is also the opportunity to taste local products such as honey or participate in a wine tasting.

Private sailing tour to Cyclops Islands from Catania

Private boat tours from Catania include just your group for a more personal experience. You'll follow the same itinerary as other sailing excursions and enjoy swimming at Ulysses' Caves, as well as a stop-off at Cyclops Island.

You'll have a freshly cooked meal provided for you on your boat and you can choose to hire snorkeling equipment.

How much do boat tours from Catania cost?

Boat tours from Catania that travel to the Cyclops Islands include snorkeling equipment and light refreshments. You can expect to pay €65.

Acitrezza tours cost approximately €99 and include snorkeling equipment, lunch and alcoholic beverages.

Small group tours include lunch, beverages and snacks. You'll pay €69 for a three-hour excursion.

Combination Catania boat tours that feature a hiking tour of Mount Etna include a tour guide, safety equipment and a tasting session of local products. You'll also be supplied with trekking shoes upon request. The tour lasts eight hours and you'll pay around €130.

Private tours cost €770 for a group of up to 10 participants. They include beverages, lunch snacks and private hire of the boat. You can upgrade and rent snorkel equipment.

Which places are seen and visited with a boat tour from Catania?

Acitrezza

Although it is relatively unknown, Acitrezza is home to some of the most stunning scenery in all of Italy. It is often visited on Catania boat tours. The coastline is dotted with towering cliffs and rocky beaches, and the clear blue waters are teeming with fish.

Visitors can take a boat tour to see the coastline from the water or go for a swim in the crystal clear waters. In addition, the village is made up of brightly-colored buildings and there are several restaurants that serve freshly-caught seafood.

Cyclops Islands

The Cyclopean Isles are a set of small islands off the coast of Sicily. They are best known for their claim to be the home of the one-eyed Cyclops, Polyphemus, from Greek mythology.

The legend has it that Odysseus encountered the Cyclops during his voyage home to Ithaca. He was trapped in its cave and managed a narrow escape by encouraging Polyphemus to drink until it fell asleep and then drilling into its only eye. The islands are of volcanic nature and formed over 500,000 years ago.

Mount Etna

You'll experience humbling views of the mighty Mount Etna on a boat tour from Catania. The volcano is one of the most active in the world and has erupted multiple times in the past year. The volcano is more than double the size of the infamous Mount Vesuvius.

In 2021, there was so much volcanic debris, that its height increased by over 100 meters. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is mentioned in Greek mythology as the mountain that Zeus trapped the monster Typhon under.

How long does a boat trip last?

You can choose to embark on a sailing adventure that lasts all day. These tours begin around 10 AM and last between seven and eight hours.

Alternatively, you can participate in a half-day boat tour from Catania. These tend to be three to four hours in duration and you can choose between a morning and an afternoon excursion.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Boat tours usually meet at a location close to Catania port. It's possible to walk from the center of the city to the port in around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can catch a taxi which takes around five minutes.

When is the best time for a boat trip from Catania?

Boat trips are most suited to the calm and sunny summer weather. If you travel during July or August, you'll experience highs of around 32 degrees Celsius. If you prefer balmy conditions to intense heat, take a tour during May or October when the temperature is a manageable 23 degrees Celsius.

Most boat tours from Catania begin in the morning, while the weather is still mild. However, an afternoon tour can be a peaceful and relaxing way to end the day.

Which other water activities can be done in Catania?

Travel tips

All boat tours from Catania include a stop for swimming. Make sure to take your swimsuit to enjoy a dip.
If your excursion includes lunch, let your tour provider know of any dietary requirements when you book.
Remember to pack a towel, sunhat and plenty of sunscreen on your sailing trip.
It is easy to get sunburnt while traveling on the water. Take regular breaks from sunbathing and ensure you lather up in sunscreen well.

Boat Tours in Catania