Looking for dolphins in Messina? Three main tours stand out. Your best bets: the classic Sunset Tour (2 hours with wine), the active Taormina Coast Tour (with swimming stops), and the upscale Luxury Tour (champagne and dedicated photo time).
The Sunset Tour wins points for its relaxed pace and lovely evening views. Taormina Coast delivers more adventure with its speedboat thrills, while the Luxury option pampers with premium drinks and structured dolphin viewing.
My favorite? The Taormina Coast Tour hits the sweet spot – combining both action and wildlife watching at a fair price. Local operators keep groups small and know exactly where these playful creatures gather.
Let’s check out the top dolphin-spotting options in Messina.
Key Points
- The Sunset Tour offers a 2-hour excursion with an aperitif, local wines or cocktails, and a 4.2 customer rating.
- The Taormina Coast Tour is a 2.5-hour journey that includes a speedboat ride, photo stops, a swimming break, and a 1-hour dolphin watching session.
- The Luxury Tour is a 2-hour exclusive experience with a scenic ride, a 20-minute dolphin watching session, and onboard offerings of champagne, oysters, and berries.
- The Taormina Coast Tour and Luxury Tour are not suitable for visually impaired, motion-sickness prone, or wheelchair users.
- Participants are recommended to bring swimwear, sun protection, and flip-flops, and be aware of the free cancellation policy and motion sickness concerns.
SUNSET TOUR WITH DOLPHIN WATCHING
One of the most popular activities in Messina is the sunset tour with dolphin watching. This 2-hour excursion allows visitors to witness the majestic creatures in their natural habitat as the sun dips below the horizon. With a 4.2 customer rating and priced at $51.78 per person, the tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
The tour departs from Taormina, providing convenient pickup options. Guests will board a boat and set sail to explore the beautiful Isola Bella, a small island known for its diverse marine life. Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of dolphin species, including bottlenose and common dolphins, as they playfully swim in the warm waters.
The tour also includes an aperitif, allowing guests to sip on local wines or cocktails while taking in the breathtaking views.
This affordable and highly-rated experience is the perfect way to cap off a day in Messina and create lasting memories.
Read our full review: SUNSET TOUR WITH DOLPHIN WATCHING Review
Book now: Check availability
Taormina Coast Tour and Searching Dolphins
The Taormina Coast Tour and Dolphin Searching excursion whisks visitors on a thrilling 2.5-hour journey along the stunning Sicilian coastline. Priced at $63.41 per person, the tour includes a speedboat ride to Capo Taormina, photo stops at Isola Bella and the Blue Grotto, a swimming and aperitif break, and an hour of dolphin watching.
Highlights include visiting the Cave of Love and admiring the Capotaormina Hotel from the sea.
The tour provides an aperitif with prosecco, soft drinks, and Sicilian almond pastries, along with snorkeling equipment and beach towels. However, it’s not suitable for the visually impaired, those prone to motion sickness, or wheelchair users.
Participants should bring swimwear, sun protection, and flip-flops. While the overall rating is 4/5 based on 6 reviews, some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the reservation process and higher pricing compared to competitors.
Nevertheless, the opportunity to spot dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy the stunning Taormina coastline makes this tour a compelling option.
Read our full review: Taormina Coast Tour and Searching Dolphins Review
Book now: Check availability
TAORMINA: Luxury Tour With Dolphin Watching
Situated amidst Taormina’s picturesque coastline, the Luxury Tour with Dolphin Watching invites visitors on a captivating 2-hour excursion.
Priced at Kč 20,210 for up to 8 participants, this exclusive experience promises a glimpse of the region’s natural wonders. Guests will enjoy a scenic speedboat ride, complete with photo opportunities at Capotaormina, Isolabella, Grotta Azzurra, and the Bays of Mazzaro and Spisone.
The highlight of the tour is the 20-minute dolphin watching session, where guests can capture stunning images of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Onboard, guests will savor champagne, oysters, and berries, all while taking in the breathtaking views of Taormina and Mount Etna.
With a private group setting and a live tour guide, the Luxury Tour with Dolphin Watching offers a truly immersive and personalized experience.
Travelers can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve their spot with no upfront payment.
Read our full review: TAORMINA: Luxury Tour With Dolphin Watching Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Messina offers several exciting dolphin watching tours that allow visitors to witness these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you choose a sunset tour, a coastal adventure, or a luxury experience, you’re sure to have an unforgettable encounter. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable boats, these tours provide an up-close look at the dolphins and their vibrant surroundings along the Taormina coast.