Catania, Acitrezza, Acireale: exclusive daily tour by RIB speedboat

Catania, Acitrezza, Acireale: exclusive daily tour by RIB speedboat

Exploring Sicily’s eastern coast by speedboat offers a thrill that’s hard to match. This full-day adventure takes you from Catania’s port on a high-powered RIB to some of the most scenic spots along the Ionian Sea, blending adrenaline with authentic coastal beauty. If you’re after an active, picture-perfect day with a taste of local charm, this tour might just be what you’re looking for.

What we love about this experience? First, the speed and agility of the RIB make every moment exciting—this isn’t a slow cruise but a lively ride that gets your heart pumping. Second, the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat adds a special touch of magic, making the day memorable for nature lovers and families alike.

One consideration? The tour isn’t recommended for those prone to seasickness or with certain health issues—this is an energetic ride with some bouncing over waves. But for travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure and love stunning coastal views, this trip suits most active, curious travelers well.

If you’re seeking a lively, scenic day on Sicily’s coast with a splash of marine life and breathtaking sunsets, this tour promises it all. It’s ideal for those who want something a little different from the usual land-based sightseeing, and who don’t mind a bit of speed and splash along the way.

Key Points

• High-Speed Ride: The RIB SPX 38 offers an exhilarating 13-meter, 900-horsepower experience.
• Beautiful Coastal Views: Sail past iconic spots like the Castle of Aci and the Cyclops Reserve of Acitrezza.
• Dolphin Watching: The search for dolphins adds an enchanting wildlife element, especially during the late afternoon.
• Authentic Coastal Stops: Swim and snorkel near Santa Tecla’s rocky coastline, shaped by Mount Etna’s eruptions.
• Sunset Experience: The tour ends with a stunning sunset back at Catania, providing perfect photo opportunities.
• Inclusive Drinks & Photos: Soft drinks, spirits, and all photos/videos are included, making it a hassle-free day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: An In-Depth Look at the Day

Launching from Porto Rossi, we begin with anticipation and a sense of adventure. The tour lasts around 8 hours, during which you’ll cover a good stretch of Sicily’s eastern coast. The skipper is a professional guide who not only ensures safety but also provides an engaging commentary on the landmarks and natural features you pass.

The Exciting Ride Along the Coast

The real highlight for many is the speed of the boat. The RIB’s 900 horsepower propels you swiftly along the coast, feeling the wind and spray while soaking in spectacular views. We loved the way the vessel’s power made every moment feel lively, especially as we zipped past the castle of Aci—a striking seaside fortress—then approached the Cyclops Reserve of Acitrezza. These dramatic formations and jagged rocks make for compelling photos and a chance to stretch your legs briefly before moving on.

Stops for Scenic and Wildlife Encounters

The first significant stop is a photo break at Aci Castello, a charming town with a medieval fortress perched above the sea. Just ten minutes here is enough to capture some memorable shots, especially in the golden light of late morning.

Next, you’ll visit the Faraglione della Madonna Acitrezza, a series of iconic rock formations. These volcanic-shaped rocks, shaped by centuries of eruptions, create a surreal landscape that’s worth photographing. Reviewers mention that the views are truly stunning, making it one of the most picturesque parts of the trip.

A highlight for many is the swimming and snorkeling stop near Santa Tecla. The rocky coastline formed by Mount Etna’s eruptions offers clear waters and intriguing underwater formations. You’ll enjoy a couple of hours here, relaxing, floating, and exploring the marine life. Bring your swimwear and towel—these are essentials for this segment.

The Search for Dolphins and Sunset

Later in the afternoon, the boat heads into deeper waters to look for dolphins. This part of the tour is especially praised—many reviews describe it as “magical” to see these playful creatures swimming alongside the boat. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours for dolphin spotting, and timing is usually ideal as dolphins tend to come closer in the late afternoon.

As daylight begins to fade, the boat returns to Catania, offering passengers the chance to witness a Sicilian sunset. The last half-hour is a serene moment with fiery skies reflecting off the water—a perfect end to an active day.

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Practical Details and Comfort

The tour includes fuel, spirits, soft drinks, and all photos and videos from the trip—no need to worry about extra costs for these memories. The boat is a private group experience, which means you’ll have a more intimate, personalized adventure.

What to bring: Swimwear, towel, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. The experience isn’t suitable for children under six, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility or health issues, so plan accordingly. The boat ride can be bouncy—seasickness is a concern for some, so if that’s you, take precautions.

The Value and Overall Impression

Compared to typical land-based tours, this RIB experience offers a unique blend of adrenaline and scenery. The boat’s speed brings a real sense of motion and excitement—think of it as a high-energy day on the water rather than a relaxed cruise. Including drinks and photos, plus the guide’s local knowledge, adds value to the roughly €160 price tag.

While it’s not a cheap day out, the combination of adventure, scenic beauty, wildlife, and sunset makes it worthwhile for those craving an active Sicilian experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a bit of thrill, stunning vistas, and memorable wildlife encounters, all in a private group setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-seekers who get excited about high-speed boat rides and scenic coastlines. Nature lovers will particularly enjoy dolphin watching and swimming stops. The sunset adds a romantic touch, making it appealing for couples.

However, those with health concerns, mobility issues, or who are prone to seasickness should consider other options. Families with children over six, looking for an energetic activity, will find it suitable, but kids younger than that may not enjoy the bouncing ride.

This tour’s authentic feel, combined with the opportunity to see Sicily from a different perspective, makes it a standout choice for travelers wanting something more lively and personal than a standard boat cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

What’s included in the price?
Fuel, alcoholic and soft drinks, and all photos and videos are included.

Is food provided?
No, you should bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour.

Can I see dolphins?
Yes, dolphin watching is part of the experience, usually in the late afternoon.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen.

Is there a skipper?
Yes, a professional skipper guides the boat, ensuring safety and sharing local insights.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay nothing today, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, heart problems, or recent surgeries.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
The combination of speed, stunning scenery, wildlife, and sunset makes this an unforgettable day on Sicily’s coast.

Final Thoughts

This RIB speedboat tour from Catania offers a lively, visually stunning way to experience Sicily’s eastern shoreline. The rush of speed combined with the chance to see dolphins in the wild and enjoy a spectacular sunset creates a memorable day for active travelers. It’s a chance to get out on the water in a way that’s both exhilarating and authentic, with plenty of opportunities for photos, relaxation, and wildlife encounters.

While it’s not suitable for everyone, for those who can handle a bouncy ride and are eager for a full day of adventure, this tour balances fun, scenery, and marine life in a way few land-based excursions can match. Keep your camera ready and your spirits high—this is a Sicilian experience designed to leave you with stories to tell and images to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: