Full Day Sailing Tour Catania-Acitrezza

Imagine gliding along Sicily’s eastern coast in a small boat, with just a handful of fellow travelers, as the sun warms your face and the Mediterranean breeze whispers past. That’s exactly what this Full Day Sailing Tour from Catania to Acitrezza promises—and more. It’s an experience that combines scenic views, local flavor, and a relaxing pace, perfect for those who want to see Sicily from a different perspective.

What we love about this tour? First, the intimate group size (maximum of eight people) guarantees a relaxed atmosphere, where everyone can enjoy the scenery and ask questions. Second, the way it blends sightseeing with tangible moments like snorkeling and a delicious onboard lunch makes it feel both fun and authentic. The only potential consideration? If you’re not comfortable on boats or prefer a highly structured, all-inclusive experience, this tour’s flexible, laid-back style might not suit everyone.

This tour best suits travelers who appreciate small-group adventures, want to avoid crowds, and are eager to combine sightseeing with some leisure time in a stunning setting. It’s ideal if you value genuine local experiences, like local wines and fresh seafood, and are seeking a memorable day out on the water.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures intimacy and personalized attention.
• Stunning coastal scenery with views of Acicastello castle and the Cyclopean Islands.
• Inclusive lunch with local wine adds a taste of Sicilian hospitality.
• Snorkeling and paddleboat options provide active ways to explore underwater.
• Flexible free time at Acitrezza allows personal exploration or relaxation.
• Highly rated guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Launch and Setting Sail

Starting at the Caffè del Porto in Catania, the tour kicks off with a friendly meet-up before boarding a well-equipped vessel. The boat itself is designed for comfort, featuring three double cabins, a bathroom with a shower, a kitchen, and even an external shower. This setup means your journey is not only scenic but also comfortable—perfect for a full day on the water.

Once aboard, the skipper will introduce the boat and safety instructions, but the real treat begins as you cast off. The boat’s size and small group limit (just eight travelers) foster a quiet, relaxed environment, unlike crowded boat trips. We loved the way the crew’s professionalism shines through—friendly, attentive, and eager to share their knowledge.

The Medieval Castle of Acicastello

As you sail toward Acitrezza, the view of Acicastello’s medieval castle coming into sight is a highlight. The castle sits right on the coast, offering a dramatic backdrop for your cruise. The boat passes underneath it, and you’ll get a close-up view of the pillow lavas—an extraordinary example of Sicily’s volcanic past. Many reviews mention how spectacular this view is, with one reviewer praising the “view of the castle by the sea” as simply “spectacular.”

The Charm of Acitrezza

Docking in Acitrezza, you’re given about an hour of free time. The village itself is a classic fishing port, with colorful houses, small cafes, and a relaxed vibe. You can stroll along the waterfront, browse local shops, or hire a pedalo—an included perk—that lets you glide across the waters, perhaps heading to Lachea Island. If snorkeling is your thing, this is your chance: the tour provides snorkeling equipment and offers a small boat transfer to the island, where you can explore the underwater world.

One review captures it well: “Wonderfull tour with Nice and kind people. Good service. Good food. Funny to be allowed to sail yourself,” highlighting the engaging and flexible nature of the experience.

Lunch and Onboard Delights

Back on the boat, a fresh Sicilian lunch awaits. The meal includes a seafood appetizer, a fish-based first course (which varies depending on the catch of the day), seasonal fruit, water, and local white wine. Guests consistently mention the quality of the food—many call it “delicious” and “very good value,” especially considering it’s all included in the price.

The wine, a local DOC white, complements the meal perfectly, adding to the sense of enjoying Sicily’s local flavors in an authentic setting. Vegetarian options are available if booked in advance, accommodating different dietary preferences.

Snorkeling, Paddleboats, and Scenic Stops

The tour offers multiple opportunities for active exploration: snorkeling with provided gear, paddling among the Cyclopean Islands, or simply relaxing on the boat. The islands themselves, known for their striking volcanic formations, are just the right spot for a quick paddle or a peaceful swim.

Reviews highlight how these activities add a fun, hands-on element: “Very fun to be allowed to sail yourself,” or “beautiful waters,” underscore the appeal of mixing relaxation with adventure.

The Return to Catania

As the day winds down, the boat heads back toward Catania, passing more scenic coastlines and perhaps a few last glimpses of the castle. The tour concludes back at the meeting point, with many guests remarking on how the experience exceeded their expectations—combining stunning scenery, a relaxed vibe, and excellent guides.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

The overwhelmingly positive reviews speak volumes. Many rave about the knowledgeable guides and crew, mentioning their friendliness and professionalism. The boat itself is described as “nice-sized,” and the overall experience as “luxurious” and “relaxing.”

One guest summarized, “It was a beautiful day…excellent guide who knows a lot about Sicily,” emphasizing the educational element alongside fun. The onboard lunch and wine are frequently praised, with comments like “delicious” and “very good value,” reinforcing the idea that this tour offers a genuine taste of Sicilian hospitality.

While safety concerns appeared in one review—mentioning a boat motor failure at the end of the trip—it seems to be an exception rather than the rule. The crew’s quick response was noted, and most travelers felt confident and well cared for throughout.

Practical Details and Value

At around $115 per person, including lunch, wine, snorkeling gear, and the small-group setting, this tour offers considerable value. It’s a full eight hours of scenic pleasure, active options, and cultural sights, all wrapped in a laid-back, friendly package.

Meeting at a centrally located Catania spot makes logistics easy, and the ability to book in advance—usually nine days ahead—helps plan your trip smoothly. Keep in mind, transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included, so consider that when planning your day.

The tour operates most days, with a minimum group size of two or three depending on the period. The small group size guarantees personalized attention, allowing for a more genuine experience than large cruise ships.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sailing adventure is perfect for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing cruise. If you enjoy a relaxed pace, engaging guides, and authentic local experiences, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who like a mix of scenery, light activity, and good food and wine in a quiet, intimate setting.

If you’re traveling with family, children from 3 to 10 can enjoy a discount, making it a family-friendly outing. However, if you or your companions aren’t comfortable on boats or prefer very structured tours, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, from start to finish, including sailing, stops, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
A fresh lunch, white wine, water, snorkeling equipment, and access to activities like paddleboats.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Caffè del Porto in Catania and ends back at the same point.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, most of the time the tour requires at least 2 or 3 people depending on the period, but the maximum is 8.

Can I request vegetarian options?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available if requested at the time of booking.

What about safety?
Most reviews report a positive experience, though one mention of a motor failure was noted; crew response was quick, and safety measures are in place.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children from 0 to 3 get a discount, and those from 3 to 10 also benefit from a small reduction. Kids should be supervised, especially during active activities.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Sailing Tour from Catania to Acitrezza delivers exactly what it promises: an authentic, relaxed way to see Sicily’s stunning coast in small, friendly company. The mix of scenic views, engaging activities, and local flavors makes it a standout choice for those seeking a day of adventure without the crowds.

From the breathtaking sight of the medieval castle to the fun of snorkeling and paddleboarding, every element is designed to create memorable moments. The guides’ friendliness, the quality of the food, and the exclusivity of the small group ensure that you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll have stories and a true taste of Sicilian life.

If you’re after a leisurely, well-organized day on the water, with the bonus of local wines and a charming fishing village, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers who prioritize authenticity, comfort, and a touch of adventure in their Sicilian explorations.