My sailing tour in Catania

Thinking about exploring Sicily’s east coast from the water? This sailing tour from Catania offers a chance to see iconic sights like the Cyclops Islands, Etna volcano, and historic seaside castles, all while enjoying a relaxed day on a small, personalized boat. With a 5-star rating from 25 reviews and a perfect 100% recommendation rate, it’s clear many travelers find this experience memorable—yet it balances adventure with comfort.

What we love about this tour is the way it combines stunning scenery with authentic Sicilian hospitality. The small group size — just six passengers — makes it feel exclusive and intimate. Plus, the inclusion of local storytelling and Sicilian dishes elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. One thing to keep in mind: this tour’s price (~$185 per person) offers good value if you’re looking for a full day of relaxation, scenic views, and culture. Naturally, the trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy being on the water, are comfortable in small groups, and want to savor local flavors while exploring Sicily’s coast.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group (6 passengers) for an intimate atmosphere
• Stunning Views: See Etna from the sea, the Cyclops Islands, and historic castles
• Active & Relaxing: Stops for snorkeling, swimming, fishing, and lounging
• Culinary Delights: Sicilian lunch with local dishes and drinks included
• Expert Guidance: Local skipper shares stories and history of the coast
• Good Value: Balanced mix of scenery, activity, and culture at about $185

Why This Experience Stands Out

If you’re looking for an authentic way to see Sicily’s coast, this sail from Catania offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and leisure. It’s not merely a boat ride; it’s a chance to connect with Sicily’s maritime spirit, enjoy its flavors, and learn about its landscapes from someone who knows the area well.

We appreciated the way the tour balances adventure and relaxation. You’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, fish if you like, or simply soak up the sun and the views. The local skipper‘s stories add a personal touch, making each stop more meaningful. Several reviews highlight how much fun and informative the commentary is, with one traveler noting, “Bruno’s stories and historic facts made the trip even more special.”

And speaking of the views, imagine gazing across the water to see Etna volcano, its smoky summit standing tall behind the coastline, or catching sight of the famous castle of Acicastello from the sea. These sights aren’t just pictures—they’re experiences you’ll remember forever.

The Itinerary: A Detailed Look

Start at Porto di Catania, Molo di Levante – The meeting point at Catania’s harbor is straightforward, and the tour kicks off around 10 a.m. You’ll board a comfortable, well-maintained boat with a capacity of just eight passengers, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience. From here, the first highlight is the view of Etna Volcano from the water. While the volcano itself is often shrouded in clouds, on clear days you’ll get spectacular glimpses of its summit, adding a dramatic backdrop to your trip.

The boat then heads to the Cyclops Islands (Aci Trezza). These stacks are legendary in local folklore and famous for their rugged beauty. Many travelers loved “the amazing panorama” of the sea and rocks, with one reviewer remarking, “You will see the Acitrezza reefs and the beautiful sea.” The snorkeling stops here are especially noteworthy, giving you a chance to swim in waters praised for their clarity.

Next, the boat anchors for a lunch served onboard. Expect a spread of Sicilian specialties, as multiple reviews highlight how delicious the food was, with fresh, regional ingredients and local wines. Drinks are included, which makes it easy to relax and enjoy the meal without fuss. The onboard meal adds a layer of comfort, letting you focus on the scenery while tasting authentic flavors.

The journey continues with stops to fish, snorkel again, or simply lounge in the sun. One reviewer commented that they enjoyed “swimming and snorkeling around the boat and dolphin-watching,” which hints at possible wildlife sightings, a bonus for nature lovers. The final stop includes a view of the castle of Acicastello, a medieval fortress that’s a striking feature from the sea.

The tour wraps up back at Porto di Catania, around 5 p.m., leaving plenty of time to continue exploring the city or relax after your sea adventure.

What Travelers Are Saying

The overwhelmingly positive reviews give us insight into what makes this tour special. One traveler called it “a truly amazing experience,” appreciating both the scenic sailing and the stories told by skipper Bruno. Another noted, “The boat was clean and comfortable, and the food was delicious,” highlighting the value of comfort and quality. Many reviews mention the relaxing atmosphere and beautiful views, affirming this is a perfect trip for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

The small group size, just six guests, adds to the intimate vibe, with travelers feeling like they’re sailing with friends rather than a crowd. This also means that your skipper can tailor the experience slightly based on weather and interests, making every trip unique.

Practical Details: What to Expect

The tour costs about $185 per person, which includes snorkeling gear, a Sicilian lunch, and drinks. While private transportation isn’t included, the meeting point is conveniently located in Catania’s central harbor. It’s best to book at least 70 days in advance, as this popular experience fills quickly.

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, giving ample time to see multiple sights, snorkel, relax, and enjoy your lunch. The maximum group size is 8, but most trips operate with 6 passengers, ensuring plenty of space and comfort.

Weather plays a crucial role — since this is a sea-based activity, poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling. They offer full refunds if canceled due to weather, which is reassuring.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This sailing trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, enjoy being on the water, and want to combine sights, activities, and good food. It’s especially suitable for those who want a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, along with engaging stories about Sicily’s coast. Families, couples, or friends looking for a memorable, laid-back adventure will find this trip a perfect fit.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more structured, land-based tour. Also, if you’re not comfortable on boats or have specific dietary restrictions, it’s worth noting that the lunch is Sicilian-style and included in the price.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone who loves the idea of sailing along Sicily’s coast, soaking up panoramic views, and tasting excellent local cuisine, this tour offers impressive value. The combination of stunning scenery, small-group intimacy, and cultural storytelling makes it stand out from other excursions.

It’s best suited for travelers wanting a relaxed yet active day, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and take in the sights at a leisurely pace. If you’re after a genuine taste of Sicilian coastal life, this tour hits the spot.

In essence, this sailing trip is a wonderful way to see Sicily from a different angle—on the water, in comfort, with authentic flavor and local insights. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day on the sea, it’s a highly recommended experience.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 10 a.m. and returning in the late afternoon.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can hop into the clear waters for a swim and explore the underwater scenery.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, but most trips have around 6 people, ensuring a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

What does the lunch include?
A Sicilian-style meal featuring regional dishes and drinks is served onboard. Multiple reviews mention the delicious, fresh food and good wine.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, and they will reschedule or refund if canceled due to poor weather.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at CAFFÈ DEL PORTO, in Catania’s harbor area—easy to reach from most accommodations and central locations.

This sailing tour offers a rich mix of natural beauty, local culture, and laid-back fun—perfect for anyone wanting a taste of Sicily’s coastal charm without the crowds. Book early, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a day that captures the essence of Sicily from the sea.