The Best Boat Tours in Sicily

The sound of the waves, the scent of the sea, and an incomparable feeling of freedom: there's nothing quite like a boat tour to explore the magnificent Sicilian coast. This experience, far from the hustle of crowded beaches and the frantic pace of the most visited cities, allows you to discover Sicily from an entirely new perspective, the sea.

Sailing along the Sicilian coast means immersing yourself in a parallel universe of crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and breath-taking panoramas. Cliffs, promontories, and sea caves show the ancient story of a land shaped by the elements. These natural wonders, visible only from the sea, become the stage for unforgettable moments. Sicily, with its turquoise sea, secret coves, and golden beaches, is truly a natural, timeless masterpieces.

Every stretch of the Sicilian coast tells a different story, with iconic places waiting to be discovered. From the marine caves of Levanzo to the sandy expanses of San Vito Lo Capo, each corner is a piece of a beguiling Sicilian mosaic. You can’t ignore the magical atmosphere of Stromboli at night, or the timeless charm of Scopello.

Here are some of the most beautiful places that Sicily offers for a guided or independent boat tour. And if you stay in one of our beachside villas, enjoying the sea and the beauty of Sicily will be even more convenient.

The Aeolian Islands, located off the north-eastern coast of Sicily, form an archipelago of seven pearl-like islands set in the deep blue of the Mediterranean. Each island, with their individual charm and breath-taking landscape, offers unique and unforgettable moment for anyone who decide to explore this area by boat.

The active volcano of Stromboli is the main attraction of this island. A boat tour allows you to admire its majestic silhouette and, if you're lucky, witness the lava and ash explosions during its frequent eruptions. It is especially beautiful in the evening when the red of the lava contrasts with the starry sky, creating a natural spectacle known as the "Sciara del Fuoco."

The smallest of the Aeolian Islands is also incredibly chic. Its crystal-clear waters are dotted with small islets and rocks. During a boat tour, don't miss "Cala Junco" and the ancient ruins of the prehistoric village of Capo Milazzese.

Vulcano is famous for its geothermal activity. From the sea you can admire the Fossa di Vulcano, the last of its active craters. Thermal springs and sulphuric muds are an attraction for those looking for a rejuvenating and unique experience.

This green and lush island is famous for its Malvasia vineyards and offers beautiful bays like Pollara, made famous by the film "Il Postino”. From the boat, you can enjoy the view of its two mountainous volcanic cones, Monte Fossa delle Felci and Monte dei Porri.

The largest of the Aeolian Islands is a mix of history and natural beauty. You can admire the striking cliffs of pumice stone, hidden coves, and the Rocca, a promontory where the ancient acropolis stands.

The most remote and pristine of the island group, these islands offer wild and unspoilt landscapes. With its azure waters, the Grotta del Bue Marino is a highlight of a tour in Filicudi. Alicudi, on the other hand, is the ideal choice for those seeking tranquillity and authenticity.

Each Aeolian Island has a story to tell, a personality to discover. Exploring the archipelago by boat is an opportunity to come into direct contact with the power and beauty of untouched nature among these gems of the Mediterranean. If you want to enjoy this unique experience, discover our guided tour of the Aeolian Islands.

The archipelago of the Aegadian Islands, composed of the islands of Favignana, Levanzo, and Marettimo, lies off the western coast of Sicily. These islands are known for their turquoise waters, marine caves, and rich historical heritage. A boat tour allows you to discover hidden corners and breath-taking views.

The largest and most populated of the Aegadian Islands, Favignana is famous for its butterfly shape and numerous coves. "Cala Azzurra" and "Cala Rossa" are two of the most beloved beaches on the island. 

The smallest of the three islands, Levanzo is an oasis of tranquillity, where time seems to stand still. The "Grotta del Genovese" is one of its jewels, famous for its rock paintings and engravings dating back to the Paleolithic Period. The waters surrounding the island are ideal for snorkelling, thanks to the rich underwater flora and fauna.

Considered the most unspolit of the group, Marettimo boasts a mountainous landscape with its coast full of marine caves and hidden coves. During a boat tour, you can visit the "Grotta del Cammello" and the "Grotta della Punta Troia," in addition to the island’s ancient fortification. Diving in the surrounding waters reveals a rich underwater world, making Marettimo a sought-after destination for diving enthusiasts.

The Aegadian Islands, with their wild nature and historical and cultural heritage, are an unmissable destination for those visiting Sicily. Navigating around these islands offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in an untouched maritime landscape, with by crystal-clear waters, imposing cliffs, and a millennia-old history that emerges from every corner. Book a boat tour to the Aegadian Islands now.

The northern coast of Sicily is a land of contrasts, where green mountains descend into the deep blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and ancient cities overlook the sea from majestic cliffs. Enjoying a boat excursion along this stretch of coast offers a unique perspective of its natural and architectural wonders.

This medieval gem is dominated by an imposing rocky promontory. Approaching by sea, you can admire the splendid Norman Cathedral and the town reflected in the crystal-clear waters. The small coves around Cefalù are perfect for a stop and a refreshing dip in the sea.

Located between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Nebrodi Mountains, Capo d’Orlando offers a spectacular panoramic view from the sea. The coast features small bays and sandy beaches alternated with cliffs. On clear days, from the sea, you can enjoy a clear view of the nearby Aeolian Islands, especially Filicudi and Alicudi.

Even though Tindari is located on a hill, you can admire the famous sanctuary from the sea during a boat tour. The Marinello Lakes, lagoon formations at the foot of Tindari, are also not to be missed. The sandbanks forming the lagoons change shape according to currents and tides, offering a constantly changing panorama.

Known for its colourful and artistic ceramics, Santo Stefano di Camastra is a small jewel along the northern coast. From the sea, you can observe the vibrant colour palette of its buildings and ceramic workshops overlooking the blue waters. The sandy beaches and small coves in the surrounding area offer moments of relaxation and the opportunity to closely admire the art and tradition of this charming village.

Navigating along the northern coast of Sicily allows you to discover hidden corners and historical treasures. The combination of the crystal-clear sea, imposing rock formations, and historical richness makes this stretch of coast one of the most sought-after destinations for those exploring Sicily by sea: you can do so with one of our guided boat tours for an unforgettable experience.

The western coast of Sicily is a concentration of history, culture, and breath-taking landscapes. A boat tour along this coastline reveals hidden treasures, pristine beaches, and picture-postcard panoramas, making your holiday unforgettable.

An ancient fishing village with a castle dominating the harbour, Castellammare del Golfo offers a spectacular view from the sea. The nearby natural reserves of Lo Zingaro and Monte Cofano are ideal for anyone seeking transparent waters and rich biodiversity.

Famous for its white sandy beach, this town is a must for those sailing along the northern coast. Observing San Vito Lo Capo from the sea provides a perfect view of the lighthouse and the mountain backdrop behind the town.

The ancient warehouses of the Tonnara di Scopello and the characteristic sea stacks in front of the coast make this place one of the most photographed in Sicily. The water here is of an intense blue, and the marine caves offer cool retreats during the hot summer for anyone who wishes to spend long days by the sea.

 Lo Zingaro is one of the first protected nature reserves in Sicily, with limestone cliffs, sandy coves, and a variety of outstanding flora and fauna. From the boat, hidden corners and bays inaccessible by land can be discovered.

Approaching Trapani by sea provides a panoramic view of the salt pans with their historic windmills. At sunset, when the salt pans turn pink, the atmosphere becomes magical, allowing you to create memories to cherish forever.

Landing in Marsala means experiencing a place where the colours of the salt pans at sunset create magical scenes. The characteristic windmills rising above the waters reflect the ancient tradition of salt production. The islands of Lo Stagnone are not to be missed, and are a true paradise for kite-surfing enthusiasts.

Exploring the western coast of Sicily by boat is an experience that combines ancient history, natural beauty, and a unique gastronomic culture, making every stop an opportunity to discover new treasures. Explore the boat excursions on the west coast of Sicily organised by Villatravellers.

The southwestern coast of Sicily has a diverse coastal landscape, with sandy stretches interspersed with cliffs and small promontories. There are traces of ancient civilizations, whilst nature manifests itself in all its splendour. Here are some gems not to be missed along this coatline.

Sailing around this location allows you to admire the grandeur of the Doric temples of Selinunte, a testament to ancient Magna Graecia. The golden sandy beaches near the archaeological park are among the most beautiful in the area, offering a fantastic destination for anyone who wants to relax. 

This marl cliff, famous for its pure white colour and tiered shape, is one of the most beautiful places in Sicily. From the sea, the Scala dei Turchi appears in all its splendour, and it’s clear to see why it is so famous. 

The area boasts some of the most pristine beaches in Sicily, with crystal-clear waters and golden sand. From the sea, the view of the sandy coast is enchanting, a true paradise.

A boat tour along the southwestern coast of Sicily offers the opportunity to admire nature and history harmoniously blending, providing visitors with unforgettable panoramas and breath-taking views. From every perspective, whether you want to delve into ancient history or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the region, this coastal stretch has something to offer everyone. Discover the boat tours on this coast organised by Villatravellers.

The southern coast of Sicily, bathed by the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, offers a varied landscape: from golden beaches to imposing cliffs, from ancient cities rich in history to picturesque fishing villages. The combination of culture, nature, and history makes this area one of the favourite destinations for anyone wishing to explore the true essence of the island. A boat tour here is not just a journey along the coastal locations; it's a deep dive into the past, nature, and traditions of a timeless land.

Marzamemi is an ancient fishing hamlet that welcomes you with its colourful houses, its courtyards adorned with plants and flowers, and its harbour bustling with traditional fishing boats. From the sea you can admire the entire layout of the village, with the historic Tonnara di Marzamemi in the foreground, once the heart of tuna fishing activity in the area. The intense blue sea contrasts beautifully with the stone architecture of the town, with every view seeming like a postcard. 

Also known as Montalbano's beach, thanks to the fame gained from the television series, Punta Secca offers a sandy coastline interrupted by low cliffs and distinctive houses overlooking the sea. In the distance, the lighthouse stands majestically. A boat tour in this area allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of the coast and admire the famous house of Commissioner Montalbano, now an icon for all fans of the series.

This resort, with its golden beaches and turquoise waters, is one of the most loved seaside destinations in Sicily. Looking at the coast from a boat, you can spot the elegant villas and residences lining the beach, interspersed with trendy beach clubs. Natural coves and small bays make Marina di Ragusa an ideal place for a swimming stop during a boat trip.

The ancient Spanish fort on the island is a true historical gem. From a boat tour, you can appreciate its strategic position, erected on the tip of the island, guarding the marvellous surrounding waters. Just off Capo Passero, the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea meet: this phenomenon, visible under certain conditions, is fascinating to observe. Around the island are small beaches and hidden coves, ideal for a refreshing stop during the boat tour.

These towns, immersed in history and nature, offer a perfect balance of beauty and charm, making every boat tour along the south-eastern coast of Sicily an unforgettable journey.

The eastern coast is rich in beautiful sights that can be visited by boat. Navigating along this stretch of coast you can see a landscape of astonishing diversity, where golden beaches and hidden bays alternate with imposing volcanic cliffs. This area, shaped by the powerful presence of Mount Etna, is one of Sicily's seven UNESCO sites and has been the stage for numerous historical events, leaving visible traces found in fortifications, castles, and ancient buildings. In addition to all this, rocky seabeds are perfect for exploration, combining natural beauty with history and myth.

Sailing along the coast near Taormina, you are immediately greeted by the spectacular view of the Greek Theatre, with its imposing position above a promontory. But the most precious jewel is by the sea: Isola Bella. This small and enchanting island, connected to the mainland by a thin strip of sand, is a haven of biodiversity.

From an east coast boat tour, you can admire the entire bay, with its crystal-clear waters ranging from turquoise to deep blue and the lush exotic plants covering the island.

Acitrezza, a characteristic fishing village, is famous for its Faraglioni, large volcanic rocks emerging from the sea just in front of the town. Legend has it that these were the stones thrown by Polyphemus at Odysseus during his escape. With a boat tour, you have the opportunity to sail around these imposing monoliths, admiring their majesty and the rich marine life surrounding them.

Siracusa, with its millennia-old history, offers a unique spectacle from the sea. The island of Ortigia, the ancient heart of the city, appears as a floating gem. Directly from the sea, you can go around the island, offering breath-taking views of the ancient walls, the Castle of Maniace, and the numerous historic palaces reflected in the waters. The harmony between ancient architecture and the sea makes this journey an unforgettable experience.

The Catania coastline stands out for its volcanic landscape, with black cliffs and the imposing shadow of Mount Etna in the background. From a marine perspective, Catania shows its wildest side, where the force of nature and the history of the city merge into a single, thrilling panorama.

If you wish to explore the east coast and enjoy a memorable experience, take a look at the boat tour proposals on the east coast of Sicily organised by Villatravellers, your reference for a luxurious and relaxing holiday on the largest island in the Mediterranean.

If you are planning a holiday on the island, don't miss our selection of exclusive-use villas, equipped with all the comforts for an unforgettable stay.