Catania: Sunset Sailing with Aperitif and Swim (4 hours)

Imagine gliding along the coast of Sicily’s Cyclops Riviera as the sun dips toward the horizon, a glass of local wine in your hand, and the gentle motion of a well-equipped boat beneath you. This 4-hour sunset sailing tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, authentic Sicilian flavors, and a relaxed maritime atmosphere. Priced at $70 per person, this boutique experience is organized by Saraventu and is designed for those who want a taste of local sailing life without the fuss of a large cruise.

What we love about this trip are two things: first, the opportunity to learn the basics of sailing in a calm, friendly environment, something often missing from more touristy boat tours. Second, the stunning stops at iconic landmarks like the Caves of Ulysses and the Faraglioni of Aci Trezza, which make for unforgettable photos and peaceful moments.

One thing to consider is that this experience requires a minimum of four participants—so if you’re traveling solo or as a small group, you might need to wait or join with others. Also, while the boat is well-equipped, you’ll want to bring some essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a windbreaker to stay comfortable.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a more authentic, relaxed maritime experience—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to unwind with a combination of gentle sailing, scenic beauty, and Sicilian bites.

This experience made our article of 9 Fantastic Boat Tours & Cruises In Catania.

Key Points

• Authentic sailing experience with a friendly crew and a chance to learn sailing basics.
• Beautiful coastal stops for swimming, snorkeling, and photos at iconic landmarks.
• Local flavors served with Sicilian snacks and an aperitif, enhancing the relaxed vibe.
• All-inclusive comfort, with SUPs, air mattresses, shaded areas, and music for a laid-back day.
• Affordable value considering the scenery, food, drinks, and expert guidance.
• Small-group atmosphere that feels personal and engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sunset Sailing Tour

This boutique sailing experience begins at a convenient meeting point at the entrance of “Blu Marina” across from the Vecchia Dogana. From here, you’ll meet your crew and start with a welcoming drink, which sets the tone for a leisurely afternoon. The boat itself is described as well-equipped and comfortable, with shaded areas, cushions, and onboard music—an ideal setup for both relaxing and socializing.

The Itinerary: From Coastline to Clear Waters

Once aboard, your guide will give a short briefing on safety and sailing basics—perfect for those new to the sea. As you set sail along the Cyclops Riviera, you’ll enjoy views of rugged coastlines, with the Caves of Ulysses near Ognina coming into sight. These caves are steeped in legend, and even if you’re not a history buff, their natural beauty is worth the stop.

The boat then glides past the Castello di Aci Castello, a charming fortress perched on volcanic rock, which provides a stunning backdrop and fantastic photo opportunities. As the sail continues, you’ll reach the Faraglioni of Aci Trezza, towering sea stacks that make this area one of Sicily’s most scenic spots. Several reviews highlight how breathtaking these formations are—perfect for capturing memorable photos.

The Swimming and Snorkeling Stop

In a quiet bay, the boat drops anchor for a swimming break—a highlight for many. You might find calm, scenic waters ideal for cooling off, with options to snorkel or relax on stand-up paddleboards and air mattresses. The crew supplies soft towels and life jackets, making it easy to jump in and out of the sea safely.

Several reviewers mentioned the quality of the swimming stop, emphasizing the peaceful environment and the chance to enjoy the clear waters. One wrote, “We loved swimming in front of the sea stacks with masks and paddleboards,” highlighting how well this part of the trip meets expectations for a relaxing aquatic experience.

Sicilian Flavors and Aperitif

As the boat gently moves toward sunset, the crew serves a Sicilian aperitif—a combination of cocktails, wine, beer, or prosecco, paired with local snacks such as arancini, mini pizzas, and other regional delicacies. These bites are described as “delicious” and “authentic,” adding flavor to the experience.

Satisfied with the food and drinks, most reviews suggest that this part is a highlight—a genuine taste of Sicily shared in an intimate setting. The music, the aroma of the sea, and the convivial atmosphere make this segment particularly memorable.

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Sailing Back to Catania

As the sun begins to set, the boat slowly makes its way back toward the port of Catania, offering more chances to relax and enjoy the scenery. The entire experience is about unwinding, with some reviews mentioning how the crew involved guests in sailing activities—ideal for those curious about the mechanics or just wanting to feel part of the journey.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour includes everything necessary for a comfortable day on the water: fuel, soft towels, life jackets, SUPs, air mattresses, shaded areas, cushions, and music. You’re just asked to bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, and cash for optional extras or tips.

The activity lasts roughly 4 hours and is organized by ASD Saraventu, a local organization dedicated to promoting sailing and maritime culture. It’s suitable for travelers over 6 years old, but not for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

You’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and are encouraged to notify if you have dietary restrictions or allergies. The trip operates with a minimum of four people, so it’s best suited for small groups or those willing to join other travelers.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Authentic reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect. Joanne praised the “adorable” crew and the “delightful” atmosphere, emphasizing the attentiveness and friendliness of the guides. Julia called it “one of the BEST attractions in Catania”, which speaks to how well the experience resonates with visitors.

Many reviewers appreciated the mixture of sailing, scenic stops, and good food. Federico noted, “It was wonderful to swim in front of the sea stacks with masks and paddleboards,” highlighting the quality of the swimming stop. Jennifer summed it up as “phenomenal” and an “unbeatable value for money,” acknowledging that for the price, the experience delivers much more than just a boat ride.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic sailing experience that combines scenic beauty with local flavors, this tour is perfect. It suits small groups, couples, or solo travelers eager to learn about sailing, enjoy peaceful waters, and indulge in Sicilian snacks and drinks. It’s ideal for those who value informal, intimate settings over large, crowded excursions.

Travelers who enjoy beautiful landscapes, light physical activity, and cultural bites will find this trip rewarding. It’s also a good option for those who want a more personal, friendly atmosphere—the reviews repeatedly mention how involved and helpful the crew is, making you feel like part of a small sailing family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children must be over 6 years old. It’s best suited for kids who enjoy water activities and are comfortable on boats.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, swimwear, a windbreaker, comfortable clothes, and some cash. Towels and life jackets are provided.

How many people will be on the boat?
The experience is designed for small groups, and a minimum of four participants is required. The actual number can vary, but it’s generally an intimate setting.

What’s included in the price?
All boat amenities, fuel, soft towels, life jackets, SUPs, air mattresses, shaded areas, cushions, and music are included. Snacks and drinks are part of the aperitif.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Only light activity—sailing, swimming, and relaxing onboard. No strenuous activity is necessary.

Can I join the tour if I don’t know how to sail?
Absolutely. The crew will give a brief sailing introduction and involve you in the process, making it accessible for beginners.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on weather conditions. If canceled, you can usually reschedule or get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

How long do I need to arrive before departure?
Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in and settle aboard comfortably.

This sunset sailing tour off Catania is a wonderful way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. It offers a genuine slice of Sicilian maritime life, balanced with scenic stops, a friendly crew, and local flavors. The small-group setting, combined with the opportunity to learn sailing basics and enjoy the gentle sea, makes it a memorable experience for those seeking relaxation and authentic enjoyment.

While it might not suit travelers seeking a high-adrenaline adventure or wheelchair accessibility, it’s perfect for anyone craving a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of local charm. The value for money is clear, given the inclusive nature of the experience—plus, the reviews consistently rave about the knowledgeable guides and stunning views.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to see Sicily from a different perspective, this tour offers a tranquil, beautiful day at sea — a true Mediterranean moment you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: