Taormina is famous for its stunning coastline, dramatic sea caves, and panoramic views of Mount Etna. While exploring this charming Sicilian town on land is a delight, the real magic happens on the water. Whether you want to snorkel in clear waters, look for dolphins at sunset, or visit the iconic Isola Bella, boat tours offer a fresh perspective that’s hard to beat. Some tours stand out for their inclusions — like the Naxos: Taormina Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Prosecco — which combines a lively cruise, marine exploration, and Sicilian bubbly, making it a top pick for its reviews and experience.
For those seeking a full-day immersion, the Taormina and Isola Bella Day Tour Including Boat Tour combines land sightseeing with a spectacular boat ride, perfect for history and culture lovers. Meanwhile, the Private Godfather and Taormina Boat Tour with Appetizer and Pasta offers an exclusive experience for those who want a personalized day, complete with a visit to the film-famous towns of Savoca and a scenic coast cruise.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of the top 15 boat tours and cruises in Taormina, each with their own charm, unique features, and practical details to help you choose the perfect outing.
1. Naxos: Taormina Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Prosecco
At number 1 on our list, this tour is a lively mix of cruise, snorkeling, and Sicilian bubbles. Starting from Giardini Naxos, it includes fruit and prosecco as you glide along the coast, exploring sea caves like Grotta dell’Amore, Grotta Azzurra, and others. What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of snorkeling gear, giving you a chance to learn about the vibrant marine life of the Isola Bella Nature Reserve. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.9/5 rating from 225 travelers, praising the friendly crew and beautiful scenery.
The itinerary includes stops at famous filming locations from the TV series “White Lotus,” adding a fun cultural twist. Expect approximately 2 hours of cruising, snorkeling, and relaxing with Prosecco and sweets. The guides are knowledgeable, and the boat is spacious, making it ideal for those who want a fun, relaxed experience in beautiful surroundings. The trip’s value lies in its mix of adventure and comfort, perfect for a half-day outing.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, well-reviewed tour with snorkeling, caves, and Prosecco, this is a great pick. It’s perfect for those who enjoy socializing and underwater exploration in a scenic setting.
2. Giardini Naxos: Taormina & Isola Cruise Bella with Aperitif
Number 2 offers a straightforward 2-hour boat ride across Naxos Bay, with the chance to spot dolphins and enjoy a Prosecco aperitif. This tour hits the mark for its simplicity and value — at around $43 per person — and is ideal if you’re short on time but want to see Isola Bella and the Blue Grotto.
The boat glides past Mazzarò Bay, with stops for swimming in protected waters, making for a refreshing break. Reviewers love the relaxed pace and the opportunity to capture pictures of Taormina’s coastline. The guide will share stories about the area, adding context to the scenery. With good chances of seeing dolphins and a friendly crew, it’s an enjoyable, no-fuss option.
Bottom Line: Perfect for quick, scenic views with some swimming and dolphin-spotting. Ideal for travelers on a budget or short on time but wanting a taste of Sicily’s coast.
3. Taormina and Isola Bella Day Tour Including Boat Tour
This 7-hour tour combines land exploration of Taormina with a visit to Isola Bella via boat. Starting with a private bus, it’s suited for those who want a rundown, with the flexibility to learn about the town’s Greek-Roman theater, shops, and views of Mount Etna. The highlight is the boat trip to Isola Bella, where you’ll see Baia di Naxos and the Grotta Azzurra.
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 102 reviews, travelers praise the mix of history, culture, and scenery. The boat ride provides stunning views and the chance to swim in crystal waters, while the walking tour offers local insights. It’s a longer, more immersive experience, perfect if you want a full day of discovery with a balanced mix of history and marine beauty.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a full-day experience combining sightseeing and boat adventures, especially if you like guided tours and want to explore both land and sea.
4. Taormina: Boat Tour with Aperitif on Isola Bella
Number 4 is a 2-hour cruise from Giardini Naxos to Isola Bella, focusing on relaxation, snorkeling, and local flavors. Starting early, this tour emphasizes free time to snorkel in the nature reserve, coupled with a delicious aperitif offering Sicilian treats. It’s a simple, straightforward trip with high ratings — 4.2/5 from 647 reviews — highlighting the friendly guides and beautiful coastline.
What makes this stand out is the combination of sightseeing and leisure — you get plenty of time to snorkel and relax. The boat’s size and crew make for a comfortable experience, and the proximity to famous coastlines ensures stunning views. If you’re looking for a short, relaxing escape with good food and underwater fun, this is a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a short, relaxing cruise with snorkeling and tasty Sicilian snacks, especially if you value comfort and simplicity.
5. Isola Bella-Blue Grotto: Boat Tour, Snorkeling & Aperitif
Number 5 stands out for its focus on caves and snorkeling. This 2-hour tour takes you to the Blue Grotto and surrounding caves, with guides sharing stories about the coast. It’s well-rated at 4.8/5, with many travelers mentioning the dolphin sightings and the beautiful, crystal waters perfect for snorkeling.
This trip emphasizes exploring caves, spotting marine life, and relaxing with an aperitif at sunset. The boats are modern and safe, designed for swimming and snorkeling, making it ideal for those who love underwater exploration. The tour’s focus on dolphin watching and caves makes it both exciting and photogenic.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurers wanting to see caves and spot dolphins while snorkeling — an ideal mix for nature lovers.
6. Half Day Sailing Tour Taormina Bay
Number 6 offers a more intimate sailing experience lasting about 4-5 hours. With just nine people on board, it’s a small-group tour focusing on sailing along the coast of Taormina, stopping for swimming and snorkeling at spots like the Blue Grotto and Isola Bella. The reviews highlight the expertise of the skipper, Lulu, and the beautiful scenery.
The tour is perfect for relaxing in a quiet environment, learning sailing basics, and exploring less crowded beaches. It’s a good option if you want more personalized attention and the chance to swim in turquoise waters away from the crowds. The trip balances adventure, relaxation, and learning.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a small, relaxed sailing trip with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in peaceful bays.
7. Boat trips with Ocirne in the Bay of Naxos and Isola Bella
Rated 4.9/5, this 2-hour tour departs from Giardini Naxos and explores the Bay of Naxos, Mount Etna, and dolphin sightings. The main draw is the dazzling sunset scenery, with the boat highlighting sea stacks, caves, and the UNESCO-listed Isola Bella.
The tour’s relaxed pace, combined with dolphin spotting and scenic views, makes it popular. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a short, picturesque ride with some wildlife spotting and excellent photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a sunset cruise with dolphin opportunities and iconic coastline views.
8. From Volcano to Sea: Private Tour of Etna and Taormina Boat Tour with tasting
This is the only private tour in the list, blending an up-close experience of Mount Etna with a coastal boat ride. Starting with a private vehicle, you ascend to Europe’s highest active volcano, then descend to the coast for a boat tour of Isola Bella and nearby caves. The tour includes arancini tasting and drinks, making it a gourmet adventure.
With 17 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, travelers praise the personalized service and the unique combination of land and sea. It’s perfect for discerning travelers who want exclusivity and a tailored experience. The price reflects its private nature, but the customized itinerary and local insights are worth it.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a private, curated experience combining Sicily’s volcanoes and coastline with delicious food.
9. Taormina: Dolphin Tour and Sunset Aperitif Boat Tour
Rated 4.9/5, this tour offers a 2-hour sunset cruise with dolphin watching and aperitifs. It’s a perfect way to end a day — passing landmarks like Isola Bella and Taormina at dusk.
The scenic views and dolphin sightings make it memorable. Passengers enjoy relaxing with Sicilian snacks while watching the sunset, blending wildlife spotting with a peaceful evening. It’s ideal for couples or anyone wanting a romantic, laid-back experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for romantics and sunset seekers who also enjoy dolphin watching.
10. From Taormina: Isola Bella Mini Cruise
Rated 4.3/5, this 2-hour cruise offers a quick but fulfilling trip along Taormina’s coast. It includes a visit to Isola Bella, snorkeling, and the chance to relax in the crystal waters. Reviews mention Angelo, the attentive guide, and the combination of history and fun.
It’s good for travelers who want a short, easy-going trip with snorkeling, especially if they like learning about local legends and the coastline’s caves. The boat is comfortable, and the trip is well-paced.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a brief, relaxing trip with snorkeling and scenic views in a friendly environment.
11. Giardini Naxos: Dolphin Catamaran Sunset Tour with Aperetif
Rated 4.2/5, this large catamaran offers a dolphin search at sunset with plenty of space onboard. Starting from Giardini Naxos, it combines scenic cruising with regional food and drinks. Travelers love the spaciousness and the chance to see dolphins in the evening light.
The tour emphasizes relaxing while watching the coast at dusk, with the possibility of seeing dolphins and enjoying a cheese platter. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a less crowded, more comfortable experience with wildlife sightings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a luxurious, spacious sunset cruise with dolphin spotting and regional snacks.
12. Taormina: Coastline Boat Tour with Aperitif and Snorkeling
Rated 4.9/5, this 2-hour tour focuses on coastline exploration and snorkeling at key spots like Isola Bella. The trip includes an aperitif and a guided tour of caves and beaches, making it a well-rounded adventure.
Passengers praise the expert skipper, the crystal waters, and the opportunity to learn about local myths and history. It’s perfect if you want a combination of sightseeing and underwater fun in a smaller group setting.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want to combine cultural insights with snorkeling and scenic cruising.
13. Naxos: Cruise on Isola Bella with swimming, fruit & prosecco
Rated 4.3/5, this short 2-hour cruise offers a relaxing way to enjoy Isola Bella, with swimming and snacks included. It’s appreciated for its laid-back vibe and beautiful coast.
The focus is on sunbathing, swimming, and sampling local produce, making it ideal for travelers who want a casual, scenic experience. The reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere and the delicious fruit and prosecco.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a casual, relaxing day on the water with plenty of swimming and snacks.
14. Private Godfather and Taormina Boat Tour with Appetizer and Pasta
Rated 4.5/5, this private experience offers a customized tour to Savoca — the setting for “The Godfather” — plus a scenic coast cruise. It includes a delicious Sicilian lunch and a boat ride around Isola Bella.
Travelers love the personalized service and the chance to see film-famous towns. It’s perfect for food lovers, film fans, and those who want a tailored day out.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving a private, film-themed experience with local cuisine and scenic views.
15. Mini-cruise Isola Bella with Snorkeling from Giardini Naxos
Rated 4.6/5, this 2-hour cruise provides a short, enjoyable trip to Isola Bella, emphasizing snorkeling and relaxing. It’s praised for its friendly crew and beautiful waters.
Ideal if you want a quick escape and enjoy underwater exploration, it features snacks, drinks, and the chance to swim in the deep blue.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a brief, fun-filled water adventure with snorkeling.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in Taormina
When selecting your perfect boat experience, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For example, if you love snorkeling and caves, the Naxos: Snorkeling & Prosecco Trip offers a lively, social atmosphere. If a private, tailored day appeals, the Private Etna & Coastline Tour allows you to customize your experience.
For those wanting a quick overview, the shorter tours like the Giardini Naxos: Isola Bella & Blue Grotto are ideal. Travelers with more time might prefer the full-day sightseeing and boat tour, combining land and sea adventures.
Book early during peak season (spring and summer), especially for private options or popular tours with high ratings. Always check availability and weather conditions, as Sicily’s coast is best enjoyed on sunny days.
Final Thoughts
Taormina offers a diverse array of boat tours and cruises suitable for every taste and budget. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling in crystal waters, spotting dolphins at sunset, or visiting film-famous towns, there’s a tour that fits. For a social, lively experience, the Naxos: Snorkeling and Prosecco Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a more exclusive and personalized trip, the private Etna and coast tour is unmatched.
Remember, booking early can ensure you get your preferred date and avoid missing out on the most popular trips during high season. Whichever you choose, a day on Sicily’s waters promises unforgettable views, refreshing swims, and memories to cherish.