Taormina: Sailing boat tour with aperitif included

Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours of sailing along Sicily’s eastern coast
• Stops include: Spisone, Mazzarò Bay, Isola Bella, and Villagonia
• Highlights: Snorkeling, scenic photo stops, and an included aperitif
• Boat options: Bavaria 46 “Fred” or Dufour 41, both with a maximum of 12 participants
• Guide: Expert crew fluent in Italian and English, with knowledgeable commentary
• Reviews: Overall positive, with a 4.3/5 rating based on 30 reviews

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Discovering Taormina’s Coast on a Sailing Boat

This 4-hour sailing tour departs from Giardini Naxos, offering a well-rounded experience of Sicily’s stunning eastern coastline. The tour provides an engaging way to see the area’s most beautiful bays and landmarks, with the added bonus of a delicious aperitif served on board. The trip is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of scenic cruising, light activity like snorkeling, and relaxing moments with high-quality local products.

The small group setting—limited to 10 participants—encourages a personal atmosphere, guided by expert crew members who are fluent in Italian and English. This tour suits travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, beautiful landscapes, and authentic Sicilian food and wine.

Sailing Along the East Coast of Sicily

Starting at the Porto di Giardini Naxos, the boat heads out toward Spisone for a 30-minute sail. During this time, the crew explains the basics of sailing, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The vessel then continues its voyage along the coast, revealing picturesque scenes and providing scenic views that capture the essence of Sicily’s maritime charm.

This cruising segment offers a chance for guests to enjoy the sea breeze and take in the coastline’s natural beauty, with many photo opportunities along the way. The ship’s comfortable setup makes the journey itself a highlight, especially with the gentle motion of the boat and panoramic scenery.

Snorkeling at Isola Bella and Mazzarò Bay

One of the trip’s key moments is a snorkeling stop at Isola Bella, connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand. The crystal-clear waters and volcanic rock formations make this spot ideal for exploring underwater life. The provided snorkeling equipment allows guests to view the seabed’s vibrant marine life without hassle.

Before reaching Isola Bella, the vessel makes a photo stop at Mazzarò Bay. Surrounded by rocky promontories covered with Mediterranean shrubs, Mazzarò offers a chance for memorable photos and a brief visit to the bay’s scenic surroundings. The visit to Mazzarò lasts about an hour, giving enough time to enjoy the landscape and take pictures.

Scenic Blue Grotto and the Aperitif in Villagonia Bay

The tour’s highlight is a relaxing stop at the Blue Grotto, where a 1.5-hour aperitif awaits. The crew serves a platter of Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses, along with seasonal fresh fruit, local white wine, and water. This delicious onboard selection features high-quality local products, adding an authentic taste of Sicily.

During this break, guests can unwind and admire the views while enjoying their drinks and snacks. It’s also an excellent opportunity for a final swim in the calm bay of Villagonia, before heading back to the port.

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The Boats and Crew: Comfort and Expertise

The tour uses either a Bavaria 46 “Fred” or a Dufour 41, both designed to accommodate up to 12 guests comfortably. The choice of boat depends on availability and group size, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Throughout the trip, the crew’s expertise shine through as they handle the vessel with confidence, even in rougher seas. Several reviews praise guides like Emilio and Alessandro for their knowledge and personable approach, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Detailed Itinerary: From Giardini Naxos to Isola Bella

The tour begins at the Porto di Giardini Naxos, where everyone boards the boat. The first stop at Spisone lasts about 30 minutes, with a gentle sail that introduces guests to sailing basics. Next, a photo stop and visit at Mazzarò Bay take around 60 minutes, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.

Then, the vessel moves to Isola Bella, where snorkel gear is used to explore the waters, followed by a scenic cruise towards the Blue Grotto for the aperitif. The final stop in Villagonia Bay provides a peaceful setting for relaxation and swimming before returning to the port.

Practical Information: Group Size, Languages, and Cancellations

With a small group of up to 10 participants, this tour maintains an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. It is suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to the boat’s setup.

The tour is conducted in Italian and English, with live guides providing commentary throughout. Guests can reserve without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Real-World Feedback: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The knowledgeable guides and scenic views are frequently praised, with many reviews highlighting the expertise of guides like Emilio and Alessandro. The delicious aperitif, featuring local products and wines, receives particular acclaim, making the experience feel genuinely authentic.

While the majority of feedback is positive, some mention that timing and cleanliness may vary, and a few note that guides’ English skills could improve. The tour excels at offering a relaxed day at sea with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and enjoying Sicily’s natural beauty.

Final Thoughts on the Taormina Sailing Experience

This 4-hour sailing tour from Giardini Naxos provides a well-balanced mix of scenic cruising, snorkeling, and tasty local cuisine. The small group setting and expert crew make it a comfortable and engaging way to explore Sicily’s coast.

The inclusion of a delicious aperitif with high-quality local products adds a layer of authenticity that many will appreciate. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a relaxed day at sea, especially if they want to combine sightseeing with light activity and good food.

While not suitable for individuals with mobility challenges or those seeking a purely sailing experience without motorized parts, this tour suits travelers who value knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and a taste of Sicilian hospitality in a small group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from departure to return.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Spisone, Mazzarò Bay, Isola Bella, Blue Grotto for the aperitif, and Villagonia Bay.

Are snorkeling masks provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided on board for exploring the waters at Isola Bella.

What is served during the aperitif?
The aperitif features Sicilian cold cuts and cheeses, seasonal fruit, local white wine, and water.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the boat setup. Age restrictions aren’t specified, but small children should be supervised.

Can I cancel the booking later?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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