About this tour
Explore Sicily's Ionian coastline aboard a private skippered boat, dropping anchor at Isola Bella and neighbouring coves over two hours. You'll navigate past dramatic rock formations and sea caves—including the celebrated Blue Grotto where light refracts into vivid underwater colours—whilst sipping aperitifs and nibbling snacks. The route takes in Capo Taormina's exclusive headland and hidden grottos, with plenty of time to swim and snorkel in crystalline waters. Couples, families and small groups get their own vessel and crew.
Highlights
- Swim and snorkel in turquoise shallows around Isola Bella
- Navigate through the Blue Grotto's luminous sea cave
- Anchor at Love Grotto, a secluded cove
- View Faraglione rock formation with wild vegetation
- Aperitif and nibbles served throughout
- Skipper-led route to quieter spots tourists miss
- Onboard snorkelling masks and restroom facilities
What to expect
Your private boat departs with a local skipper who knows the quietest anchorages. The first stop is usually one of the grottos—either the romantic Love Grotto or the Blue Grotto, where you can observe how sunlight transforms the water into shades of jade and sapphire. You'll then cruise past Capo Taormina's clifftop hotels and the distinctive Faraglione, a tall sea stack crowned with shrubs. The main event is Isola Bella: a wild, uninhabited islet ringed by clear Mediterranean water perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Throughout, drinks and light snacks appear—alcoholic beverages for adults over 18, soft drinks for younger passengers. Plan on getting wet.
Good to know
Bring a light cover-up and sunscreen; there's shade but limited shelter. Snorkelling masks provided, though your own fins help. The boat has a toilet and WiFi. Infants sit on adult laps; prams/strollers work before boarding. Suitable for all fitness levels, but you'll need to climb in and out of the boat at anchor points.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.