Set sail from Catania on a 4-hour boat trip along the Cyclops Riviera, with Mount Etna as your backdrop. Swim in crystal-clear coves, snorkel at the Caves of Ulysses, sail past the Norman Castle of Acicastello and reach the Cyclops Islands — all wrapped up with a aperitif on board.
Duration
4 hours
Difficulty
Easy
Tour type
Boat & Sail
Highlights
01Sail aboard a Sun Odyssey 44 yacht with a professional skipper
02
Departure and return from the Port of Catania, with views of Mount Etna from the sea
03Swim and snorkel at the Caves of Ulysses, beneath dramatic volcanic cliffs
04Sail past the Norman Castle of Acicastello and its rare "lava pillows"
05
Reach Aci Trezza and the Cyclops Islands Marine Protected Area
06Enjoy an aperitif on board and Sicilian snacks
07Small groups — max. 10 guests
Tour details
Full descriptionThe programme, step by step
Full description
Discover Sicily from a different angle on a half-day sailing tour departing from Catania. Aboard our Sun Odyssey 44 yacht, you’ll leave the Port of Catania with Mount Etna rising behind you and set course along the legendary Cyclops Riviera (Riviera dei Ciclopi).
Your first stop is the Caves of Ulysses, carved into a stunning wall of volcanic rock. Here the seabed shifts through shades of blue, green and turquoise in remarkably clear water — perfect for your first swim of the day, or for snorkeling if you bring your own mask and fins.
Sailing on toward Aci Trezza, you’ll pass beneath the Norman Castle of Acicastello, with the chance to dive into the sea framed by the castle. Below it you’ll spot the distinctive “lava pillows”, formed when molten rock from underwater volcanic eruptions cooled rapidly on contact with the sea.
At Aci Trezza, in the heart of the Cyclops Islands Marine Protected Area, the boat pauses: step ashore for a short stroll through the seaside village, or take another swim. Back on board, you’ll be treated to an aperitif of white wine and a selection of Sicilian appetizers.
On the way back to Catania, weather permitting, there’s time for one last dip in the sea — with the silhouette of Mount Etna on the horizon. The tour ends back at the Port of Catania.
Good to know: bring sunscreen, swimwear and a beach towel. A light windbreaker and a hat are handy once offshore, and if you’re prone to seasickness, come prepared. Snorkeling gear (mask and fins) is not provided.
What is included6 items
Information / Included
Including competent English speaking guide
Including White Wine Aperitif and Appetisers on Board
Explanation of Sailing Concepts
Sailing, bathing and diving opportunities
Opportunity for snorkelling (with own equipment)
Pickup service on request
Useful informationChildren under 12 years · Availability
Other information
The tour is available for every age.
It may seem obvious, but we always remember: bring everything you need to enjoy a day at the beach and in the sun. Therefore, your backpack should not be without sunscreen, beach towels and swimwear.
Going offshore, the wind may pick up; having a windbreaker and hat with you will be useful and comforting.
If you like snorkelling, don’t hesitate to bring masks and finson boardour sailboat.
If you fear that you might get seasick, equip yourself in advance with anything that might alleviate the discomfort during the boat trip: anti-nausea pills and/or patches.
Children under 12 yearsPay 20 euro less.
AvailabilityFrom April to October
Pickup and private tour
Other pickup locations
On request, with a supplement, it is possible to request pick-up service also outside of Catania / Taormina. Other pickup examples: Syracuse, Noto, Messina and more.
A different and far more peaceful way to see this stretch of coast than from land. The skipper was excellent company and clearly loves the area. Swimming beneath the Norman castle was a real moment. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Catania.
Relaxing four hours on the Riviera
Verified
Four relaxing hours along the Riviera dei Ciclopi. The stop at Aci Trezza was lovely and we even had time for a short walk in the village. Back on board the Sicilian appetisers were delicious. Professional skipper, beautiful boat, can't fault it.
Wonderful birthday surprise
Verified
Did this for my wife's birthday and it was a wonderful surprise. The skipper found us quiet spots to swim, the wine was chilled and the views of the coast and the volcano were unbeatable. Worth every euro.
Clearest water I've swum in
Verified
The water around the Cyclops Islands is some of the clearest I've ever swum in. Loved drifting in the marine protected area with Etna in the background. The crew were warm and the whole afternoon felt unhurried and special.