Palermo: 9-hour dinghy tour, snorkel masks, drinks and snacks

Palermo: 9-hour dinghy tour, snorkel masks, drinks and snacks offers a fantastic way to explore Sicily’s breathtaking coastlines from the water. Whether you’re craving a day of adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this boat trip combines scenic views, marine exploration, and comfort in one package. The 8-meter inflatable boat with a powerful 300 HP engine promises a smooth ride along the coast, visiting some of Sicily’s most famous spots like Mondello, Sferracavallo, Isola delle Femmine, and the Capo Gallo marine protected area.

Three things we particularly love about this tour are the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, the variety of scenic stops packed into one day, and the well-equipped boat that makes for a comfortable experience. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling masks adds great value, making it a true all-in-one adventure.

One aspect to consider is the weather dependency—since the tour only cancels in case of bad weather, a clear day is a must for the best experience. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, want to see Sicily’s coast from a different perspective, or love snorkeling and swimming in pristine waters. Families, couples, or small groups will find this a flexible and enjoyable option.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal stops including Mondello, Sferracavallo, and Isola delle Femmine.
• Marine protected area exploration with visits to caves, coves, and a wreck.
• Comfortable boat setup with cushions, sunshade, and snorkeling gear.
• Flexible itinerary allowing extra time in preferred spots or shorter stays.
• All-inclusive experience with drinks, snacks, equipment, and fuel.
• Optional additional destinations like Cefalù or San Vito Lo Capo (additional arrangements needed).

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover Sicily’s Coast on a 9-Hour Dinghy Tour

This tour offers a lively and engaging way to experience Sicily’s coast beyond land-based sightseeing. Starting from Palermo’s Addaura port—just a short drive from the city—you’ll hop aboard an 8-meter inflatable boat equipped with a 300 HP Suzuki engine. The vessel is designed for comfort, with large cushions, a sunshade, and even USB sockets so you can charge your devices while enjoying the views. It’s a small-group experience, limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a less crowded feeling on the water.

What You Can Expect During the Day

The tour kicks off from the lively port of Addaura, where your skipper—known for their friendly professionalism—will set the tone for an unforgettable day. The first stop is the iconic Mondello beach, famous for its fine sands and turquoise waters that seem almost too perfect to be real. Here, travelers often mention how their photos didn’t do the beauty justice, and it’s a perfect spot for a quick swim or just soaking up the sun.

Next, the boat heads toward the Capo Gallo marine protected area, a highlight for many. Here, you’ll explore a landscape of rocks, sea caves, and quiet coves. The Grotta dell’Olio is a major attraction—reminiscent of Capri’s famous Blue Grotto—where you can marvel at the shimmering blue waters and the wreck of a Carthaginian ship. The waters here are a diver’s paradise, abundant with marine life and colorful corals.

The journey continues to the charming Sferracavallo, a fishing village that offers another stunning setting with rocky formations and clear, inviting waters. The seabed here is rocky and deep, making it ideal for snorkeling and discovering marine flora and fauna. Reviewers highlight how the rocky seabed holds “corals of rare beauty,” adding a splash of vibrant color beneath the surface.

Finally, the boat makes a stop at Isola delle Femmine, a small island with beautiful beaches and calm waters perfect for a final swim. On all stops, the boat provides snorkeling masks, floating tubes, and showers, so you can enjoy the water comfortably.

The Flexibility and Comfort of the Tour

One of the tour’s caveats is that it’s not rigid—your skipper is happy to customize the timing at each stop, extending your time where you want or moving on if you’d prefer. This flexibility is ideal if you’re keen to linger at a favorite spot or want to keep the day moving at a brisk pace.

The boat itself is well-equipped, with USB sockets for charging, a music system, and comfortable cushions on the deck, making even the longer stretches enjoyable. There is also a large sun canopy, so you can avoid too much sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day.

Food and Beverage Options

The tour includes drinks and snacks, which are perfect for keeping energy up during the day. If you want a proper meal, you can either notify the skipper in advance to secure a restaurant reservation or bring your own lunch. Some reviewers appreciated the option to have lunch served directly onboard, which adds to the relaxed, vacation vibe.

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Visiting Additional Destinations

For those interested in extending their exploration beyond the standard stops, the tour offers optional visits to places like Cefalù, San Vito Lo Capo, or Castellammare del Golfo. These extra options come with prior arrangements and may involve additional costs, but they can transform a day trip into a more comprehensive Sicilian adventure.

The Practicalities and Cost-Effectiveness

This 9-hour tour is priced to include almost everything—fuel, snorkeling gear, drinks, snacks, and the boat itself—making it a great value considering the extensive sightseeing and activities packed into one day. The small group size ensures personal attention, and the flexible timing helps customize your experience.

Since the tour departs from and returns to the same port, logistics are straightforward. It’s recommended to bring your passport or ID, as well as a towel, especially if you plan to swim. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues, as the boat and activity involve some physical movement and balance.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour only cancels in cases of unfavorable weather, so it’s wise to check the forecast before booking. If the weather cooperates, you can expect clear, calm seas and plenty of opportunities to take photos, snorkel, and relax.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This boat tour suits travelers who love scenic coastal views and marine activities. It’s perfect for those wanting a day of sun and sea without the hassle of land transfers or complicated arrangements. Small groups and the chance to customize stops make it especially appealing for families, couples, or friends eager to explore Sicily from the water in comfort.

People seeking a relaxed yet adventurous day will find plenty to love here. The stops are well-chosen and offer a mix of lively beaches, tranquil coves, and captivating caves. If you’re interested in snorkeling and swimming in pristine waters, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This 9-hour dinghy tour from Palermo offers a well-rounded experience of Sicily’s stunning coastline. From the iconic Mondello beach to the mysterious caves of Capo Gallo, it combines scenic vistas with marine exploration, all aboard a comfortable and well-equipped boat. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear adds value to what is already a comprehensive package.

It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Sicily’s natural beauty from the water without the fuss of organizing multiple excursions. Small groups and flexible stops mean you can tailor the experience to your preferences, making it a highly personalized adventure. Whether you’re after a relaxing day under the sun or an active exploration of marine life, this tour provides an authentic taste of Sicily’s natural charm.

For those with a sense of adventure, an appreciation for stunning scenery, and a love of the sea, this boat trip promises a memorable day on Sicily’s most charming coastlines.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from and returns to the port of Addaura, near Palermo.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the boat, fuel, snorkeling masks, floating tubes, snacks, drinks, showers, and music.

Are there options to visit additional locations?
Yes, optional visits to places like Cefalù, San Vito Lo Capo, or Castellammare del Golfo are available with prior arrangements and additional costs.

Can I bring my own lunch?
Absolutely. You can notify the skipper in advance to reserve a table at a restaurant or bring your own picnic.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 5 years old, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, ID, and possibly a hat or sunglasses. Sunscreen is advised.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is canceled only if weather conditions are unfavorable, ensuring safety and comfort.

Can I customize the stops or the day’s pace?
Yes, the skipper is available to extend or shorten stops based on your preferences, making the experience tailored to you.

In summary, this boat tour strikes a great balance between scenic beauty, marine fun, and comfort. It’s a fantastic way to see Sicily’s coast from a different perspective, especially if you love snorkeling or just want to relax on a boat with spectacular views. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or friends, it offers a memorable slice of Sicilian waters that’s well worth the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: