Why Taormina is a fantastic place for sailing experiences might seem obvious at first glance, but it’s the details that make these tours truly special. The clearest waters, stunning coastlines, and the chance to spot dolphins or explore hidden coves set Taormina apart from other Mediterranean destinations. Among the options, the Giardini Naxos Dolphin Catamaran Sunset Tour stands out for its large, comfortable boat and authentic regional food, making it a favorite for those seeking a relaxed, scenic cruise. For a more active day with snorkeling and paddling, the Sailing Giardini Naxos-Taormina: Boat, Snorkeling & Aperitif offers a smaller group feel and personalized service. And for travelers craving ultimate luxury, the All Inclusive Taormina Bay private yacht delivers a seamless, indulgent experience. Lastly, the Taormina: Sailing boat tour with aperitif included combines classic sights like Isola Bella with a high-quality local food experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore each of these top sailing experiences in detail to help you pick the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Giardini Naxos: Dolphin Catamaran Sunset Tour with Aperetif
At number 1, this dolphin catamaran sunset tour combines the thrill of spotting wild dolphins with the tranquility of watching the sun set over Taormina. The tour uses the largest boat in the area, providing plenty of space to relax and enjoy the ride. The itinerary starts at Porto di Giardini Naxos, then heads out on the water for about 45 minutes, giving you a good chance to settle into the stunning coastline.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of authentic regional food and a scenic photo stop at Isola Bella. The final stretch includes dolphin watching, which guests rave about — “dolphins were elegant as well as a beautiful sunset” sums it up well. The boat’s large size makes it ideal for families or those wanting more room to stretch out, while the scenic views and regional aperitif add a touch of class. The tour lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a great option if you want a memorable sunset experience without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who love wildlife, scenic sunsets, and a relaxed, social atmosphere on a spacious boat.
2. Sailing Giardini Naxos-Taormina: Boat, Snorkeling & Aperitif
Second on our list is a smaller, more intimate sailing tour that focuses on underwater fun and local flavors. Starting from either Parco Archeologico Taormina or Porticciolo Saya Giardini Naxos, this tour offers around 3.5 hours of sailing, perfect for those who want to combine relaxation with active aquatic experiences.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to snorkel at Isola Bella, swim in crystal-clear waters, and even try stand-up paddling — ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. The skipper shares insights into the lava rock caves and their formation, adding an educational element. Guests mention the “fantastic guides” and “wonderful time,” emphasizing personalized service. The highlight is the refreshing prosecco and local treats on board, making it a laid-back, fun day out.
This trip is best suited for travelers who want a balance of activity and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to cool off in the water. Its slightly shorter duration and smaller group size make it more personal, but it might not be ideal if you’re seeking a large boat or a sunset cruise.
Bottom Line: A great pick for active travelers who want to snorkel, paddle, and enjoy authentic local food on a relaxed sailing trip.
3. All Inclusive Taormina Bay private luxurious yacht
Number 3 on the list is a luxury private yacht experience that redefines what sailing can be in Taormina. For about 4 hours, this all-inclusive yacht whisks you around Taormina Bay, with aperitif featuring Sicilian appetizers, seasonal fruit, prosecco, and soft drinks included. The yacht itself offers a level of comfort and privacy that’s hard to match — think plush seating, spacious decks, and personalized service.
During the trip, you’ll visit Taormina Mare, Bella Isola, and enjoy swimming in the clear waters of the coast. The focus here is on exclusivity and relaxation, making it ideal for special occasions or travelers who simply want to indulge. Travelers rave about the exceptional value for the 4-hour experience, with the chance to see the coast from a private vantage point set against a stunning backdrop.
What makes this yacht tour different is its luxury level and custom itinerary. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a romantic getaway or small groups seeking privacy. The potential drawback is the higher price point, but for those wanting a seamless, all-inclusive day, the experience delivers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a luxurious, private day on the water with premium amenities and stunning views.
4. Taormina: Sailing boat tour with aperitif included
On our final spot, a 4-hour sailing tour departing from Giardini Naxos offers a well-rounded experience of Sicily’s east coast. Starting at the Porto di Giardini Naxos, the boat cruises in the Spisone Sailing area before heading to Mazzarò, with a photo stop and exploration time.
This tour emphasizes visiting Isola Bella, with opportunities for snorkeling and scenic views. The highlight is the aperitif in the bay of Taormina, featuring high-quality local products, accompanied by expert crew members who share insights about the coastline and caves like the Blue Grotto. Guests consistently praise the delicious food and the friendly crew, with some mentioning that the snorkeling gear was available and easy to use.
Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, combining sightseeing, water activities, and a tasty local feast. It’s slightly longer than other options, making it a solid choice for those wanting to maximize their time on the water.
Bottom Line: A versatile tour that balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and local gastronomy in a friendly, relaxed setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sailing Experience
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities. If you love wildlife and sunset scenery, the Dolphin Catamaran Sunset Tour is a top pick. For those wanting active water fun with personalized service, the Boat, Snorkeling & Aperitif offers great value. If luxury and privacy are your goals, the private yacht delivers a seamless, indulgent day. Finally, the comprehensive sailing tour with aperitif offers a good balance of sightseeing, water activities, and regional flavors.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and whether you prefer small-group intimacy or larger, social boats. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Taormina offers a rich variety of sailing experiences suited to different tastes and budgets. Whether you want to relax on a spacious catamaran watching the sunset, snorkel in clear waters, indulge on a private yacht, or explore the coast with a guided tour, there’s something for all. For a family-friendly adventure, the dolphin tour is ideal. If romance or a special celebration is on your mind, look to the luxury yacht. And if active exploration combined with regional flavors appeals, the snorkeling tour fits perfectly.
Whatever your choice, these tours provide a fantastic way to enjoy Sicily’s stunning waters and coastline. Be sure to book early, check current availability, and enjoy the incredible sailing opportunities that await in Taormina.