Taormina is famous for its stunning vistas, ancient ruins, and lively atmosphere, but it’s also a fantastic spot for snorkeling. The clear waters along the Sicilian coast reveal bright fish, caves, and marine life that make every trip memorable. Among the many options, we love the Naxos: Taormina Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Prosecco, which combines excellent scenery, a relaxed vibe, and a bit of luxury with Prosecco and Sicilian sweets. The chance to explore sea caves like Grotta dell’Amore or spot filming locations from “White Lotus” makes it a standout experience.
For travelers looking for a shorter, more budget-friendly outing, the Mini-cruise Isola Bella with snorkeling from Giardini Naxos offers a quick splash in the marine reserve, perfect for a half-day adventure. Whether you want a full-day deep dive or a quick afternoon swim, Taormina’s coastline offers options for all interests.
Quick Overview
Our list features five top snorkeling tours, each with its own flavor:
- An all-inclusive boat tour with Prosecco, exploring caves and filming locations (Tour #1)
- A scenic boat ride to Isola Bella and the Blue Grotto with dolphin watching (Tour #2)
- A half-day tour with multiple stops at caves and bays, including an aperitif (Tour #3)
- A short, fun mini-cruise focusing on snorkeling and relaxation (Tour #4)
- A semi-private sailing trip with snorkeling, prosecco, and a laid-back atmosphere (Tour #5)
Now, let’s look at each in detail.
1. Naxos: Taormina Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Prosecco

This two-hour guided boat tour departs from Giardini Naxos and promises an exciting journey along Sicily’s coast. It features snorkeling gear and a lively atmosphere with fruit and Prosecco served onboard — perfect for relaxing after a swim. The tour explores enchanting sea caves like Grotta dell’Amore, Grotta Azzurra, and others, making it a favorite for those wanting to combine marine exploration with a taste of Sicilian hospitality.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of marine exploration, scenic stops, and cultural references. You’ll see filming locations from the hit TV series “White Lotus,” adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to your trip. The guides, with their local knowledge, make sure everyone enjoys the experience, whether you’re swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the scenery.
With excellent reviews averaging 4.9/5 from 225 reviews, this tour offers great value. The lively crew, flexible timing, and inclusions like snacks, drinks, and a sunset make it ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers seeking a lively, well-organized trip.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a lively, well-rounded experience with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, explore caves, and enjoy Sicilian treats.
2. Isola Bella-Blue Grotto: Boat Tour, Snorkeling & Aperitif

For about $53 per person, this two-hour excursion takes you to the iconic Isola Bella and the nearby Blue Grotto. The tour offers a chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore caves, and learn fascinating stories about the Sicilian coast from expert guides. It’s a more intimate experience, with the added thrill of dolphin spotting as you cruise along.
One of the most attractive features of this trip is the combination of snorkeling and sightseeing, with stops at shooting sites and stunning sunset views. The boats are modern and safe, making it easy to swim and explore the underwater life. The tour’s highlight is ending with a Sicilian aperitif at sunset, which makes for a truly memorable moment.
Guests consistently rate this tour 4.8/5, praising the friendly guides and beautiful scenery. It’s suited for families, couples, or anyone wanting a shorter but rich experience of Taormina’s coastline.
Bottom line: If your goal is a quick, scenic, and relaxed outing with snorkeling and a sunset drink, this tour hits the mark.
3. BOAT TOUR FROM TAORMINA & SNORKELING HALF-DAY

This half-day tour is a great choice for those wanting to see multiple bays and caves with several stops for snorkeling. It lasts around 4 hours and offers a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The tour departs from Boat Experience Taormina and hits spots like Porto, Mazzarò, Grotta Azzurra, and Isola Bella — each with its own special charm.
What makes this trip stand out is the variety of routes and stops. The included equipments make it easy for beginners to snorkel, and the aperitif with Prosecco, wine, and beer adds a nice touch of indulgence. The guides are attentive, sharing insights about the coastline’s geology and history.
Most reviews highlight the great value for money and friendly, knowledgeable crew. One reviewer said, “Great day with Davide,” appreciating the flexible and enjoyable experience. The trip is ideal for those who want to maximize their time on the water and visit many sites in half a day.
Bottom line: This tour offers multiple stops and a comprehensive look at Taormina’s coastline, perfect for active travelers who want variety.
4. Mini-cruise Isola Bella with snorkeling from Giardini Naxos

This two-hour mini-cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a quick, hassle-free introduction to Sicily’s marine life. Starting from Giardini Naxos Harbour, it takes you past Isola Bella and Giardini Naxos, giving plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling.
The tour’s main appeal is the chance to learn about the deep blue of the marine reserve and relax with drinks, fruits, and snacks on board. It’s a simple, straightforward trip that emphasizes swimming and unwinding. The tour is rated 4.6/5 by a handful of reviews, with travelers appreciating the informal vibe and beautiful waters.
Ideal for families or casual snorkelers, this tour is less about caves and more about fun in the sun. It’s a good option if your schedule is tight but you still want to experience Taormina’s underwater world.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time and want a relaxed, straightforward snorkeling outing, this is a good choice.
5. Sailing Giardini Naxos-Taormina: Boat, Snorkeling & Aperitif

For those who prefer a smaller group and a laid-back atmosphere, this 3.5-hour sailing trip offers personal service and a chance to snorkel near Isola Bella. Led by a friendly skipper, the tour features sailing past lava rock caves that formed over millennia, all while sipping Prosecco and tasting local treats.
The highlight is the combination of sailing, snorkeling, and relaxing in a intimate setting. The guide shares stories about the coast, making it more than just a swim — it’s a cultural experience. The tour’s smaller size (rated 4/5 from 4 reviews) means more personalized attention and space to move around.
Guests love the friendly atmosphere and “fantastic guides,” calling it “highly recommend.” Snorkeling occurs near Isola Bella, with options to try stand-up paddling for an extra thrill.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a more exclusive, relaxed experience with good company and beautiful scenery.
How to Choose Your Snorkeling Adventure in Taormina
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. The Naxos: Taormina Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Prosecco offers the most comprehensive experience, combining caves, scenery, and cultural spots. It’s perfect for those wanting a lively day with lots of highlights and a lively crew.
If you prefer a shorter, calmer outing, the Mini-cruise from Giardini Naxos is ideal, especially for families or casual snorkelers. For a more intimate experience with a personal touch, the Sailing trip is perfect, especially for smaller groups.
In terms of best times, spring and early fall tend to have calmer seas and fewer crowds, but summer is lively and warm—great for swimming. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the full-day trips, to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Taormina offers a rich selection of snorkeling tours suited to different tastes and schedules. Whether you want a full-day adventure exploring caves and filming locations or a quick sun-soaked swim, you’ll find a trip that fits. Consider your interests, check reviews, and book in advance — these tours tend to fill up quickly in high season. Dive in and enjoy Sicily’s underwater treasures!