The Province of Palermo offers some of Sicily’s most memorable tours and experiences, thanks to its stunning coastline, clear waters, and access to beautiful caves and islands. Whether you’re drawn to relaxing boat trips or exploring hidden coves by dinghy, there’s something to delight every traveler. We especially love the Palermo: Luxury Boat Tour with Snacks and Snorkeling for its blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and personalized touches. This tour offers a relaxing cruise with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling—perfect for those wanting to experience Palermo from the water without sacrificing comfort.
For those who prefer a more hands-on adventure, the Boat Tour: Island hopping by dinghy with cave visits and snorkeling offers a lively, full-day exploration of Sicily’s coast and islands. Meanwhile, the Rubber dinghy tour: tour of the island of Ustica provides an intimate, high-energy way to see caves and swim in secluded coves, ideal for travelers looking for a quick, fun excursion.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best tours in Palermo province includes options for different tastes and styles. For a luxurious, laid-back day on the water, check out the Palermo: Luxury Boat Tour with Snacks and Snorkeling. If you’re interested in island hopping and cave exploration, the Boat Tour: Island hopping by dinghy is perfect for spending a full day on the water. And for a shorter, energetic outing, the Rubber dinghy tour of Ustica offers a fast-paced adventure in stunning surroundings.
1. Palermo: Luxury Boat Tour with Snacks and Snorkeling
At number one, this luxury boat tour offers an elegant way to explore Palermo’s coastline. Over four hours, you’ll cruise past caves and coves that are inaccessible from land, with the chance to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The tour departs from Scalo dell’Arenella, 66, and includes stops at popular spots like the Gulf of Mondello and Capo Gallo Reserve.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on comfort and personalized service. The boat is described as new, clean, and cozy, with an intimate atmosphere. The itinerary includes several stops for swimming, snorkeling, and marine life viewing—each one carefully chosen for its beauty and tranquility. Snacks, drinks, and music set a relaxed tone, making it ideal for families or couples seeking a laid-back day on the water. Guests consistently praise the friendliness of the crew, especially skipper Gaspare, who goes above and beyond to ensure everyone feels safe and included. One review highlights that “the swimming and snorkeling spots were absolutely stunning,” and the boat’s comfort was a bonus.
Bottom Line: If you want a private, luxury experience with plenty of swimming and a relaxed vibe, this tour offers excellent value. Just check the availability and start times since it varies seasonally.
2. Boat Tour: Island hopping by dinghy with cave visits and snorkeling
Second on our list is a full-day island hopping tour that focuses on exploring Sicily’s coast and smaller islands via a nimble dinghy. This tour is designed for travelers who crave a more active, flexible adventure. It lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes at different times of the day, with expert guides leading the way.
The tour includes visits to caves and swimming stops in the most beautiful coves, with vehicles that are specially adapted to access all caves safely. The experience is praised for its professionalism and the ability of guides to make each stop memorable. The itinerary emphasizes discovering hidden spots, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy snorkeling, exploring underwater caves, and taking photos in less crowded settings. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude ensure that even first-timers feel confident and engaged.
While this tour doesn’t include detailed reviews, the consistent praise for the professionalism of the guides and the accessibility of caves shows it’s a reliable choice. It’s best suited for those comfortable with boats and looking for a full-day adventure without the luxury focus.
Bottom Line: For an authentic, active exploration of Sicily’s coastline and caves, this tour provides a hands-on experience that’s great for adventurous travelers who want guidance and access to secluded spots.
3. Rubber dinghy tour: tour of the island of Ustica with visit to caves and swimming
Lastly, for a quick, lively trip, the Rubber dinghy tour of Ustica offers an exciting 2.5-hour exploration. Price at around $35 per person, it’s an excellent choice for those on a budget or short on time but still eager for a taste of Sicily’s underwater scenery.
Led by licensed skippers with extensive experience, this tour visits caves and allows swimming in coves that are inaccessible by land or larger boats. The boats are small but approved for 12 people, giving a more intimate feel. The itinerary begins at Via Cristoforo Colombo, 16, and the tour includes snorkeling and opportunities for sailing and swimming in pristine waters.
Reviewers mention that the skippers are highly experienced, and the access to caves is a major highlight. It’s perfect for travelers who want a fast-paced, fun outing that combines exploration and swimming in beautiful, secluded spots. Because it’s shorter and less costly, it’s especially suitable for families or groups looking for a quick adventure.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a lively, affordable tour with expert guides and direct access to caves, this Ustica trip hits the mark. It’s perfect for a flexible, active outing.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding among these options, consider your priorities—luxury comfort, active exploration, or quick adventure. For a relaxed day on a well-equipped boat with good amenities, the Palermo luxury boat tour is ideal. If you’re craving a full-day, guided exploration of caves and coves with a focus on accessibility, the island hopping by dinghy suits active travelers. For a short, budget-friendly experience in Ustica, the dinghy tour delivers quick fun and stunning scenery.
Practical considerations include your budget, available time, and whether you prefer a relaxing or energetic experience. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours during peak season, and always check availability before planning.
In summary, the Palermo province offers a variety of boat-based experiences that showcase its stunning coastline and clear waters. Whether you opt for a luxurious cruise, a full-day island hopping adventure, or a quick snorkeling trip, each provides a unique way to enjoy Sicily’s marine beauty. For a relaxing day, the first tour shines; for active exploration, the second is perfect; and for a brief yet fun outing, the third hits the spot. Whichever you choose, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.