Catania: Day Tour in a Rubber Dinghy Along the Riviera

If you’re dreaming of exploring Sicily’s coast in an intimate and authentic way, a private boat tour along the Cyclops Riviera might just be your next highlight. This experience promises a blend of scenic views, charming fishing villages, and the thrill of cruising in a compact, stylish dinghy — all with the flexibility to personalize your journey. We’ve looked into what makes this tour special, and here’s what you need to know.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see Sicily’s coast from the water, which unveils hidden coves and iconic sights you’d miss on land. The personalized itinerary allows for swim and snorkel stops at crystal-clear spots, making it ideal for water lovers. Plus, the chance to enjoy a traditional Sicilian aperitif on board adds a lovely, local touch to the day. The only possible downside? The tour is weather-dependent, so if the seas turn rough, plans might change or get canceled.

This experience suits travelers who crave flexibility, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure. Perfect for small groups or families wanting a private, relaxed day on the water, it’s also great for those who love snorkeling or simply soaking up the sunshine. If you prefer structured group tours with fixed itineraries, this might feel a little too customizable, but for those seeking intimate exploration, it’s a gem.

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Key Points

Personalized experience with private boat hire and flexible itinerary options.
Stunning views of Sicily’s eastern coast, including iconic sea stacks and fishing villages.
Water activities like snorkeling, swimming, and diving at crystal-clear coves.
Authentic Sicilian touches with onboard aperitifs and local scenery.
Comfortable, well-equipped boats for small groups, with options for different sizes.
Weather sensitivity means the tour might be canceled or rescheduled in bad conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Sicilian Coast from a Rubber Dinghy

This day tour offers what many travelers seek: an up-close view of Sicily’s captivating coastline in a private, relaxed setting. The tour departs from either Acitrezza or Catania, giving you the flexibility to choose your starting point based on your accommodation or plans. The boat options include a 7.5-meter Nuova Jolly with a 300 hp engine for groups of up to 10, or a 10-meter Stilmar 34 for larger parties of 12. These boats are modern, equipped, and designed for comfort and safety, making the experience both smooth and exciting.

The experience is tailored to your preferences, from the departure point to the stops along the way. The tour lasts between 4 and 8 hours, so whether you prefer a half-day or full-day adventure, you can find an option that fits your schedule. The tour is exclusively for your group, meaning you won’t be sharing the boat with strangers, which adds a layer of intimacy and flexibility.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers the boat rental with a skipper and a delicious Sicilian aperitif served onboard — a perfect way to unwind while taking in the stunning scenery. Additional costs like fuel are not included, but considering the private nature of the tour, you can expect transparent pricing. Extras like a hostess aren’t included either, so if you’d like additional assistance, you might need to arrange that separately.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Porto di Acitrezza

The journey kicks off at the picturesque port of Acitrezza. Known for its dramatic sea stacks and colorful fishing boats, this spot sets the tone for a scenic day. As you leave the port, you’ll immediately get a sense of Sicily’s volcanic landscape, with the coast rising and falling dramatically.

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Scenic Views & Hiking: A Photo Stop

After cruising along the coast, you’ll make a stop for photo opportunities and scenic views. A review mentions a one-hour stop for photographs and light hiking — a fantastic chance to capture the rugged beauty of the coastline and stretch your legs.

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Santa Maria la Scala: A Charming Village

Next, the boat takes you to the seaside village of Santa Maria la Scala, where you can enjoy some downtime for swimming. The roughly one-hour break allows you to relax, dip into the water, or explore the quaint streets. It’s a peaceful spot that feels untouched by mass tourism, offering authentic local charm.

Lachea Island: The Star of the Tour

One of the highlight stops is Lachea Island, a small, volcanic island famous for its sea stacks and lush landscape. Here, you’ll enjoy another two-hour stop for sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling. Multiple reviewers emphasize the beauty of this spot, noting how the crystal-clear waters make for excellent underwater visibility. You might find yourself marveling at the underwater flora and fauna, and the calm waters make it suitable even for less experienced snorkelers.

Additional Stops & Customization

The tour can include visits to other picturesque locations like the Norman castle of Aci Castello or the fishing villages of Ognina and San Giovanni Li Cuti. The beauty of this experience is the chance to tailor the route, making it ideal for nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, or beach-goers.

Return: Porto di Acitrezza

After a full day of exploring and relaxing, you’ll head back to the port, with plenty of memorable views to cherish. Many travelers state that the combination of scenery and water activities makes this a truly special way to experience Sicily’s coast.

Water Activities and Relaxation

The tour’s stops at coves with crystal-clear waters are particularly appreciated. According to reviews, the snorkeling conditions are excellent, and the calm waters make swimming accessible even for beginners. If diving or more extended swimming is your thing, the flexible stops give you ample opportunity to enjoy the sea without feeling rushed.

The Sicilian Aperitif: A Perfect Chill

A standout feature is the onboard aperitif, offering local delicacies and drinks. It’s a charming way to relax, chat with your group or skipper, and soak in the scenery. Many guests mention how this simple pleasure added a local, authentic touch to their day.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

What to bring: Hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water are essentials. The sun can be strong, so protection is key.
Weather considerations: The tour is weather-dependent; if the seas are rough, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled. Checking the forecast ahead of time helps.
Group size: Small groups mean more personalized attention and flexibility. If you’re traveling with family or friends, this setup works perfectly.
Duration: The 4-8 hour window lets you choose how much time you want on the water, balancing sightseeing and relaxation.
Cost & value: With the boat rental and aperitif included, the tour offers good value for a private, customizable experience. The price reflects exclusivity and tailored service.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic day on the water with the ability to customize stops. It appeals to water lovers, snorkelers, and those craving a taste of Sicily’s coastal beauty without the crowds. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples wanting intimacy and flexibility.

If you’re prone to seasickness or have mobility issues, note that this experience might not be suitable. Also, if your travel style leans toward structured, large-group tours, you may prefer other options.

The Sum Up

A private dinghy tour along Sicily’s Cyclops Riviera offers an authentic, flexible way to discover the coast’s stunning scenery, cultural spots, and waterside tranquility. With options for snorkeling, sightseeing, and enjoying local flavors, it’s a true celebration of Sicily’s natural beauty. The personalized approach, combined with the chance to explore at your own pace, makes this a memorable addition to your Sicilian adventure.

Ideal for water enthusiasts, families, or couples looking for a relaxed yet scenic escape, this tour balances comfort, adventure, and authenticity. Expect breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and a taste of local life — all aboard a stylish, private boat crafted for your enjoyment.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 4 to 8 hours, so you can select a half-day or full-day experience depending on your plans.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the boat rental with a skipper and a Sicilian aperitif served onboard. Fuel and additional services like a hostess are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is flexible. You can choose the departure point, stops, and swim locations based on your preferences.

Is snorkeling included?
Snorkeling is available during stops at crystal-clear coves, allowing you to enjoy the underwater scenery at your leisure.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. These essentials will help you enjoy the day comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While it’s great for small groups and families, it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or those prone to seasickness.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour is subject to weather conditions; bad weather might lead to cancellation or rescheduling. Check the forecast for a smoother experience.

If you’re after an intimate, scenic, and customizable way to explore Sicily’s coast, this dinghy tour could be your perfect day out on the water. With stunning views, water activities, and local flavors, it offers a genuine slice of Sicilian seaside life.