Scilla is one of Calabria’s most charming seaside towns, famous for its colorful fishing villages, dramatic cliffs, and legendary stories. But beyond wandering its ancient streets, the best way to experience this coastal paradise is by boat. Whether you want a quick sail to see dolphins or a more elaborate trip with snorkeling and lunch, Scilla offers a variety of memorable boat tours. Our favorites include a lively 2-hour trip along Costa Viola, a scenic 3-hour cruise exploring caves and swimming spots, and an exclusive 4-hour adventure with wildlife sightings and onboard dining. These options let you see the coast from a different perspective and enjoy the sea like a local.
While all three tours deliver unique experiences, they share a common goal: helping you appreciate the natural beauty and authentic charm of Calabria’s coast. If you’re after a relaxed family outing, the shorter cruises are perfect. For those craving adventure and wildlife, the longer trips with snorkeling and dolphin watching are unbeatable. Curious? Keep reading to find out which boat tour fits your style and schedule.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find three top boat tours in Scilla, each with its own flavor. The 2-hour Tour boat tour: Scilla – Costa Viola offers a quick, lively experience with family-friendly activities and the possibility of dolphin sightings. The 3-hour Costa Viola Boat tour: Scilla-Bagnara-Cala Janculla balances scenic cruising with stops for swimming and snorkeling. The Boat trip with Pathos is the most exclusive, combining a vintage wooden boat ride with wildlife sightings and onboard lunch. All three provide a fantastic way to explore Calabria’s coastline beyond the land-based attractions.
1. 2 hours Tour boat tour : Scilla – Costa Viola
This 2-hour boat tour around Scilla and Costa Viola is perfect for travelers who want a quick yet lively experience. It’s a popular choice for families and first-time visitors, thanks to its lively itinerary and fun atmosphere. The tour departs from Scilla and sails along the coast, with stops that include exploring the village of Chianalea, diving into the clear waters of Favazzina, and enjoying the panoramic views of the Strait of Messina.
What makes this trip stand out is its casual approach to fun. You’ll find refreshing drinks on board, masks, and floating tubes for swimming, and plenty of space for everyone to relax. The chance of spotting dolphins or manta rays adds a magical element that surprises most travelers. The tour is praised for its friendly crew and engaging itinerary, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone short on time but eager for a taste of the sea.
The itinerary includes several stops for swimming and sightseeing, with a view point for great photos. The 25-minute swimming break is perfect for cooling off and enjoying Calabria’s crystal-clear waters. With a high rating of 5/5 from two reviews, it’s clear this tour offers a reliable and enjoyable experience.
Bottom Line: This short cruise packs in fun, scenic views, and dolphin sightings, making it ideal for those who want a quick, spirited boat ride with family-friendly amenities.
2. 3 hours Costa Viola Boat tour: Scilla-Bagnara-Cala Janculla
If you’re after a bit more time on the water, the 3-hour Costa Viola Boat tour offers a relaxed exploration of the coast with some adventure thrown in. Starting from Scilla, this trip takes you along the stunning Costa Viola, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and picturesque coves. The tour includes visits to the caves near Bagnara, where you can admire the natural rock formations and enjoy refreshing swims in secluded spots.
This tour stands out for its combination of scenic cruising and active stops. You’ll find masks and floating tubes on board for snorkeling, and the itinerary is designed for easy swimming breaks. The scenic drives between stops allow you to soak in the rugged beauty of Calabria’s coastline. The possibility of spotting dolphins or manta rays adds excitement, and the tour is well-suited for families and curious travelers alike.
Guests have commented that “the snorkeling and cave tour, including a small snack,” made for a memorable day. With a rating of 3.8/5 from six reviews, it’s a solid option that balances sightseeing with active fun.
The tour’s 30-minute swimming and snorkeling session, combined with scenic drives, makes it ideal for travelers wanting more than just a boat ride. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor water activities but prefer a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded experience with caves, scenic drives, and swimming, appealing to travelers looking for a combination of relaxing and active moments.
3. Boat trip with Pathos
For travelers seeking exclusivity and the charm of vintage vessels, the Boat trip with Pathos is a standout. This 4-hour excursion departs from Porticciolo di Scilla on an antique wooden boat, providing a more intimate and luxurious experience. The trip focuses on discovering secret coves, enjoying crystal-clear waters, and spotting marine life like dolphins, swordfish, and turtles.
What makes this tour truly special is the onboard lunch included in the price—a perfect way to savor local flavors while floating on the sea. The itinerary includes swimming, snorkeling, and dolphin watching, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the beauty of Calabria’s coastline. The boat itself, a beautifully maintained vintage vessel, adds a touch of nostalgia and comfort that larger, modern boats can’t match.
While the reviews are slightly lower at 3.6/5, most travelers appreciate the exclusive atmosphere, wildlife sightings, and the chance to cruise in style. The longer duration and focus on marine life make it suitable for adventurous travelers and those interested in wildlife photography.
Bottom Line: This is a great pick if you want a more personalized experience, a unique vintage boat, and the chance to see dolphins and turtles in a peaceful setting.
How to Choose
When selecting the best boat tour in Scilla, consider your priorities. If you’re short on time and want a lively, family-friendly experience, the 2-hour tour is ideal. For those who want to combine sightseeing with active swimming and cave exploration, the 3-hour cruise offers more variety. If you’re after an exclusive, relaxed adventure with wildlife and a special vintage boat, the Pathos trip is the way to go.
Think about your budget, how much time you have, and whether wildlife sightings or snorkeling are top on your list. Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, to secure a spot on your preferred tour.
Final thoughts
Whether you prefer a quick, energetic cruise, a scenic exploration with swimming, or a luxurious wildlife adventure, Scilla’s boat tours deliver memorable moments on the water. The 2-hour Costa Viola cruise is perfect for a short family outing, while the 3-hour tour suits those looking for more active fun. For a special treat, the Pathos offers a charming vintage experience with wildlife sightings and a onboard lunch.
No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss the chance to enjoy Calabria’s stunning coast from the deck of a boat. Pack your swimsuit, bring your camera, and get ready for a sea adventure that will stay with you long after you leave the coast.