Aci Castello isn’t just a picture-postcard fishing village; it’s a lively hub for those eager to experience Sicily’s sea, history, and natural beauty firsthand. The town’s small size makes it perfect for a variety of tours that highlight everything from underwater marvels to legendary landscapes. Our favorite? The Aci Castello: Underwater Scooter Diving Tour offers an exhilarating glimpse into the Gulf of Catania’s vibrant marine life, perfect for curious explorers who want to see beneath the waves without needing a diving certificate. Others, like the Guided Tour with Granita, blend cultural storytelling with a taste of local tradition, and the Boat Excursions provide a quick, scenic way to admire the coastline from the water. If you’re after a full-day adventure, the Etna and Snorkeling Tour combines mountain and sea exploration—an ideal mix for those who want it all.
Aci Castello’s tours stand out because they combine natural beauty with authentic experiences, whether it’s swimming alongside colorful fish, exploring volcanic rocks, or wandering through historic fishing villages. Whether you prefer active underwater adventures or relaxed cultural strolls, there’s something here that will enrich your trip. Let’s explore the best options.
1. Aci Castello: Underwater Scooter Diving Tour
At number one on our list, the Aci Castello: Underwater Scooter Diving Tour offers a chance to explore Sicily’s marine life in a fun and accessible way. For around $113, you get a four-hour trip that takes you into the biodiverse Gulf of Catania, swimming through colorful underwater canyons and volcanic faults. The highlight? Using an underwater scooter, which makes movement through the water effortless—even for beginners. Your marine biologist guide will point out the native flora and fauna, making it as educational as it is exciting.
This tour is especially suited for those who want a memorable underwater experience without the need for certification. Reviewers note that while the description doesn’t specify a certification requirement, some participants were kindly rebooked into beginner courses. The staff is praised for their friendliness and patience. Expect an experience that combines adventure with learning, and a chance to see marine wildlife up close.
Bottom line: This tour is a great choice for families or first-time snorkelers who want a guided, hands-on underwater adventure that’s as informative as it is fun.
2. Aci Trezza and Aci Castello: Guided Tour with Granita
Next, we have the Aci Trezza and Aci Castello: Guided Tour with Granita, which combines sightseeing with local flavor. For four hours, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Faraglioni, those dramatic basalt sea stacks, and the historic Norman Castle, all while learning about their myths and legends. The tour includes stops at a traditional boatyard that’s been operating for over 200 years and the charming Casa del Nespolo, a 19th-century fishermen’s house.
The tour’s highlight is ending with a granita in a historic seafront villa, giving you a true taste of Sicilian culture. The itinerary includes several photo stops, guided walks, and free time to soak in the scenery. The reviews are nearly perfect, with a 4.8/5 rating, praising the mix of historical insights and relaxed pace.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those interested in a comprehensive cultural day—combining landscapes, stories, and flavor in one relaxed outing.
3. Boat Excursions Aci Trezza
For a quick but scenic experience, the Boat Excursions Aci Trezza offers a one-hour trip aboard the underwater vision tourist boat. Departing from Via Lungomare Dei Ciclopi, this tour immerses you in the Riviera dei Ciclopi, allowing you to see the coast and seabed from a different perspective. The boat’s underwater vision window provides a unique vantage point to admire marine life and underwater volcanic formations.
This tour is especially suited for travelers short on time but eager to see Sicily’s coastline from the water. The staff is described as competent, and the experience as engaging. It’s a straightforward way to add a marine element to your day without committing to a lengthy activity.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a quick, family-friendly water tour with a focus on scenery and underwater views.
4. Catania: Etna and Snorkeling Tour
At number four, the Catania: Etna and Snorkeling Tour offers a full-day of diverse exploration. Starting from Etna’s slopes, you’ll enjoy a 4-hour guided tour of the volcanic landscape, with stops at Mount Etna’s craters and scenic viewpoints. After soaking in the mountain’s rugged beauty, you’ll head down to the Marine Protected Area of “Isola deiCiclopi” for snorkeling. The guide will share stories about the mystical Island of the Cyclops while you discover the rich marine life beneath the surface.
This 7.5-hour tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of mountain adventure and sea exploration. Reviews highlight the value of combining two very different environments into one day and praise the guide’s storytelling. It’s suited for active travelers who enjoy hiking, sightseeing, and water activities, though it does require a good level of fitness.
Bottom line: A great choice for adventurous travelers aiming to experience Sicily’s mountains and sea in one day.
5. Underwater Archaeological Tour: Acicastello (CT)
Rounding out the list, the Underwater Archaeological Tour with Elephant Scuba Academy in Catania is a 3-hour dive into history. The tour features an underwater archaeological trail along volcanic lava walls and sandy seabeds, teeming with marine flora and fauna. It’s ideal for history buffs and those interested in underwater archaeology, as the route reveals volcanic formations and submerged relics.
While reviews don’t specify ratings, the tour’s focus on archaeology and volcanic seabeds makes it stand out for travelers keen on exploring Sicily’s ancient and volcanic past beneath the sea. It’s best suited for experienced divers or those willing to learn, with equipment provided by Elephant Scuba Academy.
Bottom line: This is the perfect pick for history-minded divers eager to explore submerged volcanic formations rich with marine life.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your interests, physical fitness, and amount of time. If underwater adventure tops your list, the Underwater Scooter Diving Tour offers a vibrant marine experience without needing diving certification. For culture paired with local flavors, the Guided Tour with Granita ensures a relaxed, informative day. Short on time? The Boat Excursion provides quick scenic views from the water.
Those seeking a full-day adventure can’t go wrong with the Etna and Snorkeling Tour, perfect for active travelers who want mountain and sea in one trip. Finally, history enthusiasts will appreciate the Underwater Archaeological Tour, especially if they’re comfortable with diving.
Booking early helps secure spots, especially in peak season (spring to early fall). Check availability and weather conditions before planning your day.
To sum it up, Aci Castello offers a variety of tours suited for different interests, budgets, and activity levels. Whether you want to snorkel with fish, walk through historic villages, or explore volcanic landscapes, Sicily’s coastal town doesn’t disappoint. For a memorable trip, try pairing a cultural walk with an underwater adventure or a mountain tour—each adds a layer to your understanding of this fascinating region. Book early, and enjoy every moment of your Sicilian explorations.