Coastal Cruise to Isola Bella with Snorkeling from Giardini Naxos
Snorkel, sunbathe, and soak in views of Sicily from the Bay of Naxos near Taormina
With limited time in Sicily, it can be challenging to fully experience the beauty of the Bay of Naxos and the crystal-clear waters of the Isola Bella Marine Reserve. This 1.45-hour cruise offers the perfect solution, combining stunning coastal views with a close-up look at the enchanting Grotta Azzurra. With an expert skipper and friendly crew taking care of everything, you can sit back, relax under the Ionian sun, and immerse yourself in the rich marine life—no stress, just pure enjoyment.
What You Get With This Tour
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Cruise Bay of Naxos
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Capo Taormina
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The Faraglioni
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Snorkel in the Isola Bella Marine Reserve
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Relax on the solarium
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Enjoy soft drinks and snacks
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Group size of 10
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Skipper gratuities
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Hotel pick-up
Tour Itinerary
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1
Meeting point at Giardini Naxos Port
Meet your expert skipper and friendly crew at Tempio Olimpico before boarding your boat. -
2
Scenic departure from the Bay
Scenic Departure from the Bay -
3
Capo Taormina
Sail along the coast and admire the historic cliffs of Capo Taormina. -
4
Faraglioni sea stacks
Snap stunning photos of these dramatic rock formations rising from the sea. -
5
Blue Grotto
Get a close-up view of this natural sea cave and its magical blue reflections. -
6
Isola Bella Marine Reserve snorkeling
Put on your provided gear and explore the vibrant underwater world. -
7
Marine life up close
Learn about local species with waterproof ID cards provided by your guide. -
8
Swim break
Skip snorkeling and enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear Ionian waters. -
9
Relax and sunbathe on board
Unwind on the solarium with complimentary snacks and soft drinks. -
10
Ending point
Return to where your adventure began at Giardini di Naxos port, refreshed and inspired.
Additional Information
After meeting your skipper and friendly crew at the port of Giardini Naxos, hop aboard the boat and cruise along the Bay of Naxos. Reflect on the ancient history of Capo Taormina and admire the Faraglioni rising impressively from the sea before viewing the Grotta Azzurra.
Next, gear up with the provided snorkeling equipment and discover the fascinating underwater world of the Isola Bella Marine Reserve. Then, head to the solarium to relax with a soft drink and snacks in hand until it's time to return to the port of Giardini Naxos, perfectly refreshed and ready to make the most of the rest of your day.
Bay of Naxos Half-Day Cruise to Isola Bella
Your 1.45-hour tour includes:
Professional skipper & crew
Friendly English-speaking guide
Time to explore the Isola Bella Marine Reserve
Cruise along the Bay of Naxos, Capo Taormina, and the Faraglioni
View of Grotta Azzurra
Snorkel equipment and wetsuit
Maximum group size of 10
Welcome to Giardini Naxos!
Your adventure begins in the stunning coastal town of Giardini Naxos, easily accessible from Taormina. Head to the port for breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and enjoy the vibrant marine atmosphere created by ocean-loving locals and visitors before hopping on board your boat bound for the Bay of Naxos. Once you're comfortably settled, your seasoned skipper and friendly crew will navigate out of the port, marking the start of your scenic cruise.
Cruise Bay of Naxos
As you sail out into the Bay of Naxos, watch Giardini Naxos shrink behind you while magnificent views of Taormina and Mount Etna rise above it, creating the perfect backdrop for your half-day at sea. Enjoy a relaxing journey along the Bay of Naxos, taking in panoramas of Capo Taormina and the dramatic sea stacks of the Faraglioni.
Soon, you'll arrive at the Isola Bella Marine Reserve, home to the famous Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto). Marvel at the unique blue hue of the cave while your skipper and crew easily navigate near this fascinating marine cave, and see for yourself why it’s considered a natural spectacle.
Snorkeling in the Isola Bella Marine Reserve
Ready to dive into the azure waters? It’s time to put on your snorkel gear and hop in! With a mask and snorkel provided, as well as fins and a wetsuit (if needed), all you'll need is your swimsuit and a sense of adventure. Your guide will also provide waterproof cards for bio-watching, so you can not only marvel at the many sea creatures and formations of the Isola Bella Marine Reserve but also learn about them.
After an exciting snorkeling session, relax on the solarium while soaking up the sun and breathtaking views, and treat yourself to the provided snacks and soft drinks. You can also choose to skip the snorkeling and instead go for a swim or spend extra time relaxing on board.
Back to the Port
After over two hours of exploration, your trip is sadly coming to an end. Enjoy a scenic cruise back to the port at Giardini Naxos and disembark the boat filled with splendid memories of Sicily's coastline and the Isola Bella Marine Reserve. The tour ends where it began, at the port of Giardini Naxos. The rest of the day is yours to continue exploring, and be sure to ask your guide for recommendations on the best nearby restaurants to celebrate your adventure at sea.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and a swimsuit and towel if you wish to swim.
What to bring?
Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and a swimsuit and towel if you wish to swim.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Sicily.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand. This tour includes navigating non-wheelchair-accessible spaces, and depending on conditions, the ocean may cause the boat to shift unexpectedly.
What happens if it rains?
We run our Sicily tours rain or shine. However, if rainfall is extremely heavy or marine weather conditions are unsafe, we may have to cancel or postpone the tour. If this is the case, we'll inform you as soon as possible.
Is there a dress code to join this Isola Bella cruise tour?
No, but we recommend bringing a swimsuit and layers as weather conditions can change with little notice.
Should I be concerned about seasickness?
If you're prone to seasickness, we encourage you to bring motion sickness medication along, as it is not provided onboard. We also recommend having a light and relatively dry breakfast or lunch before the cruise and avoiding liquids and dairy products if you tend to have a sensitive stomach.
Is lunch or dinner included in the price of the tour?
Lunch or dinner is not included in the price of the tour, but snacks are. As there will be nowhere to purchase food during your cruise, we recommend eating beforehand. Our guides will also happily recommend somewhere to eat after your cruise.
Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?
Yes, children are welcome on this tour. Children aged 0–12 pay a reduced fee.
Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You will meet your guide at the designated meeting point.
