Mondello, with its sparkling waters and proximity to Palermo, is the perfect launching point for memorable boat tours and cruises. The coastline here isn’t just scenic; it offers a variety of experiences, from quick sightseeing trips to full-day adventures. Some tours focus on relaxing swims in crystal-clear waters, while others explore exploring caves and nature reserves. Among our favorites is the Palermo: Mondello & Isola delle Femmine Boat Tour with Drink, which combines the thrill of speed with the comfort of snacks and drinks and the chance to spot dolphins. If you’re after a shorter, more intimate experience, the Palermo: HALF-DAY TOUR ON BOAT offers a fantastic way to enjoy Palermo’s coastline with snorkeling gear included. For those wanting a totally relaxing day, the Palermo by Sea: Relaxing Boat Tour with Aperitif provides a luxurious small-group trip with scenic stops and an aperitif on board.
This list covers a variety of boat tours and cruises—from half-day excursions to full-day adventures, luxury catamaran trips to traditional Sicilian gozzo cruises. Whether you’re keen on snorkeling, sightseeing, or simply relaxing with great food and drinks, there’s an option here for you.
1. Palermo: Mondello & Isola delle Femmine Boat Tour with Drink
At number one, this luxury RIB boat tour offers a 4- to 5-hour experience exploring Palermo’s coast. What sets this trip apart is the combination of speed, comfort, and a sophisticated vibe, with snacks, drinks, music, and plenty of space to relax. Starting from SeaTourSicily, you’ll zip through turquoise waters, passing by the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve and its lighthouse, which make for fantastic photo opportunities. The tour includes swimming and snorkeling in the Gulf of Mondello and the Isola delle Femmine, where the water is often calm and clear enough to see the sea floor. Dolphins are sometimes spotted along the way, adding a bit of magic to the trip.
The itinerary is well-paced, with stops for photos and swimming, plus a break in the Gulf of Mondello and Isola delle Femmine. The highlight for many is the sunset viewing, which provides perfect lighting for memorable photos. The onboard experience is relaxed, with a ladder for easy water access, a sun awning, and a friendly crew. Reviewers rate it 4.9/5, praising its professionalism and stunning scenery.
Bottom line: If you want a stylish, fun, and comfortable way to see Palermo’s coastline with drinks and dolphin sightings, this tour hits the spot.
2. Palermo: HALF-DAY TOUR ON BOAT
Ranking second, this 4-hour trip offers a more laid-back yet equally engaging experience of Palermo’s coastline. It includes snorkeling gear and a fresh fruit aperitif, making it perfect for travelers looking to combine light activity with relaxation. The tour takes you along the coast, allowing you to marvel at the crystal-clear waters and hidden coves you might otherwise miss. This tour’s highlight is its focus on the marine reserve, a surprising feature that adds an element of ecological interest.
The tour’s small size means a more personalized experience, with the skipper sharing insights about the local coastline. This tour’s reviews, with a 4.9/5 rating from 76 reviews, point to its popularity among travelers seeking a quick but immersive sea adventure. It’s especially good for those who want to snorkel, relax, and enjoy the sea without a long day on the water.
Bottom line: This is a fantastic choice if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded, relaxing, and intimate taste of Palermo’s waters with expert guidance.
3. Palermo by Sea: Relaxing Boat Tour with Aperitif
Number three offers a luxurious 4-hour boat experience aboard an 8.5-meter Sorrento gozzo. Perfect for couples or small groups craving a quieter, more exclusive cruise, this trip combines sightseeing with swimming at hidden spots like Mondello. The tour starts from Zyz Boat Experience, and the guide shares interesting insights about Palermo’s coast, making it both relaxing and educational.
The itinerary includes stops at landmarks such as Casa Florio, and features multiple chances to swim and snorkel, especially around the Gulf of Mondello. One of the key attractions is the aperitif at Grotta della Regina, where you can sip Sicilian wine or prosecco while soaking up the scenery. The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, emphasizing comfort and personalized service.
Reviewers praise the tour for its relaxed pace and beautiful scenery, with many noting it as a memorable way to see Palermo from the sea. The boat’s cozy size makes it ideal for those who prefer an exclusive, quiet experience.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a relaxed, small-group trip with scenic views, swimming, and a nice aperitif, this tour offers a premium experience.
4. Sicani Boat Tour Palermo – Full Day
Coming in at number four, this full-day adventure takes you along Sicily’s coast for 8 hours of fun and exploration. Starting from Mondello on a Cranchi Cruiser 32, you’ll enjoy plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive experience, covering multiple scenic stops and spending more time in the water.
What makes this tour stand out is its length and relaxed pace, allowing plenty of time to explore different spots. The crew’s experience ensures a smooth ride, and the onboard aperitivo is a nice touch. It’s ideal for families or groups wanting to make the most of a day in Mondello, combining comfort with adventure.
Although only two reviews are available, both give it a perfect rating, emphasizing the quality and value of this full-day option. The large boat size provides space to spread out, and the itinerary allows for maximum immersion in the beautiful Sicilian coastline.
Bottom line: For those seeking a full-day, all-inclusive boat trip with plenty of swimming and sightseeing, this trip delivers a well-rounded experience.
5. Palermo Coast Morning & Sunset Tour on Catamaran
Number five is a 5-hour scenic cruise aboard a modern catamaran, perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, elegant experience. Starting from Marina Adorno, you’ll sail along Palermo’s coast, with stops in Mondello, Tonnara Florio, and the Grotta Regina. The itinerary includes scenic views, refreshing swims, and an onboard aperitif that enhances the relaxed atmosphere.
What makes this tour special is the combination of morning and sunset sailing, providing two distinct perspectives of Palermo’s coastline. The guide shares stories about the area, adding depth to the experience. The safety and comfort of the catamaran ensure a stress-free outing, ideal for couples or small groups seeking a more refined sea experience.
Many reviews highlight the excellent staff and beautiful scenery, with the sunset over Palermo particularly praised. It’s a great option for travelers with limited time who want to enjoy a luxurious, scenic cruise.
Bottom line: Perfect for those looking for a scenic, comfortable cruise with great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
6. Palermo: Boat tour to Capo Gallo with a skipper
This 4-hour tour offers a personalized experience exploring the Capo Gallo Reserve with an experienced skipper. The emphasis here is on flexibility—your skipper knows the coast’s secret spots and can tailor the route based on weather and your interests. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends wanting a private, intimate trip.
The tour includes stops for swimming in clear waters away from busy spots, providing a chance to relax and enjoy the sea. The skipper’s local knowledge ensures you see the best viewpoints and hidden coves. Since the reviews aren’t available, we can only say this is an excellent choice for those who value a custom experience and expert guidance.
The tour’s charm is the personal touch—no big groups or crowded schedules—making it perfect for travelers who want to craft their perfect day at sea.
Bottom line: If you prefer a private, flexible trip with an experienced skipper guiding you, this tour offers a tailored Sicilian sailing experience.
7. Palermo: Boat trip on a traditional Sicilian gozzo
Completing our list, this 4 to 8-hour trip takes you aboard an authentic Sicilian wooden gozzo. This traditional vessel is a symbol of local craftsmanship and offers a truly genuine way to experience Palermo’s coast. Starting from Piazza Capitaneria di Porto, the tour includes scenic sailing, long-tail boat rides, and visits to spots like Spiaggia Vergine Maria.
Designed for small groups or families, it emphasizes an authentic Sicilian experience, with a traditional aperitif onboard. The boat’s size and classic design make this trip especially appealing for travelers interested in cultural heritage and a slower, more immersive pace. The itinerary is flexible, and the guide shares stories about the vessel and local traditions.
The reviews are limited but positive, highlighting the chance to enjoy Sicily’s waters aboard a real gozzo. It’s perfect for those wanting a laid-back, culturally rich sailing experience different from modern luxury boats.
Bottom line: If authenticity and tradition matter to you, this tour offers a genuine Sicilian boat experience with personalized touches.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Mondello
When selecting a boat tour, consider your priorities: Are you seeking a quick scenic cruise or a full day of swimming and snorkeling? For luxury and comfort, the Relaxing Boat Tour with Aperitif or the Catamaran trip might suit you best. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the shorter half-day or genuine gozzo experience, which focus on authenticity and relaxed pacing.
Think about your interest in snorkeling, nature, or private experiences. The full-day Sicani trip offers the most comprehensive exploration, while the Capo Gallo tour is best for those wanting a personalized, private outing. Booking early is advisable during high season (May-September), and always check the cancellation policies if your plans change.
In summary, Mondello offers a superb selection of boat tours and cruises suited for all tastes. From the stylish, dolphin-spotting Mondello & Isola delle Femmine Tour to the authentic Sicilian gozzo experience, there’s a trip to fit your style and schedule. For those wanting a relaxed, intimate experience, the Aperitif Tour is ideal. Meanwhile, adventure lovers can opt for the full-day Sicani cruise. Booking early guarantees you secure a spot on these popular trips, so don’t hesitate to plan your sea adventure in Mondello today.
