Sicily isn’t just about stunning coastlines and delicious food; it’s also a fantastic place to explore the underwater world. The island’s diverse marine life, clear waters, and protected marine parks make it a top destination for both seasoned divers and curious newcomers. We’re especially fond of the Diving with PADI 5 Star CDC Diving Resort Isola Bella Marine Park Taormina for its expert guides and relaxed atmosphere—perfect for getting up close with the local marine life. Meanwhile, the Scuba Experience in Catania stands out for first-timers eager to test their skills in shallow waters with a biologist-led tour.
Sicily offers a variety of diving experiences, from guided tours in protected marine reserves to introductory sessions for beginners. Some tours focus on wildlife encounters and underwater geology, while others provide a chance to learn basic skills or explore ancient shipwrecks. Below, we’ve broken down the top options, each with what makes them unique and who they’re best suited for.
1. Diving with PADI 5 Star CDC Diving Resort Isola Bella Marine Park Taormina
This guided snorkeling adventure offers a fantastic way to experience Taormina’s Isola Bella Marine Reserve in comfort. The tour includes two dives in protected waters, led by experienced PADI 5 Star CDC instructors. What sets this experience apart is the focus on small groups, which means more personalized attention, plus the inclusion of snacks and drinks to keep you refreshed. The dive excursions are suitable for certified divers, but they also offer intro diving and snorkeling options for those not yet certified. Expect to learn about the marine ecosystem, enjoy stunning coastline views, and get a real taste of Sicily’s underwater beauty.
Guests consistently praise the professional guides and well-organized logistics. For around $174, this is a high-value experience given the quality of instruction and the protected environment. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, guided experience with plenty of marine life and a dash of local history.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a well-run, small-group dive in a beautiful marine reserve, this tour hits the mark. Ideal for certified divers who value expert instruction and scenic surroundings.
2. Diving for Patented Divers
For divers with a license, the Diving for Patented Divers tour offers a chance to explore Mazzarò’s seabed. This tour is operated by Blue Sea Diving, the only dive center in the bay, with 13 carefully chosen dive points suitable for all skill levels. The waters teem with Mediterranean fish, crustaceans, and interesting underwater features. It’s a flexible option that caters to both beginners and advanced divers, making it great if you have some experience but want to explore different sites.
Reviews highlight the professional staff and the variety of locations, emphasizing that the diving spots are carefully selected by instructors for their beauty and safety. For about $139, you get roughly five hours of diving, with gear included and the assurance of local expertise. The tour offers a good balance between adventure and comfort.
Bottom Line: Best for licensed divers looking for variety and local insights, especially if you want to visit multiple dive sites with ease.
3. Exciting PADI Discover Scuba Diving Experience Isola Bella Marine Park Taormina
First-timers will love this Discover Scuba in the Marine Reserve, where you’ll get a chance to try scuba diving under the supervision of certified instructors. The tour includes two shallow dives, with lessons on basic equipment use and diving safety basics. The focus here is on building confidence and experiencing the thrill of breathing underwater for the first time.
What makes this tour special is the small-group setting and the beautiful location—a perfect intro for anyone curious about scuba but hesitant to commit to full certification. The price of $185.77 includes all gear and snacks, making it a hassle-free experience. Guests love how patient the instructors are and how quickly they feel comfortable underwater.
Bottom Line: An outstanding choice for absolute beginners who want a guided, safe introduction with beautiful scenery.
4. Scuba Experience
This Scuba Experience near Catania is perfect if you want to try scuba diving without certification. Led by a PADI instructor, you’ll start in shallow water before exploring the Ionian coasts, including submarine volcanoes and lava flows. It’s designed for first-timers and lasts around 2 hours, giving you a glimpse of underwater wonders without a long commitment.
The tour is praised for its professional guidance and well-maintained equipment. It’s a low-cost option at just over $87, and the small-group setting makes it easy to ask questions and feel safe. Many reviewers mention how the friendly staff and beautiful scenery made it an unforgettable experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a short, guided introduction to scuba in a spectacular setting.
5. Diving Guided by the Diving Center (with full equipment)
This guided dive with full equipment from Ionian Pro-Dive Catania offers total safety and comfort. Operating throughout the year, the tour visits various dive sites in the natural bay created by ancient lava flows. It’s perfect if you’re already certified or want a guided experience with all gear provided.
Dives are generally 2 to 3 hours long, with PADI instructors or divemasters leading the way. Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the diversity of sites, from calm bays to more interesting underwater formations. The price of $86.43 provides solid value considering the all-inclusive package.
Bottom Line: Great for certified divers wanting reliable guidance and access to multiple dive spots, especially if visiting Catania.
6. Discover Scuba Diving
This Discover Scuba Diving experience is tailored for those wanting a taste of diving that can lead to full certification. Lasting about 2.5 hours, the tour introduces basic skills and allows participants to dive up to 20 feet with a professional instructor. It’s a stepping stone toward a full Open Water Diver course.
The focus here is on learning and exploration, making it ideal for first-time divers who want a safe, guided environment. The price is moderate at $114.64, and reviews echo the positive, encouraging atmosphere provided by the guides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those considering diving seriously and wanting an overview before committing.
7. Taormina Scuba Diving Experience
This private class is all about learning the basics and enjoying a personalized introduction to scuba diving. Starting with a briefing, you’ll then get hands-on practice with your gear, followed by guided open water exploration off Taormina. It’s particularly suited for beginners and families, with the option to learn in a private setting.
Guests report that Alex, the instructor, made first-timers comfortable so quickly that they’re now planning to take the full PADI course. The tour lasts about 3 hours and costs around $157, offering a personalized, supportive environment for new divers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for beginners of all ages, especially those who want a private, personalized experience.
8. Scuba Diving Experience in Taormina
This scuba experience offers a guided adventure in the waters off Sicily, focusing on safe exploration suitable for both nervous and confident divers. Led by expert instructors, you’ll explore some of the best spots around Isola Bella, with plenty of underwater scenery to marvel at.
The 3.5-hour tour costs about $161, and reviewers mention how guides ensure everyone enjoys the experience regardless of comfort level. It’s a flexible choice for families or first-timers who want a guided, safe, and fun dive.
Bottom Line: A reliable option for those seeking a scenic, guided dive with friendly, professional support.
9. Scuba Diving Experience
This half-day, marine biologist-led tour in Catania’s Gulf offers a unique underwater tour. You’ll explore lava fields, WWII shipwrecks, and marine flora and fauna all in one adventure. It’s suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers.
At just over $68, it’s an affordable way to experience scenic underwater landscapes and learn about marine ecology from experts. Reviewers appreciate the professional guidance and the chance to see octopuses, groupers, and colorful corals up close.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, educational dive experience that covers geology and biology.
10. 3-Hour Try Scuba Private Guided Sea Baptism from Palermo
For a short, memorable introduction to scuba, this Sea Baptism in Isola delle Femmine is perfect. Led by a professional instructor, you’ll breathe underwater for about 40 minutes in an area full of marine life.
Priced at just over $69, this tour is highly rated for ease and excitement, especially for those who dream of trying scuba but aren’t ready to commit to a full course. Reviewers highlight the supportive guidance and beautiful seabed.
Bottom Line: Excellent for first timers seeking a short, guided experience with a lot of fun.
11. 2-Hour Diving & Diving in Marina del Plemmirio Area in Syracuse
This short dive offers a quick but rewarding exploration of the Plemmirio Marine Protected Area. Expect to see starfish, sea urchins, and colorful fish, along with some archaeological finds. The tour includes a brief land instruction before heading out on a rubber boat with all necessary equipment.
Rated just once but with a perfect 5-star review, it’s an ideal choice for those pressed for time who want a taste of Sicily’s underwater beauty.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, scenic dive with professional guidance, especially if you want to explore a marine protected zone.
How to Choose the Right Scuba Experience in Sicily
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, experience level, and what you’d like to see. For beginners, options like the Discover Scuba or Sea Baptism give safe, guided introductions. If you’re already licensed, the guided dives and multiple dive sites offer deeper exploration. For those who want a personalized experience, the Taormina Scuba Diving Experience provides private lessons.
Think about timing as well—many tours operate year-round, but water conditions and visibility peak in late spring and summer. Booking early guarantees your spot, especially in high season.
Final Thoughts
Sicily’s underwater world offers something for every level and interest. Whether you’re a certified diver craving new sites like Mazzarò, or a first-timer eager to try breathing underwater, you’ll find options suited to you. If you’re looking for guided tours with expert instructors, several tours stand out, like the Diving with PADI 5 Star CDC Resort or the Catania guided experiences. For newcomers, the Discover Scuba and Sea Baptism offer hassle-free ways to dip your toes underwater.
Booking ahead is highly recommended, especially in peak months, to ensure you get your preferred date and spot. No matter which experience you choose, Sicily promises an unforgettable underwater adventure—so gear up and enjoy the best of what the Mediterranean has to offer.
