Naxos: Cruise on Isola Bella with swimming, fruit & prosecco

If you’re considering a relaxing boat trip off the coast of Taormina, the Naxos: Cruise on Isola Bella with swimming, fruit & prosecco might catch your eye. This two-hour excursion offers a lovely way to see Sicily’s renowned coastline while enjoying some laid-back moments on the water. It’s a tour that’s especially appealing if you love scenic views, a bit of swimming, and some refreshing treats thrown in.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its affordable price point—around $50 per person—and the opportunity to relax and take in stunning vistas without a lengthy time commitment. The inclusion of fresh fruit and prosecco adds a dash of luxury, making the trip feel like a mini celebration. That said, it’s worth mentioning that some travelers have found the included refreshments to be quite modest—so don’t expect a full-on feast.

This cruise is well-suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic outing with a touch of indulgence, especially if you’re curious about Taormina’s beautiful coast or just looking for a peaceful way to spend a couple of hours on the water. Families, couples, or small groups will find this tour hits the right note for a memorable day. But if you’re craving a more active adventure or detailed sightseeing, this might lean more towards simple leisure.

Key Points

• Breathtaking views of Taormina’s coast and Isola Bella
• Includes swimming stops in clear, warm waters
• Affordable price for a two-hour scenic cruise
• Light refreshments of fresh fruit and prosecco
• Knowledgeable guides share interesting facts about the area
• Comfortable boat with a relaxed atmosphere

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

This boat trip offers a nice balance of sightseeing, leisure, and casual indulgence. Starting at the Porticciolo Saya in Giardini Naxos, you’ll board a comfortable vessel that promises a relaxed vibe. The tour typically runs several times a day—at 10:00, 12:00, 16:00, and 18:00—making it easy to find a slot that suits your schedule.

Once underway, you’ll cruise along the coast, with your guide pointing out key sights like the Bay of Giardini Naxos, an important early Greek settlement site, and the enchanting coves of Taormina. The boat remains close enough to land to give you a good sense of the area’s natural beauty without feeling rushed or crowded.

One of the highlights is the opportunity to stop for swimming in the emerald waters. The water’s clarity and warmth vary depending on the weather and time of year, but reviews suggest that in most seasons, it’s pleasant enough for a refreshing dip. Some visitors, like the one from the UK, appreciated the quiet, secluded spots chosen for swimming, which felt peaceful and intimate.

The Scenic Highlights Along the Route

As the boat glides along, you’ll pass by the famous Isola Bella, a tiny, picturesque island with a natural reserve and a tiny beach. Many find the views here particularly striking, as the island’s lush, rocky landscape contrasts beautifully with the blue sea.

You’ll also see the famed natural caves of Taormina, which add an element of mystery and adventure to the tour. These caves are a natural feature rather than a tourist attraction per se, but their presence lends a sense of authenticity and rugged beauty to the coastline.

A major appeal is the visual feast of the coastline, with rugged cliffs, natural coves, and charming inlets visible from the boat. Travelers have commented on the breathtaking scenery, which makes the relatively short trip feel like a worthwhile escape.

The Refreshments: Fruit & Prosecco

A big part of the experience, especially for those who enjoy a touch of celebration, is the light snack and drinks included. The tour offers fresh fruit—typically strawberries or other seasonal fruit—and prosecco to toast the scenic surroundings.

However, some reviews have noted that the prosecco served is quite modest, often just a small pour, which might be a disappointment if you’re expecting a hearty drink. The fruit is usually fresh and tasty, but don’t expect a full buffet—this is more about adding a bit of flair to the trip rather than a full meal.

From one review, a traveler mentioned, “the prosecco offered is but a very small amount,” which may not satisfy those looking for a generous pour. The gesture adds a festive, relaxing touch to the cruise.

The Guide and Group Atmosphere

Guides on this tour are generally described as knowledgeable and friendly. They tend to share interesting tidbits about Taormina, Isola Bella, and the surrounding coast, adding context that makes the experience more engaging. One review from a group of 13 described the guide as “very knowledgeable” and appreciated the way the guide shared the sights with enthusiasm.

The group size can vary, but most reviews suggest a small to medium group, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The boat’s environment is casual—think soft music, sunshine, and good company. Some travelers noted that the guide made an effort to speak English and Italian, which helps international guests feel involved.

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Practical Details & Considerations

The tour lasts about 2 hours, a perfect window to enjoy the coast without feeling fatigued. It’s priced at around $50 per person, which offers good value considering the scenic sights, swimming opportunity, and included refreshments. It’s a nice way to add a relaxing activity to your day without breaking the bank.

The meeting point is at Porticciolo Saya in Giardini Naxos, next to the Marco Excursions info booth. The tour includes stops for swimming and allows time to relax on the boat, with the ability to snap photos, chat, or just soak up the sun.

What to bring? Pack a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat—comfort is key. The tour explicitly prohibits alcohol and drugs, so leave those at home. The boat is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for guests with mobility limitations.

What the Reviews Say: Real Travelers’ Insights

Travelers’ feedback paints a picture of a generally positive experience, with notable highlights and some minor criticisms.

• Several reviewers praised the breathtaking scenery and friendly guides. A group celebrating a hen do described it as “our favorite memory in Sicily,” highlighting the fun and festive vibe.
• Many appreciated the peaceful swimming stops, especially in calm weather, although one traveler noted that at certain times of the year, the water can be quite cold.
• The quality of the boat and cleanliness received consistent praise, with one reviewer calling it “very comfortable.”
• The light refreshments are hit and miss—some found the fruit and prosecco delightful, while others felt they were a bit underwhelmed, especially regarding the size of the prosecco pour.

A negative review mentions a cancellation issue, where the trip didn’t happen despite the ticket being paid, so it’s wise to confirm reservations beforehand.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a scenic, relaxing boat ride with the chance to swim in clear waters, this trip fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy light snacks and drinks and want to see some of Sicily’s beautiful coast without a crowded or overly busy outing.

It’s great for couples seeking a romantic experience, small groups celebrating an occasion, or anyone wanting to enjoy Taormina’s coastline in a laid-back way. If you’re traveling with children, the experience’s relaxed nature might suit families, but keep in mind the modest size of the boat and the swimming stops.

Final Thoughts

The Naxos: Cruise on Isola Bella with swimming, fruit & prosecco offers a straightforward yet charming way to see part of Sicily’s coastline. It’s not full of elaborate activities or long lectures—just a peaceful cruise with beautiful views, a little swimming, and some light refreshments.

It’s well-priced for what it is: a short, scenic escape that captures the essence of coastal Sicily. The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and the casual, friendly atmosphere make it a worthwhile addition to a day in Taormina.

That said, if you’re looking for a gourmet experience or a longer, more in-depth tour, you might find this a bit simple. But if your goal is to chill out, snap some photos, and enjoy the sea’s serenity, this trip hits the right note.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family activity, the relaxed nature of the tour and swimming stops could work for children, especially with supervision. Just keep in mind the boat’s size and the modest duration.

What are the start times?
The tour typically starts at 10:00, 12:00, 16:00, and 18:00, so you can choose a time that fits your schedule.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts about 2 hours, giving you enough time for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying the refreshments.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat—especially if you plan to swim or lounge on the boat.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes prosecco and fresh fruit, though some reviews mention the servings are small.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of bad weather, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

In the end, this boat cruise offers a lovely, budget-friendly way to enjoy Sicily’s scenic coast. Whether you’re after a peaceful escape, some fun swimming, or just a chance to unwind with good views and good company, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: