The 5 Best VIP Experiences in Sicily

1.Boat tour luxury

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 174 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $143Our pick

Spend about four hours along Palermo’s coast with skipper Gaspare and a group capped at nine. Stop at Addaura, Mondello, Capo Gallo, Grotta dell’Olio and Grotta della Regina for swims, snorkeling and coastal views. Drinks, snacks, music and snorkel gear are part of the relaxed boat outing.

“Gaspare was a terrific captain! After many amazing but HOT days touring Palermo, we needed a way to cool down. A boat tour with four opportunities to cool off in the water along the gorgeous Sicilian shore was exactly what we needed!”

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2.Half day with lunch in luxury private tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 90 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $907

Set out from Giardini Naxos aboard the private Blue Diamond with hosts Graziella and Saro. Cruise past Taormina’s coastal landmarks, hear about the area’s history, swim or try snorkeling with masks provided, then enjoy a welcome drink and a generous local lunch. The boat has both shaded and sunny seating.

“We could not have asked for a better day! Grazilella and Saro were so knowledgeable sharing fabulous historical facts. The spread of fresh local food was outstanding! A beautiful day!”

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3.Luxury Boat Tour with Snacks and Snorkeling

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 59 reviews · from $113

Set out from Marina Arenella for four hours along Palermo’s coast, with swimming and snorkeling stops in Mondello, at Capo Gallo and by two sea caves. Skipper Gaspare leads the small-group trip, with snacks, drinks and music on board. Expect a relaxed outing, not a scuba excursion.

“Our guide was very very kind. We had FOUR children. Which means you want to make sure you feel that your kids are safe. This is exactly what our guide did. He made everyone feel safe and was constantly making sure everyone had what they needed. We wanted for nothing. I hope to return to this again. 5 stars all the way !”

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4.sunset tour with aperitif on a luxury boat

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 5 reviews · from $95Best value

Leave Marina Arenella with skipper Gaspare Adamo for a two-hour sunset cruise, limited to nine people. Expect scenic views, a stop in Mondello Bay for a swim and snorkeling, and a Sicilian aperitif with wine, fresh drinks, and typical local products. The captain may change the stop based on weather.

“We had an unforgettable evening thanks to Gaspare for a birthday party. We were treated to champagne, cookies, Sicilian specialties and a personalized birthday cake with personalized music. It was just great! We'll never forget it. The sunset was magnificent and the walk very pleasant.”

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5.Private Taormina White Lotus luxury experience

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 4 reviews · 7 hours (approx.) · from $390

From Messina, take a private air-conditioned van to Taormina for a guided walk past the town’s gates, cathedral and White Lotus filming setting, plus a boat trip with an onboard tasting. The day lasts about seven hours and includes round-trip transport. On one outing, guide Mariarita and driver Giuseppe helped a family combine sightseeing, swimming and time to shop.

“Can’t recommend this enough. We had a fun, relaxing and easy experience with this tour. Our cruise port got changed and the company reached out proactively letting us know they’d pick us up at the new location. We were greeted by Mariarita right at the port and Giuseppe drove all of us to the boat next to Taormina. The boat ride was a highlight for us. We got to see some of the filming spots from the White Lotus show but also enjoyed a fruit plate, Prosecco, and an hour of swimming. The boat was perfect. Mariarita gave us a tour of downtown Taormina and recommended a great spot for…”

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