The gorgeous port city of Messina serves up some of Sicily’s best maritime experiences. Most visitors opt for two excellent choices: the culture-rich “Godfather” movie location tours or the scenic Taormina coastal excursions. I especially love the full-day Etna and Taormina combination tours – they give you the perfect mix of volcano views and charming medieval streets. For active travelers, the electric jetsurfing and snorkeling trips are surprisingly affordable and less touristy than you might expect. If you’re looking to splurge, private yacht charters from Letojanni offer that special Mediterranean magic I’ve always recommended to independent travelers. Let’s explore the top boat tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Private Godfather Tour explores iconic filming locations of “The Godfather” in Messina, including visits to Savoca and Forza d’Agro.
- Etna and Taormina Excursion offers a comprehensive tour of Mount Etna, Taormina, and Castelmola with private transportation and knowledgeable guides.
- Adventure seekers can experience Taormina’s water activities like jetsurfing with no prior experience required.
- Boat tours in Taormina and Messina provide opportunities to explore Isola Bella, go snorkeling, and visit wineries.
- Luxurious yacht experiences in Taormina offer scenic cruises, Sicilian cuisine, and the chance to discover the region’s natural beauty.
Private Godfather Tour From Messina Cruise Terminal – With Lunch
Exploring the iconic filming locations of “The Godfather” in Messina, this private tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the cinematic legacy of the Mafia.
With a knowledgeable local driver/guide, the tour visits Savoca and Forza d’Agro, where key scenes were shot. Highlights include the Bar Vitelli and the Church of San Nicolò.
Guests will also enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch and gain insights into the region’s history and culture. Priced from $316.37 per person, the tour offers an exclusive, wheelchair-accessible experience with free cancellation.
Positive reviews praise the guides’ expertise and the tour’s ability to bring the movie to life. An immersive option for Godfather fans and lovers of Italian cinema.
Read our full review: Private Godfather Tour From Messina Cruise Terminal – With Lunch Review
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Taormina – Giardini Naxos Electric Jetsurfing Boat Trip
For those seeking a thrilling and unique water activity during their Messina cruise, the Taormina – Giardini Naxos Electric Jetsurfing Boat Trip offers an unforgettable experience.
Priced from $95.11 per person, this 1-hour jetsurfing excursion allows participants to explore the bay of Taormina – Giardini Naxos.
No prior experience is necessary, as a 10-minute briefing is provided. Safety equipment, including a life vest, is included.
Multilingual instructors guide participants through the adventure. Photographers and drone services are available at an additional cost for capturing the thrills.
This first jetboard center in Sicily promises a controlled and easy-to-maneuver experience.
With a perfect 5/5 rating, the tour comes highly recommended for a unique and memorable water activity.
Read our full review: Taormina – Giardini Naxos Electric Jetsurfing Boat Trip Review
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Etna Taormina and Castelmola the Best Excursion for Cruise Passengers From Messina
The Etna Taormina and Castelmola excursion is an exceptional choice for cruise passengers visiting Messina. Offering an air-conditioned and private transportation, the tour provides a comprehensive experience that includes visits to Mount Etna, Taormina, and Castelmola.
Praised for their knowledge and adaptability, the guides Philipo and Erika ensure a flexible and insightful journey. Customers have shared positive experiences, highlighting the tour’s local insights and overall satisfaction.
Priced from $203.76 per person, the excursion includes bottled water, snacks, and entrance fees, making it a great value proposition. Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for most travelers.
The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience adds to the convenience.
Read our full review: Etna Taormina and Castelmola the Best Excursion for Cruise Passengers From Messina Review
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Taormina: Boat Tour With Snorkeling and Swimming
Situated along the picturesque Taormina coastline, the Taormina: Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Swimming offers a captivating aquatic adventure.
This 2-hour tour allows travelers to explore the beautiful Isola Bella, a small island known for its stunning natural scenery. Guests can hop aboard a boat and enjoy an aperitif while taking in the breathtaking views.
The highlight of the tour is the opportunity to don snorkeling gear and enjoy the crystal-clear waters, discovering the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.
With a 4.2-star rating from 591 reviews and priced at $51.78 per person, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to connect with the natural beauty of the Taormina coastline.
Read our full review: Taormina: Boat Tour With Snorkeling and Swimming Review
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Private Tour From Messina Cruise Terminal to Etna + Etna Winery
This private tour from the Messina Cruise Terminal provides travelers an opportunity to explore the renowned Mount Etna and indulge in the region’s acclaimed wines.
The 4.5-star rated excursion includes private transportation, a cable car ride up to 2,500 meters, and visits to a local honey shop and an Etna winery for tastings.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s ability to accommodate their needs.
At $407.53 per person, the experience offers beautiful scenery, engaging activities, and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This tour is an ideal choice for cruisers seeking a personalized adventure in the shadow of Europe’s most active volcano.
Read our full review: Private Tour From Messina Cruise Terminal to Etna + Etna Winery Review
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Boat Rental Without License in Letojanni
One popular option for exploring the waters around Messina is the boat rental service in the nearby town of Letojanni.
These boat rentals don’t require a license, making them an accessible choice for visitors. The rentals typically offer 2-hour outings and can accommodate up to 6 people, allowing you to create your own customized boat tour.
Rates start around $63 per rental. Cruising along the Sicilian coastline, you’ll have the chance to admire the picturesque scenery and stop for a swim in the crystal-clear waters.
These boat rentals provide a hassle-free way to experience the beauty of the Messina region from the sea.
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Letojanni: Boat Rental Without a License
Letojanni’s boat rental service provides a hassle-free way for visitors to explore the stunning Sicilian coastline without the need for a boating license.
For $232.49 per group (up to 6 people), customers can enjoy either a 4-hour half-day or an 8-hour full-day rental. The boats come equipped with essential amenities, including cushions, a shower, a refrigerator, and a stereo system.
Safety is a priority, with a briefing on navigation and a vessel responsibility contract. Pickup is available, and the service is wheelchair accessible.
Customers can discover picturesque bays and have the option to hire a skipper for a personalized experience.
Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this an attractive option for a day on the water.
Read our full review: Letojanni: Boat Rental Without a License Review
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Private Taormina Yacht Experience
The Private Taormina Yacht Experience offers visitors a luxurious way to explore the stunning coastline around Taormina.
Starting from Giardini Naxos harbor, this 4-hour yacht cruise takes guests to iconic sites like Isola Bella and famous caves, including locations featured in the TV show “The White Lotus.”
On board, guests can enjoy a Sicilian antipasto tasting, sip Prosecco, and have access to snorkeling gear.
The experience is suitable for groups of up to 12 people and costs €2,200 per group.
With a live English-speaking guide, free cancellation, and a range of onboard amenities, this yacht tour is an ideal way to experience the beauty of the Messina region.
Read our full review: Private Taormina Yacht Experience Review
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Private Boat Tour Isola Bella Taormina Giardini Naxos
This private boat tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning coastline around Isola Bella, Taormina, and Giardini Naxos.
The 2-hour tour, priced at $422.71 per group (up to 8 participants), allows guests to take in breathtaking views of the Bay of Naxos, Capo Taormina, and the Mermaids Cave.
Travelers can swim in the Marine Park of Isola Bella, enjoy wine tasting, and spot wildlife.
The professional crew, including a skipper and hostess, ensures a seamless experience.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover the beauty of Sicily’s coastline.
Read our full review: Private Boat Tour Isola Bella Taormina Giardini Naxos Review
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HALF-DAY TAORMINA BOAT TOUR
Embarking on a half-day boat tour in Taormina offers visitors a captivating way to discover the area’s picturesque coastline.
The Taormina: Boat Tour with Aperitif on Isola Bella is a popular 2-hour excursion that allows guests to admire the stunning Isola Bella and the scenic Giardini Naxos from the water.
With 4.2 out of 5 stars from 591 reviews, this tour provides an intimate experience for up to 12 people, complete with an included aperitif.
Priced at €49 per person, this half-day boat tour is an affordable and enjoyable way to explore the natural beauty of Taormina’s coastal landscapes.
Read our full review: HALF-DAY TAORMINA BOAT TOUR Review
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All Inclusive Taormina Bay Yacht
Visitors to Messina and Taormina seeking a more luxurious on-the-water experience can opt for the All Inclusive Taormina Bay Yacht tour.
This 2-hour boat excursion showcases the stunning Isola Bella island and its turquoise waters. Priced at $51.78 per person, the tour includes an aperitif and has a 4.2 rating from 591 reviews.
Travelers can enjoy the scenic coastal views and relax on the yacht’s deck while sipping on complimentary drinks.
This small-group activity provides a personalized and exclusive way to explore Taormina’s picturesque bay, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a premium boating experience in the region.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Taormina Bay Yacht Review
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Boat Rental With License in Letojanni
For those seeking a self-guided boating experience in the Letojanni area, renting a boat with a license is a popular choice. Visitors can explore the picturesque coastline and nearby coves at their own pace.
Popular options include hour-long and full-day rentals, allowing for flexibility in planning. Rates typically range from $63.41 per group up to 2 people for a 1-hour rental to $104.62 per group up to 2 for a 2.5-hour excursion.
Boats come equipped with life jackets and basic navigational equipment, though no prior boating experience is required as the license covers operation. This activity offers a unique way to discover the natural beauty of the Letojanni region from the water.
Read our full review: Boat Rental With License in Letojanni Review
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Recap
Messina offers a variety of cruise and boat tour options for visitors. From private Godfather tours and electric jetsurfing to Etna and Taormina excursions, there’s something for all. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and wine tasting, or simply take in the stunning coastal views. With a range of tour lengths and experiences, travelers can easily find the perfect boat tour to suit their interests and budget.