Palermo Coast: Boat Tour, Snorkeling & Sea Caves with Snacks

Summary

Palermo’s turquoise coves, secret sea caves and lazy swims

You’ll float along Palermo’s coast with a local captain, stopping to swim in clear coves like Mondello Beach and Capo Gallo Nature Reserve. Explore secret caves only reachable by boat, snack on local treats with cold drinks on deck, and listen to stories between swims—it’s easygoing and full of small surprises.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the sunlight bounced off the water at Marina Arenella—almost too bright to look at, like someone spilled silver everywhere. Our captain, Salvo, greeted us with that quick Sicilian nod (half smile, half “let’s get going”). We set out along the Palermo coast, and honestly? The city looked softer from out there. I could smell sunscreen and a little salt in the air. There was music playing quietly on board—something Italian from the 80s maybe—and everyone just sort of melted into their seats as we left the harbor.

Our first stop was Addaura Roosevelt cove. I jumped in before I could overthink it—the water was cold at first but then perfect. Salvo handed me a snorkel mask and pointed to where the rocks dropped off; there were tiny fish darting around my toes. At Mondello Beach, families waved from paddleboards and you could hear kids laughing all the way from shore. The sand looked almost white against that turquoise water—I tried to take a photo but it didn’t really do it justice. Oh, and someone passed around arancini (those fried rice balls)—still warm inside.

Next came Capo Gallo Nature Reserve. The cliffs here felt ancient—like they’d seen everything already—and swimming beneath them made me feel small in a good way. We drifted for a while before heading to Oil Cave, which you can only reach by boat. It’s darker inside than you’d expect; cool air on your skin and this echo when you laugh or shout (which we did). I tried to pronounce “Grotta dell’Olio” properly—Salvo laughed and corrected me gently.

The last stop was Regina Cave near Villa Igea. We floated quietly for a bit—just listening to water slap against the hull—and I thought about how Palermo always feels like layers of stories stacked on top of each other. The day trip around Palermo’s coast wasn’t flashy or showy; it was just real—sunburnt noses, salty hair, laughter echoing off stone. I still think about that view back toward Monte Pellegrino as we turned for home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxury boat tour along Palermo coast

• Depart from Marina Arenella
• Stop at Addaura Roosevelt for snorkeling
• Stop at Mondello Beach for swimming and photos
• Stop at Capo Gallo for snorkeling and relaxation
• Swim inside the Oil Cave
• Visit Queen's Cave and admire Villa Igea

Top questions

What time does the Palermo boat tour depart?

The tour departs daily at 09:30 and 14:30 from Marina Arenella.

Are snacks and drinks included on the Palermo coast boat tour?

Yes, snacks and a mix of cold drinks are included on board.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is available for use during the tour.

How many stops are there during the Palermo boat tour?

The tour usually includes five stops: Addaura Roosevelt cove, Mondello Beach, Capo Gallo Nature Reserve, Oil Cave, and Regina Cave.

Can infants join the Palermo coast boat trip?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap or use a pram or stroller.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a comfortable cabin with a bathroom and shower available for guests.

Does the itinerary change if weather is bad?

Stops may vary based on weather conditions to ensure safety for everyone onboard.

Are service animals allowed on this Palermo boat tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the trip.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from Marina Arenella with all stops along Palermo’s coast; use of snorkeling gear; snacks like arancini plus cold drinks served onboard; access to a comfortable cabin with bathroom and shower; plus time to swim at each cove before returning in the afternoon or evening depending on your chosen slot.