Catamaran day trip in Palermo with lunch or aperitif for 12 people

A Guided Look at a Catamaran Day Trip in Palermo

If you’re after a day of sailing along Palermo’s coast in style, this high-end catamaran trip offers an inviting blend of comfort, fun, and Sicilian flavor. With a newly built, spacious vessel and an all-inclusive package, it promises a floating escape that mixes relaxation, adventure, and excellent cuisine. The trip covers multiple scenic stops, from the lively Mondello to the protected Capo Gallo Reserve, all in about five hours.

What I really like about this experience is how it balances luxury and authenticity. The ample space on the catamaran makes it perfect for small groups or private gatherings, and the inclusion of water games, snorkeling gear, and a virtual underwater tour ensures everyone stays entertained. Plus, the delicious Sicilian lunch or aperitif paired with an open bar means you won’t leave hungry or thirsty.

That said, it’s worth noting that the full day option might be a bit intense if you’re more of a relaxed traveler or prefer a slow pace. The itinerary involves multiple stops, some of which involve quick transitions, so if you’re not keen on moving around or swimming often, it might feel a bit packed.

This trip offers a well-rounded experience that balances highlight stops with immersive activities, making it especially appealing for those craving a taste of Sicilian seaside life with the comfort of a private yacht.

Key points / Takeaways

• Spacious, modern catamaran designed for comfort and plenty of social space.
• All-inclusive food and drinks, with local Sicilian flavors and unlimited drinks during the day.
• Multiple engaging stops for snorkeling, water sports, and cave visits, with some stops lasting around an hour.
• Activities for all ages, including water games, snorkeling masks, and even virtual underwater viewing.
• Expert crew and skipper ensure smooth sailing and personalized attention.
• Flexible booking options with private groups and a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Exploring the Palermo Catamaran Experience in Detail

The Starting Point: Molo Trapezoidale in Palermo

Your adventure begins at 9:00 a.m. (or 3:00 p.m. for the afternoon trip) at the Trapezoidal Pier in Palermo’s historic center. This convenient location makes it simple for travelers staying in the city to meet up without needing extra transfers. The check-in process is straightforward, and the staff is known for their friendly approach, setting a welcoming tone from the start.

The Vessel: A New, Roomy Catamaran

The boat itself feels more like a floating resort than a typical tour boat. Its newly built design features generous space, making it comfortable for lounging and socializing. The large deck area is perfect for soaking up the sun, enjoying drinks from the open bar, or watching Palermo’s coastline drift by. The crew ensures everyone has plenty of room, which is often a big plus for groups wanting a mix of privacy and shared fun.

The Itinerary: A Well-Curated Coastal Tour

The cruise takes you through some of Palermo’s most stunning spots, with stops that balance scenic beauty and activity. Here’s a quick overview:

• Stop 1: Mondello — Known for its lively beach scene and crystal-clear waters, here you can snorkel, enjoy local snacks, or paddle around on canoes and SUPs. The review mentions “gorgeous swimming spots” and the crew providing masks, which makes this a highlight for water lovers.

• Stop 2: Capo Gallo Reserve — A protected marine area, perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life in a more secluded environment. The 30-minute stay gives just enough time to soak in the scenery.

• Stop 3: Grotta dell’Olio — Known for its caves and regional flavors, you’ll enjoy some local street food, wine, and the chance to snorkel or paddle. One reviewer loved the “delicious lunch” and the chance to taste Sicilian finger foods amid the caves.

• Stop 4: Sferracavallo — A fishing village offering a fresh seafood lunch, with options for swimming and water sports during your hour here.

• Stop 5: Isola delle Femmine — Another hour-long stop with snorkeling and sailing, perfect for those wanting to take full advantage of the marine environment.

• Return to Palermo — After a full day of stops, you’ll head back to the starting point, feeling satisfied with the mix of relaxation and adventure.

Food, Drinks, and Special Touches

One of the favorite aspects, according to reviews, is the food and beverage offerings. For the day tour, there’s a lunch based on typical Sicilian dishes, featuring fresh fish, regional snacks, and seasonal fruit. The aperitif offered during the afternoon version allows guests to sample Sicilian wines and finger foods, giving a taste of local flavors on the water.

The open bar is unlimited, allowing you to enjoy local wines, spirits, and soft drinks at your leisure. Many travelers appreciated the quality of the food, noting it was both delicious and authentic, adding to the overall value.

Water Games and Underwater Activities

For those who want to stay active, the boat is equipped with canoes, SUPs, and water scooters. The crew is attentive, providing snorkeling masks and helping participants explore the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean seabed. One review quotes a guest saying the “gorgeous swimming spots” and the crew’s support made for memorable underwater experiences.

Virtual Tour and Marine Exploration

What’s unique here is the virtual underwater experience during the cruise. Guests can watch a 4K underwater virtual tour, creating an interactive element that’s engaging for all ages. It’s a fun way to learn about the sea life, especially if snorkeling isn’t your favorite or the weather isn’t ideal.

Fishing: A Bonus for Enthusiasts

Sport fishing is included, with chances to catch species like tuna, amberjack, and sea bream. For those interested in trying their luck, it’s a fun side activity that adds a layer of excitement to the day.

Service and Crew: A Key to the Experience

The crew, often praised in reviews, includes a skipper and hostess/steward, who work hard to make the trip enjoyable and comfortable. Their friendly attitude and attention to detail—like providing beach towels and masks—allow you to relax and focus on having fun.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

While the tour isn’t inexpensive, many travelers find the value far exceeds the cost. The all-inclusive approach—covering food, drinks, water sports, snorkeling gear, and even fishing—means you’re paying for a full day of entertainment, comfort, and authentic Sicilian flavors. A review from John highlights that “the crew is super friendly,” and that the “lunch was delicious and included unlimited drinks”, making it a well-rounded package.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This cruise works best for small groups or couples looking for a luxurious, activity-packed day on the water. Families with children who enjoy swimming and water games will appreciate the variety of activities, while those interested in savoring Sicilian cuisine and wines will find it especially rewarding. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a comfortable, all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning each stop separately.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed day with minimal transitions, or if you dislike swimming and water-based activities, this might feel a bit rushed. The five-hour duration includes multiple stops, so it’s best suited for those eager to explore a variety of coastal sights in one trip.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance, especially during high season, to secure your preferred start time and group size.
• Arrive promptly at 9:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m., as the activity starts exactly on time.
• Bring your swimwear, towel, and sunscreen, although the crew supplies towels.
• Don’t forget your snorkeling mask if you want to explore underwater, although masks are provided.
• Wear comfortable clothing for the day, and consider bringing a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.
• Prepare to move between stops if you want to maximize water activities; some stops are only around 30 to 60 minutes.
• Consider a camera or waterproof phone case — the views and underwater scenes are picture-worthy.

The Sum Up: A Luxurious Coastal Adventure

For those craving a blend of comfort, fun, and local flavor, this Palermo catamaran trip hits the mark. The beautiful vessel, combined with access to stunning swimming spots, water games, and Sicilian cuisine, makes for a memorable day on the sea. The inclusion of activities like virtual underwater tours and sport fishing means there’s something for all—whether you want to relax, learn, or get active.

If your idea of a perfect day involves sailing along scenic coastlines with good food and drinks, this trip offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for small groups, couples, or families eager to enjoy Palermo from the water in style. Just be prepared for a full schedule of stops, and you’ll leave with plenty of beautiful photos, full bellies, and great stories.

FAQ

How long does the trip last?
The cruise lasts about five hours, with check-in at 9:00 a.m. for the full-day tour or 3:00 p.m. for the afternoon option.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is at the Trapezoidal Pier (Molo Trapezoidale) in Palermo’s historic center, specifically at Si.Ti.Mar srl.

What’s included in the price?
The package covers the virtual tour, water games, snorkeling masks, water activities, cave visits, swimming in protected areas, Sicilian food and wine, open bar, fishing, towels, skipper, hostess, and fuel.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, scuba diving and courses, massages, or private party arrangements are available for an extra fee.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the water-based activities and fun environment make it suitable for kids, especially those who enjoy swimming and water sports.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera if desired. Towels are provided, but you may want to bring your own for added comfort.

This Palermo catamaran day trip offers a well-rounded taste of seaside luxury, authentic Sicilian flavors, and lively water activities—all in about five hours of fun. Perfect for those looking to enjoy Palermo’s coast with style and ease.