Sicily is situated in the Mediterranean Sea separated from Italy by the Strait of Messina. At it’s narrowest the strait is just 3km, the widest point is 16km. Both are easy to motor across and enjoy the delights of Italy’s southern coast while exploring Sicily.
Of course, there are also numerous islands sitting off the coast of Sicily, meaning that the biggest issue you have when you rent a motorboat in Sicily without skipper, is knowing where to head first.
There are so many sights to see that you’ll struggle to fit them all in, even if you’re here for two weeks. That’s why it’s important not just to look at the great selection of boats, but also to speak to our first-class customer service crew. You’ll need their expertise in order to create a schedule and make the most of the time you have.
It is worth noting that the southern coast is best for beaches. You can motor from the salt mines of Trapani in the northwestern corner of the island, past Marsala and down to Agrigento, home of the Valle dei Templi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and admire some of the best surviving examples of Ancient Greek architecture.
Along the way, you’ll find countless coves and enticing beaches, some of which are only accessible by sea. If you’re looking to relax and enjoy the golden sand hitting the deep blue sea, this is the place to do it.
However, on the eastern side of the island, you’ll find Catania, the second-largest city on the island and the only one framed by Mount Etna. You’ll be glad you rented a motorboat when you sit offshore and gaze at the city. Dusk is a great time to appreciate the twinkling lights and the fiery backdrop of Europe’s most active volcano.
On the eastern side of the island is Syracuse, this is where Archimedes lived approximately 2,200 years ago! You’ll find that these are the waters that sperm whales and dolphins like to visit, it’s a wonderful sightseeing them racing your boat, crossing back and forth across the bow.
Don’t forget to check out Castello Maniace where Archimedes is said to have used a giant mirror to set the Roman boats on fire!
On this side of the island is the small town of Taormina, often referred to as the Pearl of Sicily. It has the best views from land and worth comparing to those you’re getting from sea.
On the northern coast, you’ll find Cefalu, a pretty fishing village that will remind you of every postcard you’ve ever seen of the Med. The town is welcoming and gets busy in the summer months, but that shouldn’t stop you appreciating it. You can also admire the Taormina Greek Theatre and the Madonna della Rocca Church with its impressive view of the area.
You’ll also need to find the time to enjoy Palermo, the capital of Sicily. There are a number of interesting buildings, particularly the Palatine chapel built by the Normans and famous for its Byzantine mosaics. You can also cruise off the coast here and enjoy the nature reserve known as La Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro. There are plenty of stunning beaches here, only accessible by boat, that appear never to have been touched by human hand.
If you have the time the Aeolian Islands are a chain of seven small islands with fantastic rocky coves, hidden beaches, volcanoes rising from the sea, and a smoking crater. That’s a sight you simply shouldn’t miss!
See how we can help you get the experience of a lifetime when you rent a motorboat in Sicily, with or without, a skipper.