Join Nicolò, an experienced skipper and storyteller of the sea, for an excursion that transforms the coastline between Giardini Naxos and Taormina into an open-air history book. From the routes of the Greek settlers to the villas of the British aristocracy, every wave tells the story of an era. The Route: A Journey of 2,700 Years 1. Giardini Naxos: Where It All Began The tour begins by sailing across the waters of Naxos Bay. It was here that, in 734 BC, the Chalcidian Greeks founded their first colony in Sicily. From the boat: You can admire the archaeological site and Schisò Castle from a privileged perspective, imagining the arrival of the ancient Greek triremes that chose this sheltered bay to establish Hellenic civilization on the island.
2. Cape Taormina and Prickly Pears Rock As we round the promontory of Cape Taormina, geology becomes history. Nicolò will take you under the imposing gray limestone cliffs where natural crevices open up that once offered shelter to local fishermen and today are home to protected marine biodiversity.
3. Isola Bella: From Royal Gift to Nature Reserve Continuing north, we will enter the heart of the Marine Park. Isola Bella is not only a natural jewel, but also a historic monument: The History: You will learn about Florence Trevelyan, the English noblewoman who bought the islet at the end of the 19th century, planting exotic species and building the small house that still stands among the vegetation today. The Connection with Taormina: You will admire from below the ancient walls and structures that connect the coast to the historic old town above.
4. Mazzarò Bay and the Blue Grotto In this body of water, Nicolò will show you the places where the international jet set of the 1950s made Taormina famous around the world. The Blue Grotto, with its cobalt reflections, was once a place of maritime legends linked to the Greek myths of the monsters Scylla and Charybdis.
The Onboard Experience with Nicolò Sailing with Taormina Boat Service means choosing authenticity. Nicolò doesn't just steer the boat; he tailors the tour to your interests: Historical Narrative: Insights into the founding of Tauromenium (Taormina) by refugees from Naxos and its subsequent importance under Rome and Byzantium. Local Knowledge: Nicolò will point out the ancient stone quarries and the spots where the sea still conceals archaeological secrets. Time to Relax: Between stories, enjoy a swim stop in the turquoise waters of the Bay of the Sirens, away from the most crowded tourist routes. Tour Details Feature Description Departure Point Giardini Naxos Pier or Capo Taormina. Skipper Nicolò (Taormina Boat Service). Main Stops Bay of Naxos, Isola Bella, Blue Grotto, Mazzarò, Bay of Spisone. Historical Focus Greek colonization, Sicilian Middle Ages, 19th-century Taormina. Amenities Open bar (water/soft drinks), seasonal fresh fruit, snorkeling gear.
