Top 6 Yacht Charter & Catamaran Companies in Isola Bella

Isola Bella — the tiny “Pearl of the Ionian” tucked off Taormina’s coast — is one of Sicily’s most photographed spots. Glassy turquoise water, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs make it perfect for a half-day cruise, sunset sail or full-day island-hopping adventure. Below are seven of the most reliable and highly recommended yacht-charter and catamaran operators serving Isola Bella (Taormina/Giardini Naxos area). I’ve focused on companies that run private charters, snorkel and grotto tours, and longer coastal itineraries so you can pick the experience that suits your group.

1. Isola Bella Boat

A local specialist, Isola Bella Boat runs short tours, snorkeling trips, sunset cruises and private charters that depart from the Taormina/Giardini Naxos area. Their site lists a range of options (from quick 1–2.5 hour excursions to full-day charters and long coastal transfers), and published prices for short private trips give a clear picture of the market. This is a good choice if you want an experienced local skipper and flexible island-focused itineraries.

2. Boat Experience Taormina

Boat Experience Taormina markets private and semi-private tours around Isola Bella, nearby sea caves and the Aeolian Islands. They emphasize small-group tours, the chance to swim/snorkel in sheltered coves, and private events (weddings, parties). Review listings and their site show a strong local presence and reliable vessel options for groups of various sizes. If your priority is guided local knowledge combined with flexibility, this operator is worth considering.

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3. Sicily-Boat-Charters (Sicily Private Boat Charters)

This booking platform and operator offers a wide selection of boats — from motorboats to power catamarans — for private hires around Taormina and Isola Bella. Their catalogue highlights half-day and full-day charter packages that include snorkel stops, Blue Grotto visits and transfers to other Sicilian towns. They’re useful if you want to compare craft types (including catamarans) and packaged itineraries in one place.

4. Mikasa Luxury Yachting

Mikasa Luxury Yachting is based near Taormina (Riposto/Porto dell’Etna) and positions itself toward premium, crewed yacht experiences — from day charters to multi-day cruises. If you’re after a higher-end yacht with full crew service (catering, itinerary customization), Mikasa is one of the local names to check. Their fleet and services are aimed at travelers seeking comfort and discretion.

5. Sicily Sailing Experience

Sicily Sailing Experience (and similar small sailing companies) frequently appears in Taormina/Isola Bella reviews for day sails and multi-stop itineraries. They often get strong reviews for personalized skipper service, well-maintained boats and the ability to combine a relaxing sail with onshore visits to coastal villages. Look to them for a true sailing experience (rather than a powerboat tour).

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6. Voyage Tour Taormina & Local Skippered Operators

Voyage Tour Taormina is one of several small, highly rated local operators that offer private boats, transfers and tailor-made experiences (for example, romantic sunset cruises and extended trips to Aci Trezza or the Aeolian Islands). Many travelers also book local skippers through platforms such as Viator or GetMyBoat for one-off private rentals — useful when you want last-minute availability or specific itinerary requests.

How to choose the right operator

1. Decide experience first — half-day snorkel/grotto trips, sunset sails, full-day island hopping or multi-day charters require different vessels (rigid-hulled powerboats vs catamarans vs crewed yachts).
2. Check vessel and safety credentials — confirm lifejackets, licensed skippers and insurance. Local companies list certificates on their sites or will share them on request.
3. Compare final pricing — advertised trip costs sometimes exclude fuel, port fees or skipper gratuities. Ask for the full cost in writing. (Example short tours in Taormina show hourly private rates on operator sites.)
4. Book in advance in high season — July–August and holiday weekends sell out fast; platforms and local operators both accept advance reservations.
5. Ask about extras — snorkel gear, onboard catering, music and itinerary flexibility (especially if you want to visit specific sea caves or nearby islands).

Final tip

If your priority is Isola Bella’s iconic cove, a morning calm-water cruise or a late-afternoon sunset sail gives the best light for photos and calmer seas for snorkeling. For larger groups or families, a power catamaran from a broker or Sicily Boat Charters usually offers the best mix of space and stability.