Snorkeling at Isola Bella & Spotting Dolphins: A Perfect Day on the Ionian Sea

Isola Bella isn’t called the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea” for nothing. Connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand that disappears with the tide, this lush little island is surrounded by a protected marine reserve. For anyone visiting Sicily, taking a dip in these waters is an absolute must—but reaching the best snorkeling spots from the crowded pebble beach can be a challenge.

That’s where we come in. By dropping anchor just off the coast of Isola Bella during our boat tours, you get immediate access to the clearest, most pristine waters, far from the crowds on the shore.

What to Expect Under the Surface

The rocky seabed around Isola Bella is teeming with life. When you bring your snorkeling mask along on our tours, you can expect to see schools of vibrant Mediterranean fish, colorful sea flora, and, if you look closely at the rocks, beautiful starfish. The water here is incredibly refreshing, offering the perfect cool-down after soaking up the Sicilian sun on deck.

The Ultimate Bonus: Dolphin Watching

While the snorkeling is guaranteed to be beautiful, the Ionian Sea often has an extra surprise in store. The waters off Giardini Naxos and Taormina are a natural playground for pods of bottlenose and striped dolphins.

As a local who grew up on these waters, Captain Giosue knows exactly how to read the sea. While we can never guarantee a wild animal sighting, we frequently spot dolphins playfully jumping in the wake of our boat or hunting for fish in the distance. Seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat—while holding a glass of Prosecco, no less—is an experience our guests talk about for years.