Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a captivating destination renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. This rugged and beautiful island features wildflower-strewn meadows, sun-drenched bays, and highlands that resemble a moonscape. Surrounded by the clear, warm waters of the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, Sicily is home to the ancient ruins of 12 civilizations and boasts the tallest active volcano in Europe.
Kayaking along Sicily's coast is an extraordinary experience, thanks to the island's dramatic and diverse shoreline. The crystal-clear Mediterranean waters offer excellent visibility and vibrant colors, while the coastline is dotted with stunning sea caves, hidden coves, and grottos. With the warm Mediterranean climate, there are plenty of opportunities to paddle to secluded swimming spots away from crowded beaches, as well as to explore ancient coastal ruins and charming fishing villages from the water.
In Sicily, we’ll paddle in the Ionian waters of Odysseus, Homer’s epic hero, kayak into picture-perfect villages, along fortress walls of ancient cities and land in sandy coves as we explore Sicily’s legendary eastern coast. With carefully curated paddling routes from the islands of the Cyclops to magnificent Ortigia to storied Capo Passero to Taormina’s exquisite Isola Bella, this is a true kayak odyssey.
Ashore, we’ll immerse ourselves in the natural beauty as well as the cultural and historical highlights of Sicily, exploring ancient cities and volcanic heights. Sicilian cuisine is some of the best in the world, earning the Island the nickname “God’s Kitchen,” and the fertile slopes of Mount Etna produce an exceptional range of DOP products, including lemons, blood oranges, tomatoes, olives, olive oil, artichokes, and pistachios as well as a robust selection of DOC wines.
Wine tasting at Gambino Winery, Mt Etna, Sicily
Sicily is a feast for the senses, and we’ll do it in the style that we’ve brought to all of our Italian trips, one that combines memorable kayaking routes with an insider’s view of culture, cuisine, and “La Dolce Vita.” As always, we’ve handpicked accommodations, dining experiences, and wine tastings that hit just the right note. Join us in Sicily for another chapter in our kayaking love affair with the natural and cultural splendors of Italy.
Ionian Sea through the arches of the Greek theater in Taormina, Sicily
Our Sicilian kayaking adventure was the perfect blend of paddling, relaxation, and culinary exploration. Post-paddling meals were lavish spreads of local delicacies. Enrico was an expert on the water and seemed to know every hidden gem on the island. Every day was a new marvel: from the ancient ruins to dramatic cliffs and hidden caves. Thanks for a fantastic trip!
