SNORKELLING · SNORKELING AND KAYAKING TRIPS IN ITALY
Good snorkeling and kayaking trips in Italy fill up in high season and the small boats go first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Set out from Lungomare Luigi Rizzo at 10:00 for a seven-hour boat trip around Lampedusa. Pietro, Marino, and the Sapore di Mare crew combine swimming, snorkeling, SUP, island stories, and a fresh seafood lunch. The small group is limited to 15 people, with stops shaped by wind and sea conditions.
Paddle east from Maiori with local guides such as Danilo, Salvatore, and Nicola, stopping at Torre Normanna, Acquachiara beach, and Grotta di Pandora. You’ll get kayak and snorkeling gear, a dry bag, fruit, water, a hat, and photos sent by email. Swimming ability is required.
“It was my first and by far the best activity in Amalfi coast, the lads are brilliant. The whole tour was very well taken care of. Can’t recommend this enough, also no better way to see the coast than with your kayak and so close to the water.”
Set out from Monterosso with guides such as Chiara for a two-hour kayak trip along the Cinque Terre coast. Paddle past caves, waterfalls, and the old village, then stop to snorkel in a sheltered cove. Equipment, changing facilities, showers, and secure storage are provided. Bring water shoes, a towel, and your own drinking water.
“The two women hosts were knowledgeable about the history of Cinque Terre and were very friendly. Their English was excellent, and they were friendly. The kayaking was not too strenuous, and we had the opportunity to snorkel in a cove.”
Meet at Cala Suaraccia near San Teodoro for a guided kayak trip along the Tavolara marine reserve. Antonio, Luca, Gabriele, Marta, and other Ecosport Sardinia guides lead small groups through rock formations and a sea cave, with snorkeling near Proratora, seasonal fruit, and kayaks for beginners or experienced paddlers.
“I would highly recommend this kayak trip to anyone visiting Olbia or the surrounding area. Our guide was fantastic and very knowledgeable about the area's sea life. Also after learning that my friend and I are studying anthropology in Rome, he told us about recent archaeological finds in Olbia. We had such a wonderful morning at a beautiful beach, it was well worth the money.”
Start at Stella Marina Beach Bar in Monterosso for a two-hour guided kayak trip with Chiara or another Carnassa guide. Paddle past the coast, historic sights, caves, and quiet coves, then stop to swim and snorkel. Stable sit-on-top kayaks, safety gear, changing rooms, showers, and dry bags are included.
“Guide was great. She knew a lot about the area and nature. The snorkeling was great. The water was the perfect temperature for a hot day. Really enjoyed this. Would definitely recommend.”
Join local guide Alessio for a small-group kayak trip from Minori toward Pandora Cave and Dead Horse Beach. Paddle past coastal forts, enter a sea cave, snorkel in clear water, and enjoy fruit, lemonade, and a freshly mixed lemon spritz on a beach reached only by sea. Equipment, photos, water, and luggage storage are included.
“Our guide was excellent with lots of history and stories to tell The scenery was amazing from the coast line and buildings to the snorkelling and kayaking in and out of the caves. Nothing was a problem for Alezio and we thoroughly enjoyed this day.”
From Maiori, you paddle east with local guides such as Dani, Nicola, Federico, and Carmelo, stopping at Acquachiara beach and Pandora Cave for swimming and snorkeling. Expect about 3.5 hours on the water, clear safety instruction, fresh fruit, photos sent by email, and a steady workout suited to beginners who can swim.
“Kayaking with this group of local men starting their own business was fantastic. They are kind, enthusiastic, and fun. We had four guides and about 10 paying guests. The facilities for meeting up and getting ready to go out on the water are great. I'm very glad we did it!”
Paddle from Cala Suaraccia with professional guides in a single or beginner-friendly double kayak. You’ll reach Isola di Proratora, snorkel among fish, octopus, and starfish, then enjoy a local aperitif before returning. Guides including Gabriel, Antonio, Tommy, and Daniele have led past outings, with English, French, Italian, and Spanish available.
“The guides were well prepared and very friendly. Since we were beginners at kayaking, they helped us with the technique and made us feel comfortable. We visited a couple of beautiful spots along the coast. It was a bit of a workout, but overall a very enjoyable experience.”
Start in Minori with guide Alessio, then paddle along the coast past Maiori’s Norman Tower to the Sulfur Cave and Pandora’s Cave. You’ll have time to snorkel at Dead Horse Beach, enjoy fruit and an aperitif, and use kayaks, safety gear, dry bags, and an action camera. Open-sea kayaking requires swimming ability and moderate fitness.
“Alessio was an excellent host. He instructed us on the use of our kayaks, provided the necessary safety equipment including cold water and dry bags. He also shared with us his local knowledge and life on the Amalfi Coast. We had a perfect day on the water and our 3 & a half hour tour turned into 5 hours. Thoroughly recommend.”
Join an English or Italian speaking guide for an easy sea kayak from Niasca Beach in Paraggi to Portofino, Olivetta, and the lighthouse. Expect 1.5 to 2.5 hours on the water, with swimming, sunset aperitivo, or a snorkeling upgrade depending on conditions.
“Great experience, the only downfall is when u have other people in your group that are too busy taking pics with their cell phone resulting in slowing everybody down. Next time will rent our own kayak.”
Meet Alessandro at Pinus Village beach for a short kayak lesson, then paddle South Sardinia’s clear waters past cliffs, coves, a Roman-era trail, and a 16th-century watchtower. Stop at a sea-only beach for swimming and snorkeling before entering a sea cave. Small groups, gear, photos, and English, Italian, or Spanish guidance are included.
“What a wonderful activity! The guides were outstanding, as was the equipment and the scenery... Would recommend to friends without hesitation!”
Paddle west from Amalfi in a stable double kayak with a small group of up to 10. Your English or Italian-speaking guide leads you past the Arc of Lovers, Conca dei Marini, watch towers, and Runghetiello Grotto, with time for snorkeling, swimming, fruit, and photos.
“Absolutely breathtaking: the views and vibes were out of this world!”
Set out from Cala Suaraccia with a local guide in a single or double kayak. Paddle to Proratora Island, enter a sea cave, snorkel in clear water, and finish with Pecorino and other Sardinian treats served afloat at sunset. The 2.5-hour trip suits beginners, though pregnant people and those with mobility impairments cannot join.
“Great activity with a beautiful view and very well organised. The guides were very supportive and kind.”
Start at Marina Piccola and learn SUP basics before paddling about 6 kilometers around the Sella del Diavolo. English, French, and Italian-speaking guides lead you to small caves, quiet beaches, white cliffs, and natural pools for swimming and snorkeling. Marc is one guide praised for clear instruction and warm, helpful care.
“It was a excellent delivery by the guide. Took good care of us and was very clear on instructions specifically for us begginers. I would highly recommend it.”
Meet your local guides at Moorea Beach Club in Maiori for a small-group kayak trip toward Atrani and Amalfi. You will paddle past lemon terraces, villas, watchtowers, arches, and sea caves, enter St. Andrew’s Cave, then stop for snorkeling, fruit, and water. Kayaks, safety gear, dry bags, photos, and changing facilities are included.
“Great experience with very enthusiastic guides! They were very attentive, helping us with the equipment and ensuring we were comfortable getting on and off the kayak. They were professional and really nice guys, making the entire experience enjoyable. Chatting with them and learning from their knowledge of the area was a pleasure.”
Pick a coastline, an animal or a kind of boat.
