🚢 Sicilia Orientale
Catania Cruise Port – Shore Excursion Transfers
From Bacino di Levante to Taormina, Etna and Syracuse: private transfers for cruise passengers on a shore excursion day.
Overview
The Port of Catania is one of the main cruise stops in eastern Sicily, with around 350,000 cruise passengers per year. Ships dock at Bacino di Levante, just a 5-minute walk from Catania historic center. The main cruise lines operating here include MSC Cruises, Costa Crociere, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises. For shore excursion passengers we offer fixed-price private transfers to the most popular destinations: Taormina (1h), Mount Etna (1h15), Syracuse (1h10) and Noto. The service guarantees a timely return to the ship before the all-aboard time, with traffic monitoring and flexibility.
Top shore excursions
Where to find your driver
At the exit of Catania cruise terminal, our driver awaits you holding a personalized sign with your surname. The pickup area is clearly signposted, about 100 meters from the docking quay. To avoid missing your ship, we recommend agreeing on a return time at least 1 hour before the scheduled "all aboard time". We automatically monitor traffic and calculate your return for safe boarding.
Cruise lines
- 🚢MSC Cruises
- 🚢Costa Crociere
- 🚢Norwegian Cruise Line
- 🚢Holland America
- 🚢Royal Caribbean
- 🚢Princess Cruises
- 🚢Cunard
Port amenities
- ✓Cruise terminal 5 min from Catania historic center
- ✓Free Wi-Fi in the port area
- ✓Bars, restaurants and shopping in the city center
- ✓ATMs and currency exchange
- ✓Porter luggage service (paid)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to reach Taormina from Catania port?+
About 60 minutes via the A18 motorway (55 km). For a comfortable visit including a tour of the historic center, plan at least 4-5 hours total (round-trip transfer + 2-3h visit).
Can I visit Mount Etna during a cruise stop?+
Yes, the private transfer Catania Port → Rifugio Sapienza (1900m altitude) takes about 75 minutes. For a complete experience with guided excursion on the silvestri craters, plan 5-6 hours total.
Do you guarantee return to the ship before departure?+
Yes. We monitor your ship's all-aboard time and calculate the return with at least 1 hour of safety buffer. All our drivers know port timing intimately.
How much is a private transfer from Catania Port to Taormina?+
€110 one-way for a standard vehicle up to 3 passengers. For round-trip with wait (~6h) the price is €200. Fixed prices, no surcharges for traffic or delays.
Can I combine Taormina + Etna in one excursion?+
Yes, we offer combo packages with driver at your disposal for the full day (8 hours): €280 for a standard vehicle. Flexible itinerary.
Can I pay in dollars/pounds?+
We accept Euro (cash) or card payment (Visa/Mastercard/Amex) via portable POS. Your charge will be in EUR at your bank's daily rate.
Where exactly do I find the driver at the port?+
At the exit of the passenger terminal, in the vehicle pickup area (~100m from the quay). The driver holds a visible sign with your surname.
Book your shore excursion from Catania
Private Mercedes, fixed price, guaranteed return before all-aboard time.
Book now