weegee, the Sicilian problem is a thorny one, but manageable.

Auto-ceasefire is a wonderful thing. Simply, if you're at war with someone, and then have no contact with them for a turn (no borders, no naval contact with enemy provinces), a cease-fire is automatically called.

Scenario 1: If you have Naples, then attack Sicily and storm the castle on next turn. On the same turn that you storm the castle, withdraw any ships from around Malta (and any other Sicilian held province). Auto-ceasefire should result.

When the Pope warns you, you have two years to establish full control of Sicily (the province) and cut off contact.

I recommend taking Sicily. It will cripple Sicilian economy and boost your trade income.

Also, your Dromons are fast. Divide them into single ships (not groups) and attack one Sicilian ship with multiple Dromons (and/or Galleys, too).

Good luck.