Naples Yacht Charters

There is nothing new in the fact that the coast of the Campania region (Italy) is, as far as holidays are concerned, one of the best stages for cruises. Traffic is certainly the heaviest, but by choosing accurately dates and times and avoiding week ends, one can enjoy one of the world's best scenery.

Many Italian and Amalfi yacht charters begin in Naples. Naples is a city with a distinct energy - chaotic yet charming, cluttered yet beautiful. Rather daunting to the virgin eye, Naples has a way of shedding your inhibitions, to present a proud and colorful culture, with an alluring hospitality. Naples is the yacht charter hub of southern Italy and the gateway to Capri and the Amalfi Coast. The Isle of Capri and Amalfi present some of the most spectacular coastlines of the whole Mediterranean.

From Naples, you can begin your yacht charter vacation by visiting the stunning and famously chic, Isle of Capri, the true jewel of the Gulf. This beautiful island has a mythical appeal which has attracted everyone from Roman Emperor's, to movie stars and supermodels. Capri also attracts hundreds of yacht charters each summer. It was not by pure chance that Emperor Augustus, coming back from Egypt, felt in love with the place, bought and elected it as his favorite home. Tatter Emperor Tiberius brought it to fame giving to the island that particular, slightly transgress atmosphere that has been transmitted to our days by modern tourism. Who has not heard of the Blue Grotto or the incredible cliffs, the Faraglioni, last remnants of what once was a unique and immense grotto? Other highlights of this remarkable island are Villa Jovis and the Solaro Mountain, 589 meters high and easily climbed with a seat lift, from where one can enjoy the entire gulf's view. The locally famous cable car will take you from Marina Grande to the equally famous little square where the entire Capri lifestyle is on permanent show. Due to the tourist flow, heavy and steady regardless of the season, the island is not worth visiting in daylight hours: hordes of tourists from everywhere continuously land and wander here. Those lucky enough to have a yacht moored nearby will better enjoy the island best site. With the last ferry gone to the main land, the island's population stabilize at acceptable levels and, especially in the cold season the entire place is yours together with the romantic paths, the sophisticated restaurants, the juicy ice cream parlors of that unique establishment making mozzarella cheese braids billed with prosciutto and tasty herb. Capri has two main marinas, which over summer, are brimming with super yachts. If you’re keen on a berth, you’ll need to book well in advance, and be willing to pay a princely sum. Many charter yachts therefore choose to anchor outside the marina. If you tire of the chic nightlife, you can find some gorgeous, secluded little bays to snuggle into for the night. From the Marina Grande entrance and turning anti-clockwise, one reaches the Blue Grotto the place is easily identified by the numerous rowing boats standing nearby. By calling one of them you can, tide permitting, visit the grotto inside and enjoy a view found nowhere else. After rounding the Arcera Cape and Carena Point the southern island's part is reached. Marina Piccola will offer only a series of small landing piers offering brief and relative shelter to small boats continuing coastwise one reaches the "Faraglioni" area, ideal for an unforgettable swim if the season is right, followed by a lunch in one of the restaurants behind Tragara Point reachable after a pleasant pram ride. There will be ample time to complete the island's circumnavigation and be back at the Marina Grande moorings, ready to face the intensely passionate Capri’s night life The closest to the main land, and the less known to sailing wanderer, is Procida island which by no means is less attractive then the others, better known, islands. Completely built with yellow tuff rock and with orange trees scattered everywhere, Procida convey the unspoiled glamour of the old sea towns. The housing conglomerate called the "Palazzata", resultant of a very liberal and randomly executed construction minus a proper building plan, has produced an architectural ensemble typical of the location and not found elsewhere. Inland, in the hart of boroughs called Terra Murata, a huge parade ground overlooks the Saint Michael abbey rebuilt during the Spanish rule after being destroyed by the Saracens. Circumnavigating Procida, shelter can be found at the Vivara islet connected to the shore by an artificial isthmus. The islet which seats a natural park is covered by thick vegetation and a lookout tower stands at its top. The cove formed by the two islands make for an excellent anchorage alternatively one can call at Chiaolella harbor.

Other islands in the Campania area around Naples include Ischia. Ischia is a pine studded, volcanic island surrounded by sparkling waters. The island is renowned for it's beautiful beaches, therapeutic hot springs and red and white wine producing vineyards. Inhabited since the pre-roman times, the island was famous for its clay used to carve vases and useful containers and in the third century B.C. suffered of volcanic eruption which left a salt lake in place of the volcano mouth. The lake was to remain separated from the sea until the last century when king Ferdinand the Second ordered to dig an opening obtaining a natural harbor that was christened by the royal yacht "Delfino" escorting more than one hundred boats and giving to Ischia the safest port one can seek. Above all, the call at Ischia is worth for a visit to the renowned thermal baths, last remainder of the island's volcanic origin, and where with a water temperature of 65 degrees C one is washed as well as properly purified and healthily refitted.

Another anchorage is found at the Carta Romana road, close to the Aragonese castle built by Gerone of Syracuse an lava islet and overhanging the sea. The castle was conquered by King Alphonse of Aragona who exploited a newly built bridge to capture it. Since then, this particular place is named Ischia Ponte, the Italian name for bridge. This pristine and charming place, not too distant from the Saint Anne reefs, is a preferred diving site where in water depth no more than ten meters the ruins of Aenaria , a pre- roman hamlet destroyed by a volcanic eruption on 130 B.C., can be inspected. Navigating anti-clockwise, the nearest landing is at Cassamicciola, a place renown since the Middle Age for its healing waters. Lacco Ameno, Forio (with his small church and Mount Apium, 800 meters high) can be easily reached as well as Sant’Angelo. Luxury yachts and superyachts tend to frequent Ischia as a part of the overflow from the hectic pace on Capri.

South of Naples is the famous buried city of Pompeii and the less well know Herculaneum. These cities, buried by the volcanic eruption of Vesuvius, have remarkable antique preserves. The observation of amphitheaters, triumphal arches, villas, bridges and tombs of the Roman Imperial Age, are all possible on this fascinating day on shore. The maritime heritage of the Amalfitan Republic, a superpower in its day, is still apparent in Amalfi today. Local craftsmen and artisans keep the old traditions alive, making fine handmade papers and colourful ceramics. The Amalfi Coast is a World Heritage Site, and deservedly so: Numerous churches - including Amalfi Cathedral - and villas from the city's golden age still dot the coast, blending together with the stunning nature.

Further down the Amalfi coast is the medieval town and seaside resort of Agropoli, dominated by a crenulated old lighthouse and a feudal castle. You can take a taxi to visit the spectacular temples at Paestum or the sandy beaches in Trentova Bay to the north of the town. The village of Amalfi is a short sail away from here.

As with other parts of Italy and the Mediterranean, the Naples and Capri yacht charter season generally runs from April to the end of October. The summer season in July and August is the hottest and tends to have lighter winds. This is also the high season as far as yacht charter goes. Other good times to charter your yacht is generally on either of the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October), each side of the main summer season, as the temperatures are still comfortable, and the onshore tourists have yet to arrive in their largest numbers.

With more than 5,000 miles of coastline, yacht charters prevail on the western side of Italy. The immensely beautiful Amalfi Coast welcomes charter yachts to Southern Italy’s most popular getaway. The coast sports famous architecture and art, and rural areas diverse in cultivation. Yacht charters in Italy’s entire Tyrrhenian Sea region are best from May to October, though Italy charter yachts are available throughout the seasons. Ischia, Capri, Procida and Vivara comprise the Partenopean Islands in the bay of Naples.

The most beautiful and biggest island in the Gulf of Naples, Ischia is one of the most famous seaside and tourist spa centers of Italy and the world. Its volcanic origin is the cause of various seismic phenomena which have continually altered it. They have also produced the salso-iodic and radioactive thermal waters and mudbaths for which the island is renowned all over the world.

Just off the coast of Naples and Salerno, between Cape Miseno and Amalfi, a great rock soars like a dream lost in the cobalt blue sea that surrounds it. This Mediterranean jewel yearned for and exalted in some of the world’s most famous lyric poetry, is the island of Capri. The intoxicating fragrance of flowers, delicate splashes of color, recollections of a millennial past and a peaceful charm, shattered only by the shrill cry of seagulls, are just some of the magical qualities of this mythical isle.

The charming island of Procida lies like an undiscovered garden next to its vibrant sister islands Ischia and Capri. Flourishing gardens and fragrant lemon and orange groves bewitch visitors with their lush beauty. Procida is the smallest and oldest island in the Bay of Naples and is, like Ischia, of volcanic origin. Procida is linked to the small island of Vivara which is a wonderful natural reserve.

Allow us to custom tailor your luxury, crewed Italy yacht charter. Our knowledge of Italy charter yachts, crews, destinations and cruising itineraries is extensive. We personally inspect each yacht, meet the captains, sample the chefs' cuisine and evaluate the service offered by each yacht crew.

Weather
The climate of the Mediterranean and especially the region of the Amalfi Coast is nearly perfect for travelers. The area generally averages in the eighties for summer high temperatures, and the rainy season, which ends around Easter, doesn’t start up again until the winter rains hit in late November. Even during the coldest months of winter, the temperatures are a mild fifty degrees.

Travel
To reach Capri, other than by private yacht, take a ferry or hydrofoild from either Naples or Sorrento. Transportation from Naples is available at the port of Mergellina or Molo Beverello. The latter is more convenient due to the greater frequency of departures. From Naples, the ferry takes about 80 minutes while the hydrofoil is a mere 40 minutes and the Sorrento ferry is 40 minutes while the hydrofoil takes only 20 minutes.

What to Buy
When shopping along the Amalfi Coast think “lemon”, and especially Limoncello, the lemon drink bars keep in the freezer during the summer. True Limoncello is produced in Sorrento. Ceramics are another popular purchase in the area.

Sample Italy Charter Itinerary - Naples to Naples

Day 1:
Board your Italy charter yacht in Naples to steam to Capri, which overlooks the stunning Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Capri has always been one of the favorite resting places for the privileged and was once home to the Roman Emperor Tiberius.

Days 2 - 3:
The extraordinary beauty of Capri includes the Blue Grotto, a charming landscape, and the views of Anacapri. Capri has two levels. There is a walking and shopping area right around the marina while the main town, on top of Capri, is accessible by funicular. Visit the upscale tiny shops and stop for refreshments at an outdoor café in one of the little piazzas as you watch Capri life go by.

Day 4:Depart early for Amalfi, one of Italy's most romantic villages, which clings to the dramatic slopes of the ruggedly beautiful Amalfi Coast. Take a taxi to Ravello village, with its spectacular views of the coast and magnificent villas. After, motor to Positano, which is built around a small curving bay on a steep hill overlooking the island of the Sirens. Stroll narrow lanes to view typical Moorish style houses and courtyard gardens that are lined up along the slopes facing the sea. Leave for Salerno.

Day 5:
At Salerno, dock the charter yacht at Salerno Marina, and leave for Pompeii. A taxi will collect you at the marina to spend the day visiting the historic ruins. Overnight in Salerno.

Day 6:After breakfast explore the Sorrento Peninsula, where you will overnight, weather permitting. Otherwise, overnight in Capri. Next day, sail to Ischia.

Day 7:
Ischia is a volcanic spa island with many sulfur springs and medicinal bathing areas. There is a natural spring on the beach near where you will anchor that you might want to visit and then have lunch on board. After lunch, there are many taxis or surreys in Ischia that offer an around the island tour. The island is very large with different towns and sights to see. Return in the afternoon and depart for Naples, concluding your Italy yacht charter.

For more information please visit:
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Portofino and Cinque Terre Yacht Charters

For decades, yacht charterers have adored the tiny port of Portofino in Italy. Portofino was once a charming fishing village on the rugged East coast of Italy. Its popularity as a quaint and colorful town has now made it a famous port of call for luxury yachts, sailboats and charter boats. Portofino is a tiny town of cobble-stone streets, framed by hills of silvery, ancient olive groves. From the top of the hill, the views of the harbor and coastline are breathtaking. Cafes, boutique shops and “gelatarie” spill out into the harbor piazza. The portside cafes are a great place to sit and watch the glamorous yachting world go by. Very characteristic is the mountain of Portofino that goes down to the sea crowning the rocky spur of Punta Chiappa and the wonderful San Fruttuoso bay, guardian of the well known “Cristo degli Abissi”.

Portofino

Further down the Italian coast, you'll sail upon 'Cinque Terre' - A succession of five coastal villages, all with the same spectacular views of the seas. These villages are less expensive and sophisticated, than their more popular sister, Portofino. There is a stunning and famous walk along this coastal route, linking the five towns, called “Via dell’Amore”. Cinque Terre are five miles of rocks, hundreds of kilometres of nature, crystal clear sea, viticulture, thousands linear kilometres of dry-stone walls (without any cementing agent) and extensive network of paths. These are the co-ordinates of Cinque Terre (literal translations: Five Lands), referred to the five small villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Corniglia and Manarola.

Monterosso

Monterosso, in the Cinque Terre is just behind the typical terrace the viticulture lands. The main attractions are the beautiful beaches and seaside, with its rocks on the deep water of the sea. The village is made by an ancient part and a modern one, divided by a medieval tower. In the old part you can find the Saint Francis Church, that contains many pieces of art. On the hill you can find an old Sanctuary. The modern side of Monterosso is more touristic and full of touristic resorts like hotels and restaurants.

Vernazza

Founded in the 11th century, Vernazza developed through the century a strong marine tradition. The existence of many rich architectonic elements, shows that Vernazza was socially and economically superior to the other villages of Cinque Terre. From Vernazza there is a nice path that leads to Monterosso, leaving the centre and going toward the cemetery. The path is a bit hard in the first part, with a long down hill at the end towards Monterosso. Extremely nice is the nature you go through walking along the path that sorrounds Vernazza, with its spices and flowers.

Riomaggiore

Riomaggiore was founded in the 8th century by some Greeks escaped from the persecution of Leone II. In 1276 Riomaggiore went under the domain of Genova. The village grows around the river Riomaior, and has a medieval structure with houses and towers developed more in high than weight. In the recent years the economy of Riomaggiore has changed, becoming a very important touristic site, but still conserving its agricultural tradition. In fact, the shape of the land with its fertile terraces was fundamental for the development of cultivation of wine, olive trees, fruits trees as oranges and lemons. A very important production of this land is the famous wine Sciacchetrà, a quality white sweet wine famous all over the world.

Corniglia

Corniglia differs from the other Cinque Terre villages because is based on an elevate position above the sea. It is more similar to the inland villages respect the one built by the sea. It is located on a Cape , like a big terrace on the sea, from where you can admire the wonderful panorama of the coast. The main activity is the agricultural production. The Saint Peter Church, built in 1334, is one of the more interesting gothic architecture you can visit at the Cinque Terre. A very panoramic path trough the nature gets to Vernazza.

Manarola

Manarola is a village with very ancient origins. Very particular is the little port in front of it, repaired from the sea by two big rocks. It can only guest small boats. Manarola is considered to be the most peaceful and quite village of the Cinque Terre, where you can find nice relaxing walks in the short path surrounding the village. From Manarola it starts a small path that gets to Corniglia, by a fifteen minutes walk. At the end you can admire a beautiful beach with with rocks typical of Cinque Terre. Every year for Christmast, the 8th of December, the people of Manarola prepare the biggest lighted nativity in the world on the hill in front of the houses: more than 200 figures and 12.000 lamps. Onboard your yacht and with our chefs you will enjoy the “fruits” that the territory offers: flavoured olive oils, famous ligurian wines, fresh fish that your cook will purchase each morning on the “pescherie” (sea-food shops) close to the ports and excellent “focaccia” (the typical ligurian bread stuffed with all kind of ingredients like cheese, vegetables, meat, etc…).

This stretch of coastline is scenic and spectacular. The Italian coastline can make an enchanting charter yacht location. Yacht charters for the Ligurian coast, generally start in San Remo or Genova, perhaps even further back up the French Riviera. From this northern point in Italy, it's easy to follow the coastline down toward Elba, Tuscany's stunning National Park Island. Further south is Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome and her splendid architectural and historical gems. The types of yacht charter available in Portofino & Cinque Terre include all the main types such as motoryachts, sailingyachts, catamarans, luxury yachts and off-course the ever increasing super yacht charter. Like most of the Mediterranean, the Italian yacht chartering season generally runs from April to the end of October.

For more information please visit:

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Tuscan Archipelago Yacht Charters

It is told that the Venus of the Tyrrhenian sea while emerging from the waters of our sea to hug the horizon let slip seven pearls from her necklace which adorned her white neck. They transformed themselves in the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago: Gorgona, Capraia, Elba, Pianosa, Montecristo, Giglio and Giannutri. You can enjoy the uniqueness, the beauty of these pearls in every season. In summer you can spend a week end, a stay gies you the possibility to learn the history, the culture and the nature of the islands all the year long. Each island is different from the others. Every one has got its own history and enchanting legend. Time spent in these places will be unforgettable also thank to the difference linking the islands to a national park which increases the value of the landscape and the magic of the islands. Comfortable embarkation ports for a cruise around this area could be Rome or Argentario, Porto Santo Stefano, Cala Galera, Porto Ercole.

Capraia

The green Capraia with its coloured coast, with its small port and with the unmistakable scent of lentisk is always the same during the years. Even in August , when the port is completely full, the tourism is not noisy: here you breathe pure sea air. Every day the boats travel through the small port a big population of sailors, skin divers and simple bathers who want to spend their holidays in bathing costumes. The vegetation is flourishing and full of Mediterranean species. It fought against the volcanic nature but at the end it got the better as you can see from the lively and vegetable cover. The landscapes created by the vegetation with the help of the wind are really spectacular: thousand of daises, asphodels, the expanse of sea cistus with white flowering, the perfumed expands of “elicriso” and the plans with heather, strawberry-trees, myrtle and oleanders.

Elba

Elba Island lies 10 km only from the mainland and is the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago having a surface area of 224 sq. km, it is the third Italian island in size. Elba has become an internationally famous tourist resort. Her climate is particularly mild. Her coastline, which winds for 147 km., is incredibly varied. The grandeur of the Mount Capanne group 񡹻 mt.) is magnificent. A "man size" island, Elba has been able to snatch up all the benefits from modern civilisation, its comforts and technology, without however compromising her nature, landscape, sea and coast, mountains and woods. She hasn't allowed her ancient villages to be disfigured nor the remains of her ancient civilisation to be destroyed. Elba is like a treasure chest rich in delightful surprises, framed by crystal-clear waters which caress sandy beaches, secret green bays and inlets, or steep cliffs. Inland environments range from shady woods, to sweet cultivated fields, to barren lands where aloe and cactus reign. And then you have Elba's towns: those on the sea, which often maintain the ancient flavour of a fishermen's shelter, and those chiselled out of the rock up high, which still tell us about pirate raids of long ago.

Giannutri

Giannutri Island stands aside compared to the other islands of the Tuscan archipelago but thanks to its geographical distance it is a very special place, perhaps unique and inimitable. Giannutri is a very small paradise , it is 500m .large and more or less 5 kms long, a beautiful walk. It is the ideal place for excursions and is attended especially by ski divers charmed by its depths. In the past Giannutri had already charmed the Romans who built a port and beautiful patrician villas. The sea is still keeping wrecks of their ships. The depths contain falaises, caves, meadows of Poseidonia, sea fans, sea roses, sea horses, sea stars, corals, sea urchins, dentexes, sargas, sponges but also wrecks. It is possible to meet dolphins, a whale or a turtle too. Giannutri is a real natural place with no beaches but only inaccessible rocks to barefoot. From the main rise the Poggio Capel Rosso, a 85m. peak, you can watch only the sea and no land can be perceived even in the clear days. The silence is broken by the thousand noises of the nature which is here the only actor.

Gorgona

Gorgona Island is the smaller of the Tuscan Archipelago to the west of Leghorn, it has got 300 inhabitants ( for the most part convicts) and is little more than 2 squared kms wide, it is mostly occupied by the goal . It has got a rocky ground, reaches the 225metres of altitude and is covered by the Mediterranean bush. The visit to the island, where the tourist can moor only in case of danger, is allowed each Tuesday of the summer’s months to small groups which are taken by a patrol boat from a ferry on service between Leghorn, Capraia and Elba. The tour is organised by the natural park ‘s cooperative society and includes the most suggestive places of the coasts, among them Cala Scirocco and Cala Martina and the areas covered by the Mediterranean bush which is a shelter for the wild rabbits, gulls, birds of passage and sea swallows. What catches one’s eye is the vegetation: the about 90% of the island in fact has got a Mediterranean bush which gives hospitality to more than 400 flora species.

Giglio

Giglio Island is in the centre of the Tyrrhenian sea, 11 miles far from the Promontorio dell’Argentario, and keeps inside its 21,21 square kilometres a treasure to be discovered . Its mild climate makes the island the ideal place for all season’s holidays. An uncontaminated reality . The crystal emerald sea with its rich in fishes depths is the frame of an area which is for the 90% still wild and which invites the visitors to go on excursions. Giglio’s port is a picturesque docking surrounded by high grounds full of vineyards. In the nearby of the docking of the ferries there are always expert boatmen ready to carry tourists in the near beaches. The bushes of poseidonia seem to emerge from the transparent water and the fishes looking for some food seem touchable as if they were within reach.

Pianosa

Pianosa Island has been protected from the prison for 142 years, first penal settlement, and high security prison up today. The island is flat but also a unique resource: meadows of Poseidonia, a real “nursery” of the ichthyic fauna of the high Tyrrhenian sea , the most important catacombs to the north of Rome, the roman villa of Agrippa, the sanatorium of Punta Marchese where also Sandro Pertini was banished, a rich fauna and flora with many rarities due also to the isolated evolution and to an extraordinary migratory flow. The prison moreover, with its potentials, is a modern monument of the history of our land which goes from the robbers of the Maremma to the Austrian prisoners and includes the years of the terrorism and the slaughters of the Mafia. The wall which splits the island was built in the 1978 and it is a historic proof too. Unfortunately in the closed area there are the bays and the most beautiful cliffs of the all Tuscan archipelago. Pianosa is the only Tuscan island composed of sedimentary rocks. Thanks to its calcareous nature and to its level ground it has been cultivated since the ancient times.

Montecristo

Montecristo Island is wild and uninhabited, covered with Mediterranean bush and important shelter for birds of passage. It’s about 10 square Km wide and is one of the most wild island of the entire Tuscan Archipelago and the most far from the coast . Montecristo Island is composed of grey-pink granite , has got a wide, low pyramid shape and is rich in vegetation. Its inhospitable aspect kept the people away from the island during the centuries until in the V century when monks and hermits started doing a part of the territory hospitable. When you get ashore at Cala Maestra it is possible to see the only building of the island Villa Watson-Taylor where there are the sole trees of the all island. As for the fauna the wild goats are the rulers of the area , there are in fact about 400놼 animals probably coming from Minor Asia and carried there perhaps by the Phoenicians but now they are wild again. Their voracity has changed gradually the original Mediterranean bush.

The climate is typically Mediterranean where the sea creates a strong moderating effect, especially in the smaller islands. Even if humidity is evident, the summers are warm and mainly dry and breezy.

The winters are rather mild. Rains are common in the middle seasons and during the winter whereas there are often droughts in summer. The best period for cruising this area goes from April to October.

For more information please visit: https://royaltyyachts.com/destinations/italy-yacht-charter/

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La Maddalena Yacht Charters

La Maddalena - The Sleepy Resort with Pink Beaches A key point on the island, La Maddalena is becoming increasingly popular among tourist crowds for its beauty and traquil lifestyle, not to mention for its perfect beaches which are very similar to the ones on the Costa Smeralda. A national park, an old Navy base and lots of souvenirs await you to make the trip down here.

Many of the Yacht Charter sailors know the island of Sardinia in the center of the Mediterranean, but not many know that f you travel to the northeastern corner of the island you’ll find a small archipelago of 7 islands, the largest being Isola Maddalena. On that island, the largest town shares the same name.

The town is the closest to mainland Sardinia, positioned on the strait of Bonifacio, which separates the island from Corsica. Though smaller than other Yacht Charter destinations in the region, La Maddalena is well known for its beautiful landscape of the Costa Smeralda and its remote location, generally regarded to be off the beaten track.

Due to its remote location, you can imagine that La Maddalena is positioned outside the main traffic routes, either by air, land or sea. The only direct link that should be enough to get most Yacht Charter sailors into town is the ferry leaving from Palau, Sardinia every half hour.

That makes the problem of reaching La Maddalena a problem of reaching one of the main towns in Sardinia really. The closest airport is the one in Olbia, which serves the whole Costa Smeralda region. Palau is accessible by land through the SS125 and the SS133, depending from which part of the island your Yacht Charter group is arriving.

Home to the famous pink sands and azure waters, the remote La Maddalena is the perfect location for those Yacht Charter seaman looking to escape to a serene location. The overall look of the town is made up of a few old houses which retain that Mediterranean look and lots of bars and cafes. The main attraction in town remains the Piazza Umberto I and the via Garibaldi which leads down to the port.

However, the best asset the locals boast are the wonderful beaches which manage to attract a surprisingly large number of Yacht Charter visitors each year. The two most famous are the Cala Francese and the Bassa Trinita. There’s also a National Park which bears the same name located on the island, on the granite rocks that give way to myrtle bushes here and there.

As you’d expect, the local cuisine is based on seafood and fish, plentiful in the surrounding waters, the many restaurants serving up simple yet delicious recipes in the truest Sardinian style. Among the most notorious meat dishes are the Porceddu, the Carraxiu and rabbit a Succhittu. Fish dishes include the burrida (dogfish with walnuts and vinegar), the merca (mullet steeped in salt water and herbs) and bottarga (salted or dried mullet or tuna eggs).

The local shops found along the main road in town sell Sardinian rugs and local delicacies which are sure to whet the appetite of any Yacht Charter enthusiast.

When it comes to nighttime entertainment, La Maddalena is not exactly the most happening place in Sardinia, but remember this is reason so many Yacht Charter holidaymakers chose to come here. Other than cozy cafes, bars and restaurants and an occasional stroll on the waterway, there is little to do here once the sun goes down.

Bathing and exploring the beautiful beaches is definitely the most popular activity for tourists who come to La Maddalena. Also Yacht Charter adventurers might also find it interesting to simply start exploring the island. There is also a former US Naval base close-by that used to be active during the Cold War and acted as a submarine base too which is worth checking out.

The events here are mostly religious or related in some way to a Saint’s day. Such is the Sunday Pentecost of the Holy Spirit which takes place at the Trinity church in May and the Santa Maria Maddalena (patron saint) which is celebrated in July.

For more information please visit:

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Sardinia Yacht Charters

A yacht charter in Sardinia is quite an experience. Sardinia is a universe unto itself. I n this italian island the local language is incomprehensible to all other Italians. An island with one of Europe's most stunning coastlines it's waters teem with fish it's golden sands disappear into oceans of blue it's rugged mountains are covered with flocks of sheep producing cheese so pungent, your palate will never forget.

Sardinia is completely unique and the perfect place for a yacht charter holiday that mixes excitement with the exotic. During the summer, yacht charters flock to Sardinia . With an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, concentrated from April to September and warm winds off the African continent, the Sardinian climate, can be quite delightful and not quite as hot as other yacht charter areas in the Mediterranean.

You'll find, despite their weird and wonderful ways, that the Sardinian ports compete rather well with the Mediterranean ’s other chic hot spots. Summers tend to attract lovely warm days and crowds of millionaires, supermodels and luxury yachts, especially to the prestigious Yacht Club Costa Smeralda at Porto Cervo, near Olbia. This spectacular and unrivalled island presents a variety of shapes. In fact Sardinia is a surprising blend of "diversities" originated from its complex natural, historical and cultural richness, as it has been, since the most ancient ages, a meeting point for the various cultures of the populations which have landed on and colonized its coasts.

If you choose to charter your yacht in Sardinia, you should decide first of all if cruising the north or the south of Sardinia , two completely different worlds.

North Sardinia is the temple of fun. Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo with their nightlife, chic restaurants and boutiques attract the international jet set. In the northern part of the island, between Alghero and Olbia you will also find a rich coastline alternating beaches and bays while the landscape is predominantly rocky. A fantastic journey along the northern irregular coasts of Sardinia, where nature has been wonderfully moulded by a civilization, the roots of which stretch back at the time of the first inhabitants of the Mediterranean .

Porto Cervo, the heart of the Emerald Coast , is the exclusive holiday place favoured by the rich and famous that come to this paradise to enjoy the sea and the nightlife. The architecture of this summer spot fits with its surroundings, villas with dry stone walls and immaculately kept gardens scattered with Mediterranean vegetation and low palm trees. Porto Cervo has two harbours, Porto Vecchio (Old Port) is on the South-eastern side and dates back to the 1960s’, the new harbour is equipped with the most up-to-date infrastructures to cater for the international marine traffic. At the height of summer the harbours become literally the showroom of the most beautiful and biggest yachts that money can buy, many tourists walk past the yachts admiring such excess. Anyone not wanting to use the port may anchor in the bay, where one can enjoy total privacy. Porto Cervo has a Yacht Club, some exclusive hotels and restaurants, such as the renowned Cala di Volpe, great shops and numerous night bars and clubs. The nightlife evolves around La Piazzetta. For the golf lovers there is one of the greatest golf courts in the world. Set between the sapphire bays of Pevero and Cala di Volpe Pevero is the supreme masterpiece of the greatest of American golf designers, Robert Trent Jones. Described by several golf writers as 'the most beautiful place to play golf in the world', the course is also splendidly demanding.

Due to the care which has been taken to preserve the natural environment of the Porto Rotondo area, since 1967, international investors have made this area one of the most sought after destinations of the most exclusive tourism. Porto Rotondo is today the sworn rival of the, relatively close, Emerald Coast, attracting exponents from the International Jet Set. The Piazzetta, created entirely in local stone, the granite amphitheatre and the Church of St Lorenzo are of great architectural interest. Here one finds the boutiques of the world's top fashion designers, interior decorators and craftsmen. The harbor, where some of the most beautiful yachts of the Mediterranean are moored, is not to be missed. The beaches of Porto Rotondo include that of Spiaggia Ira, at Punta Nuraghe, which divides the Gulf of Porto Rotondo from that of Cugnana the small beaches of Punta Asfodelo with their supremely white sand and turquoise sea the beach Spiaggia dei Sassi e delle Alghe, on the road which leads to Punta Volpe Marinella Beach which is the largest and best equipped, perfect for waters sport enthusiasts. The small town of Porto Rotondo owes much of its Venetian influence to its major developer, the Count Dona Delle Rose. Although less well known in the UK than the Aga Khan’s famous Porto Cervo development, Porto Rotondo attracts its own "jet setters" and celebrity spotting is still a popular pastime.

Facing Palau is the Archipelago of La Maddalena, unquestionable natural attraction of extraordinary beauty, from where, reaching its highest point, Guardia Vecchia, you'll be able to enjoy a view of all the islands of the archipelago, sweeping all the way to Corsica.

In the short stretch of sea of the Bocche di Bonifacio dividing Sardinia from Corsica, many islands, of all sizes, rise from the waters, forming the Archipelago of La Maddalena considered one of nature's authentic masterpieces. They're grouped in the eastern (Santo Stefano, La Maddalena, Caprera, with the small islands of Monaci, Sperduti di Caprera, Pecora, Porco, Delle Bisce, Chiesa, Della Paura, Cappuccini) and the western ones (Spargi, Budelli, Razzoli, Santa Maria with the little islands of Spargiotto, Spargiottello, Barrettini, Barrettinelli, Corcelli, La Presa, Paduleddi). The archipelago is characterized by various forms of granite, moulded by the wind and rain: the phenomenon of the "tafoni", big round rocks with fantastic shapes, entirely excavated by the crumbling of the rock from within. One of the most renowned is the one at Capo d'Orso on the coast in the vicinities of Palau.

La Maddalena, is the most extended island and is mostly levelled. Along the southern coast lies the city of La Maddalena, delimited in the western part by the cape of Punta Tegge and in the eastern part by the ample bay of Cala Camicia and Punta Moneta facing this bay, at a distance of 500 meters, is the island of Santo Stefano. The natural environment is still wild and its coasts shelter small beaches overlooking fabulous waters. Going north, the coastline forms the coves of Spalmatore and Porto Massimo, then the cape of Marginetto with Point Marginetto, the most northern of La Maddalena. The coast goes back down south-west, forming, with the peninsula of Abbatoggia, the deep gulf of Monti di Rena the granite, here, is finely levigated by the violent west wind forms vast sandy dunes. You'll find the same phenomenon going just a little further south, past Punta Abbatoggia and past the little island with the same name, in the area of Spiaggia Bassa or Trinità where the sandy landscape is even more fascinating, with its dunes of very fine white sand. The coastline continues with the steep massif of Guardia Majore, penetrating just a little further in the bay of cala Inferno, rocky and irregular from there it goes back up west and then turnes definitely south with Punta Testiccioli. The whole area is one of the most inaccessible and the granite is marked by the sea's fury and by the strong north winds. A good refuge is Cala Francese, just a little further south, overlooked by a large granite quarry.

Caprera island is smaller than la Maddalena but its total coastline is longer, 45,5 km, because of the long and narrow cape of granite that stretches all the way to Punta Rossa, seat of a Navy Military base since 1887. The extreme southern coast of Caprera is a morphologically very frail and unsteady area a profound opening of the sea forms the marvellous Porto Palma. The entire eastern coast of Caprera and also the northern one, are formed by striking cliffs of granite, almost totally unaccessible, so evocative and beautiful, formed by the more steep side of the long massif of Mount Teialone.

The island of Asinara situated in the north-western part of Sardinia has an extension of 5.200 ha., while the sea's surface extension is 21.000 ha. The coastline is 110 km.long. It belongs to the Government and is part of the territory of the town of Porto Torres. The island is 17,5 km. long and its maximum width is 6,14 km. The western part is characterized by high schistose falaises, steep rocky slopes with numerous landslides and ravines, large canals and crevices, while in the eastern part you'll find wide bays and small beaches with the tipical rough sand of the granite morphology with ample rocky outcrops. This island is famous for its unique landscape and for the environmental beauties, but also and mostly for the rich wildlife: many are the species living on the island, some are very rare and, unfortunately threatened with extinction.

In the southern part of Sardinia with your yacht, you should not miss to see the coasts along Costa Rei, Porto Corallo, Cala Sinzias and Cala Pira.

The Gulf of Angels (Golfo degli Angeli) is a splendid scenery space that appears from the sea on the south side of Sardinia limited by Pula and Nora from the west and by the seaside resorts of Villasimius on the east, through the extreme Capo Carbonara in front of which a remote and wild Isola dei Cavoli is visible.

Cagliari is the principal town, hidden like a precious jewellery in the centre of the gulf. The coasts of the Gulf form interminable beaches with thin and bright sand. Across the panoramic street with spectacular cliffs and expanses of crystal and transparent water the easter bow unties through beautiful beaches and bays of Capitana, Torre delle Stelle, Solanas, Capo Carbonara, Isola dei Cavoli. There are several sport activities from typical water sports (including diving and snorkelling) to trekking, horse riding and golf.

Regarding the island history, there are a lot of interesting archaeological points to visit in the Gulf. For example Nora – the Sardinian Atlantis – the antic Phoenician – Punic - Roman town discovered more than ten years of excavations. According to the epigraphic Phoenician documents Nora was considered the most antic settlement of Sardinia. In the neighbourhoods of Nora, in Pula, you could visit the Tower of Saint Efisio (Torre di Sant'Efisio) of the unknown age, coming probably from around early VII century. Travelling through urban areas between Quartu S. Elena and Cagliari it is quite impossible to miss the expanse of marshland - lack of Molentargius (Stagno di Molentargius)– a settlement of beautiful aquatic birds, especially flamingos that reproduced there since 1993. They are protected and recognised nearly all over the world.

The coast of the Sulcis Iglesiente (South Western Sardinia) is disquieting, characterised by excavated roads and long beaches with dunes and cliffs, where the rare hawks called Eleonarae still nest. The land has been populated since the old Ages as evidenced by Montessu's necropolis with its Domus de Janas (Witches' houses).

Visit Carloforte, where architecture, language, tastes and scents remind the region of Liguria. In fact the population of the little island descends from the coral fishermen coming from Liguria imprisoned by the Saracens and released by Carlo Emanuele III in 1736. But the real treasure in this area is the long beach, characterised by white dunes, which goes from Capo Pecora to Piscinas. Walking along this beach you might meet wild rabbits, partridges and, with good binoculars, also the very rare Sardinian deer.

The Sardinian yacht charter scene has increased in popularity, of late, and the types of yacht charter are all the main types of yacht charter including motoryachts, sailingyachts, catamarans, luxury yachts and the ever more frequent super yacht charter.

As with other parts of the Mediterranean and Italy, the Sardinian yacht chartering season generally runs from April to the end of October. The summer season in July and August is the hottest and tends to have lighter winds. This is also the high season as far as yacht charter goes.

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Aegadian Islands Yacht Charters

Aegadian Islands are a hidden paradise. The largest, the most populated and the closest to the mainland is Favignana, which is crossed in a north-south direction by a hilly ridge named Montagna Grossa (Large Mountain). The island has two ports and the spectacular tuna-fishing season is in force from April to June. Florio palace stands prominently on arrival. It was built in the second half of the nineteen century by a trading family from Palermo which bought the entire archipelago and acquired all fishing rights. In that period tuna-fishing knew its largest expansion, and was probably the only one permanently operating in Sicily. In the seventeen century, under the Spanish rule, tuna-fishing was one of the most important in the Mediterranean, both for fish quality and finish products which were exported the world over. Outside the urban area, landscape is spotted with pastures and cultures, separated by a close net of stone walls. The only sign of population is the presence of small whitewashed houses surrounded by rare indian fig and palm threes. 

The island's real attraction however are the tuff caves, a building stone mined there so aptly called "Favignana" less and less used today for building purposes, its softness was in the past exploited for sculpturing as well. Rock so mined form deep chasms and dry basins. Levanzo island, surrounded by Pizzo Monaco steeply following to the sea, is nearby. Docking is available at Cala Dogana. The island attraction called "Grotta del Genovese" is a true paradise for pre-historical fans. Bones and petrified trees are everywhere, together stone engraving and drawings going back more than 10000 years to the phaleolitic and neolithic eras, all of them exceptionally well preserved. A painter in search of subjects, discovered them in 1949. Animals and dancers painted in bright red and black, are represented. Getting to the "Grotta del Genovese" is however difficult even donkey riding, as suggested by the local guides. Marettimo, the third main island, is entirely different: surrounded as it is by Falcone mountain, 700 meters high, which gives a totally different out line to the island. Its distance from the two mainland ports, Trapani and Marsala, is the same and the short passage warrants an exclusive visit. An ensemble of Dolomite stones thrown in the crystal clear Sicilian waters with deep vertical cuts reaching the sea, the steep gorges followed by impressive rock towers is the natural frame to a series of superb caves with multicolored stalagmites. Notable among them are the cave of the nativity the Perciata and the Bombarda, where diving is easy and tropical fishes can be seen. Inland, climbing to Falcone mountain is a must where trough a path, a twelve century chapel and the remnants of Roman housing can be visited. Fish hawks and wild rabbits have their habitat there. On the sea side, however and very unfortunately seals have nowadays disappeared following the uncontrolled hunting that took place especially in the Camel cave. 

On your Sicilian crewed yacht charter vacation cuisine is an adventure in history. Its cooking speaks of its complicated history of invasions and occupations as well as of the fresh flavors of the land and the bounty of the sea. There is cuscus (couscous) from Trapani, an Arab legacy, served with a fish stew. Pasta con le sarde, with fresh anchovies, is traditional. Bottarga, tuna roe that has been salted and pressed, tops pasta in the renowned spaghetti alla siracusana. Sfinciuni di San Vito, a stuffed focaccia, is not to be missed, nor is caponata, a sensuous dish of eggplant, celery and onions that are fried separately and cooked briefly in a sweet and sour sauce that includes tomatoes, raisins, pine nuts, vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. Farsumagru, a meat roll filled with cheese, sausage and boiled eggs is one of the island’s classic meat dishes, and piscispada alla ghiotta, an exuberant swordfish preparation, its most famous fish dish. Cassata, a sponge cake with ricotta, chocolate, candied fruits and pistachios, is the most beloved Sicilian dessert ricotta-stuffed cannoli are known throughout the world. Cubbaita, a nougat with honey, almonds, and sesame seeds, speaks of Arab influence. Some of Italy’s best ice cream is made in Sicily, and little can rival the sweetness of its fruit. Sicily produces a number of great wines, most of them sweet: Marsala, Malvasia delle Lipari, and Moscato. Excellent table wines are made on the Regaleali estate other outstanding ones are Etna, Alcamo, Corvo, Faro, and Ombra. The best period for a yacht charter in Sicily is from April to October, even though the warmest months are, like in the most part of the Mediterranean area, June, July, August and September. 

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Pontine Islands Yacht Charters

Pontine islands were known to be inhabited since the civilization's onset Neolithic remnants and first bronze age obsidians were found hare although reliable life traces go back only after the final Roman victory over the Volsces on 338 B.C. Ponza island is nevertheless remembered as one of the eighteen Roman provinces to remain loyal to the capital during the difficult times following Hannibal's adventure. Emperor Augustus encouraged its residential expansion that later spread to Ventotene island as well. Rome used the two islands as a sort of golden retreat, an exile site indeed, for politically troubling public personalities: Caligola's mother Agrippina died there her mortal remains were brought back to the imperial capital with full honors, sailing upriver the Tevere on a bireme vessel. Ventotene harbor, as well as Pilatos' cove, used at Ponza to breed Moray fishes and other rare species, both dug in the tuff rocks, and Chiaia di Luna with its tunnel connecting the village to the beach through impressive cliffs, are all remainder of those days. Madonna point mansion, with its fish pond now nearby the cemetery, is also a remarkable visit spot. The nowadays harbor and surrounding Ponza's area lay-out, were built by Francesco Carpi at the end of the eighteen century, based on a project by Antonio Winspeare. This is the starting point for a tour to the archipelago.

Here, divers will experience magical emotions in a totally unspoiled environment. Their spectacular and bright colours give the islands a particular charm and a surprising beauty also due to the wide variety of small coves, bays or inlets and to the different choices of fascinating walks through the history and nature of the islands that makes Pontine ‘s cruising area a top destination for a yachting holiday in Italy. Ponza can be reached from the close ports of Anzio (Rome) or Gaeta Naples is not so far ྶ miles from Ischia). This island can be best savored by circumnavigating it. Starting from the harbor and coasting southward along the Donna promontory where the water entrances to the Pilatus' cove are located, the Roman villa can be seen. Further south the Madonna cliffs, the Ulysses' cave and the long Scotti rocky wall are sighted together with Calzone Muto cliff just before the impressive Guardia promontory 280 meters high. Chiaia di Luna is located behind the lower Fieno point. This is a beautiful route safe also for night navigation when riding the west winds one seeks shelter into the bay.

One additional surprise occurs at the bay entrance when one find himself in front of this beautiful beach surrounded by suggestive multicolored cliffs. Coasting further Faraglioni mountain, Feola cove sheltered by a breakwater partially suitable for docking and with 2 meters water depth, is reached. After making good the sharp Corte point, the navigation continue into the Water cove, so called after the small port used by the water-tanker supplying the island. From the following Papa point to the extreme northern island end, the coast line becomes more and more irregular until the strait between Ponza and Gavi islet. The eastern side offers suggestive seascape views till the natural stone arch called "Spaccapolpi". Here two majestic coves separated by the "Faraglioni del Parroco" are reached. They are respectively named Inferno and Core coves. Good shelter from the south-west winds can be found at Frontone cove, behind the homonymous point. The other archipelago inhabited island is Ventotene, with an old Roman port dug into the tuff rock and surrounded by a picturesque village: a night in Ventotene is an experience anyone sailing the Mediterranean cannot miss. When lentils and other local plants blossom in springtime and their flavor can be felt miles away sailing downwind at nighttime, the time has arrived to steer for Ventotene and be taken by its ancient charm. If docking is not available at the old harbor ( Nicholas port ) you can now take advantage at the new marina, sheltered to the est by a breakwater.

Santo Stefano island is about a mile away from Ventotene. The island is two kilometers wide, with an old Borbonic penitentiary built on top, has a peculiar turtle shape. A visit is worth although the premise is closed down. Parmarola island, considered one of the most beautiful in the Tyrrhenian sea, lies at about six miles from Ponza's Guardia point. Cliffs and coves with crystal clear waters offer one landing only, which is the harbor cove with a sandy bottom in front of the beach. The only two restaurants in the island provide, in the good season, to the necessities of visitors. The wildest and pristine of the entire archipelago is without doubt Zannone island, resembling Australia both in shape ( but not size! ) and the rich luxuriant vegetation, a remainder of the forests that were growing in the islands prior to human colonization. Like the most part of the Mediterranean, the best period to cruise this area goes from April to October. The warmest months are July and August. 

For more information please visit:

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