Marinas, Harbours & Anchorages
Ranging from sophisticated and expensive marinas with a full range of facilities, crowded commercial and fishing harbours, to quiet and beautiful anchorages. Late July and August can be incredibly busy with marina berths in short supply and prices reflecting demand. Book ahead if you can for a space.
Tides & Currents
Tidal range in the cruising areas is only about 0.3m at most, and currents are generally weak, flowing northwest up the mainland coast, but to the south or east further offshore and around Sardinia and Sicily.
Weather
The sailing season is from April to October. Summer winds are mainly from the northwest offshore, but along the mainland coast the land/sea breezes have a daily cycle. Winds are often light and variable, with some squally weather in spring and autumn.
Food & Wine
Local markets everywhere have good quality fresh fish, meat, fruit and vegetables. Supermarkets in larger towns have wide range of local and imported products. Restaurants reflect regional variations in cuisine, with pasta as the staple. Italian wines range from inexpensive local varieties to well known top quality names.
History
From prehistoric times, Italy has been inhabited by many different peoples, and around the coasts is evidence of its long and fascinating history: there are plenty of interesting shore excursions as a break from sailing – but take a guidebook!
Charter Bases
Tuscany
From Viareggio and Salivoli, both easily acessible from Pisa airport. Both bases put you in the heart of a fantastic crusing area - the Tuscan Archipelago. Hop across to the islands of Gorgona, Capraia and Elba or across to Corsica. The mainland coast tends to fairly featureless (lots of beach resorts), however there are small marinas along the way that give easy acess to the sights of Pisa, Sienna and Lucca. Bay of Naples
Experience Italy big style! The mayhem of Naples, awesome Vesuvius and Pompeii, the scenic Amalfi coast and Sorrento. Departing from Pozzuoli (Ormeggio), sail across to Procida, Ischia and Capri. The best time to visit is outside of the main holidays, July and August are very busy on the water with marinas often full, and expensive!Still, whenever you visit you can be assured of a warm Italian welcome. Afternoons are very much siesta time, so speak to the base staff and do plan your passages in advance.
