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.

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 areas

Tuscany & Gulf of Naples

Terraced green hillsides, attractive harbours and anchorages, and charming historic towns. Can be very busy in August, especially in places such as Capri and Amalfi. Several bases along the coast.

Sicily

Fascinating contrasts, scenic beauty and history, with few cruising yachts. Include the volcanic Aeolian islands to the north for a fascinating and varied holiday. Bases in Palermo and Marsala.

Sardinia

Brilliantly clear waters, white beaches, pink granite coastline, sheltered coves, Italian cuisine and wines. Varied cruising, from the glamorous but expensive Costa Smeralda to the deserted Lavezzi Isles. Bases: Alghero, Portisco and Carloforte

Flight time from the UK: about 2 hours

We can offer a wide choice of flights to your destination: scheduled, charter and low-cost flights to Pisa, Florence, Rome, Naples, Palermo, Olbia, Alghero. Charter flight prices from about £250 each, depending on carrier and dates.