HELM GUIDE Digital

Steeped in history, Italy
is surrounded by some
of the most dramatic and
beautiful coastline in the
Mediterranean and a sailing
holiday is indisputably the
best way to savour all its
sublime delights.
With moderate winds, turquoise blue seas and eye-wateringly
beautiful anchorages, Italy’s mix of calm coastal cruising and
open-water passages make for the perfect sailing experience
on either a bareboat charter for the more more experienced
sailor, or on a crewed yacht charter, for those who just want to
sit back and relax.
Whether you choose to explore its fascinating Roman past,
rub shoulders with the locals, or simply relax on board sipping
Limoncello and soaking up the sun, Italy will tug at your heart
strings and leave you wanting more.
ITALY
Sicily is one of Italy’s most beautiful
sailing destinations, full of mountainous
coastline and incredible volcanic islands.
TOP FLEETS
GAIS, Spartivento, North Sardinia Sail,
Boomerang
ESSENTIAL INFO
Currency
: Euros
Language
: Italian, though English is widely spoken
Pilot Guide
: Italian Waters Pilot by Rod and Lucinda Heikell
Marina fees
: In high season it’s roughly 3 Euros per foot of yacht
Normal Starting Day : Saturday
When to visit
: Season is May to October with the best time being June to September
Tipping etiquette : Service is often included and indicated on the bill. If unsure, add a few euros
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SICILY
Begin your trip in Portorosa and head towards the
extraordinary Aeolian Islands. This archipelago of volcanic
islands is named after the Aeolus, the Greek god of wind,
who has taken kindly to the region, with moderate NW
breezes the summer norm.
Known as the ‘seven pearls of the Mediterranean’, you will
discover a world of active volcanoes, Roman ruins, beautiful
beaches and inviting crystal clear waters - perfect for
swimming and snorkelling. Sicilian food is rightly famous
around the world.
Each island has its own identity and attractions – from the
pumice beach on Lipari and the Grotta del Bue Marino on
Filicudi to the spectacular bay of Cala Junco in Panarea and
the beautiful bays and caves of the island of Ustica, known as
the ‘Black Pearl’.
For a holiday that offers spectacular scenery, a more
challenging sailing experience and the taste of untouched
Sicily, this is the ideal choice. Choose from a bareboat,
skippered or crewed yacht charter depending on your sailing
experience.
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• Fly to: Palermo Airport
• Majestic volcanoes
• Grottos and caves
• UNESCO world heritage site
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
Saturday - Check in at Portorosa
Sunday - Portorosa to Lipari - 22NM
Monday - Lipari to Panarea - 10NM
Tuesday - Panarea to Stromboli - 12NM
Wednesday - Stromboli to Salina - 21NM
Thursday - Salina to Filicudi - 14NM
Friday - Filicudi to Portorosa via Vulcano - 37NM
TOTAL = 116NM