Imagine the waves slapping the hull and above, the sail snapping smartly in a gentle breeze and the quiet sing-song of a sailboat gliding across the sea. All around you only the bluest of skies and the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean: sailing is an amazing way to travel through the Italian islands, something all sea lovers should add to their bucket list. Italy boasts more than 350 islands -some small, some big, all incredibly beautiful- and a sail boat is one of the most enjoyable ways to discover them.
One week in the Isole Eolie (Sicily). Famous world wide for their stunning beauty, the seven volcanic islands of the Eolie are popular with divers and snorkelers alike because of their rich underwater life. A tour of the Eolie starts in Lipari, a lively Sicilian island with a quaint historical downtown district and plenty of dining and nightlife options, and, on the first day takes to the caves of Pomice, the perfect spot for a dive, and then to Panarea, the archipelago’s swankiest island. Panarea is the perfect spot to anchor, watch sunset and enjoy a leisurely aperitivo, followed by a night of dancing or by a quieter night at the Milazzese Bay. The following days will be just as interesting: you will disembark in Stromboli, home to one of Europe’s most active volcanos, you will taste Sicily’s best granita on the island of Salina, you will spot dolphins in Filicudi, one of their favorite hangouts. You will see a quieter side of Sicily, savor amazing seafood -either prepared on board or at a restaurant- and enjoy seven days of rest and relaxation. For more info on the types of sailboat available, prices and to meet the skippers: http://www.vacanzebarcavelaisoleeolie.it/
Seven days in the Maddalena Archipelago (Sardinia). Tours of the Maddalena Archipelago, islands scattered to the North of Sardinia and South of Corsica, start in Palau, a quintessential Sardinian town overlooking a windy bay. On the first day you are in for a treat, as you sail towards Caprera, an island that is part of the natural preserve of La Maddalena: here nature is at its best, wild and rugged, basking in the strong Sardinian sun. From Caprera, Giuseppe Garibaldi’s last residence before he died, a short but adventurous navigation will take you trough the Bocche di Bonifacio to Cavallo, a stunning spot to enjoy a swim or a snorkel. The Isola di Piana, too, leaves visitors breathless with its crystal clear waters and green Mediterranean vegetation and so does the pink sand of Budelli. In seven days surrounded by the Sardinian wilderness you will definitely get in close touch with nature and go home feeling relaxed and renewed. For more information: http://www.vela-sardegna.com/
Isole campane e pontine in one week (Campania and Lazio). Your week long tour starts in romantic Sorrento, a stone’s throw away from Napoli. On the first day of navigation you will reach Ischia, famous for the beautiful Maronti beach and for its Aragonese castle, a stunning citadel overlooking the sea. You will then sail to Ventotene, with its Roman ruins, and Ponza, a scuba diving paradise. The island of Procida will charm you with its colorful old harbor, a lovely spot to watch sunset while enjoying a drink or dinner. Definitely a less adventurous tour, this one week vacation is perfect for those who want to try sailing, but want to sleep in hotels at night. Information here: http://www.seduction.it /it/isole-campane-ed-isole-pontine.php
Parco Nazionale dell’ Arcipelago Toscano (Tuscany). The Tuscan Archipelago National Park is the largest marine preserve in Europe and is famous for being both interesting to explore and beautiful. Sail off from Isola d’Elba, Italy’s third largest island, with its citadel dating back to the 16th century and sweeping panoramas, and head to Capraia, with its lush vegetation and interesting underwater life. Isola del Giglio fascinates visitors with its castle and village from the Middle Ages, a charming spot to enjoy a local favorite: spaghetti with clams. Pianosa, too, has a lot to offer, especially to history buffs, as it can boost the most remarkable Roman catacombs besides those in Rome. Last but not least, the island of Montecristo is the most rugged of them all, uninhabited and wild. The only construction on the island is the ex royal villa, built along with a botanical garden, both of which can be visited. For more information on weekend and week long trips to the Arcipelago Toscano visit: http://www.lafilibusta.com/
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