Boat charter in Sicily

Charter a Sailboat in Sicily

Charter a sailboat in Sicily and base yourself in Palermo, Mondello or the Aeolian Islands to reach some of Europe's most dramatic sailing grounds. The Tyrrhenian and Ionian coasts offer protected anchorages, volcanic peaks and steep limestone cliffs dropping into turquoise water. From Palermo, sail east to Mondello in an hour, push south to the Egadi Islands in half a day, or cross the Strait of Messina to Calabria on the mainland.

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Your next adventure is just a booking away. Discover secluded bays, anchor at the best snorkelling spots, or watch sunsets from your private deck. With our diverse fleet and local knowledge, every trip becomes an extraordinary memory.

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Frequently asked questions

What happens when I request a quote?
Once we receive your request, we will confirm the availability of the boat, as well as check for alternative ones. To ensure your experience is the best it can be, we may contact you to discuss your request in detail. Let us do the research for you - free of charge.
When can I get in touch with the captain/skipper?
The timing depends on your charter type. For crewed charters, we can provide the captain's contact details upon request. For bareboat charters with a hired skipper, you can request the contact information 1-3 weeks before departure.
What is the Charter Fee?
The Charter Fee is an additional, obligatory cost, which typically includes the end cleaning of the boat, home port fees, and linen & towels. The details of the charter fee differ depending on the boat, location and charter partner.
Are there any other costs I should be aware of?
There are marina fees and fuel costs which vary depending on the type, duration and location of your sailing holiday. Marina fees need to be paid at each marina you choose to dock overnight - the amount varies but you may be able to find this information in advance by contacting the marinas directly. Fuel costs depend on whether you’re sailing a motorboat or a sailboat. You can estimate fuel costs by double-checking your chosen boat’s engine, and the expected distance you aim to sail.

Sicily Sailboat Charter: Authentic Italian Sailing

Discover the dramatic coastlines and ancient history of the Mediterranean’s largest island from the deck of a classic monohull. A sailboat charter in Sicily offers the perfect blend of exhilarating sailing and rich cultural exploration. Whether you are navigating the steady thermal breezes of the northern coast towards Palermo or crossing to the magnificent Aeolian Islands, renting a sailing yacht provides superior upwind performance and an authentic, sporty maritime experience.

Sicily Sailboat Hire: Fast Facts

Feature Details
Main Departure Base Portorosa, Palermo, and Capo d’Orlando
Logistics Palermo (PMI) or Catania (CTA) airports offer excellent connections to major marinas
Sailing Conditions Reliable summer breezes (10-15 knots); stronger gusts possible in the Strait of Messina
Best For Purist sailors, couples, and groups seeking an authentic, performance-driven sailing holiday

Why Rent a Sailboat in Sicily?

Upwind Performance: Slice through the Tyrrhenian Sea with superior handling, making it significantly easier to beat upwind when crossing between the mainland and the Aeolian archipelago.

  • Authentic Experience: Feel the wind in the sails and enjoy the traditional, sporty handling that only a classic monohull provides on the open water.
  • Cost-Effective Mooring: Sailboats typically require less space than catamarans, making it easier and cheaper to secure a berth in busy, historic ports like Palermo or Lipari.
Captain’s Insider Tip: Mooring in Lipari “Lipari is the bustling heart of the Aeolian Islands. To secure a berth in the main marina during July and August, you must book well in advance. Alternatively, drop anchor south of the town and take your dinghy ashore.”

Top-Rated Sailboats in Sicily

Explore our most popular monohulls departing from Sicilian marinas:

  • Dufour 460 Grand Large: A highly versatile cruiser offering a perfect balance of comfort, elegant lines, and dynamic sailing performance for groups.
  • Beneteau Oceanis 51.1: Spacious and luxurious, this premium monohull features a stepped hull for exceptional speed and vast below-deck living.
  • Beneteau Oceanis 38.1: An incredibly agile and easy-to-handle yacht, perfect for couples or small families looking for an authentic coastal adventure.

Sample 7-Day Itinerary (The Aeolian Islands)

  1. Day 1: Portorosa to Vulcano: Set sail from the mainland and cross to the island of Vulcano. Drop anchor in Porto di Ponente to enjoy the sunset and the dramatic volcanic scenery.
  2. Day 2: Vulcano to Panarea: Sail north to the chicest of the Aeolian Islands. Anchor near the islets of Dattilo or Lisca Bianca for snorkeling in crystal-clear water before heading to the main village.
  3. Day 3: Panarea to Stromboli: Experience an exhilarating sail towards the "Lighthouse of the Mediterranean." Watch the volcanic eruptions from the sea at night for an unforgettable experience.
  4. Day 4: Stromboli to Salina: Head west to the greenest island of the archipelago. Secure a berth in Santa Marina Salina and sample the famous local Malvasia wine and capers.
  5. Day 5: Salina to Filicudi: Sail to the wild and rugged island of Filicudi. Anchor at Pecorini a Mare, a charming fishing village where time seems to have stood still.
  6. Day 6: Filicudi to Lipari: Navigate back towards the center of the archipelago. Explore the historic castle and vibrant streets of Lipari town, the largest settlement in the islands.
  7. Day 7: Lipari to Portorosa: Enjoy a final morning of sailing across the Tyrrhenian Sea as you return to your base on the Sicilian coast for disembarkation.

More Yacht Charters: Sicily