Amalfi Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Amalfi Coast is not only world famous, it\u2019s also UNESCO-listed as an outstanding Mediterranean landscape. It comprises a 50 kilometre (or 30 mile) stretch of coastline in the south of the Sorrentine Peninsula. Expect rolling vineyards, citrus groves, rugged cliffs, pretty fishing villages, and of course gorgeous beaches. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Amalfi is the biggest of the 13 Amalfi Coast towns, and is a lively, bustling resort with a busy main square and the famous Spiaggia Grande beach. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest bar: <\/strong>Cafe Mirante \u2013 Praiano bar offering great cocktails, delicious homemade snacks, and incredible views.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBest restaurant:<\/strong> Baglia Bistro \u2013 mind-blowingly good food and helpful service, with a side of sweeping sea views.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBest beach: <\/strong>Spiaggia Grande \u2013 famous, photogenic Positano beach backed by colourful, cliff-hanging buildings.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSardinia<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSardinia is the second-largest Mediterranean island. Sardinia highlights include pretty fishing harbours, modern marinas, Roman remains, upmarket resorts, smart restaurants, Italian trattorias, and untouched, uninhabited islands abundant in local wildlife, particularly seabirds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of the best places to visit include swish Porto Rotondo, historic Olbia, sleepy Cala di Volpe, smart Porto Cervo, protected Isola di Mortorio, and the seven islands of the La Maddalena archipelago. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBest bar:<\/strong> Agua \u2013 free to enter lounge bar in Alghero with live music, cocktails, and an outdoor terrace.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBest restaurant:<\/strong> Oasi Blu \u2013 Calasetta restaurant offering a one-off culinary experience in a lush Mediterranean setting.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBest beach: <\/strong>Spiaggia Su Portu \u2013 curving, family-friendly beach with white sands, calm waters, and a flamingo lagoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSicily<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe biggest Mediterranean island of all is perfectly sized for a week-long sailing adventure \u2013 or longer. It\u2019s located offshore from the \u201ctoe\u201d section of boot-shaped Italy. It offers a rich history, balmy weather, a fabulous foodie scene, and lots of lovely sandy beaches. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sicily highlights include the historic Valley of the Temples, with the remnants of seven Greek temples; the still-active Mount Etna volcano, and Cappella Palatina with its Byzantine mosaics in Palermo, the capital. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best bar: <\/strong>Boheme Mixology \u2013 cocktail bar where expert staff match the drink to your personality and preferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBest restaurant:<\/strong> Apud Jatum Panormus \u2013 Palermo eatery and brew pub serving amazing pizza, plus Sicilian fare.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBest beach: <\/strong>Cefalu \u2013 golden sands overlooked by whitewashed houses and a promenade lined with places to eat and drink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7-Day Italy Sailing Itinerary \u2013 Round Trip from Naples<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nDay 1 \u2013 Naples<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Begin your adventure in Naples, the historic heart of southern Italy. Check in to your sailing boat, explore the vibrant streets, and enjoy an authentic Neapolitan pizza before setting sail the next morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day 2 \u2013 Procida<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nSail to the colorful island of Procida, known for its pastel-hued houses and peaceful harbors. Spend the day swimming in secluded coves and strolling along the charming port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day 3 \u2013 Ischia<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nHead to Ischia, a volcanic island famous for thermal springs and lush gardens. Moor in Ischia Porto or Sant\u2019Angelo and relax at a thermal spa, or explore the Aragonese Castle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day 4 \u2013 Capri<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nSet sail to the world-famous island of Capri. Visit the Blue Grotto, enjoy high-end dining, or wander the chic Piazzetta. Anchor at Marina Grande or in one of the island\u2019s hidden bays for an unforgettable sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day 5 \u2013 Amalfi Coast<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nCruise along the Amalfi Coast, stopping at Positano or Amalfi. Explore the cliffside villages, dine on fresh seafood, and sunbathe on picturesque beaches. Anchor overnight in a calm bay or a local marina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day 6 \u2013 Sorrento<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nSail to Sorrento, with its panoramic views over the Bay of Naples. Wander the historic center, shop for limoncello, and enjoy local trattorias. Spend the night anchored near Marina Grande.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Day 7 \u2013 Return to Naples<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nComplete your loop by sailing back to Naples. Spend your last day visiting historic sites like the Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples Cathedral, or the National Archaeological Museum. Celebrate the end of your journey with a sunset aperitivo on board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tips for Sailing in Italy<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nBook ahead<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Summer is the busiest season when it comes to sailing in Italy. If you can, consider sailing in April, May, September or October, when you\u2019ll get better value for money.<\/p>\n\n\n\nYou should also secure the best boat and skipper as early as you can. Doing this also gives you a better chance of paying a lower rate for your rental. When you are booking, do check what\u2019s included and what isn\u2019t, so there aren\u2019t any unpleasant surprises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rent a captain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n If you don\u2019t really want the responsibility of being in charge, or would simply rather unwind and have fun, then think about hiring an experienced captain. While it costs more, this will increase your enjoyment and keep you all safe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Be aware of the weather and hazards<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Wherever in the world you set sail, the weather is the most important thing to consider. If you\u2019re in charge, you\u2019ll have to keep a close eye (or ear) on the shipping forecasts yourself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you hire a captain, however, you can leave this task to them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exercise extra caution when sailing in rocky regions, as concealed rocks can be very dangerous. Check nautical charts carefully, and be sure to heed any local warnings. Be especially vigilant when sailing along any rugged coastline. <\/p>\n\n\n\n