Best Places to Sail in Italy

Immerse yourself within Italy’s rich history, surrounded by some of the most striking coastlines in the Mediterranean. ?With moderate winds, turquoise blue seas and beautiful anchorages, Italy’s mix of calm coastal cruising and open-water passages make it the perfect sailing experience.

Renowned for its delicious food and wine; sample regional specialties, fresh seafood, and local wines directly from coastal towns. Explore the captivating Roman history, immerse yourself with the locals, or simply relax on board sipping Limoncello and soaking up the sun. Italy’s Mediterranean coastline is the perfect place to charter a luxury yacht and relax into summer.

Our HELM team know it can be challenging to know where to visit when planning a vacation. Luckily, we have years of experience and expertise to guide you. This is where we believe are the best places to sail in Italy:

Sardinia is located west of the mainland and is home to beautiful sandy beaches and breath-taking rugged landscape crossed with hiking trails for the more adventurous travellers. Discover spectacular caves, including Neptune’s Grotto and the Grotta di Ispinigoli, known for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Winds are strong and steady throughout the area which make it the perfect destination for a more challenging sailing experience.

We suggest visiting the exquisite Maddalena Archipelago, a group of islands between Sardinia and Corsica, one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. All easily reached by boat, explore secluded bays and creeks, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and swimming.

Primary charter bases: Cannigione, Portisco, Porto Rotondo

Just off the ‘boot’ of Italy, Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and is one of the most stunning sailing destinations. Appreciate mountainous coastlines and explore incredible volcanic islands. Discover a world of roman ruins, and snorkel in the crystal-clears waters at beautiful beaches. Winds are moderate north westerly breezes in the summer, making for a leisurely sail.

We suggest visiting the island of Vulcano, near Stromboli, to visit one of the most famous volcanos in Sicily. A leisurely two-hour walk from the port will take you to the top of the volcanic cove. Follow this with a dip in the famous mud baths and lunch at a nearby trattoria for the ultimate sailing holiday experience.

Primary charter bases: Palermo, Portorosa, Milazzo

Italy’s southern coast, known as the Amalfi Coast, is one of the most popular destinations and is known for its sheer cliffs, rugged shoreline, and pastel-coloured fishing villages. Follow in the footsteps of the Roman Emperor Tiberius and head to Capri, home of Limoncello, and explore its best-known natural sites on a luxury yacht charter. Gentle winds make for perfect line-of-sight sailing in these sheltered waters, so it’s easy to relax and appreciate the views as you enjoy sailing the Amalfi coast.

We suggest stopping off in Sorrento perched high on a cliff facing the Bay of Naples and make time to visit the famous Roman remains at Pompeii destroyed by the eruption of nearby Mt Vesuvius.?

Primary charter bases: Naples, Salerno, Sorrento

Interested in sailing in Italy? Use our intuitive enquiry builder to find the right fit for you and your crew, wherever you may roam. You can choose between bareboat charters, skippered yachts, or fully crewed yachts depending on your preference and experience level.

Get in touch with the HELM team today to enquire:

[email protected] | 020 7632 7567