Top 4 Mediterranean Yacht Charters That Create a Lifetime of Memories

For yachtsmen, the Mediterranean is a true paradise. Its blue skies and azure waters capture you the minute you see them, and here are the four locations you must absolutely consider when planning your next yachting holiday.

Without a doubt, the world is lucky to have a region like the Mediterranean. It is adored and envied by many, and for a good reason: it’s truly like nothing else. Exquisite ancient architecture, authentic cuisine and winemaking, magnificent nature – this region ticks all boxes.

For yachtsmen, the Mediterranean is a true paradise. Its blue skies and azure waters capture you the minute you see them, and here are the four locations you must absolutely consider when planning your next yachting holiday.

Italy

The country of five seas, Italy can impress even the most skilled yachtsmen. The Mediterranean, Ionian, Adriatic, Ligurian and Tyrrhenian – that sounds like plenty of room for sailing which makes Italy yacht charters an amazing experience. Every inch in this country is marked with the heritage of the Antiquity, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. You can hardly find a more captivating country to explore. Moreover, each region has its own vibrant personality which you can plunge into while cruising at sea along the Italian coast.

From the yachting perspective, western Italy is the most appealing. The western coastline is prominently rocky. The Gulf of Naples is crowned with the majestic Mount Vesuvius.
Glorious Venice is a true pearl and a place not to be missed while visiting Italy. The Gulf of Genoa is the Italian counterpart of the French Riviera. The glamorous and luxurious villas and gorgeous beaches offer first-class service and facilities.

Italy’s most famous islands are also perfectly suited for yachting:

• Sardinia, a millionaire’s mile;
• Elba, the biggest island of the Tuscan Archipelago;
• Capri;
• Sicily, the cradle of the Italian mafia, or Cosa Nostra;
• Monte Cristo.

Sicily

Sicily left an iconic mark on the world history, literature and cinematography. Its yachting facilities are no less remarkable than its reputation as the home of the Italian mafia, Cosa Nostra. The Sicilian coastline is dotted with numerous marinas. This makes Sicily yacht charters very convenient.

One of the most popular sailing routes in the whereabouts of the Sicilian coast is a trip to the Aeolian Islands. Santa Agata di Militello or Milazzo are prominent locations on route to this destination. Another benefit of this course is the opportunity to anchor at Palermo, the capital of Sicily. The island of Ustica is a small, yet beautiful community also popular among divers. Across Sicily, yachtsmen will appreciate 5 major ports which are also magnificent cultural centers:

• Palermo;
• Tripani;
• Milazzo;
• Portorosa;
• Marsala.

Sicily is also home to the largest active volcano in Europe, Etna. Lemon and orange trees are an irreplaceable part of the traditional Sicilian landscape. As a cultural destination, this island is a curious mix of Greek, Roman and Arab culture you won’t find elsewhere.

Sardinia

Located halfway between Europe and Africa, Sardinia is Italy’s high-end yachting destination frequented by millionaires.

Costa Esmeralda is the beautiful north-western coast which often serves as the gateway to the island. Costa Esmeralda is the perfect location to start your journey to the archipelago of La Maddalena or the Straits of Bonifacio. Yacht ports on this coast are considered to be the best in the Mediterranean and are conveniently located in just 45 minutes from the airport.

In Sardinia, sailing is affected by two winds: the wind from the Sahara and a rather strong west mistral. To navigate the waters of Sardinia, you must have a good experience or hire an experienced skipper. Sardinia has the most expensive marinas in Italy. Facilities are impressive and comfortable. Here are some of the best ones:

• Marina di Porto Rotondo;
• Marina di Capitana;
• Porto Cervo Marina;
• Marina Del Sole;
• Ounta Marana;
• Marina di Portisco.

The Tyrrhenian Sea in the east and the Sardinian Sea in the west are known for their picturesque coastline, thousands of secluded coves, small islands and beaches with golden sand.

Mallorca

Mallorca is the largest of the four islands of the Balearic archipelago. It’s famous for its beautiful nature, pristine beaches and mild climate which makes it a popular tourist area in Spain. Mallorca has over 80 beaches – imagine that! The southern part of the island hosts fishing ports. In the east and west, magnificent mountains reach out directly into the sea. The mountaintops are covered with pine trees. Spread across Mallorca are charming towns. Visit them to catch a glimpse of authentic Spanish culture. Here are the ones to start with:

• Porto Cristo;
• Cala Figuera;
• Cala Santanyi;
• Cala Ratjada;
• Pollenca.

Sailing season in Mallorca starts in July and usually lasts till late September. The climate is typically Mediterranean, dry and sunny. The Balearic archipelago is a very windy place. This is a good thing for skilled sailors who are looking for new experiences. Breathtaking scenery will be an additional benefit.