This route sets out from Naples and meanders through the volcanic Aeolian Islands, scattered off Sicily’s north coast. Combining wild nature and black sand beaches with exclusive luxury boutiques and restaurants as well as historic sites and dive sites, it is the ideal introduction to this off-the-beaten-track destination.
Naples & Ischia
Join your yacht in Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where cuisine, music, architecture and history collide. Cruise to the volcanic island of Ischia and its healing hot springs –try them out at the Terme Ischia spa or the hot springs in Panza. You’ll also find shady forests, vineyards, small towns and beaches. After a visit to the island’s botanical gardens, enjoy a local dinner ashore, or return to your charter yacht for gourmet dining under the stars.
Capri
The original luxury island, Capri is at its most magnificent approached by yacht. Enjoy sweeping views from Monte Solaro, browse the designer boutiques lining the harbour, swim in the glowing Blue Grotto and wander the Belvedere of Tragara, with more fantastic views. Lunch under the lemon trees at Da Paolino is an unforgettable experience
Positano
Author John Steinbeck called Positano “a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone”. Visit the Santa Maria Assunta church, home to a Byzantine Madonna icon dating to the 13th Century. Dine at the San Pietro hotel on the wisteria-strewn terrace, set atop the cliff overlooking the coastline.
Stromboli
A smouldering volcano surrounded by black lava beaches, Stromboli is a force of nature. Hike to the top with a guide to discover fire and glowing rocks at the crater. Explore the streets of Stromboli town to the Piazza San di Vincenzo, or wander the black sand Ficogrande beach. Dine on fantastic cuisine prepared by the yacht’s chef as the Captain cruises to the west of the island for your evening’s entertainment: witnessing red-hot glowing lava running from the crater to the ocean.
Panarea
Completely car free, this is the smallest and most fashionable of the Aeolians. Discover the whitewashed village of San Pietro, or jump in the tender and explore the five islets just offshore. If dive gear is available onboard, guests can tour the wreck of a 19th century ship.
For something gentler, snorkel around the pretty cove of Cala Junco. At sunset, start the evening with cocktails at the Bar del Porto or the Bridge Club, then dine at the fashionable Hotel Raya and party til late at its open-air club.
Lipari
With a lunar landscape caused by volcanic activity, Lipari is a popular island getaway for the glitterati of the Italian fashion world. Active charterers can walk up to Quattrochhi for stunning views over the south of the island. For a culture hit, visit the Archaeological Museum. Find the best retail therapy in the boutiques lining the small alleyways. Dine onboard on freshly caught seafood, or on land, head to Filippino in Lipari Town, or Le Macine outside town for a quieter evening.
Cefalu
Lipari, the setting for Cinema Paradiso, does not disappoint. Backdropped by mountains, the city’s gorgeous cathedral and stunning terracotta rooftops are baked by the sun and ideal for exploring. Wander its cobblestone streets and enjoy locally made cannoli in one of its many medieval town squares. On the port, the yacht’s chef can buy fish directly from the local fishermen to prepare for the evening. Before that, join the locals in their local evening stroll (passeggiata) along the promenade.
Catania
Our final stop is Catania. Enjoy a delicious final lunch onboard, featuring fresh fish from the market. After disembarking, explore on foot to discover the city’s ornate architecture or take a trip by 4×4 up to the moonscape of the volcano. The rooftop bar at Una Palace hotel is perfect for sundowners overlooking Mount Etna.
