When to Embark on a Sicily Yacht Charter.

The range of times where a Sicily Yacht Charter in the Aeolian Islands is possible has widened. I sit writing this article sat on White beach in the main Island Lipari, on White Beach on the 19th October, and it’s 26c.

Where your own personal circumstances don’t dictate, then the right time to come depends on what you enjoy. A the fringes of the season, you’ll find moorings and marinas (any dock in Sicily is a Marina) closed, but you’ll far from the madding crowd.

As a guide, with the warm hot dry summers of the Mediterranean averaging a high of 30c (86f) and a low of 22c (73f). The weather is mild during the winter months between 15 – 17c (59 – 63f). The tail ends of the season at the end of April and the beginning of October offers cooler weather but with less crowded areas and marinas. The sea surface temperatures vary between 14°C (57°F) in February and 25°C (77°F) in August.

Sources of Weather Information in the Aeolian Islands

If you have not joined the 21st century and have one of the plethora of apps giving you a dizzying amounts of forecasted and data, on a Sicily yacht charter you’ll weather forecasts and weather alerts on the following channels;

• Bases provide 24-hour forecasts
• Channel 68 weather forecast 24 hours in English and Italian
• Channel 21 weather forecast 24 hours in English and Italian

Summary of Climatic Conditions on a Sicily Yacht Charter

1. Winds: In the Mediterranean, particularly around the Aeolian Islands, the winds can be quite unpredictable. The two primary winds to be aware of are the Scirocco (southeasterly) and the Mistral (northwesterly). While the Scirocco brings warm and humid conditions, the Mistral is cooler and can be quite gusty.
2. Precipitation: While the summer months are generally dry, it’s always good to be prepared for occasional rain, especially in the shoulder seasons. An understanding of the monthly rainfall patterns can be helpful.
3. Sea Conditions: Apart from temperature, it’s essential to be aware of the sea state, especially when sailing. Waves, currents, and tides can influence your sailing experience.
4. UV Index: The Mediterranean sun can be strong, especially in the peak summer months. Being aware of the UV index can help travelers take necessary precautions like wearing sunblock, sunglasses, and hats.
5. Thunderstorms: While not very frequent, thunderstorms can occur, especially in the transition seasons of spring and autumn. Being equipped with information about thunderstorm forecasts can help in planning the day’s activities.
6. Local Microclimates: Areas like the Aeolian Islands might have microclimates that can differ significantly from the general regional weather. Being aware of these local weather patterns can be beneficial.
7. Safety Measures: Ensure you have access to local weather channels or apps that can alert you to sudden changes in conditions, especially if a storm or high winds are predicted.
8. Seasonal Changes: While I provided some averages in the earlier revision, it’s essential to remember that these are just averages. Weather can vary year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check closer to your travel dates for the most current forecasts.