Sicily

Start the week off in magnificent Portorosa, where you can enjoy some sunshine on the beaches of Sicily. The town of Tonnarella is close by and offers plenty of ways to pass the day. If you like being active, you can explore Mount Etna, this volcanic mountain is beloved by hikers and history buffs alike.

For day 2 of our Sicily sailing itinerary, head to Vulcano. Here you’ll find beautiful hot springs, where you can relax and enjoy the natural therapeutic mud. Afterwards your skin will feel smooth and soft, like never before. Vulcano is home to Fossa di Vulcano, which gives the island beautiful black sand beaches. You can spend the day snorkeling and swimming. Take the hour-long hike up, and you’ll be rewarded with a view of a crater encrusted by red and yellow crystals.

In Filicudi, you can experience truly wild beauty. Escape everyday life on this remote island, filled with nature. You can walk the ancient prehistoric pathways all across the island. Paved with multi-coloured flowers, capers, vines, and olive trees, you’ll see Filicudi’s countryside. Visit Capo Graziano or Zucco Grande, to see what remains of the island’s prehistoric villages. You can also sail to see La Canna, a rock that sticks out of the ocean, where you might be able to spot an elusive Eleanora’s Falcon.

Day 4 of Sicily sailing itinerary brings you to Salina. As the second-largest island of the Aeolian Islands, Salina is also one of the most mountainous areas. Here you will find three of the area’s highest points, Monte Fossa dell Felci (962m), Monte dei Porri (860m), and Monte Rivi (850m). There is also unique and beautiful foliage, and you can enjoy being amongst lush greenery accompanied by freshwater springs. You can also explore three villages and some smaller hiking hills. At the end of the day, enjoy a lovely sunset in Pollara!

Next, sail on to Stromboli. You’re back in the Mount Etna’s domain and you can spend the day hiking and exploring any parts you did not see the first time. Stromboli also has the elegant black sand beaches from the volcanic ash, you can even see the lava streaming to the water. You can also explore the town of Ginostra, where the cannoli is authentically delicious and, the blend of Neapolitan and Sicilian influences make for an amazing gastro-experience.

On day 6 of the Sicily sailing itinerary, you will pass by Panarea, the smallest island Aeolian Islands on our itinerary. You can hike the Punta del Corno for an amazing view, or enjoy the port town. The main event of the day is the island of Lipari. Lipari, much bigger than Panarea, is the largest and oldest Aeolian Islands. This is where we recommend you restock as larger supermarkets are available here. To learn more about the island’s deep history, visit the Aeolian Museum in the town. You’ll be able to see the island’s ancient artefacts. Lipari is also home to a 13th-century cathedral, which is home to well-preserved Norman style architecture.

On the last day of our Sicily sailing itinerary, you will make the trek back to Portorosa. If you’d like a leisurely sail back, you can stop into the Vulcano National Park, or sail to the Milazzo Peninsula. You will need to return your boat and check out by the end of the day, but stay and enjoy the wonderful ambience in Portorosa.