Sicily and the Aeolian islands are a dramatic start to a yacht charter itinerary. With the towering active volcanic mountain peaks, this coastal area can only be described in one word - dramatic. Cruising up the coastline, you will be met by a rugged coastline. Sicily is a city that has a lot of personality and legendary sites. Off board, take a trip to the famous cathedral of Piazza Bellini, and the Palatine Chapel which is decorated in fascinating golden columns and ornate illustrations. For a picture perfect panoramic view of the Conca d’Oro The golden shell, be sure to visit Monreale, which is a lush valley located near Palermo. Located right off the coast of Sicily, we will cruise to the island of Ustica. Ustica’s magnificent seabeds act as natural marine reserve, which contrast in a spectacular beautiful way the turquoise waters of the Tirreno Sea. A paradise for those who like to snorkel or scuba dive, you can easily jump off board to take in the spectacular views of the marine life that exist below sea level. Swim amongst the vibrant schools of fish and the lush fauna. CLimb back on board just before sunset to enjoy a delicious meal of italian cuisine prepared by your private chef. Sip on freshly crushed cocktails as you watch the sunset on the sun deck and wave goodbye to Sicily as you cruise to the Aeolian islands.
Made up of 7 islands, the Aeolian Archipelago contains the islands of Lipari, Vulcano and Stromboli, where you can easily see the large active volcanoes. First sail past Filicudi and Alicudi, then sail onto Panarea, the smallest of all the islands, where you can indulge in a relaxing mud bath in one of the island's natural hot springs.
For the adrenaline junkies, there are groups that lead hikes through the panoramic view of the island and sea right to the top of the largest active volcano in Europe, Mt Etna. Be sure to dive off board once in the islands to explore the underwater fumaroles, which are a phenomenon caused the tectonic plates of the volcanic area and push large air bubbles out from the seafloor. Once you reach the island of Lipari, be sure to taste their sun ripened dried grape locally produced wine - Lavasia. Match the wine tasting with the local delicacy of the u pani cunzatu, a seasoned bread with fresh pesto. End the meal with a deliciously refreshing lemon sorbet with mint to cleanse the palate.
With endless sulphuric beaches created by their volcanic existence, you can relax in some of their spa-like beaches. Along with the endless amount of coastlines to navigate, these islands are absolutely magnificent and with their close proximity to one another, cruising on your luxury yacht charter from one island to the next is an easy feat.
