Yacht Charter Guide: Italy & The Islands 

With its cinematic coastlines, iconic islands, and charming coastal villages, it is no wonder that Italy and its islands have become one of the most sought-after yacht charter destinations within the Mediterranean. 

Italy’s diverse cruising grounds vary from location to location, ranging from chic yachting glamour to unspoiled, secluded bays. Heading ashore, you can explore the fairytale-like villages, white sandy beaches, and significant cultural and historical sites. Onboard, enjoy the yacht as you cruise past stunning backdrops, and drop anchor in warm, turquoise bays. 

A yacht charter in Italy is truly a feast for the senses, full of some of the greatest works of art, architecture, culture, cuisine, and history around every corner. As a traditional Mediterranean yachting destination, you won’t be short of impressive infrastructure and marinas, but can also easily get off the trodden path within the island chains, boasting quieter anchorages and hideouts. 

When to Visit: Seasons and Events 

Italy is a perfect yacht charter destination for both the first-time yachting guest and the seasoned charter guest. You should visit either during the peak summer months, from June to August, or explore during the quieter, charming shoulder season months, such as May and October. 

If you cruise here in September, consider adding several events to your itinerary, such as the historical and prestigious Venice Film Festival or the exciting Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta, hosted in Porto Cervo. If you are in the market for purchasing a yacht, Genoa hosts its international boat show in September. 

Wherever you choose to cruise in Italy, from the mainland of the Italian Riviera and Amalfi Coast to the islands of Sicily, Sardinia, and the smaller archipelagos in between, there are vast opportunities for island-hopping itineraries spanning one week and beyond. 

Where to Anchor: Docking and Dropping Anchor 

Italy has plenty of high-end marina facilities to enjoy throughout a yacht charter itinerary, offering berths for a range of yacht sizes. In the north, the iconic Marina di Portofino provides yachts the perfect base when exploring this yachting hub. This picturesque harbour is lined with pastel-colour buildings with a backdrop of hillsides. Step ashore and wander the area, full of luxury boutiques and fine dining restaurants. 

The islands also offer various sought-after marina options, notably the desirable Marina Grande on the island of Capri. The island’s main harbour is a lively gateway with upscale amenities. From the marina, you can easily access Capri town or Anacapri, making it a perfect hub for exploring this chic island. Another premier yachting destination is on Sardinia’s exclusive Costa Smeralda. Marina di Porto Cervo is a hub for luxury yachting and welcomes a range of yacht sizes. Based here, you can access a range of luxury amenities, fine dining restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. 

Marinas often provide the gateway to that area; Naples is one of these. Marina di Napoli is a perfect starting point for those looking to cruise the Amalfi Coast and surrounding islands. A bustling marina in the heart of Naples, this marina is ideal to explore the city, soaking up the atmosphere and visiting attractions—including sampling the region’s speciality, Neapolitan pizza. 

As well as the luxury marinas dotted throughout Italy and the islands, the mainland’s diverse coastline and island bays ensure you will never be short of an anchorage. Many of the anchorages benefit from protected harbours, offering calm waters perfect for relaxation and watersports, such as those found in Sardinia. You can include a mix of options on your Italy yacht charter itinerary, combining the more tranquil spots, such as Elba Island, with the picturesque towns throughout the Amalfi Coast. 

Where to Go: Suggested Itineraries

The beauty of a yacht charter in Italy is the extraordinary range of cruising grounds on offer, from the glamorous spots to peaceful island escapes. Italy truly has something for all preferences and itineraries. 

Beginning in the north, the lesser-visited Italian Riviera, often overshadowed by its French counterpart, is well worth a visit. Along this coastline, you will find lots of hidden gems to explore ashore, such as the impressive Cinque Terre region and the famous chic yachting hub of Portofino. Cruising down Italy’s western coastline, you will reach the Tuscan archipelago, where you can discover a quieter and more authentic side of Italy with stops at Elba Island and onto the Mediterranean’s second largest island of Sardinia. 

A yacht charter itinerary to Sardinia can keep you occupied for days with its turquoise waters and wild landscapes ashore. Here, you can anchor throughout the craggy coastline in secluded coves while also exploring the luxurious and cosmopolitan atmosphere found in Porto Cervo and Porto Rotondo. Nearby to the main island is the La Maddalena archipelago, a selection of over 60 uninhabited and pristine islands that are perfect for island-hopping by yacht. Enjoy the white sandy beaches, quieter anchorages, and plenty of watersport opportunities here. 

Back across to the mainland, an iconic yachting destination to enjoy is an itinerary from Naples, along the Amalfi Coast, and to the famous Capri Island. This UNESCO-listed coastline is striking and best explored by yacht, where you can hop ashore to postcard-perfect towns and harbours while also enjoying the warm waters on anchor. Indulge in fine dining experiences, sample regional specialities, hike famous trails, visit significant historical ruins, and immerse yourself in the Italian way of life. Extending an itinerary in this region, or a trip in itself, you could also include the islands of Ischia and Procida. 

Just off the southern end of Italy’s mainland—separated by a narrow strait—is the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily. Home to Europe’s largest active volcano, vibrant history, and plenty of gastronomic experiences, Sicily is well worth a spot on an Italy yacht charter itinerary. Best explored by yacht, the island is also a short distance from the volcanic Aeolian Islands—ideal for diving and snorkeling. On the east coast, the Adriatic, Venice frequently features at the top of a must-visit list here, and is ideal for combining charters with Croatia. 

What to Do: Activities Onboard and Ashore

Italy’s waters are perfect for watersport adventures. Choose to swim the turquoise coves of Capri and La Maddalena. Or head to the Aeolian Islands and Elba for snorkeling and diving opportunities, with plenty of marine life below the surface. Throughout the country, there are various designated waterports zones to enjoy everything from kayaking to jet skiing and wakeboarding. 

On dry land, the country has a rich cultural heritage to explore. There are endless art galleries and historical sites to visit, from the UNESCO-listed ruins of Pompeii to the clifftop villages of Cinque Terre. Tasting your way around Italy is always recommended, from Limoncello of Amalfi, truffle hunting in Tuscany, to Sicily’s vineyards. Visit the local markets full of seasonal produce and regional delicacies to taste. 

For those looking for something more active to include on an itinerary, Italy ticks the boxes. Its dramatic coastline leads to a range of activities, from scenic hiking and cycling throughout. Hike the famous paths of Amalfi, between the towns of Cinque Terre, or through olive groves and quiet villages on Sardinia. For guided tours, Sicily is home to the active volcano of Stromboli, which can be hiked with a guide. Thanks to the volcanic nature of many of the islands, there are also plenty of luxury spa opportunities to benefit from the land’s healing properties. 

One of the best things to do is to embrace the Italian ‘il dolce far niente,’ the sweetness of doing nothing, stretch out on one of the many pristine beaches, or sip a cocktail on the yacht’s deck while admiring the views. 

What to Eat: Flavors of Italy 

When you think of Italy, the country’s cuisine typically comes to mind first, and rightly so. Italy’s dining scene isn’t just about the food, but the pride and traditions that go with it; each region offers its signature dishes courtesy of its history and local ingredients. 

You will find everything from family-run rustic tavernas to world-class Michelin-starred restaurants. In the Amalfi Coast alone, there are currently 14 Michelin-starred venues. La Sponda is one of the favourites housed within the famous La Sirenuse hotel—the perfect romantic spot for dinner. While Sicily also boasts plenty of Michelin-starred establishments, in Regusa, you should check out Duomo, considered one of the country’s best restaurants. 

Alongside the gastronomy here, the simple flavours are often the best, as seen in pizza in Naples. L’Antic Pizzeria da Michele serves a limited menu, but has long been gaining the top spot for where to try this traditional and well-loved meal. 

Many of the restaurants you can dine at on a yacht charter also come with sea views, dine at toes in the sand beach club, or restaurants, such as at La Fontelina. This classic Capri beach club serves up fresh fish and pasta alongside a lively, laid-back atmosphere. In Porto Cervo, there is a range of beach clubs, including Phi Beach, perfect for sundowners. 

In Italy, apertivo hour is a ritual, a time of day when you can enjoy a drink—typically Aperol Spritz or Negroni—served alongside some small bites. Whether you step ashore to one of the many waterside bars throughout your charter, or enjoy on deck, a trip to Italy isn’t complete without experiencing aperitivos. Finishing your day off, or as a break to cool off, try one of the hundreds of gelato flavours. You can’t go wrong with authentic gelato wherever you are. 

Embrace Dolce Vita 

Italy and its islands have maintained their position at the top for yacht charters, thanks to the region’s rich yachting culture, history, and dramatic landscapes, complemented by a delicious dining scene and luxurious touches. Whatever your scene or pace, you can be sure to find something that ticks the boxes on the mainland or on one of its outposts, enabling you to truly embrace the sweet life. And, while cruising here, you are in the heart of the Western Mediterranean to extend your itinerary to one of the other neighbouring destinations of France or Croatia.