Sail Sicily and The Aeolian Islands
7-Day Yacht Charter Itinerary
Sicily sits at the crossroads of so many cultures – Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Phoenicians, Normans, British, and French – which is evidenced by the architecture and cuisine of this autonomous region of Italy. The Aeolian Islands are an exciting destination with their rugged, volcanic landscapes and views of Mount Etna (aka Mama Etna). This is the only place in the Mediterranean where you can anchor your yacht and watch a live volcano in action. When she’s not erupting, her pink plume is almost always on display.
The seven islands are linked by a 200km ridge from Mount Etna to Mount Vesuvius. In 2000, they became a UNESCO World Heritage Site for providing “an outstanding record of volcanic island-building and destruction, and ongoing volcanic phenomena”.
To get a feel for the sailing, historical, and culinary adventure that awaits you, we’re going to start with this suggested yacht charter itinerary, beginning and ending in Taormina. Remember that this is your vacation and we can customize all itineraries to suit you and your fellow travelers.
Weather
Sicily is often sunny and dry. During the summer, winds and weather on the northern and eastern side of Sicily are typically Mediterranean. The prevailing wind is north-westerly with an average force of 3 to 4 mph.
A SUGGESTED ITINERARY
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Day 1: Taormina – Milazzo
Start your yacht trip by departing from the port of Taormina, “the jewel of Sicily”. Perhaps enjoy breakfast onboard as you make your way to Milazzo, a historic city known for its stunning castle and charming old town. You can explore the castle, stroll through the city’s narrow streets, or relax at the beach.
Two must-see Taormina features are the ancient Greek theater (Teatro Greco) which sometimes hosts top musical talent, and the Villa Communale, originally the garden of the villa of Lady Florence Trevelyan.
Day 2: Milazzo – Vulcano Island
Leave Milazzo and sail to Vulcano Island in the Aeolian archipelago. Spend the day exploring the island’s natural beauty, including the famous mud baths and the smoking volcanic crater. Enjoy the sunset from your yacht and anchor in the bay for the night.
Day 3: Vulcano Island – Lipari Island
In the morning, set sail towards Lipari Island, the largest island in the Aeolian archipelago. Explore the charming town of Lipari, with its beautiful beaches, shops, and restaurants. Take a tour of the archaeological museum, which houses ancient artifacts and historical items from the island. Spend the night anchored in the bay of Lipari.
Day 4: Lipari Island – Panarea Island
Head towards Panarea Island, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, before exploring the picturesque village of Panarea. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the island’s famous seafood restaurants before anchoring in the bay for the night.
Day 5: Panarea Island – Stromboli Island
Sail towards the famous island of Stromboli, known for its active volcano. Take a guided trek up the volcano to witness the incredible eruptions and lava flows. In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks on board while watching the volcano light up the night sky.
Day 6: Stromboli Island – Palermo
Sail to Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Visit the beautiful Palermo Cathedral, the lush Palermo Botanical Garden, the famous Teatro Massimo (an opera house), and the historic markets of Ballarò and Vucciria.
Day 7: Palermo – Taormina
On your final day, return to beautiful Taormina. The Netflix series White Lotus put Taormina’s San Domenico Palace hotel on the streaming world’s map. As gorgeous as the hotel is, Taormina has plenty of beauty to spare.
Savor a traditional Sicilian lunch in one of the town’s many superb restaurants. Stroll the streets and steps to see flourishing flowers, funny signs, and fancy facades. Spend the night anchored in the bay of Taormina.
Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants before departing your yacht and ending your unforgettable adventure.
