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• The 10 best tourist ports in Italy
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Find out with us the 10 best tourist ports in Italy , unique seaside locations close to artistic and natural beauties to discover on your boat trip .

Italy is a long strip of land in the Mediterranean Sea with 7,500 km of beautiful coastline dotted with 537 charming tourist ports. For those who love to sail, Italian tourist ports are a perfect way to enjoy both the natural beauty of the peninsula and the artistic ones. With 160,000 berths and state-of-the-art facilities in its various marinas, Italy is a perfect destination for those who decide to sail the Mediterranean.

We have selected for you the  10 best marinas and tourist ports in Italy . There are some of the most interesting ports both for their prices and for the beauty of their infrastructure and proximity to places of interest. Get on board and be ready to set sail with us: our journey through the Italian tourist ports begins now!

10. Tourist ports in Italy: North Sardinia, port of Alghero

Overlooking the North-Western coast of Sardinia , just below the bastions of the ancient city, there is one of the most fascinating tourist ports in Italy: the port of Alghero , a gem location in this region. For centuries, the port of the red coral town was a central trade in the Mediterranean: Genoese ships passed through here on their voyage’s Westwards, and for the other way Spanish and Maghrebi ships used that as a reference point as they sailed up the coast. From the 12th century, the famous Genoese family Doria decided to fortify it: they knew that such a strategic port grab the eye of some maritime power. And so, it did. In 1354, after months of siege, Alghero fell into the hands of the Aragonese , which made it one of its outposts in the centre of the Mediterranean. For centuries, Sardinian and Catalan cultures merged, giving rise to a new and unique city , with architecture, language, and traditions as original as any in the world.

Today the port of Alghero is among the best Italian tourist ports , a magical and perfect place to land discovering one of the splendid cities of North Sardinia in the iconic setting of one of the most beautiful seaside cities in Italy . Here you will find also Marina di Sant'Elmo , a port that can accommodate up to 100 boats and superyachts of up to 70 metres, where  privacy, discretion and security are the keywords of 5-star service.

Another undisputed quality of the tourist port of Alghero is its geographical location : from here you can easily move around and visit some of the most interesting places in North Sardinia. Heading North along the Coral Riviera, just 10 km away you will find the Nuragic Village of Palmavera dating back to the Bronze Age, nowadays also used as a special location for outdoor concerts; a little further on, near the enchanting Mugoni beach , you will find the Nuragic complex of Sant'Imbenia. Continuing along the coast, after about 8km, you will reach the famous Grotte di Nettuno (Neptune's Caves) and Capo Caccia : amazing karst caves, rich in stalactites and stalagmites, which seem to have been embroidered by nature itself. At this point, we recommend that you go about thirty kilometres inland to visit the pre-Nuragic necropolis of Angelu Ruju and taste the wine prepared using ancient methods that have made this site famous throughout the world. Continuing South, you will find yourself in the presence of the Domus de Janas S'Incantu , underground tombs of great visual impact. At this point, if you feel homesick for the sea, you can return to the coast South of Alghero and visit the beautiful Parco Archeologico Nuraghe Appiu and the Necropolis of Puttu Codinu, which are no more than 30km from the city of Alghero.

Hand the floor over to: Rita D'Appello, Associazione Bayou Club Events

“What makes the Port of Alghero unique, internationally and in every season, as an icon of culture, tourism and events in the city and throughout North Sardinia?”

A: "The Port of Alghero is one of the largest tourist ports in the Mediterranean with over 2500 berths. Its peculiarity is that of creating a unique view of the historic centre, being able to moor at the foot of the ancient city walls. Its birth it dates back to the 12th century with the Doria family, but it is from the Catalan-Aragonese domination that the ancient city and its port retain the strongest influences: in the architecture, in the churches, in the bastions and in the language which is still spoken after centuries. From the Port there's an access through the sea gate, the ancient entrance to the fortress city directly on Piazza Civica, being able to immerse in the streets and alleys of the historic centre, where in all seasons of the year you can visit the museums, boutiques and especially craft shops dedicated to red coral, the undisputed symbol of the city. One last curiosity: for a few years now, in June the Dogana dock has become the international catwalk for the WRC Rally, where the dive of the winning drivers has become one of the symbols of the Sardinian stage of the world championship."

A small port in the night. The dark, calm water. The lights of the village. The shadows of the moored boats. And that soft silence as if everything had found its refuge. F.Caramagna

9. Ports of Syracuse

And here we are in Sicily. Among all the magnificent ports of the island, today we want to talk about those of Syracuse . This is a port on the Ionian coast of Sicily made up of three distinct units: the Grand Port and the Marmoreal Port on the island of Ortigia and Porto Rifugio , located in the Northern part of the city and used for petrochemical activities.

From the visitors point of view, the two tourist ports of Ortigia are undoubtedly the most fascinating : gateways to one of UNESCO's world heritage sites, the ports of Ortigia are the most attractive for tourists as they're located right at the centre of the Mediterranean, so there is no need to dwell on the strategic value that its port has had over the centuries.

To date, the tourist ports of Syracuse were opened to cruise ships at the beginning of the new millennium: since then, various economic interventions have followed to improve the entire marina area. The two harbours also host numerous pleasure and sailing ships. Several famous regattas , such as the international Syracuse-Malta regatta, the Rotta del Vino (Marzamemi-Siracusa-Riposto) and the Odyssail regatta on the Ulysses route, which starts in Sardinia , crosses the Mediterranean touching Syracuse and ending in Athens , also depart from here.

No wind is favourable for the sailor who does not know which port he wants to land in. Seneca

8. Ports of Crotone

Our journey discovering Italian tourist ports goes on as we land in Calabria. Destination? Crotone , with its two tourist ports : the Old Port ( Vecchio ) and the New Port ( Nuovo ). The Porto Vecchio in the South is mainly used by fishing boats, berths and ships in transit. Here you can find technical assistance and the seabed is up to 5 metres deep, the crosswinds are sirocco and libeccio. In the Northern area lies the New Port , characterised by large expanses of water and long quays equipped for tourist purposes. Here you will find pleasure boats, yachts, moorings, refuelling and storage stations. At Porto Nuovo, there is also loading and unloading of goods, while the seabed in the area of the Forche beach is up to 9 metres deep. Here the crosswinds are the tramontane and the mistral.

The tourist ports of Crotone were founded as early as the 7th century and belonged to Magna Graecia. For centuries Crotone was an important port of call in the Mediterranean, but the real boom came in the early decades of the 20th century when Calabria was industrialised.

Peace I do not seek, war I do not endure / quiet and alone I go through the world in a dream / full of stifled songs. I yearn for / the fog and silence in a great port. Dino Campana

7. Port of Favignana

This is the only port located on the island of the same name, the largest of the Egadi Islands . It is located in the inlet called Cala Principale, a strip of land between Punta del Faraglione and Punta di S. Nicola . The pier extends almost 90 metres southwards from the main wharf and plunges into the cove. In the southern part, a well-protected dock houses quays and yards for tourist use .

At the tourist port of Favignana , you can see many different types of boats: pleasure boats, fishing boats, tuna boats, ferries and hydrofoils. Numerous nautical services can be found in the town.

It has always seemed indecent to me not to go and see everything in the world. One should sail on all the oceans, discover all the ports. Olivier de Kersauson

6. Marina of Nettuno

Just over an hour's drive from Rome is the beautiful marina of Nettuno , a place suspended between the past and the future. Embellished by the nearby ancient village, the marina's technical efficiency and natural beauty make it a top ten choice.

The marina of Nettuno was inaugurated in 1986 and just a few years of life has managed to take its place among the best tourist ports in Italy  in the opinion not only of locals but also of international customers. Since the first year of its establishment, the port of Nettuno has been awarded the Blue Flag every year by the Foundation for Environmental . Major sailing regattas are held in its Gulf every year. It is also perfect for pleasure boating thanks to its 3 km of quays, 14 piers, 800 berths and the constant assistance of the control tower for manoeuvres in and out of the port.

Everyone here is beautifully tanned and there are a great many of those odd, mahogany-coloured, bare-chested sailors with earrings and crimson belts, who seem to populate a southern port with the chorus of "Masaniello". H. James

5. Old Port of Naples

The Old Port of Naples is a true gateway to one of Italy's most beautiful cities, a crossroads of people and goods, and a reference point for the entire region. Its foundation dates back to the 8th century by the Greeks : later, with the advent of the Angevins, it was enlarged along with the city. The Angevin wharf was built at the behest of Charles II at the beginning of the 14th century; in 1487 Ferrante of Aragon had the lighthouse called the 'Lanterna del Molo' built. Finally, under the Bourbons , the Port of Naples became one of the best equipped in Europe, hosting Venetian, Danish, English, Genoese and Turkish military and merchant fleets.

Later, the Old Port of Naples became a great naval arsenal, which gave birth to legendary ships such as the Real Ferdinando I, the first steamship in the Mediterranean . Today, the Port of Naples is a preferred access point to the Neapolitan city as a dock for cruise ships as well as a merchant port. The city centre is within walking distance

4. Porto Sant'Ercole

Photo by ©Raimond Spekking CC BY-SA 4.0 (Wikimedia Commons)

In the heart of the Tuscan Maremma, is located Porto Sant'Ercole , a port with a very ancient history: its foundation dates back to Etruscan times and its transformation into a port in Roman times. The bastion of Santa Barbara , which can still be seen today, was built in the Byzantine era, testifying to the continuous use of Porto Sant'Ercole over the centuries. The fortress, on the other hand, was founded at the end of the 1200s by the Countess of Savoy, Margherita Aldobrandeschi. In the following century, the Torre di Terra , the nucleus of the fortress, was inherited by the famous Orsini family, who decided to expand the village by adding, among other things, the church of Sant'Erasmo.

Porto Ercole flourished, however, in the 15th century under the rule of the Republic of Siena, which made it a point of reference for the entire Argentario coast . Porto Ercole was the scene of famous battles such as the one that saw Siena and France lined up on opposite sides against Florence, an ally of the Spanish: the Battle of Porto Ercole was immortalised by Vasari in the Sala del Cinquecento.

With the Peace of Chateau-Cambrésis, Porto Ercole came under Spanish rule and experienced a new European boom. In 1610 Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio died here.

In the 18th century, Porto Ercole experienced a slow decline until, in the post-Napoleonic era, it acquired a new dignity as one of the most beautiful Italian tourist ports thanks to the excellent publicity it received from Juliana, Queen of Holland, who was on holiday in the region. We recommend that you follow in the Queen's footsteps and visit the four forts, the churches of Sant'Erasmo and San Rocco and the village. If you are travelling by boat, a short distance from the port you will find Cala Galera, where numerous boats and VIP yachts moor.

Any wind is a sea wind, and any city, even the most continental, is maritime during windy hours. There is a smell of the sea, no, but: there is sea air, we add the smell. Even the desert wind is of the sea, even the steppe wind is of the sea. For beyond every steppe and every desert - there is the sea, the desert beyond, the steppe beyond... Every lane where the wind blows is the lane of a port. Marina Cvetaeva

3. Portovenere

Portovenere is an ancient village at the western end of the Ligurian Gulf, one of the most idyllic villages on the coast. Looking at the houses in Portovenere you can still identify the typical architecture of the colonies of the Maritime Republic of Genoa , which wanted the houses both as places to live and as defensive structures in case of attack from the sea.

In Portovenere, in addition to the beautiful tourist port , you can also visit the walls strengthened by towers, the Castle and other medieval structures that have contributed to making this town a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

2. Portosole of Sanremo

Set in the splendid setting of the City of Flowers and Music , the port of Sanremo is one of the most picturesque harbours in the whole of Liguria and certainly among the most popular tourist ports in italy .

Portosole has over 800 berths and is one of the largest tourist marinas in the whole Mediterranean basin. In Sanremo, you can see boats up to 90 metres long , luxury charters and high-profile private yachts.

Many VIPs come to Sanremo on their luxury yachts, especially during the summer and the Sanremo Festival week . In the marina area, you will find everything you need for your boating holiday : ship chandler, assistance with onboard electronics, nautical upholstery and specialised boat laundry.

It was a small port, it was a door open to dreams. Umberto Saba

1. Tourist ports in Italy: Old Port of Trieste

Trieste 's Porto Vecchio (Old Harbour) is a fascinating port architecture from the Italian industrial era and 19th century Europe . The Porto Vecchio was built in the 13th century but was only enlarged in 1869 when the Suez Canal was opened. What makes the Old Port of Trieste unique and unmissable is its difference from all the other marinas in the Mediterranean: the construction and organisation of its buildings are based on the model of  N orthern European cities where the port area of the city was built according to the circulation of goods. In particular, the port of Trieste is reminiscent of Hamburg's Speicherstadt.

In the Porto Vecchio of Trieste , you can still admire the five original piers, the breakwater of 1875, the hydrodynamic power station (a unique structure in the world, still equipped with all the original machinery), the electric station, the warehouses, and the original construction patents. You will still find the remains of the picturesque grass-roofed harbour inn and the old hangars. You can park right in the streets adjacent to the Port and discover the wonders of this relic of the industrial age exploring on foot the beautiful city of Trieste , capital of science 2020, city of sea, wind, coffee and writers.

Here ends our boat trip , a journey through and around our seas discovering the best tourist ports in Italy . What was your favorite?

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Top 14 Major Ports in Italy

Italy is a European nation located on the Apennine peninsula, bordered by the Adriatic, Ionian, Tyrrhenian, and Ligurian Seas. It has significant maritime trade across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is a popular tourist spot and is close to the Suez Canal and Straits of Gibraltar, which makes it a shipping and passenger hub.

Today, its ports are some of the busiest shipping hubs worldwide. They are global leaders in cargo, container, and passenger transit.

One of the world’s leading commercial shipbuilders, Fincantieri S.p.A., operates from Italy. Its construction and repair yards are located close to some of the ports on this list.

In this article, we look at the top 14 ports of Italy. We also mention the Locode, province or region, and the most recent annual gross tonnage of the ports. The Locode begins with the prefix IT, indicating a port located within Italy’s territorial waters.

These 14 ports are vital shipping hubs across the country, including the Italian mainland, the Island of Sardinia, and the Island of Sicily.

Note that despite its proximity to Sardinia, the island of Corsica is NOT part of Italy and is under French governance.

Table of Contents

Port of Trieste (ITTRS)

Friuli Venezia Giulia Gross Tonnage 62.68 million tons (2018)

At the top of our list, Trieste is the largest port in Italy in terms of gross tonnage. It is located to the Northeast of the mainland. The port operates through five free port zones: the Old, New, Timber, Mineral Oils, and Industrial regions. These are classified into three commercial and two industrial zones.

The industrial zones are the Mineral Oils Free Area and the Canale di Zaule Free Area, which include the timber and industrial region. The other Free Port Zones include a multipurpose terminal (the Adria), container terminals, ro-ro, and ferry terminals.

Trieste port is known for its architecture and is a famous tourist destination. Several offices, workshops, and warehouses line the port’s waterfront. It was constructed and made operational in the early 18th century.

When the Suez Canal opened, further expansion was undertaken. This allowed the port to continue catering to the new rush of vessels that sailed through the region. From its prime location on the Adriatic coast, it services Central and Eastern Europe.

Port of Genoa (ITGOA)

Liguria Gross Tonnage 54.26 million tons (2014)

One of the largest ports in Italy, Genoa has long commanded a significant volume of trade and commerce through the region. Located on the Western coast, it competes with larger European ports such as Marseille and Barcelona. It is one of the busiest ports of the region, is an artificial harbour, and is built over 60 square kms. It berths over 8,000 vessels annually and has a container traffic of over 2 million TEUs.

The primary goods shipped through Genoa include coal, steel, oil, chemicals, food, and general-purpose cargo. The port has four inlets through which all traffic is directed. The Eastern inlet is connected to the Porto Vecchio, shipyards, and Sampierdarena terminals. The Western inlet is known as the Cornigliano and is used by the ILVA docks. The Multedo inlet is used for oil carriers and connects to the shipyards of the Fincantieri Group. Lastly, the Pra inlet is used by container vessels.

The port also has significant passenger transit and has five cruise docks and 13 ferry berths to cater to 4 million passengers annually. Cruise terminals are being built to increase port capacity. There are also marinas built to accommodate yachts. These marinas include the Exhibition Center, Duca Defli Abruzzi, Molo Vecchio, Porto Antico, Genova Aeroporto, and Pra’ Marina. The historical Lanterna and Punta Vagno lighthouses are popular tourist spots within the port premises.

Port of Livorno (ITLIV)

Tuscany Gross Tonnage 36.56 million tons (2018)

Livorno is a major port located along the Ligurian Sea on the Western coast of the mainland. It is a seaport that lies along the Tyrrhenian Sea Corridor and has a significant annual cargo transit. It is built to handle ro-ro and ro-pax, liquid and dry bulk, ferries, cruise liners, and general-purpose ships. A ferry service connects the port to the surrounding regions of Tuscany, Emilia Romagna, Marche, and Umbria.

Annually, nearly 10,000 vessels berth at this port. It handled close to 0.8 million TEUs and 3.5 million passengers in 2018. The port operates out of 2 zones- the Porto Vecchio, or Old Port, and Porto Nuovo or New Port. There are 4 basins to service inbound and outbound ships- the 2 port zones, Avamporto and Bacino Santo Stefano. The New Port mainly deals with industrial shipments, the St. Stefano basin deals with oil and gas cargo, while the other two basins service different ships. Avamporto includes the shipyards of Italian shipbuilders Benetti.

An important attraction at the Livorno Port is the multiple lighthouses that dot the surrounding region. These include Fanale dei Pisani, Molo Mediceo, and Diga della Vegliaia. The port’s terminals include the LNG, break bulk, container, automobile, frozen food, metal shipment, and multi-use terminals. The main metals shipped include copper and non-ferrous metals, and Endesa and Amga jointly own the LNG terminal (opened in 2007).

Port of Cagliari (ITCAG)

Sardinia Gross Tonnage 35.92 million tons (2018)

The port of Cagliari operates out of the Island of Sardinia and is a natural harbour with over 8 square kms of space. It operates 29 berths and over 50 wharves to service the nearly 8,000 vessels that dock annually.

It is one of the largest Mediterranean Sea ports, with a maximum capacity of 50 million tons of cargo and 1 million TEUs. Some of the services provided by Cagliari include general cargo, bulk goods, ro-ro, transhipment, containers, passenger traffic, fishing, pleasure crafts etc.

The port is located close to the Gibraltar Suez passage and on a major shipping route. It is managed by the Cagliari Port Authority, which controls over 30 kms of coastline. The port is divided into 2 zones- the historic and the canal ports. The former operates nearly 6 kms of quay. It handles commercial, passenger, and ro-ro vessels. The latter operates 1.6 kms of quay and services transhipment and ro-ro vessels from 5 berths.

Additionally, several berths are located alongside the port for the petrochemical and oil industry. The docks can accommodate over 15 ships at a time. Container vessels are docked at the Cagliari International Container Terminal (CICT), one of the largest terminals in Italy.

Port of Gioia Tauro (ITGIT)

Reggio Calabria Gross Tonnage 29.16 million tons (2018)

This port is close to the Gibraltar Suez route and is a major port on the Italian mainland. It lies near the Straits of Messina, which borders Sicily. The Gioia Tauro harbour is the largest port in Italy in terms of container shipments. It is ranked 6th on the Mediterranean coastline, and is 9th in Europe.

The port has a significant natural depth of 18 meters and has over 5 kms of docks. The port is an essential container hub with equipment dedicated to this.

The port is set over 4.4 square kms and is built parallel to the natural coastline. The inlet spans 300 meters and leads to a basin 750 meters wide. There are 3.4 kms of docks on the East side and a further 0.8 kms on the West side.

The channel width spans 250 meters across the length of the port. Gioia Tauro regularly services mega container ships capable of carrying over 15,000 TEUs. However, it has not developed compared to other major Italian ports owing to smuggling through its facilities.

Organized crime is rampant throughout the port, and seizures of illicit drugs are common. To combat this, the port is equipped with anti-piracy units that work alongside law enforcement agencies to prevent smuggling and illegal shipments.

Port of Ravenna (ITRAN)

Emilia Romagna Gross Tonnage 26.68 million tons (2018)

On the North Adriatic coast, Ravenna is a Core sea port in Italy connected to the TEN-T Networks. The port deals mainly in bulk cargo , containers, general cargo, and passenger traffic. Regular passenger services operate from here, both domestically and to neighboring European nations. Ferry services ply to Catania and Brindisi in Italy and to Igoumenitsa in Greece. This port is situated close to the ports of Venice and Florence.

The port has multipurpose cargo handling, passenger, and container terminals . The nearby oil industry is partly due to the closure of surrounding facilities. Standard shipments to and from this port include industrial produce, agricultural goods, fertilizers, animal feed, and foodstuff. The port has 12 kms of docks and offshore breakwaters in Porto Corsini and Marina di Ravenna.

Port of Venice (ITVCE)

Veneto Gross Tonnage 26.49 million tons (2018)

As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, Venice has a booming passenger and cargo sector. It is situated on the Adriatic Sea and lies to the Northeast of the Italian mainland. As it is located far inland, the commercial sector supplies goods to surrounding regions and countries. It also has very high passenger traffic. The common commercial goods shipped via Venice include containerized cargo, fish and related products, local handicrafts, and jewellery.

The port moved over 50 million gross tons of cargo in 2017 and processed nearly 50 million passengers. It is a major hub for cruise liners and superyachts on the Mediterranean coast and is a leading port in Italy. Due to its location, it supplies cargo to the trans-European network. The harbour has a natural coastal breakwater that can accommodate vessels over 200 meters long.

The docks are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. There are 7 commercial terminals, 1 passenger terminal, and 17 miscellaneous terminals that ship liquid cargo, berth ro-ro vessels, general cargo, and project cargo.

Oil terminals are also supplied to firms such as Decal, Petroven, San Marco Petroli, etc. The single-passenger terminal is the Venezia Terminal Passeggeri (VTP). In contrast, the commercial terminals include the PSA Vecon, Transped S.p.A., Euroports Terminal Rinfuse Venezia (TRV), Terminal Intermodale Venezia, and Terminal Intermodale Adriatico.

Port of Messina (ITMSN)

Sicily Gross Tonnage 24.43 million tons (2018)

Messina is a thriving Sicilian port located in the northeast of the island. Located on the strait of Messina, it lies across the narrow strip of water separating mainland Italy from Sicily. It is one of the largest ports in the region and a hub for passenger vessels. From cruise liners and ferries to yachts, this port has witnessed a boom in regional traffic. It has increased in annual passenger transit from 0.2 million in 2005 to 1 million in 2019.

The port is on the Straits’s Western shore and has a natural harbour covering 0.82 square kms with an extensive and deep facility. The inlet spans 400 meters across, while the average basin depth of the docks is 40 meters.

These docks can accommodate all vessels, from cruise liners to mega-ships. A cargo handling service and terminals equipped with heavy-lift cranes are also available. The port is well connected to the surrounding areas by rail via the Messina Marittima and Messina Centrale stations. The annual gross tonnage includes the neighbouring Milazzo harbour, a Messina satellite port.

Port of Augusta (ITAUG)

Sicily Gross Tonnage 24.19 million tons (2018)

Augusta is a crucial southern port in Italy, on the island of Sicily, located close to Napoli. In the Syracuse region, it serves as a facility for both commercial trading and shipping. Standard shipments through this port include inorganic chemicals, fertilizers, oil and gas, etc.

It has played a significant role in developing the nearby Augusta Priolo petrochemical complex. Other important industrial firms operating from the port include Sincat, Tifeo (which deals in power), Liquigas, Ilgas, and Sotis.

Augusta Port is also an essential Italian Naval base and has been in active use since the early 20th century. It played a role in the Allied landings of World War 2 and is a current Southern Command Base.

Besides the Italian Navy, the Augusta Bay Port Facility is also the naval base of the US Navy’s Sixth Fleet. The fleet operations cover Europe and Northern Africa. Several NATO and Mediterranean exercises have been conducted from this port. The Porto Megarese, Porto Xifonio, and Seno del Priolo are also under the 6th Fleet.

Port of Taranto (ITTAR)

Apulia Gross Tonnage 20.43 million tons (2018)

The Port of Taranto is a major commercial and naval port in Italy. It has been in service for nearly a millennium. The port handles vessels carrying general cargo, containerized goods, local produce, etc.

The surrounding region is an important industrial centre in Italy. This includes steel and iron industries, oil and petrol refineries, chemicals, food processing units, etc. Naval shipyards are also located close to this port.

The port’s leading container terminal is the Taranto Container Terminal S.p.A., which is jointly owned by Hutchison Whampoa and Evergreen Marine Corp. It has been operational since 2011 and handles transhipment.

Port of Napoli (ITNAP)

Campania Gross Tonnage 17.68 million tons (2018)

Napoli is a major seaport on the Western coast, one of the largest ports in Italy and the Mediterranean. Situated over 3 square kms of port land, it operates 38 berths and 75 wharves. It deals in cargo, commercial goods, and passenger transit.

The harbour is of a natural type with artificial coastal breakwaters. Annually, nearly 100,000 vessels dock at the port, and it handles almost 1 million TEUs. It is just 15 kms away from the Naples Airport. It is also a tourist destination, with an estimated 10 million people transiting through the port annually.

Some standard commercial shipments passing through this port include ro-ro carriers, liquid and dry bulk ships, passenger vessels such as cruise liners, yachts, and container vessels.

The major terminals operating from the port are the container, commercial, automobile, and passenger hubs. The commercial section has separate terminals for timber, cellulose, and foodstuff. The ro-ro terminal has a transhipment capacity of nearly 1 million units annually. The passenger hub has ten mooring stations, 7 mobile walkways, and an annual capacity of 1.5 million pax. The port also has shipyards nearby that work within its premises. It includes 4 floating and 3 built docks that handle ship repairs and minor construction work.

Port of La Spezia (ITSPE)

Liguria Gross Tonnage 15.78 million tons (2018)

On the Western Coast of the Italian mainland, La Spezia is Italy’s major cargo and container port. It is situated on the La Spezia Gulf of the Ligurian Sea, frequented by commercial vessels. It has been in service since the 1800s and supplies significant maritime trade to the surrounding regions.

As a major port of the Mediterranean, it deals predominantly with container handling . It is ranked 2nd in the nation regarding container transit, behind the Port of Genoa. It deals with nearly 20% of the national TEU traffic.

It is located in a bay spanning nearly 75 square km and is artificially protected by a 2.2 km breakwater. The quays of this port span over 5 km in length, and it has storage covering 400,000 square km. The port handles 15 million tons of cargo and 0.5 million passengers annually. La Spezia also has a thriving tourism sector, with new cruise terminals, yacht marinas, personal docks, etc. The main terminals of this port are the container, solid and liquid bulk, oil, ro-ro, and passenger facilities.

The port also houses several companies dealing in the maritime sector, including Muggiano Shipyards, San Marco Shipyards, Intermarine Naval Shipyards, Navalmare Offshore SpA, and numerous ferry services. The Marina del Fezzano is a repurposed naval shipyard that works alongside Navalmare Nautica for yacht-related services.

Port of Salerno (ITSAL)

Campania Gross Tonnage 14.91 million tons (2018)

One of the important ports that supply Italy’s booming economy, Salerno is a medium-sized harbour. It is located on the Gulf of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Built on the West coast of the mainland, it lies on a major shipping route connecting several neighbouring countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is classified as a Category 2 seaport and is managed by the Salerno Port Authority (SPA). It primarily deals with domestic transportation and services for commercial, industrial, and passenger ships.

The port has an average anchorage depth of 18 meters and a cargo pier depth of 7 meters. It is a natural harbour that uses a coastal breakwater and can easily dock ships over 200 meters. The port handled over 60 million tons of cargo in 2018 and saw a passenger transit of close to a million individuals. The entire docking facility is classified into 3 zones- the West Quay, East Quay, and Manfredi Pier. The West zone has a 1.2 km long quay, the Eastside has 1.6 km of the quay, and the pier is 400 meters long.

Port of Savona (ITSVN)

Liguria Gross Tonnage 14.89 million tons (2018)

Located on the North-Western coast of Italy close to the port of Genoa, Savona is a major passenger port. From ferries and cruise ships to pleasure crafts, the port has seen an increase in inbound traffic over the years.

Porto di Savona is close to popular tourist destinations such as the city of Savona. It is the 4th busiest cruise port in Italy and witnessed a passenger transit of 2 million in 2017.

The ferry service of Savona is popular, with frequent services between Corsica and Sardinia. These are operated by Corsica Ferries and Saremar, respectively. There is also a separate marina to dock personal vessels.

In addition to the passenger industry, there is a small terminal to handle minor cargo shipments. This port supplies imports and exports to the surrounding hinterlands. Breakbulk vessels, ro-ro ships, bulk tankers, and container vessels dock at this port, which has an average basin depth of 15 meters. The port is connected by road to the Genoa International Airport, which is located 50 km away.

You might also like to read:

• 10 Major Ports in France
• 10 Major Ports In Brazil
• 15 Major Ports in Spain
• 8 Important Ports Of Belgium
• 10 Major Ports In Germany

Disclaimer : The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

About Author

Ajay Menon is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, with an integrated major in Ocean Engineering and Naval Architecture. Besides writing, he balances chess and works out tunes on his keyboard during his free time.

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Life in Italy, Italian Language, Italian Culture, Italy News, Tourism News, Italian Food

The best marinas in Italy

Why, you may wonder, we write about the best marinas in Italy ?

Well, sailing has become a bit of a hot trend in recent years and, let’s be honest, after the pandemic and the dangers related to our old way of traveling, it may be among the safest options to “be a tourist” around — provided you do enjoy life at sea, that is.

Sailing means spending time with a selected few and to enjoy nature in all its glory: it’s relaxing but is also requires you to adapt to life with others and to share. At the same time, thanks to today’s technological advances, sailing has become more comfortable, so it has been attracting even more people.

In the world of sailing, marinas are essential, of course, because that’s were small boats and yachts usually dock. To Italian ears, “marina” is a beautiful word, because it means “of the sea” and it’s a woman’s name so popular, in some old times, that even a song was dedicated to a “Marina.”

As a peninsula with more than 4.720 miles of coastline, there are plenty of places where you can dock your boat during a sailing vacation. Here we’ll introduce you to some of the most charming, interesting and better equipped marinas around the country, the best marinas in Italy.

Marinas in the North

Liguria is known for being a particularly nice spot to sail, as it comprises some of the nicest stretches of coast out there. On the Riviera di Ponente (the one that from Genoa goes towards France), you find the well-equipped marina di Loano , a small, quintessential Ligurian village, known for its small street, nice beaches, and good food. The Loano basin is easy to reach and well protected by a large inner breakwater, that makes it safe to sail into all year round. The marina itself offers plenty of facilities: 24 hours mooring assistance, internet connection, laundry, 100 CCTV cameras, laundry, pubs and restaurants, diving center, sailing schools and windsurf rental at the local Circolo Nautico. Vessels to up to 70 meters can moor here. Also a very well-equipped shipyard among the facilities available in Loano.

Moving further towards France, we’ll find the marina yacht Imperia , which is currently undergoing extensive renovation. The port is set to become an essential hub for sailing crews of the Ligurian cost and nearby Cote d’Azur. Just a stone throw from it, and an inch closer to France, the marina of San Lorenzo , where boats up to 40 meters can moor. Just like in Loano, a plethora of services and facilities are available, including restaurants and a private beach.

Genoa, of course, has its own marina, located in the area of its airport, the Cristoforo Colombo. Thanks to its deep waters, this marina can accommodate larger vessels and it also offers many facilities including gourmet restaurants and designer shopping areas. Speaking of exclusive, you can’t really get anything more exclusive than the marina di Portofino, one of the most famous ports in the whole Mediterranean, which developed around a beautiful natural cove. The marina is very modern and can accommodate mega yachts. It opens immediately onto the centre of Portofino village, one of the most famous dolce vita locations on the Ligurian coast.

Marinas in the Centre

Some of the best marinas in Italy are located in the central part of the peninsula, especially in Tuscany and on its islands. Near Livorno , you’ll find the Marina Cala de’Medici , located between Castiglioncello and Rosignano Solvay. Easy to access, this marina is an excellent starting point if you want to explore the Tuscan Archipelago and Corsica. It offers plenty of amenities, including shops and restaurants, but also a gym and a spa.

While you may be familiar with Viareggio for its Carnevale , you may not know the town has also a well-equipped marina with six docks and easy access to the town, which is known for being the heart of Versilia.

Of course, there is also the Porto di Pisa , located between the Arno’s mouth and Marina di Pisa village. This marina is environmentally friendly and comprises all the latest technologies. At the same time, it’s hard to dock there without thinking of the great history of Pisa as a Repubblica Marinara when, all those centuries ago, it used to fight Genoa, Amalfi, and Venice for the domination of the world’s seas.

Across the sea, we’ll find Sardinia and its crystal waters. The marina Cala dei Sardi, on the Costa Smeralda, is the largest and most environmental friendly of the area. It’s located in the Gulf of Cugnaga, between the villages of Portisco and Porto Rotondo. As in all the other marinas of this list, many facilities, including recreational ones, are avaiable: from showers to coffee bars, restaurants and more technical support services including galley supply, mechanical, electronic and electric assistance and rigging and sail services.

Marina at Punta Ala, Tuscany

Marina di Punta Ala is also known as Porto di Punta Ala or Port of Punta Ala and it is situated in the small settlement with the same name near the Italian town of Castiglione della Pescaia. This marina can be found in the province of Grosseto, in the Tuscany region and offers the possibility of practicing nautical activities and water sports. Thanks to its numerous tourist activities, sporting facilities and elegant villas and hotels, Punta Ala is recognized as one of the most “fashionable” tourist centers in Tuscany’s Maremma .

Marinas in the South

Without a doubt, some of the best marinas in Italy are located in our souther regions. On the Amalfi coast, of course, we’ll find the marina of Amalfi , which is considered one of the best marinas in Italy for the quality of its services and facilities. It is also conveniently located near the center of Amalfi, a town that absolutely deserves to be visited, along with all its beautiful coast. And while it’s not — at least technically — part of the Amalfi coast, if you are there you should definitely spend some time in Capri, too, which by the way also has a great marina. The Porto Turistico di Capri is famous for its marvelous location and for the tranquillity of the area surrounding it. At the same time, if you wish to enjoy more of a VIP vibe, you can always get the funicular to reach Capri for a stroll among designer stores or a fancy aperitivo.

In Sicily, th e marina di Capo d’Orlando has been recently entirely renewed. Here, we’re talking high luxury, a true resort on the coast, just a few miles away from the Aeolian Islands. If you’re attracted to mysterious and fascinating Palermo, then you should take a look to Marina Villa Igiea Palmero, the city’s touristic port. Located only a short walk away from the historical center, in the area of Acquasanta, the port is protected naturally by the presence of the mountains that surround Palermo itself.

Puglia is a bit of a secret among us Italian, who love it so much we kind of want to keep it all to ourselves. One of the most beautiful regions in the country, with a sea that has nothing to envy to the Caribbean, Puglia is also an amazing place for sailing lovers. With its 700 moorings, the Porto Santa Maria di Leuca is one of the largest marinas in the region. It offers many services, including refueling, 24 hours surveillance and assistance, water and electricity supply. It is also the perfect gateway for the Salento area, a jewel all to discover. You should start, in any case, from nearby Otranto , which also has a marina. The town has a rich history all to explore.

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Sicily’s Best Ports, Marinas and Yacht clubs

Sicily's Best Ports, Marinas, and Yacht Clubs

Sicily’s Best Ports, Marinas, and Yacht Clubs are our topic for today. Have you chosen your sailing itinerary for this summer’s cruise? If the answer is no, you might want to try the sunny shores of Italy’s most famous island. Sicily’s got some of the best ports and marinas in the Mediterranean , along with a wide range of tourist attractions. Summer in Sicily is a dream if you love the sea and the excitement of a busy vacation.

This is one of the most popular sailing areas in the country, partly due to its terrific landscape. Yachts of all size sail around Sicily and its nearby islands seeking beauty and relaxation. Given the region’s popularity, this is by no means a secluded location. Thousands of boats moor at Sicily’s ports. However, fear not there’s place for everybody and anybody at Sicily’s marinas. The ports lie along the island’s shore and can typically accommodate between 50 and 200 yachts.

You can sail in this fabulous area during a wide interval starting from April and ending in November. Yes, this is how long the good weather lasts here. The ports are quite busy in this period, especially during the summer due to the holiday season. Moreover, there are numerous yacht owners who moor in Sicily permanently. Therefore, it’s sometimes difficult to get a place to moor. If mooring becomes more problematic, choose a marina in Sicily where you get assistance and enough berthing place.

If you’re wondering how much mooring in Sicily costs, remember that the fees vary from 2€ to 4€ per meter according to the boat’s length. Another thing to consider is the language factor. Italian is a lovely language, and here you might get more than a fair share of it as in many marinas it is the only spoken language.

And now let’s see which are the best ports and marinas in Sicily where you should book a berth  online this season.

1. Marina di Cala del Sole

Marina di Cala del Sole , located in Southern Sicily, in the ancient town of Agrigento is a very well-equipped port where you can access modern amenities. The highlights of Marina di Cala del Sole are its leisure facilities and shopping area. The port’s exquisite design mixes the cozy look of a traditional fishing village with state-of-the-art facilities.

2. Marina del Nettuno Messina

Marina del Nettuno Messina is located in the town of Messina. A wide range of water sports can be practiced here. Basic amenities are available for all berth booking options, together with more elaborate services. Boats of medium size are best fitted for Marina del Nettuno Messina. Up to 160 boats of maximum 40 m can moor here. Also, there is an exquisite restaurant at the marina’s club – Marina del Nettuno Yachting Club.

3. Marina Villa Igiea

Marina Villa Igiea in Palermo is one of the most sought-after marinas in Sicily. Villa Igiea port is famous for its welcoming approach and professional staff. The maximum size of the yachts that can get a berth reservation here is 65 meters. If you just look at photos of the area where Marina Villa Igiea lies, you would fall in love with the scenery. Crystal clear water, mountains and natural beauty are part of this marina’s charm. The sailing routes you can enjoy here are breathtaking and the center of the city is not far from the port.

4. Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa

Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa lies in the homonymous historical town and province. The impressive scenery surrounding Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa features large valleys and limestone hills. The modern and reliable infrastructure of the port is suitable for yachts of 60 m maximum. Mooring assistance, direct access to the beach, shopping mall and shipyard are part of the offer. Porto Turistico Marina di Ragusa is also surrounded by fabulous hotels and an impressive number of historical and cultural attractions.

5. Portorosa Marina

Portorosa Marina is one of the ports in Sicily that must be mentioned on this list. Marina di Portorosa lies in the north of the Patti Gulf, opposite the Aeolian Islands, one of the most visited attractions near Sicily. The array of leisure opportunities you can find here is simply overwhelming. The marina of Portorosa provides an elegant setting where you can enjoy your vacation freely. There are multiple reasons to book a berth at this Sicily port, starting from the excellent customer reviews and trustworthy repair and maintenance services. Portorosa Marina can accommodate up to 700 boats, with a length of maximum 40 meters.

6. Marina di Riposto - Porto dell'Etna

Marina di Riposto is the perfect gate to the Mediterranen. Marina di Riposto is also known as Porto dell’Etna and it lies in Riposto, in the Southern basin of the Mediterranen Sea. Thanks to its strategic position, this is an ideal departure point. Starting from here, you can easily explore remarkable nearby attractions such as Taormina, Etna, Gole dell’Alcantara. Riposto’s old city is situated right next to the marina. The activity of Marina di Riposto is carefully guided from its ultra-modern control tower which will ensure support and guidance to all guests. Technical facilities, quayside service, fuel, parking and nursery are included in the service package.

7. Marina di Siracusa

Marina di Siracusa is situated in the charming city of Siracusa, more precisely in Porto Grande di Ortigia, in the historical center of Siracusa. This ideal position allows you to easily access the best parts of this beautiful city with lovely narrow streets and Baroque buildings. Porto di Siracusa offers berths in every season based on annual, season or daily booking. Mooring assistance is available 24/7. Marina di Siracusa provides all the necessary facilities for water sports, as well as weather forecast, fuel station, reception, surveillance, and basic marina services.

Sicily deserves to be on your bucket list not only for its landscape, but also for its beautiful cities, vast culture and yummy dishes. Sicily’s best ports, marinas and yacht clubs are ready to accommodate you this summer. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a fast booking in either one of them.

Sicily’s best ports, marinas, and yacht clubs are our specialty and we can help you make the best berth booking decision for your next vacation.

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Where should I go on an Italy yacht charter?

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By Katia Damborsky   Last Updated: 11 February 2022

From the picture-perfect scenery on the Amalfi Coast to the upscale restaurants and beach clubs of Capri, discover the perfect destination for your Italy yacht charter vaction  this summer.

Boasting more coastline than any other country in the Western Mediterranean , Italy is the ideal yacht charter destination for the summer. Bordered to the west by the Tyrrhenian sea and hugging the Adriatic to the east, the diversity of Italy's shorelines is what keeps superyachts returning to these cruising grounds year upon year. 

With a stellar selection of crewed motor yachts and sailing yachts  to choose from, you can be sure to find the right luxury charter yacht  for you in Italy. What's more, a great variety of airports means you can access this yachting wonderland so easily, with many of the major ports enjoying international connections.

Best places to visit on an Italy superyacht charter:

• Amalfi Coast

Cinque Terre

Framed by apricot buildings and shrouded in the scent of honeysuckle, Portofino is one of Italy’s most iconic destinations. Once a drowsy fishing village, the cobbled streets are now lined with high-end boutiques jostling for space alongside lively seafood restaurants, elegant wine bars and chic cafes serving homemade gelato.

The famous Belmond Hotel Splendido clings to the hills around Portofino, and provides a blissful backdrop for lazy lunches overlooking this slice of the Italian Riviera .

Off shore, there is a hidden side to Portofino that few people are lucky enough to discover, and it’s perfect for yacht charter vacations. Portofino’s marine park is home to some of the most diverse coral gardens and fish species in the Mediterranean, promising a kaleidoscope of marine life for divers to enjoy. The towering underwater statue of the Christ of the Abyss is a must-do for diving pros, as is the algae-encrusted skeleton of the Mohawk Deer shipwreck.

The ideal candidate for a honeymoon charter , the Amalfi Coast has become a symbol of Italy’s enduring allure and beguiling charm. First discovered by the Hollywood elite, the region’s craggy coasts are still strewn with the evidence of celebrity pilgrimages- from elegant eateries to secluded coves only accessible by boat. 

One of the most popular towns along the Amalif Coast is Ravello, where charterers can spend the day traversing the manicured gardens of Vila Rufolo and dining at dizzying heights above the sea at Palazzo Avino. 

Sorrento is another popular superyacht destination on the Amalfi Coast, with its wealth of lemon groves creating a heady scent in the air. For the ultimate dining experience, be sure to head to the small town of Nerano, home of the celebrity-approved La Conca del Sogno and Lo Scoglio.

Set adrift from mainland Italy, Sardinia has long been a popular island for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy. Porto Cervo is the hub of luxury, with ateliers from some of the biggest names in fashion enticingly situated opposite the marina.

From branches of Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton to smaller designers offering bespoke goods, Porto Cervo is a one-stop destination for the fashion-conscious SuperyachtSet. After a day of shopping, take your yacht around to Phi Beach, where you will be welcomed on shore with cocktails in a laid-back beachfront setting. 

Heading out of Porto Cervo, the famous Costa Smeralda runs around the north of Sardinia, with its miles of powder-sand beaches lapped by turquoise sea.

This beautiful stretch of coast is the perfect stop on a Sardinia yacht charter itinerary, allowing you to drop anchor and spend the day snorkelling in the crystal-clear sea. While this region is usually busy during superyacht season, there are plenty of quiet beaches down the east coast of Sardinia, such as Cala Mariolu, in the Gulf of Orosei.

The beating heart of Italy, no yachting vacation would be complete without a visit to the country’s captivating capital. Steeped in history, the sights of Rome are plentiful; head to the centre to see the crumbling remains of the Colosseum, then visit the Vatican City to admire the Michelangelo frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. When the sun goes down, be sure to soak up the glow of the majestic Trevi Fountain.

Gourmands will find themselves perfectly at home in Rome, with a wealth of restaurants serving everything from authentic Italian fare to upscale Tuscan cuisine, which traditionally borrows inspiration from Greek and Israeli dishes.

Coffee is another staple of the Roman diet, and is best enjoyed sitting in one of the city’s many squares admiring the ornate Baroque architecture that carves out the city.

The darling of the Amalfi Coast, Positano is a staple on any Italy charter itinerary. Carved into the hills, the towering stacks of sun-bleached buildings in shades of tangerine orange and peach pink make an impressive sight to behold for those arriving by crewed  motor yacht .

Those looking for an authentic dose of Italian living will find it in Positano, where family-run restaurants dominate the dining scene and slender streets supply prized views at every twist and turn. Off the coast, the string of islands known as Sirenuse, or Li Gali make the perfect stop-off for a day of snorkelling and admiring the scenery. 

Just outside the town, a sliver of beach plays host to the uber-exclusive TreVille beach club, which is only accessible by boat and has welcomed the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Moss in recent years. For dining with a view, yacht-goers should head along the coast to Il San Pietro Di Positano, with its unbeatable views and superb gastronomic creations. 

Follow in the footsteps of stars on the island of Capri , one of this summer’s most in-demand destinations for luxury yacht charters. Sip chilled sangria in Fontelina, the beach club made famous by Sophia Loren and Bridget Bardot, then head to Da Paolino to dine alongside celebrities under a thick canopy of lemon trees. 

If you are looking for a dose of culture, then be sure to head to Villa San Michele, a museum of art and antiques, surrounded by flower-filled gardens.

On the opposite side of the island,  Villa Lysis and Villa Jovis make a great way to spend an afternoon. Visitors can explore the ruins of the former emperor's palace in Villa Jovis, and take in the beauty of Villa Lysis, a palazzo dedicated to 'the youth of love'.

Not short of natural wonders, those visiting Capri should not miss the chance to cruise around Il Faraglioni, the rock formation that can be seen rising up from the water and towers off the south-eastern coast of Capri. Legend says that if you sail below the arches and kiss your loved one, your love will be true forever.

Equally beautiful is the Blue Grotto, a naturally-occurring phenomenon over on Anacapri where yacht-goers can experience a submerged cave that is illuminated by sapphire-blue seawater. A mesmerizing sight that is worthy of exploration when adventuring around Capri by boat.

Situated in the crook of the lesser-travelled East coast of Italy, Venice is a city is worth visiting if you have a charter yacht in the region. Particularly popular for  Venice Film Festival yacht charters , superyachts are able to drop anchor at either Venice Yacht Pier, Marina Santelena or Venezia Certosa Marina, all of which are within close proximity of St Mark’s Square, putting them right in the heart of the city.

Striking the balance between elegance and extravagance,  Venetian architecture can be admired along the canals of the city, and are best enjoyed on a traditional gondola ride.

Prepare to be blown away by the gilded domes of the Basilica, glide below the Rialto Bridge and step inside the Gothic Doge's palace for a fascinating museum experience.

Set against the backdrop of rugged cliffs and sheer precipices, the Cinque Terre region of the Italian Riviera is veined with ancient architecture and settlements dating back to the 11th century. Comprising five villages with limited on-land routes, the area is primed for exploration on a private yacht charter.

Those visiting the area should take the time to walk the hilly terrain, where they will be rewarded with dramatic views of the  Mediterranean  around every corner.

After an amble along the coast, settle into one of the region’s numerous restaurants and sample doughy focaccia and fresh pesto, for which the region is famed, paired with wine from local vineyards.

If you're interested in discovering these Italian hotspots for yourself and wish to incorporate them into your itinerary, please speak with your preferred yacht charter broker . 

Feeling inspired?

Find the perfect private yacht for your summer vacation by taking a look at the complete fleet of superyachts available for charter in Italy. 

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Top marinas and yacht clubs in Sicily

Sicily is an amazing place to discover, with a unique culture and history that separates it from the rest of Italy.

Acting as a bridge between Italy and Greece, the small islands that surround are certain to offer you something new with every visit.

Dramatic scenery is the result of the volcanic geography, while the intense turquoise water and hidden coves mean you can easily find your own little piece of paradise. 

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Marina del Neptunno Messina

The modern Marina del Neptunno can accommodate boats of up to 20m with no draft limitation. The marina is well placed to visit some of the most beautiful Mediterranean holiday destinations or you can take the opportunity to discover the impressive art, culture and history of the city of Messina.

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Marina Di Cala Del Sole

Perfectly located to enjoy the many charms of authentic Sicilian life, the Marina di Cala del Sole is a modern marina that offers an excellent quality of service to yachts of up to 70m. On-shore, it has extensive leisure and shopping facilities. The nearby town of Liccata is a great place to discover too.

Marina Villa Igiea Palmero

Marina Villa Igeia in Palermo offers a warm welcome to nautical tourists and yachts of up to 65m at its superb modern facilitiy in Sicily. The beautiful natural surroundings and the sparkling turquoise waters of the harbour make it easy to see why so many people fall in love with this famous island.

Portorosa Marina

The Portorosa Marina is a well-equipped modern marina in Sicily that provides an excellent standard of technical and customer care to its many visitors. It is an ideal port for discovering the crystalline waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, or you can enjoy the superb range of leisure facilities onshore.

Porto del Etna

Located near the historic town of Ripon in Sicily, the Port of Etna combines a large harbour with extensive recreational facilities. The marina can accommodate boats of up to 40m and visitors are certain to enjoy the bustle of this small town that is firmly attached to its maritime heritage.

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Taormina Boat Tour Private Exclusive Yacht Experience

Taormina bay tailor made luxury yacht cruise.

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Sail to the Taormina Bays; Your Private Yacht Awaits!

Taormina Bay Boat Tour: Explore Taormina Bays with luxury yacht day cruises. Discover hidden gems. Enjoy the best Sicilian adventure. Experience the magic of Taormina Gulf; one of a must do Sicily private boat tour.

Whether you’re booking a full-day adventure or a sunset cruise, we offer tailored options to suit your desires. Choose from private boat tours, romantic dinners, or thrilling fishing trips. That’s a top yacht cruise in Taormina.

Choose the best boat for you; a motor boat, sailboat, catamaran, or luxury yacht and explore the stunning coast of Sicily. Our boat trips in Taormina have activities for everyone. You can go snorkeling in clear water. You can also enjoy Sicilian and Etna volcanic wines on board.

For a bespoke experience, consider our private boat rentals or luxurious yacht charters. Explore hidden gems, enjoy tailored adventures, and forge exceptional recollections. Book your exclusive Taormina boat trip today and embark on a journey through Sicily’s stunning bays and beyond.

Access the Taormina Bays card

Private Full-Day Boat Tour of Taormina Bays

Experience a private full day boat tour of Taormina’s stunning bays. Choose from a motor boat, luxury yacht, sailboat, catamaran, or historical gulet or caicco. Enjoy the beauty of the area from the comfort of your chosen vessel. Relax and take in the sights at your own pace.

Enjoy a day sailing past iconic locations in Sicily like Giardini Naxos, Isola Bella, and Sant’ Alessio Castle. One of the best yacht charters in Sicily.

Experience the ultimate relaxation and elegance, akin to a scene from “The White Lotus.” This tour in Taormina on a yacht gives you plenty of time to swim, sunbathe, enjoy Sicilian wine, and taste fruits from Etna. A luxury boat trip like this promises both indulgence and leisure.

At lunch, stop at a seaside restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood and beautiful views of the ocean. Afterward, continue your magical afternoon on board, making this experience far superior to a simple boat rental.

Enhance Your Fine Private Boat Tour Taormina Experience

For a fun boat trip, you can add exciting activities like jet skiing or snorkeling at Isola Bella. This will make the trip more memorable.

Our dedicated team will supply everything your boat needs. Enjoy a smooth and luxurious daily tour in Taormina that exceeds your expectations.

From: 10:00am to 5:30pm Boarding: Giardini Naxos harbor or, Porto dell’Etna Riposto (CT) Services included: Crew, Fuel, Open bar (Soft Drinks), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit On request: Lunch on board or Sicilian finger food snacks. Transfer by Sedan or Minivan (round trip) to the Giardini Naxos Harbor or Porto dell’Etna Riposto (CT). Embarkation with tender from the private beaches of the Hotels of the coast of Taormina.

Choose your boat and book now

A Private Taormina Half Day Boat Trip Admiring the Bays

Taormina bays boat tour yacht charter. Experience the unparalleled beauty of Taormina’s coastline with our exceptional Taormina Bay Boat Tour. After a quick safety talk, continue on a boat ride to see the beautiful bays of Isola Bella and Mazzarò.

Enhance your maritime adventure with options like boat hire in Taormina or the luxurious indulgence of a private yacht. Relax at Mermaids Bay. Snorkel to see underwater life or sunbathe on the deck. Enjoy a leisurely time in the water.

We sail back to Giardini Naxos port. We enjoy the beautiful views of Taormina’s coast and the famous Etna volcano. The sail is slow. This isn’t just a boat excursion; it’s a tailored Taormina Half Day Boat Tour showcasing the best of Sicily’s wonders.

For a touch of luxury, consider a Taormina B ay boat ride . We design our boat excursions for your enjoyment, and you can customize your trip according to your preferences. Our priority is to ensure your satisfaction.

After your boat ride, get off at a seafront restaurant for a delicious meal. Enjoy the chance to try new foods. Whether you choose a Taormina boat rental, boat trip, or a yacht charter, make the most of your time on the water with us. Your uique Taormina boat experience awaits!

From: 10:00am to 1:30pm or from 3:00pm to 6:30pm Boarding: Giardini Naxos harbor or , Porto dell’Etna Riposto (CT) Services included: Crew, Fuel, Open bar (Soft Drinks), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit On request: Sicilian finger food snacks. Transfer by Sedan or Minivan (round trip) to the Giardini Naxos Harbor or Porto dell’Etna Riposto (CT). Embarkation with tender from the private beaches of the Hotels of the coast of Taormina.

An Enchanting Half Day Sunset Boat Tour in Taormina

Take a romantic boat tour at sunset. It lasts for half a day. You will explore the beautiful bays of Taormina, Isola Bella, Mazzarò, and Mermaids Bay. Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Sicilian coastline as the sun sets.

This boat tour in Taormina caters to VIPs and celebrities seeking a luxurious and relaxing experience. It takes place at sunset, adding to the special atmosphere.

The S unset Taormina boat tour offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings in a private and exclusive setting. The perfect choice for those seeking a VIP experience in Taormina.

As the sun dips behind Mount Etna, enjoy a refreshing swim in the tranquil afternoon waters. Then, indulge in a glass of fine Sicilian spumante as you dry off and take in the breathtaking sunset views. This tour combines the best of a classic day cruise with a special romantic moment, tailored just for you and your loved one.

Discover the magic of Taormina Bay on this exclusive Half Day Sunset Taormina Boat Tour, designed to create lasting memories. Book your adventure now and experience the unparalleled charm of Sicily’s coastline at sunset.

This tour offers a classic day cruise and a romantic evening. Perfect for making special memories with someone you love.

From:  3:30pm to sunset Boarding:  Giardini Naxos harbor  or , Porto dell’Etna Riposto (CT) Services included:  Crew, Fuel, Open bar (Soft Drinks), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit, Snacks, One bottle of fine Sicilian Spumante On request: Shuttle service via Sedan or Minivan to either Giardini Naxos Harbor or Porto dell’Etna Riposto (CT). Embarkation with tender from the private beaches of the Hotels of the coast of Taormina.

Chic Shot; a 2 hour Boat Cruise in Taormina

Take a stylish two hour boat ride in taormina bay.

Perfect for those who are short on time but still want to see the beautiful waters and bays of Taormina. Enjoy stunning views of Isola Bella, Mermaids Bay, and Mazzarò. These sights greet you as you depart from the harbor in the Gulf of Giardini Naxos.

This boat excursions in Taormina uses spacious, comfortable boats instead of small, crowded wooden ones for a better experience.

Sicily Private Spot offers great lodging, even for short stays. You can enjoy soft drinks and fresh seasonal Sicilian fruit on board. Bring your beach towels and soak up the Sicilian sun.

Don’t forget to take pictures at famous movie locations during a 2 hour boat tour in Taormina. Popular spots like Le Grand Bleu, Mighty Aphrodite, and White Lotus 2 are worth visiting. Don’t miss top sites like Capo S. Andrea, Isola Bella, Blue Grotto, and Elephant Rock.

Departures from:  10:00am to 4:00pm

Boarding:  Giardini Naxos harbor

Route:  Giardini Naxos gulf – Isola Bella bay – Mazzarò bay – Mermaids Bay – Blue grotto

Services included:  Skipper or crew, Fuel, Open Bar ( Soft Drinks ), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit.

On request:  Transfer by Sedan or Minivan – Hotels in the Taormina Area> Giardini Naxos Harbor – Roundtrip.

Availability Between 15 May And 15 September

Baytender 30

Etna & sea private day trip from taormina, etna & sea; the best luxury tour by sicily private spot.

Enjoy a luxurious day cruise in Sicily with Sicily Private Spot. Choose from three unique adventures during your visit. Enjoy a high-end excursion tailored just for you.

This exclusive tour, “Etna & Sea,” is truly the only one of its kind in the Sicilian tourism sector. Ideal for those short on time, it captures Sicily’s natural beauty, rich culture, and luxurious experiences. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you on this extraordinary journey:

Morning Adventure Exploring Etna’s Beautiful Landscape

Start your day with a ride in a car or off road vehicle to explore. Then, we will take you to the northern slopes of Mount Etna, the biggest and most active volcano in Europe.

Driving an Off Road vehicle is a fun way to start the day. You can explore both old and new lava flows. You will climb to heights of 1900 meters (6500 feet). The volcano’s moon-like landscape is stunning and surreal, giving a unique chance to see nature’s raw power.

Midday Indulgence: Wine Tasting and Sicilian Brunch

The tour goes from the stunning Mount Etna to a well-known vineyard surrounded by beautiful fields of grapes. Enjoy a special tasting of fine white and red DOC wines, known for their unique flavors from volcanic soil.

The brunch features a range of delicious local foods. You can enjoy Sicilian organic cheeses, cured meats, fresh vegetables, and tasty pastries. All the ingredients are fresh and sourced from nearby.

This lunch is not just delicious food, but also a way to experience the tastes and customs of Sicily.

Tranquil Afternoon: Sailing Tour Across Taormina Bay

In the afternoon, you will go to the harbor and board a motorboat for a scenic cruise along the Gulf of Taormina. The crystal-clear waters and stunning coastline provide a serene backdrop for the final leg of your journey.

Sail through the beautiful bays of Taormina, like Isola Bella and Mazzarò. Enjoy swimming in the clear sea, relaxing on the boat, enjoying the warm sun by the sea.

Seeing Mount Etna from the sea shows its beauty against the calm coastal landscape. Explore Sicily’s top active volcano and beautiful Taormina bays on a private boat tour. Enjoy both experiences in one day for a memorable and beautiful adventure in Sicily.

From 09:30am to 06:30pm

Departure from: your stay in the Taormina or Catania area (other places on request)

Services included: Etna tour on Off Rroad 4WD with a driver and English guide. Experience wine tasting, Sicilian food, a boat tour, and convenient pick-up and drop-off.

Local Fishing Boat Tour at the Taormina Bays

Local fishing in Taormina; dawn or dusk are the best times to appreciate Sicily. The fresh sea air and gentle breeze are refreshing. The red sun rises or sets, adding to the beauty. This creates excitement as you wait to catch a beautiful fish from our lovely waters.

Local fishing is highly recommended. You can learn from a local fisherman who will share his tips for catching fish perfectly.

Join a local fishing trip in Taormina led by an experienced fisherman. Explore the bays for about 3 hours. The sites are all near coastal cliffs with depths between 15 and 30 meters.

You can fish with a fishing rod or troll for bream, bass, garfish, squid or other small and medium sized fish.

After fishing, take your catch to a restaurant to cook and share with friends. They can enjoy your skills and hear about your experience.

Duration:  3 hours. We recommend starting at 07:00am or 30′ prior to sunset. Boarding:  Giardini Naxos harbor Services included:  skipper, fuel, soft drinks, all equipment for fishing. Maximum capacity 4 guests On request:  Transfer by Sedan or Minivan – Hotels in the Taormina Area> Giardini Naxos Harbor – round trip.

Big Game Fishing Tour Experience in Taormina

Game fishing targets only large predatory fish such as tuna, swordfish, imperial needlefish, lampuga, and alalunga. To make money from this fishing method, you may need to travel far from the shore.

The equipment includes using different weights of reeds, ranging from 8/12 pounds to 50/80 pounds. You choose the weight based on your distance from the coast, the depth of the seabed, and the type of prey you want to catch.

Sail away from the coast to see Etna volcano, black lava cliffs, and taste freshly caught fish.

Marine areas from Taormina to Brucoli have different fishing rules depending on the time of year. An exciting T aormina Boat Tours.

Duration:  7 hours. We recommend starting at 07:00am Boarding point:  Catania harbor, Acitrezza (CT) harbor, Porto dell’Etna (Riposto-CT) Services included : skipper, fuel, soft drinks, fresh fruits, all equipment for fishing Upon request:  lunch on board, transfer from your stay to the harbor

Romantic Dinner on the Boat in the Rada of Taormina

Dinner on board at Taormina bay ; better way to spend an evening. Enjoying a luxury boat ride, watching the sunset behind Mount Etna, and sipping on a glass of Sicilian wine.

Sail to the peaceful bay of Giardini Naxos for a romantic and delicious dinner away from the busy town.

After anchoring, you can enjoy wholesome food, prepared following our ancient tradition. Have a romantic dinner in Taormina. Enjoy the stars and a magical setting. You will have complete privacy for a truly special experience.

TIPS: this Taormina Private Boat Tour evening will not be the same restaurant as last night. Feel the magic of an exclusive and special dinner on board. Much more than a seafront table, much more intimate than a simple privè.

From 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Boarding: Giardini Naxos harbor

Services included: Crew (Skipper plus Steward or Hostess), Fuel, Snacks, One bottle of fine Sicilian Spumante.

The menu and the food and drink list will be agreed according to your wishes and charged as an extra

On request: Transfer by Sedan or Minivan (round trip) to the Giardini Naxos Harbor

A Unique Sicily Experience; Taormina Wedding on Board

From the Taormina Bay Boat Tour collection an unique private boat rentals in Taormina, a truly special day. Arriving at your wedding lunch restaurant by boat and landing on the beach will be a memorable start V-ing your special day. Delight your visitors with a short cruise for a memorable adventure.

Choose your dream boat to arrive at the bay where a Sicilian boat will be waiting to take you to the shore.

Timetable:  on request

Embarkment from  Giardini Naxos harbor at the Sicily Private Spot pier Route:  to the restaurant sites on the beach in the Taormina beach area Duration of the cruise:  20/45 minutes ca.

Services included:  Crew, fuel, open bar (soft drinks), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit, transfer at the beach by a typical Sicilian goiter

A Scenic Sea Journey from Taormina to Siracusa

Enjoy a daily cruise from taormina to ortigia island.

Experience the only yacht charter from Taormina, offering an exclusive journey to the island of Ortigia and the historic city of Siracusa. Going to Siracusa by sea is certainly another emotion. Exclusive boat trips in Taormina opportunity.

Ultimate Charter to Siracusa; for the Sea Addicted

Tested by the Greeks for 2500 years who obviously preferred it to land. A navigation of 55 miles in a straight line means about 2’30min with good weather and sea conditions.

Etna volcano stands out in the landscape. You can break up the cruise by visiting the Cyclops islands, where you can swim and enjoy local fruit and DOC wine.

Another recommended stop is the enchanting bay of Brucoli. Obviously, by stopping in one or both of these fabulous corners of Sicily, time will dilate by at least an hour. You can decide how long you want to stay in Siracusa and where we will dock.

This way, you can visit Ortigia Island, which is a popular destination similar to Taormina. Ultimately, the choice is yours. The decision is up to you. The choice of typical fish-based restaurants is endless.

A truly unique cruise, the top things to do list extensive. Consider that you are about to visit one of the Unesco sites of Sicily. Book now, we will define each option together; or arrange it directly with the crew as soon as on board.

Visit the Neapolis archeologic Park and explore the Greek theatre. This includes the Ear of Dionigi and the Grotto of the Nymphaeum. Try to avoid making too many stops during the cruise.

From:  09:00am to 7:00pm Boarding:  Giardini Naxos harbor Services included:  crew , open bar (soft drinks), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit On request: Transfer by Sedan or Minivan – Hotels in the Taormina Area> Giardini Naxos Harbor – Roundtrip. Authorized guide (English language) for the archeologic Park of Neapolis. The tour does not include taxi or minivan fees and entrance tickets for archeologic sites.

Boat: contact us to determine which boats are available.

Boat Charter from Taormina to the Ciclopi Islands

Unforgettable ciclopi islands boat tour experience.

The view is amazing. It shows the impressive Etna volcano. This creates a unique black landscape along the coast. A unique place unlike anywhere else.

Along the cruise we will meet some fishermen villages, still intact in their traditions. Stazzo, Santa Tecla, Capo Mulini, and the beautiful Timpa Nature Reserve are all nearby. They lead to Acitrezza, a place known for its Cyclops islands. The medieval Aci Castello tops the islands.

A Mythical Yacht Tour to the Ciclopi Islands

Acitrezza, a beautiful part of Sicily, is one of the world’s top 100 protected marine areas. We can dock at the marina and enjoy its enchanting atmosphere.

The air carries the smell of delicious local fish dishes from restaurants on the port, mixed with the scent of the clear sea.

You can embark on a fascinating journey following Ulysses’ route in Sicily. The journey starts either 20 miles from Giardini Naxos or 12 miles from Riposto’s “Porto dell’Etna.” Heading to the amazing Cyclops islands awaits you.

The journey leads to the amazing Ciclopi islands. These are the volcanic stones hurled by Polyphemus from the peak of Etna, as depicted by Homer in the “Odyssey”. Ideal for vacationers in Taormina. Perfect for those who wish to discover, immerse, and delight in sailing on the stunning Sicilian sea.

Local people enjoy lunch at nearby restaurants, especially grilled fish and king prawns. Highly recommended! Think about a premier Private Boat Tour in Taormina.

From:  10:00am to 05:30pm Boarding:  Giardini Naxos harbor  or  Porto dell’Etna, Riposto (CT) Services included:   Crew, fuel, open bar (soft drinks), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit On request:  Transfer by Sedan or Minivan (roundtrip) to the Giardini Naxos Harbor or Porto dell’Etna Riposto (CT)

Water Taxi & Yacht Transfers to Aeolian Islands

The best way to get to the Aeolian hotels from Sicily is by traveling through the beautiful blue sea. Enjoy the lovely atmosphere of the islands along the way.

Cruising between dolpfhins and the volcanic sea stacks. The perfect privacy far from the crowds of the hydrofoils. We are at your disposal for any inquiry.

Water Taxi & Yacht Transfers to the Aeolian Islands. Take a look at the main and exclusive sea transfers.

Departures from Sicily : Marina di Portorosa / Milazzo / Taormina ( Giardini Naxos harbor ) / Riposto / Catania Schedule : on demand

Departures from all harbour & pier of : Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Panarea Alicudi , Filicudi Schedule : on demand

Services included : Skipper or crew, fuel, open bar (soft drinks), Sicilian seasonal fresh fruit. Upon request : Transfer from / to APT to any harbor of embarking.

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Top 10 Best Marinas in the Mediterranean

Home > Relevance Yacht News > Top 10 Best Marinas in the Mediterranean

Posted by Joanna Lewis , 13 May 2024

The Mediterranean prides itself on being the world’s most exclusive yachting destination, so it’s no surprise that it boasts a stunning number of world-class marinas that are home to the world’s finest superyachts.

However, which Mediterranean marinas really reign supreme? Here, we explore 10 of the best marinas in the Mediterranean, where you’ll find the most discerning yachting enthusiasts.

Best luxury marinas in the Mediterranean

Port hercules, monaco.

Port Hercules is continually ranked as one of the best superyacht marinas in the Mediterranean, home to the world’s largest superyachts and mega yachts with a prime location in the heart of the city-state,  just moments away from the Principality’s best attractions, including designer boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and vibrant nightlife at some of the Cote d’Azur’s most exclusive clubs.  

This superb marina sits at the foot of the Principality of Monaco’s legendary ancestral rock and is one of the only deep-water ports along the French Riviera. 

Port Hercules plays host to the annual Monaco Yacht Show, one of the most prestigious events on the annual yachting calendar, and is also home to the Monaco Yacht Club, one of the most exclusive private members clubs. 

The port boasts 760 berths and a range of world-class yachting amenities catering to the world’s most demanding yacht owners.  

Port of Cannes

The Port of Cannes, or Vieux Port, is a large harbour flanked by a wide range of yachting and luxury amenities, including a host of bars and restaurants. Located in Cannes’ picturesque Old Port, Vieux Port boasts 650 berths for superyachts up to 65 metres in size. 

The Port of Cannes is a popular berthing spot for private yachts, including sailing boats, and is a highly sought-after marina during the Cannes Film Festival, with prime berths often booked years ahead. 

It is also the perfect starting point for those embarking on a French Riviera yacht charter, within easy cruising distance of some of the most refined and elegant yachting hotspots in the Mediterranean, including St. Tropez, Monaco, Nice, Antibes, and the Cote d’Azur’s legendary Caps.

Porto Montenegro, Montenegro

Porto Montenegro is a superb marina in Montenegro, on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, and is designed for vessels of all sizes, offering a menu of services that cover everything that a modern seafarer may require. 

Considered one of the best marinas in the Mediterranean, Porto Montenegro was the first recipient of the prestigious Platinum Marina accreditation from The Yacht Harbour Association. Alongside a full complement of yachting amenities, Porto Montenegro also includes a selection of gourmet restaurants, lively bars, a shopping village, a yacht club, and waterside accommodation, all within walking distance.

Porto Cervo, Sardinia

This picturesque marina in Sardinia’s Old Port, Italy, is situated in the heart of the stunning Costa Smeralda, with gorgeous beaches and picturesque coves and bays all just moments away. Owned and operated by IGY Marinas, yacht owners and charterers will find a wide selection of amenities, including a private yacht club, restaurant and bar, and various marine services, including a full-service boatyard.

Port Vell, Barcelona, Spain

Port Vell is a superb waterfront harbour in the vibrant city of Barcelona. The marina boasts 151 berths that can accommodate luxury yachts up to 190-metres in length, with 24-hour security and mooring assistance. 

The marina offers a superb selection of amenities, including a business hub, gym, restaurants and bars, and concierge services, all coupled with personalised services. 

Port Vell is one of the few marinas in the Mediterranean with a TPA permit, which enables non-EU superyachts undergoing repairs and maintenance to benefit from tax exemptions. 

The marina’s convenient location puts the city of Barcelona’s best attractions and luxury amenities all within striking distance.

Port Adriano, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

Port Adriano is not only considered one of the best marinas in the Mediterranean, but also one of the most modern. Designed by the award-winning designer Philippe Starck, Port Adriano is located in the municipality of Calvia, southwest of the bay of Palma de Mallorca in the Balearic Islands, and is an exceptional base for the world’s finest luxury yachts, thanks to its superb selection of luxury services, including high-end boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Along with its 87 berths that can accommodate yachts up to 80-metres, the marina also offers a superb selection of nautical services, including a shipyard.

Cala del Forte Marina, Italy 

Cala del Forte is a small marina in Ventimiglia, Italy, along the Mediterranean Sea. It is owned and operated by Monaco Ports and was developed to help satisfy the need for berthing facilities in Monaco. A free high-speed boat shuttle operates between Cala del Forte and Port Hercules, which takes approximately 15 minutes. 

Cala del Forte was initially inaugurated in 2021 and boasts the highest services of hospitality and professionalism coupled with modern facilities, including a shipyard for yachts up to 30-metres. 

Superyacht owners, crew, and guests can also easily access all the amenities of the historic Cala del Forte town, thanks to an elevator that connects the town centre directly with the marina. The marina has 178 berths, and can accommodate superyachts up to 70+ metres.  

Karpaz Gate Marina, Cyprus

This world-class marina is located in the unspoiled Karpaz Penninsula in north Cyprus and is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. 

Karpas Gate Marina has been meticulously developed to fulfill the expectations of the world’s most discerning yachting enthusiasts. The marina boasts 300 berths, alongside a dedicated Technical Centre, a RYA Training Centre, gourmet restaurants, an outstanding beach club with a stunning 33-metre infinity swimming pool, children’s swimming pool, private beach area with cabanas, and a premium hotel with an exquisite Turkish Hammam with luxurious treatment rooms.

Marina Moll Vell, Mallorca, Balearic Islands

Marina Moll Vell is a wonderful marina located in the vibrant city of Palma de Mallorca in the Balearic Islands, with some of the city’s most stunning architectural wonders just moments away, such as the majestic Palma Cathedral and La Almudaina Royal Palace. 

From the marina, it is also easy to reach the city’s Golden Mile, where some of the world’s most exclusive designer boutiques can be found alongside gourmet restaurants and ultra-chic bars.

This world-class Mediterranean marina also plays host to the annual Palma International Boat Show, which attracts some of the world’s top yachting service providers and ultra-luxurious private yachts. 

Which marina is the largest marina in the Mediterranean?

Port Vauban in Antibes is the largest marina in the Mediterranean, boasting more than 1,642 berths accommodating yachts up to 170-metres. As well as being the biggest marina, it is also considered one of the best marinas in the Mediterranean.

The historic marina stretches from what is now Porte Marine to Bastion Saint-Jaume and welcomes all types of vessels, from small fishing boats to the largest mega yachts, which can berth in the marina’s iconic Quai Camille Rayon, aptly known as the Billionaires’ Quay. 

Port Vauban is also home to the International Yacht Club d’Antibes, which offers a superb selection of amenities, including a convenient helipad. The beautiful Old Town of Antibes is within easy access, boasting a superb selection of restaurants, shops, and boutiques. 

Work with Relevance

Relevance is a leading yacht marketing agency with in-depth knowledge of the yachting industry, from the best Mediterranean marinas to the world’s finest superyachts and yacht industry trends. We work closely with leading yacht brokerages, industry service providers, and niche start-ups in the yachting industry, crafting marketing campaigns that reach and resonate with the world’s richest audiences. Browse our yacht marketing services or contact a member of our team to learn how we can boost your online presence and provide a measurable return on investment. 

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Yacht Charter Italy from 1180.00 €

Enjoy the perfect sailing holiday - 68 charter customer reviews, discover 19 harbors - boat rental italy.

What makes yacht rental in Italy so popular?

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If you have questions about any boat types or yacht charter destinations don´t hesitate to click on the button below. Fill out the search form and our experts will get back to you immediately. We will prepare you the most competitive quote.

• France – IGY Sète Marina
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• France – IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes
• Italy - Cala di Volpe Mooring Buoys
• Italy – Marina Di Porto Cervo
• Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia - Sindalah Marina
• LONDON – ST. KATHARINE DOCKS
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• Europe IGY Vieux-Port de Cannes Cala di Volpe Mooring IGY Portisco Marina IGY Sete Marina Marina Di Porto Cervo IGY Malaga Marina St. Katharine Docks IGY Ibiza Marina VIEW ALL MARINAS
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Discover the Cala di Volpe Mooring Buoy field located in Costa Smeralda | Reserve Now 

MARINA DI PORTO CERVO

Porto cervo, sardinia.

• New Port Tel: +39 0789-905111
• Old Port Tel: +39 0789 9936666
• VHF: Channel 16, 11 & 9
• 41.1360305 N
• 9.5246262 E
• Casa Il Ginepro, 1/A
• Postal Code 07021
• Monday–Friday 8AM-8PM
• Saturday & Sunday 8AM-8PM
• Contact us for important dates
• 44 ° F ( 6 ° C) Sunrise: 6:55 AM
• 44 ° F ( 6 ° C) Sunset: 6:55 AM
• Wind 6-9 ft
• Wave Height 6-9 ft

Specifications

• 100 Megayacht Berths 700 Total Berths Max Length: 525' (160m) Max Draft: 26' (8m) Max Beam: No Restrictions
• 16 AH, 32 AH, 63 AH
• 125 AH, 250 AH
• 24 hr Security

• Nearby Shopping
• Exclusive Restaurants and Dining Nearby
• WiFi Connectivity
• Resorts Close to the Marina
• Transportation Arrangements
• Shower Facilities
• Provisioning Services
• Hi-Speed Fuel Pumps
• On-site Boatyard
• Laundry Concierge Services
• Waste Collection
• Floating Docks
• 24-Hour Security

Directory & Local Businesses

• Restaurants
• Entertainment
• Vessel Services
• IGY Strategic Partner
• Travel / Transportation

Contact Information

Marina manager.

+39 0789 905111

Old Port Reservations

+39 3346 300629

New Port Reservations

Old port after hours, new port after hours.

+39 0789-905111

Security Office

Police department, fire / emergency.

About Marina

On behalf of the management and staff at Porto Cervo Marina, we would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to Sardinia, Italy . Our team is dedicated to making sure that your stay is pleasurable. As the first Mediterranean location for IGY, a warm welcome awaits you. Our Marina is composed of two different harbours: the New Marina, that is always open with 24/7 VHF service and the Old Port that is officially open from the 1st of June until the 30th of September.

Sardinia, as the second largest Italian island after Sicily, offers luxurious beaches and splendid culture. The Old Port, where the marina is located, is considered the best-equipped tourist spot on the island. The village surrounding the marina has incredible cuisine and amazing shopping. If you are visiting for the first time or you have traveled here before and are looking for something new to discover in the area our staff can assist you in planning an enjoyable time.

We also have Cantiere Porto Cervo, a full-service boatyard. The boatyard has on staff many highly specialized professionals that offer maximum knowledge and service. Cantiere Porto Cervo is able to perform for your vessel, throughout the year, technical assistance service, repair, maintenance, fittings and total renovations.

If there is anything that we can do to make your stay with us more memorable and relaxing, please do not hesitate to ask.

The Porto Cervo Marina Team

18 BUOYS FOR A CLEANER, SAFER AND MORE SUSTAINABLE SEA. AND LESS CROWDED.

The Cala di Volpe Mooring buoy field is part of the sustainability strategy that Smeralda Holding has been following for several years to protect the waters and seabed. Cala di Volpe Mooring is not just a  controlled mooring system, it is an expression of the desire to protect the environment and eco sustainable development by regulating the flow of nautical tourism with a limited number of mooring places at anchor proportionate to the marine area’s carrying capacity..

COORDINATES – 41°05’15.00″N | 9°32’30.69″E

• Mooring Buoys
• 18 Buoys for Vessel from 20m to 150m
• Sandy Seabed
• VHF Channel 74

Optional Services

• Shuttle transfer to shore
• Taxi and Water Taxis
• Waste Disposal
• Various Supplies
• Booking Service

Book Your Buoy Now

reservations: [email protected] phone: +39 0789 905 608

For More Information

Arrival Information Details

Advanced reservations are strongly recommended at Marina di Porto Cervo.  Berthing is not guaranteed without a confirmed reservation.  We ask that you provide advanced notice, when feasible, of your approximate arrival time so we can be fully prepared for your arrival and minimize any inconvenience to you.  Customs must be provided with 72 hours advanced notice to report a firm arrival location and estimated time of arrival.

Please Note: Captains and his/her assignee must check-in/check-out with the marina office for each stay unless otherwise arranged with marina management.

Upon approach to the marina lagoon, please hail the marina on VHF Channel 16.  At that time a slip assignment will be provided as well as directions to the slip.  Dock attendants will guide you in and assist you with docking.  Once comfortably settled, we ask that you visit our marina office to check-in.  The staff will quickly register you and answer any questions.

Upon departure, we request you contact the marina office 1-2 hours prior to departure to ensure all items are in order. Please visit the marina office in order to obtain the balance of the account which must be paid prior to departure.  A receipt can be provided at the marina office or emailed upon request to the email address provided at the time of check-in.  Once all items are in order, please hail the marina office on VHF Channel 16 if you would like assistance with disconnection and lines.

Early Check-In / Late Check-Out

If a slip is occupied after 10:30 am on the day of your scheduled departure, an additional night’s dockage will be charged to your account.

We will do our absolute best to accommodate your requests whenever possible.  In most cases, if your slip is available prior to 4:30 pm on the day of your arrival, or after 10:30 am on the day of your departure, we will allow you to remain in the slip at no additional charge.  Prior arrangements must be made with the marina office for early arrival or delayed departure in order to avoid unnecessary charges.

Temporary Slips

In the event an early check-in and/or late check-out is unable to be accommodated in your current slip, we will try to accommodate by making another slip available until such time your slip is available or you are ready to depart the marina.

In the event a temporary slip is made available to you, and you do not relocate the vessel, the marina reserves the right to charge you two times (2x’s) the original daily rate for each night you occupy the temporary slip.

This is necessary as the Marina di Porto Cervo operates at full occupancy at times and failure to relocate the vessel could negatively affect other guests.

Cancellation Policy

Please note:  Cancellation policies are subject to change. Please refer to your reservation confirmation or contact the marina office direct for confirmation of cancellation policy. Cancellation requests must be submitted directly to the marina. Any cancellation requests received through the IGY Marinas website are not considered proper cancellation.

Contact & Hours of Operation

Customs & Immigration Office Contact the marina office to arrange for clearance. Appointment Required

Port Captain’s Hours of Operation: Mon. – Fri.     7:00 am to 3:00 pm Closed on weekends & holidays

Customs & Immigration Information

• Please note: We do our best to ensure this information is up-to-date, however, this is strictly for informational purposes only. We recommend reviewing the Customs and Immigration site for the destination requirements.

Customs & Immigration Office

A Customs & Immigration Office is located near the marina, however, transportation is highly suggested and can be arranged prior to arrival.

Those reaching the port of entry after closing hours are required to raise a quarantine flag and report in the next morning.

In order to clear in and out of the Immigration Office, you will need the following:

• Vessel registration documents
• Vessel clearance documentation from the last port of call
• Copy of passenger/crew list (form I-418)
• Passports of all crew and guests
• Copy of the Ship’s Registry

Safety Equipment Requirements

All vessels cruising the Mediterranean waters should have the following safety equipment on-board:

• Functional life-vests for all passengers
• Parachute, orange, and para-rocket flares
• Bell and/or Whistle
• Fire Extinguisher
• First-aid Kit

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) Address: 07026 Olbia, Province of Olbia-Tempio, Italy Phone: +39 0789 563444 Website:  https://www.geasar.it/

• Olbia Airport at the Costa Smeralda in Sardinia offers passengers a great choice of European destinations.

Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO) Address:  07041 Alghero SS, Italy Phone: +39 339 241 7075 Website:  https://www.airport-alghero.com/

• Alghero – Riviera del Corallo Airport is an international airport situated 4.3 NM north-northwest of the city of Alghero, in northern Sardinia, Italy.

HEALTH / PHARMACY

• Costa Smeralda medical service    +39 0789-9447
• Medical Service     +39 0789-522074
• Arachena Medical Service     +39 0789 552900
• S. Panteleo Medical Service     +39 0789 64560
• Olbia First Aid     +39 0789 522200
• Costa Smeralda Private Medical Service     +39 0789 94577
• Studio Dentistico Dr. Mirijam Schildt     +39 339 207 3860 Località Sottovento, 07021, 07021 Porto Cervo OT, Italy
• Pharmacy Porto Cervo        +39 0789 92091 Arzachena OT IT, Piazzetta degli Archi, 12, 07021 Località, OT, Italy

BANKING SERVICES

• Banco di Sardegna     +39 0789 909-072       Via Porto Cervo, 8, 07021 Porto Cervo OT, Italy

POSTAL SERVICES

• Ufficio Postale Poste Italiane (Postal Service)     +39 0789 92204 Via Porto Vecchio, 10, 07021 Porto Cervo OT, Italy
• The UPS Access Point ia Madagascar, 27, 07026 Olbia OT, Italy

Marina di Porto Cervo Marina Rules

To make your stay with us more enjoyable, the following set of guidelines should be followed. These are merely suggested rules of etiquette and regulations to make the Marina and its facilities more enjoyable for all customers.

• Do not leave garbage on the docks or common areas to be picked up.  Garbage should be bagged and tied and then properly placed in designated receptacles, or be placed in the garbage truck, not loosely scattered or abandoned.
• Oils and fuels should be disposed of properly and not in Marina trash cans.  Please ask for assistance when disposing of oils, fuels, or chemicals. Your concern for the environment helps.
• Try not to introduce any effluents into the Marina lagoon.  Use holding tanks if possible.
• Do not attempt to turn on your own water and electricity. Please have a dock attendant provide the service.  Using pliers or screwdrivers will damage the equipment and you will be charged.  It is suggested that you read meters (if applicable) along with our dock attendant to ensure accuracy.
• Anyone caught taking water from another yacht’s tap shall be responsible for the entire water cost of the metered yacht. Please use your own water.
• Keep power cords and water hoses in a neat and orderly fashion so that no one will trip in the dark or while carrying objects.
• Please wash sails on lawn areas where water outlets and drying spaces are available, or do it aboard your yacht.
• When marking anchor chains with paint, use paper or cardboard beneath your chain to keep wet paint off the docks and other customers’ shoes.
• When cleaning dinghies, make sure you rinse debris and growth off of the docks when finished.
• Lock the vessel when leaving it unattended.
• Lock your dinghies and outboard at night.
• Try to keep excessive noise down after 10:00 pm.
• Do not utilize power sanders or grinders while completing minor vessel repairs.
• Barbecue and cooking on the docks is prohibited.  Barbecue and cooking should be done on board in suitable equipment and self contained.  Any other way is dangerous and frowned upon.  Kindly clean up after yourself when finished. Charcoal ash and debris are not to be disposed of into the lagoon.
• If bright deck lights or spot lights are to be used at night, avoid pointing them at nearby boats, especially down or into their cabins.
• Pets need to be kept on a leash or in an acceptable carrying case. Please be sure to clean up after your pets. Owners will be responsible for any damages caused by unattended pets.

Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

"Well cared for marina"

Google Review 2023

"All perfect. Super competent and professional"

Google review 2023

Itineraries

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ANNUAL EVENTS

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

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Other Rates

Autres tarifs.

RESTAURANTS AND SHOPS

From breakfast at the quayside, all the way to dinner on a rooftop terrace, menus range from fresh fish or pizza to traditional Sardinian cuisine that are also available for takeout or delivery onboard. The supermarket, conveniently located on the dock, specialty shop and liquor store offer a wide selection that are available for delivery to your vessel.

BWA YACHTING

BWA Yachting is a worldwide yacht agency and yachting services provider formed to support captains, managers and crew, making their lives easier, assisting with the increasing demands of managing a modern superyacht. Our global office network stretches throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and the Americas, providing a unique and seamless experience, wherever our clients are cruising. The BWA Yachting service can be anything from planning a complete trip, saving you time and a lot of hassle, with just one point of reference to the handling of a single port call or last minute concierge request. That’s everything from clearance procedures to berthing reservations, bunkering, provisioning, fiscal advice, logistics, technical assistance, travel arrangements, and more.

www.bwayachting.com Tel.+377 93 500 277 [email protected]

BOOK A SERVICE

Host your event in harbor360, download brochure, contact us today, coming soon, this part of our website is still under maintenance and will be available soon , find cruise lines.

Norwegian Cruise Lines Cruises: Norwegian Cruise Line Cruise Deals | NCL Cruises

MSC MSC Cruises Official Global Website – Select your Country

Celebrity Cruises Cruises: Award-Winning Luxury Cruise Line | Celebrity Cruises

Virgin Voyages Caribbean & European Cruise Vacations | Virgin Voyages

TUI Marella Cruises | Cruise Holidays 2023 / 2024 | TUI.co.uk

RCCL Cruises – Amazing Cruises and Cruise Deals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Star Clipper Star Clippers UK – Home

FIND FERRIES

TRANS COTE D’AZUR  04 92 98 71 30 https://www.trans-cote-azur.com/

RIVIERA LINES 04 92 98 71 31 https://www.riviera-lines.com/

HORIZON 04 92 98 71 36 https://www.horizon-lerins.com/

PLANARIA 04 92 98 71 38 https://www.city-life.fr/

More Information Coming Soon!

General inquiries, need assistance.

• October to April : Monday- Friday 8:00AM to 6:00PM Weekends & Bank Holidays: 8:30AM to 12:30PM and 1:30PM to 5:00PM May and September: 8:00AM to 7:00PM June to August: 8:00AM to 8:00PM

• Destination Guides

Marinas near Rome

By Chris Boyle

Porto Turistico di Roma

Reconstructed near Emperor Claudius’s ancient port at Ostia, today’s Port of Rome offers modern marina facilities 12 miles from the main city, including 800 berths for yachts of up to 55 meters and a shipyard.

The luxury Aran Blu hotel is located close to the harbor and a thriving program of cultural events, centered around the marina, is available so you can fulfill your nautical, cultural and social needs in style.

Harbor Master: Pietro Cossu

+39 06 5618 8236

[email protected]

www.portodiroma.com

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Netter italia.

Twelve miles from the bustle and splendor of Rome and conveniently located near Fiumicino Airport, this well-placed marina offers 60 berths for craft of up to 43 meters, as well as all the customary services of fuel, fresh water, security, electricity and parking.

Repair and maintenance needs are well provided for by a local shipyard that has been operating for over 30 years and the charming nearby town of Fiumcino offers a wealth of fresh seafood and nautical culture.

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Harbor Master: Mirko Tecchiato

+39 06 652 1966/7

[email protected]

Via Monte Cadria 135, 00054 Fiumicino

www.netter.it

Riva di Traiano

About 40 miles from Rome, this expansive and expertly-equipped marina offers a full range of services for visiting yachts, including over 1,800 berths (six for yachts of up to 35 meters and two for those of up to 42 meters), extensive repair and maintenance facilities, video surveillance, wireless internet and 24-hour docking assistance.

A selection of restaurants and shops is available, for both nautical needs and leisure, as is an elegant yacht club offering a range of luxurious leisure options.

Harbor Masters: Marzio Bonomo and Massimo De Notti

+39 07 663 0201

[email protected]

www.rivaditraiano.com

Latest in Luxury

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Italy luxury yacht charter

Awash with elegant cliff-top villages and tempting cruising grounds around every corner, a luxury yacht charter is one of the best ways to discover all that Italy has to offer. Whether cruising around the unspoilt Aeolian islands, touring the impossibly pretty towns of the Amalfi coast and picture-perfect Capri , hitting the hotspots of Sardinia or revelling in the world-famous cuisine, culture and heritage of Tuscany and its islands, the  Italian Riviera is always a good idea for a summer yacht charter.

Italy yacht season and weather

The peak summer months of July and August provide warm, sunny days with highs of 30°C. During August, many Italians take the entire month off work, meaning resorts and coastal areas are very busy. June and September offer quieter cruising grounds and very pleasant temperatures.

Climates do vary from north to south, with the south generally experiencing milder winters. In October, Sicily often has long, warm sunny days with temperatures still in the mid-20s.

Italy yacht charter itineraries

La Spezia’s Porto Lotti can accommodate yachts up to 180 metres and Porto Mirabello has capacity for yachts up to 140 metres – both good jumping-off points for Portovenere and the Cinque Terre. Rome Marina Yachting is in the port of Civitavecchia and has berths up to 100 metres. The marina is an hour and 15 minutes from Rome by car. On Sicily , Marina di Riposto is an ideal base for visiting Mount Etna and Catania, is six nautical miles from Taormina and has moorings for yachts up to 80 metres. Porto Cervo marina on Sardinia has moorings for yachts up to 120 metres. Porto di Mergellina in Naples has moorings for up to 75 metres.

Awash with old Hollywood glamour and synonymous with Italian aristocracy, the Amalfi coast is one of Italy’s most famous and coveted cruising grounds. Departing from Naples and the shadow of the volcanic peak of Vesuvius, charterers can venture 20 nautical miles to the low key isle of Procida, then take a 10 nautical-mile passage to the volcanic wonders of Ischia, hop south to the famed isle of Capri before cruising 20 nautical miles to Amalfi and the neighbouring gems of Ravello and Positano. For those wanting a mix of city and sea, charters can also make an overnight passage and arrive for sightseeing in Rome.

The island of Sardinia is a superyacht magnet and its famous Costa Smeralda attracts the yachting elite every summer. Mixing Michelin restaurants and five-star hotels with kaleidoscopic bays, sublime beaches and celebrity haunts such as Porto Cervo, Sardinia is one of the hottest charter destinations in Europe.

Charters in the Tuscan archipelago are equally bewitching, with the islands of Elba, Gorgona, Capraia, Montecristo, Giglio and Giannutri home to pristine shores, stunning coves and charming villages steeped in history. The islands form a convenient stepping stone between the coastline of Tuscany and Corsica, allowing charterers to combine the delights of Italy and the French island in on trip.

Further north the pearls of the Ligurian coastline, the UNESCO protected Cinque Terre, comprise the picture-perfect towns of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore cling to the cliffs, while romantic Portofino is a must-visit.

For natural wonders and more off-the-beaten-track adventures, the volcanic Aeolian Islands lie 25 miles off the north-east coast of Sicily and provide a varied and stunning itinerary. Sicily itself has also catapulted onto the charter scene, with an enticing mix of secret grottos, secluded coves and glittering beaches.

Italy by superyacht

Getting to italy.

The mainland has a host of international airports that handle commercial and private aircraft including those in Naples, Rome and Pisa.

Sardinia’s three airports of Olbia, Alghero and Cagliari all handle commercial and private jets.

Catania and Palermo airports in Sicily handle private and commercial aircraft.

Common charter routes in and out of Italy include crossings from the Adriatic and Croatia, and crossings from the French Riviera and western Mediterranean.

Legal requirements

Official documentation required from the crew for charters must be sent to the Italian authorities at least two weeks prior to arrival.

Yachts based in the European Union, on which VAT has already been paid or is not applicable, are welcome to enter Italy from any other EU country without having to undergo customs formalities. Vessels arriving from outside the EU must report to customs on arrival, however. The current VAT rate of 22% is reduced for yachts depending on how much time they have spent cruising in waters outside of the EU. 

There are some local laws concerning where to anchor and swim, which can be punishable by fines. It is illegal to swim in an Italian harbour, so swimmers must dive in further out from shore. 

Except when entering or leaving, motoring within 300 metres of the shoreline is forbidden. It is also prohibited to anchor within 200 metres of a beach in Italy.

Yacht features

• Directors and positions
• Statute and regulations
• How to become a member
• Twinned clubs
• Uguali nel Vento Onlus
• Young Members
• The sailing team
• The sailing school
• Trasparency

Berths are assigned permanently to members of the Compagnia della Vela. Members’ boats are often absent because they are used for sailing trips or are undergoing maintenance. In this case, spaces for visiting boats may be available and the CDV will willingly put them at the disposal of guests.

• Boat size up to 13 m • Draft 2.50 m above average sea level

Route to the harbours belonging to Compagnia della Vela on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore: : To reach the island the access to Porto di Lido is normally used, whose access channel is indicated by a white beacon light 2.5 m from the head of the southern breakwater and a pair of alternating red and green beacon lights at 1.3 m from the head of the southern breakwater.

You can only enter from the West (it is prohibited to enter from the East).

Lighthouses and navigation lights: 4239.4 (E 2497.4) – fixed red beacon light, range 2 m in Canale di S. Marco; 4239.6 (E 2497.6) – fixed green beacon light, range 2 m in Canale di S. Marco.

Be careful of the shoals at the sides of the navigable channels. The channels of the lagoon and the access channels to the harbours are generally not equipped with light signals, making it difficult to access the harbours at night. Dense fog in the winter makes it difficult to access the harbour and moorings.

To contact the harbours please call the following numbers: m. +39 339 4787488

Darsena Croze (Darsena Grande):

Location: The harbour is located on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and overlooks the Bacino di San Marco (St. Mark’s Basin). It is overlooked by two harbour lights made of Istrian stone and has a narrow quay. It underwent extensive renovation in 2004 and has been equipped with floating pontoons on the side facing the island and new water and electricity supply installations. Number of berths: 90, reserved for members and visiting boats. There is a 40-metre long quay that can accommodate larger boats or be used for mooring competitors’ boats during regattas. Boat types: sailing boats from 7 to 16 metres compatible with the draft. Seabed: muddy – variable from 2.2 to 2.5 – 3.0 metres. Contacts: harbour personnel are present 24h. Services and facilities: water and electricity – toilets and showers are located in the nearby Darsena Verde (300 metres away). Winds and currents: north-east and sirocco. The harbour is very sheltered so there are no problems of cross wind. The harbour is subject to the normal tidal ranges of the Venetian lagoon.

Location: the harbour is located on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and directly overlooks the lagoon, facing the island of San Servolo. It is accessed through the Canale dell’orfanello, by the eastern harbour light of Darsena Croze via a channel that runs along the edge of the island. It has an Istrian stone quay with mooring buoys. Its sheltered nature makes the waters of the harbour suitable for sailing school lessons with Optimist class boats during the summer. Number of berths: 22, reserved for members and visiting boats. Boat types: sailing boats from 7 to 12 metres compatible with the draft. Seabed: muddy – variable from 2.2 to 2.5 metres. Contacts: harbour personnel are present 24h at the close by Darsena Croze. During the summer, there is a mariner present during the day on Saturdays and Sundays. Services and facilities: water and electricity – toilets and showers. The harbour has a large tree-lined area overlooking the lagoon where social gatherings, sailing courses and the awards ceremonies for the various races are held. There is a slipway for the sailing school boats and support equipment. Winds and currents: north-east and sirocco. The harbour is very sheltered so there are no problems of wind. The harbour is subject to the normal tidal ranges of the Venetian lagoon.

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Bayesian yacht sinking: Divers race to rescue Mike Lynch’s hard drive from boat’s safe on ocean floor

Italian prosecutors continue their investigation after divers recovered video equipment from the luxury yacht, article bookmarked.

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Divers are racing to retrieve Mike Lynch’s personal hard drives locked in a safe on the ocean floor, according to reports.

Italian newspaper la Repubblica reported that the tech billionaire, whose clients included MI5, the NSA and the Israeli secret service, didn’t trust confidential documents on the cloud and kept two encrypted hard drives in a safe which now lies 49 metres below sea level.

Investigators from Palermo said that no personal effects of the seven victims and 15 survivors have been recovered so far and that surveillance on the sailing ship continues 24 hours a day. They say the only hard drives brought to the surface are those of the ship.

An investigation into manslaughter is set to continue after specialist divers recovered video equipment that could explain how it sank.

Italian prosecutors will continue their probe after a source told Reuters Navy divers recovered parts of the deck , computer material, video surveillance systems, hard drives and various other equipment.

The electronic devices have been sent to specialised labs outside of Sicily to check their condition and possibly recover data, the source added.

Autopsies reveal cause of death of US lawyer and wife onboard Mike Lynch’s superyacht

Autopsies have been carried out on a couple who drowned on Mike Lynch’s superyacht when it sank off the coast of Sicily last month.

Seven lives were lost when the British-flagged boat, called the Bayesian, went down in a freak storm while anchored near the Sicilian capital of Palermo on 19 August.

Seven lives were lost when the the yacht Bayesian, belonging to British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, capsized off the coast of Sicily

Darktrace to be taken over after Mike Lynch’s death

Darktrace shares are set to stop trading publicly at the end of September, after the company set a timetable for its blockbuster private equity takeover to be completed.

The private equity group Thoma Bravo struck an almost 5.31 billion dollar (£4.3 billion) deal to buy Darktrace in April.

Darktrace AI interrupts in-progress cyber-attacks in seconds, including ransomware, email phishing, and threats to cloud environments.

It marks one of the biggest take-private deals for a London-listed company in recent years, and will see Darktrace leave the FTSE 100 on October 1.

Poppy Gustafsson helped to set up the Cambridge-based company in 2013 alongside Autonomy founder Mike Lynch.

Mr Lynch, and his daughter Hannah, were among seven people to die after the Bayesian superyacht sank off the coast of Sicily last month.

Bodies flown back to UK on private planes - report

The bodies of Mike Lynch, his daughter Hannah, 18, and the other victims of the Bayesian disaster have been flown back to their families after their post-mortems, according to reports.

They were repatriated on private planes, with their private funerals expected to be held over the coming days, Italian media reports.

The British tech tycoon ’s boat had been moored near the port of Porticello on 19 August when it sank during the early hours of the morning . It is now lying 50m below the surface.

Among those killed were Mr Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter Hannah, who had been due to begin studying at Oxford University in September, as well as four other family friends and associates .

Jonathan Bloomer, the international chairman of Morgan Stanley Bank; his wife Judith, a psychotherapist; Christopher Morvillo, a US lawyer; and his wife Neda, a jewellery designer also died in the sinking.

Also killed was the yacht’s chef, Recaldo Thomas, whose body was recovered floating near the wreckage.

Four victims found with carbon dioxide in lungs

Tech billionaire Mike Lynch, his daughter Hannah, 18, and five other people died when the Bayesian went down in a downburst, which is similar to a small tornado.

Chef Recaldo Thomas, Jonathan Bloomer, the Morgan Stanley International bank chairman, his wife Judy, and Chris Morvillo, a Clifford Chance lawyer, and his wife Neda, were the other victims of the August 19 tragedy.

Four of the victims are feared to have suffocated to death in air bubbles that filled with carbon dioxide, according to their autopsies raising the frightening possibility that they may have been conscious after the yacht sank, according to Italian news outlet La Republica.

Fifteen people, including Angela Bacares, Lynch’s wife, survived when they were rescued by a nearby yacht.

Mike Lynch’s yacht was ‘unsinkable’, says boss of company who built boat

Giovanni Costantino, the chief executive of the Italian Sea Group, said there are no flaws with the design and construction of the Bayesian and it is “one of the safest boats in the world”.

The Bayesian, a 184-ft superyacht carrying 22 passengers and crew, was anchored off the port of Porticello, near Palermo, when it disappeared beneath the waves in a matter of minutes after a freak tornado struck.

“The ship sank because it took on water, from where investigators will have to say,” Mr Costantino told television news programme TG1.

He suggested that the sinking was down to a series of human errors.

The CEO said that had the crew shut all doors and hatches, turned on the engine, lifted the anchor, lowered the keel and turned the yacht to face the wind, they would have suffered “zero damage”.

He added that data showed it took 16 minutes from when the wind began for it to sink.

Cartoisio said the tragedy will be even more painful if the sinking was caused by “behaviours that were not aligned to the responsibilities that everyone needs to take in shipping”.

Bodies of Mike Lynch and daughter Hannah flown back to families after Bayesian superyacht sinking

The bodies of those who died after the billionaire Mike Lynch’s Bayesian superyacht sunk off the coast of Sicily have been flown back to their families by private jet.

Italian publication Giornale di Sicilia reported post-mortem examinations were completed at a Palermo hospital and the bodies have now been returned.

My colleague Tom Watling reports:

Bodies of Mike Lynch and daughter flown back to UK after Bayesian tragedy

Italian media reports the bodies have been returned to their families via private jet

Captain gives his account of tragic sinking

Captain James Cutfield previously gave his terrifying account before invoking his right to remain silent.

According to Correire, he told prosecutors: “Seaman Griffiths came to wake me up and told me that there were 20 knots of wind.

“I looked at the instruments and indeed that was the case. I went out immediately and asked them to warn everyone because I didn’t like the situation.”

He said the Bayesian tilted 45 degrees “and remained like that for a bit and then suddenly fell to the right.

“We were catapulted into the sea”.

Seaman Matthew Griffiths, 22, said: “We somehow climbed back up to the bridge and tried to form a human chain to save those who managed to reach that gap from the accommodation deck ... they were struggling on the walls because the boat was lying in the water.

“The first in the chain was the captain who stretched down. He helped everyone, the ladies, the mother with the little girl ... But we were sinking and unfortunately some didn’t make it .”

Mr Griffiths joins fellow Brit Tim Parker-Eaton, 56, and Kiwi skipper James Cutfield, 51, on the official list of those being formally investigated for shipwreck and multiple manslaughter.

Being investigated does not equate to being charged and is a procedural step.

Professor fears more deaths by ‘medicanes’ after Bayesian tragedy

Professor Yoav Yair, Dean of the School of Sustainability at Reichman University in Israel, told the Mirror that storms dubbed ‘medicanes’ - Mediterranean hurricanes - could cause similar sinkings like the Bayesian superyacht.

He said: “It is not a matter of if this (the Bayesian disaster) will happen again, but rather it’s when and where.

“In the last couple of years we have seen medicanes - which are a new phenomena. These are hurricane-like storms that pack a lot of energy, and create flash flooding, torrential rains, lightning, hail and severe sustained winds. The 2023 “Daniel” medicane destroyed Libya and caused over 30,000 deaths there.

“The sea surface temperature has risen globally and in the Med as well, charging the atmosphere with increased fluxes of water vapor, which means a higher potential for massive storms.”

Seven key unanswered questions around the sinking of the Bayesian

With the Bayesian lying on her side 50 metres underneath the now gentle waters of the Mediterranean, mystery still surrounds how the 56-metre superyacht, sank in the typhoon off the port of Porticello.

Remotely controlled underwater vehicles and cave divers are looking to raise the yacht , which experts will examine in the coming days.

The key unanswered questions around the tragic sinking of the Bayesian

With the search continuing of the sunken Bayesian an investigation has been launched to establish what caused the disaster off the coast of Sicily

Italian navy recover video equipment

Italian Navy divers have recovered video surveillance equipment from the wreckage of billionaire Mike Lynch’s Bayesian superyacht that could explain how it sank.

The British tech tycoon’s boat had been moored near the port of Porticello on 19 August when it sank during the early hours of the morning. It is now lying 50m below the surface.

Among those killed were Mr Lynch and his 18-year-old daughter Hannah, who had been due to begin studying at Oxford University in September, as well as four other family friends and associates.

Divers hunting for clues on how Mike Lynch’s superyacht sank make discovery

The video equipment recovered could show if the crews left doors open on the Bayesian superyacht, which might have allowed the vessel to flood

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Bayesian superyacht ‘sank with Mike Lynch’s two hyper-encrypted hard drives that may contain MI5 secrets’

• James Halpin
• Published : 13:48, 17 Sep 2024
• Updated : 14:23, 17 Sep 2024

THE Bayesian superyacht sank with Mike Lynch's two hyper-encrypted hard drives that may contain MI5 secrets, reports Italian media.

The billionaire businessman tragically died with his daughter on board the doomed yacht off the coast of Sicily last month when the vessel was hit by a tornado.

Reports claim the tech entrepreneur had a pair of hard drives that may hold secret information on the world's most powerful spy agencies on board.

Divers are now scouring the sea floor for the crucial disks at the bottom of the sea before they fall into the wrong hands, reports La Repubblica - Italy's second-biggest newspaper.

Sources told the paper the disks held: "the great digital archive of the IT entrepreneur whose clients included the British MI5, the American NSA and the Israeli services".

The Italian newspaper said the "super drives" are protected by "cutting-edge encryption".

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But the drives now could be a target for the hostile spy agencies of Russia, China, and Iran as they seek to steal valuable secrets.

Lynch reportedly did not trust the cloud to save his high-level business secrets so always had the hard drives on him.

The billionaire partly made his wealth by creating algorithms and software widely used by top Western security agencies.

His company Autonomy won high-profile contracts with governments, including a deal to provide infrastructure to the US Homeland Security for the post-9/11 war on terror.

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The Bayesian is also reported to hold other documents in the ship's safe that could also be highly valuable.

James Bond fan Lynch also co-founded the cybersecurity company Darktrace and employed high-ranking intelligence agents for the firm.

Investigators from Palermo have pulled no personal effects of the seven victims and 15 survivors from the ocean yet.

But last week, divers recovered surveillance equipment from the yacht that will hopefully be able to shed light on its final moments afloat.

Divers have also recovered the ship's onboard hard drives as they continue their investigation.

However, the ship had no black box and there are worries the Bayesian's hard drives may not be water resistant.

The captain of the doomed Bayesian,  James Cutfield, 51, is being investigated for manslaughter .

Kiwi Cutfield, along with two other members of his crew, are being investigated by Italian authorities for culpable shipwreck and multiple manslaughter.

Prosecutors are also probing ship engineer  Tim Parker-Eaton, from Clophill, Beds, and sailor Matthew Griffith, 22  under the same charges.

The 184 ft Bayesian was carrying 22 people when it sank within minutes of being hit by a downburst - a strong, localised wind - while anchored in Porticello near Palermo.

The  luxury  vessel was caught up in a tornado which caused it to sink in the early hours of the morning.

Fifteen of those on board were rescued on a life raft, while the yacht’s cook Recaldo Thomas was discovered dead in the water shortly afterwards.

Specialist divers recovered the bodies of billionaire Lynch, 59, and four of his guests, from the first cabin on the left.

Officials said the victims had scrambled to reach air pockets in the yacht, which sank 164ft stern-first before rolling onto its right side on the seabed. 

Investigators are understood to be rifling through CCTV footage and photographs taken by locals on the night of the storm to understand why the boat sank so quickly. 

Chief Prosecutor Ambrogio Cartosio said the victims would have been asleep when a tornado-like waterspout struck the boat, leaving them unable to escape.

Lynch had just won a court case over the sale of Autonomy to tech giant HP after being accused of fraudulently raising the price.

The 59-year-old had been living under house arrest in San Francisco, US, with just his beloved dog Faucet for company, for well over a year.

He was finally acquitted just months ago and spoke about longing to spend time with his wife, Angela Bacares and their two daughters.

In 1996, he started software company Autonomy, which would be used to analyse huge swathes of data from unstructured sources like phone calls, emails and videos.

Describing his small team he said: “Eccentric people working really hard on a project. No bureaucracy. No admin. Lots of late nights, lots of eating cold pizza”.

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Autonomy became an instant success and benefitted from the dotcom boom, which led it to join the FTSE 100 of top UK listed companies. 

The achievements with Mike, the chief executive officer, at the helm led to considerable praise including receiving an OBE for services to enterprise in 2006. 

Inside The Bayesian's final 16 minutes

By Ellie Doughty, Foreign News Reporter

Data recovered from the Bayesian's Automatic Identification System (AIS) breaks down  exactly how it sank  in a painful minute-by-minute timeline.

At 3.50am on Monday August 19 the Bayesian began to shake "dangerously" during a fierce storm, Italian outlet  Corriere  revealed.

Just minutes later at 3.59am the boat's anchor gave way, with a source saying the data showed there was "no anchor left to hold".

After the ferocious weather ripped away the boat's mooring it was dragged some 358 metres through the water.

By 4am it had began to take on water and was plunged into a blackout, indicating that the waves had reached its generator or even engine room.

At 4.05am the  Bayesian fully disappeared  underneath the waves.

An emergency GPS signal was finally emitted at 4.06am to the coastguard station in Bari, a city nearby, alerting them that the vessel had sunk.

Early reports suggested the disaster struck around 5am local time off the coast of Porticello Harbour in Palermo, Sicily.

The new data pulled from the boat's AIS appears to suggest it happened an hour earlier at around 4am.

Some 15 of the 22 onboard were rescued, 11 of them scrambling onto an inflatable life raft that sprung up on the deck.

A smaller nearby boat - named Sir Robert Baden Powell - then helped take those people to shore.

• Bayesian yacht sinks