Spend a few days on either end of your Italian Amalfi Coast itinerary with a Mediterranean yacht charter in the Aeolian Islands. Made for the waterborne, the archipelago of seven Aeolian Islands – Stromboli, Panarea, Salina, Lipari, Vulcano, Filicudi, and Alicudi – have the air of a place where time has stood still, not to mention awe-inspiring beauty and delicious cuisine.
To the far south of Italy, the Aeolian Islands and Sicily reveal some of the most dramatic landscapes and you can also visit a fascinating museum to learn the history of this land, get into nature walking on a volcano and find the beach where you want to spend the whole week. Created by volcanoes, two of which are still active, the seven Aeolian islands have all the right characteristics for an upmarket chill-out zone. Whether combining the islands with an Amalfi Coast itinerary or as a stand-alone Aeolian Islands yacht charter, they offer all the credentials for an idyllic vacation that will act as a backdrop for unforgettable memories.
The Aeolian Islands take their name from the Greek god of the winds, Aeolus. According to Greek legend, Aeolus lived on the islands and provided winds to take Odysseus and his crew safely home to Ithaca. Magical in every way, the islands all boast a special charm and character just waiting to be discovered by nautical aficionados.
As you cruise to the island of Panarea, just off the toe of Italy’s boot, you will pass by the active volcano of Stromboli at dusk. Once you arrive, you can venture ashore to the many bars and restaurants that line the harbor of Panarea. After a peaceful night anchorage, set sail for Panarea’s offshore islands and anchor off, taking the tender ashore for a lovely picnic and exploring the lush landscapes.
Sail onto the island of Vulcano, a destination prized for generations for its healing qualities. The island has an abundance of bubbling mud ponds and hot springs for wellness-conscious charterers. Anchor overnight at Lipari and visit the numerous historic sites, boutiques, and restaurants.
Sail through the Messina Straits and the fleets of tall-masted swordfishing boats to Taormina – the Monte Carlo of Sicily. Strategically positioned, the rugged island of Sicily has suffered a long history of invasion, and the influence of the Greeks, Byzantines, Romans, Arabs, and Normas is still visible in the shape of beautiful temples and historic buildings. Discover the thriving resort of Giardini Naxos, Sicily’s oldest Greek settlement, and venture inland to view Mount Etna, one of the most famous active volcanoes in the world.
The islands are blessed with plenty of breathtaking scenery, while Sicily to the south has an abundance of history, culture and art. Combined, they make for the ideal cruising grounds to begin or finish an Italian charter.
Get in touch with a yacht broker in the Aeolian Islands
Northrop & Johnson is a leading yacht brokerage with access to every crewed luxury yacht for charter in the Aeolian Islands, including vessels by pedigree yacht builders. Contact our team today if you want to experience an incredible vacation on the water in Italy’s Aeolian Islands.
