Looking to go yacht chartering in Italy? You don’t need to be an experienced sailor or have deep pockets to set sail around Sicily. This guide is your comprehensive resource for beginners, covering everything you need to plan an amazing Sicilian yacht charter. It also offers insights on maximizing your experience while staying cost-effective. Now let’s start with the basics.
Who Can Charter a Yacht?
You don’t need any sailing experience to charter a yacht or a catamaran. If you can’t sail, or if you rather enjoy the trip without worrying about navigation, you can charter a crewed boat. The crew will take care of getting the boat safely from A to B, so you can focus on enjoying your time on the sea.
A boat charter is also not something only the wealthy can enjoy. Smaller boats can be affordable, and sleeping on your boat means you can save on hotel accommodations. Bigger boats cost more, but they can fit more people, and splitting the cost with a group of friends can make the trip’s cost per person even lower.
Bottom line is, if you can afford a vacation to Sicily, there is a good chance you can make a boat charter in the country work within your budget.
How to Choose Your Charter
There are many factors to keep in mind when you charter a catamaran or any yacht for your Sicilian adventure. Here are some of the most important things to consider.
1 – Types of Charter
There are two types of charter to choose from:
- Bareboat Charter: Ideal for those who have sailing experience and prefer to be in full control. This is just the boat — no crew included.
- Crewed Charter: As mentioned earlier, if you’d rather not handle the sailing or just want a stress-free experience, go for a crewed charter. They come with experienced crew members, which often include a captain and possibly a cook or other staff.
On top of offering more freedom, a bareboat charter typically costs less than a crewed charter for a boat of the same time.
2 – Size and Type of Boat
There are two main types of boat to choose for your charter. They are:
- Sailing Yachts: These boats use sails as their primary means of propulsion. They are serene, allowing you to connect more with the sea and the sailing experience. They come in various sizes, suitable for couples to larger groups.
- Catamarans: These are multi-hulled vessels, offering more stability than single-hulled yachts. They usually provide more space and are great for those prone to seasickness due to their stability.
The size of the boat also plays a big role in how stable they are. Bigger boats also have more room for luxuries and amenities, such as media rooms, jacuzzis, big kitchens, and more.
3 – Duration and Itinerary
You can choose whether you want to spend a portion or your entire vacation on a boat. Here are some factors to consider:
- Weekend or Weekly Charters: Depending on your schedule, you can opt for a shorter weekend charter or an adventure that lasts one or more weeks. The latter allows for more exploration.
- Custom Itineraries: While many operators offer set routes, don’t be shy to express your interests. If there’s a particular spot you want to explore or an activity you wish to do, yacht charter booking platforms like SeekSail can help customize your route accordingly.
4 – Additional Costs
It’s easy to overlook potential costs when planning your charter. Here are some of the big ones to keep in mind.
- Fuel: Depending on the type and size of the boat, as well as the duration and distance of your trip, fuel can be a significant expense. This is particularly a concern on bareboat charters.
- Port Fees: Each time you dock in a marina or harbor, there may be fees involved. These can vary depending on the location and the size of your yacht.
- Provisions: This includes food, drinks, and other essentials for your trip. While some crewed charters might include meals, bareboat charters usually won’t.
- Activities and Excursions: While some trips or activities might be included in the charter, others, like scuba diving or guided tours on land, could cost extra.
Whether or not a given cost is covered by your charter will depend on the terms of the charter. So make sure you read those carefully.
Exploring Sicily Coastal Spots and Attractions
Sicily’s coastline is packed with enchanting places waiting to be discovered. Picture seaside towns oozing with character and islands that’ll capture your heart. To make sure you have the authentic Sicilian experience during your yacht chartering in Sicily, here are the top destinations you shouldn’t miss.
1 – Palermo
The capital of Sicily, Palermo offers a blend of cultures that’s been shaped by centuries of conquests and visitors. Moor your yacht and venture inland to marvel at its Norman palaces, Arab domes, and Byzantine mosaics. While in Palermo, also make sure to explore the bustling Ballarò and Vucciria street markets, where the vibrant sounds, scents, and flavors encapsulate the spirit of Sicilian life.
2 – Cefalù:
This gem is renowned for its Norman Cathedral, boasting stunning mosaics, but it’s also a haven for beach lovers. Its charming, narrow medieval streets are ideal for strolls, and La Rocca, a massive rock overlooking the town, is worth a climb for the panoramic views it offers.
3 – Aeolian Islands
This volcanic archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is composed of seven distinct islands. The most popular ones are:
- Stromboli: Known for its active volcano, Stromboli is a thrill to observe the periodic eruptions, especially after dark when it’s aptly termed the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.”
- Lipari: The largest of the islands, Lipari is known for its historical archaeological museum, picturesque town, and pumice quarries.
- Panarea: A local hotspot, this island boasts pristine waters, a lively nightlife scene, and prehistoric ruins at Capo Milazzese.
4 – Taormina
Perched on a hilltop, this town is like a balcony overlooking the Ionian Sea. With its Greco-Roman theater set against the backdrop of Mount Etna, Taormina offers a blend of history and natural beauty. The town itself is filled with medieval streets, artisan shops, and cafes serving delectable Sicilian treats.
5 – Syracuse
Once a major power of the ancient Mediterranean world, Syracuse boasts a wealth of Greek and Roman ruins. The historic heart of the city, Ortigia Island, is connected to the mainland by bridges and offers a maze of medieval streets, Baroque palaces, and a stunning cathedral built atop an ancient Greek temple.
Staying Busy Between Destinations
On a chartered boat, the time you spend going from A to B can be just as exciting as the destinations you’re visiting. As you sail the clear blue waters, you’ll see amazing views of the island and the sea. Plus, being onboard a yacht can let you enjoy some great features and comforts. So when planning your trip, don’t forget to account for the time you’ll be spending on the boat.
Here are some of the best things you can enjoy on your chartered yacht:
- Bonding Moments: The intimacy of a yacht journey creates perfect bonding opportunities. Whether it’s sharing stories under the stars, playing games, or simply lounging and chatting with friends and family, the moments you’ll share at sea can be some of the best parts of the trip.
- Gastronomic Delights: Many yachts come equipped with kitchens, giving you the chance to cook up a feast. Imagine the joy of prepping meals together using fresh ingredients from Sicilian markets or even catching your fish for a delectable onboard BBQ. If you’ve opted for a crewed charter, some offer the luxury of a chef who can introduce you to authentic Sicilian dishes right on the deck.
- Nature’s Splendors: Sailing offers a front-row seat to nature’s beauty. Whether it’s the golden hues of dawn, a pod of dolphins frolicking alongside the boat, or the shimmering reflection of a setting sun on the waves, the sights you’ll witness are simply magical.
- Onboard Entertainment: Modern yachts nowadays also come packed with entertainment options. From music systems and board games to water toys like paddleboards or snorkeling gear, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.
Remember, while the allure of Sicily’s shores is undeniable, the journey between those destinations can be just as fun. This is why you should consider getting around by boat when exploring Sicily. Buon viaggio!
