Sicily - Aeolian Islands - Calabria - Yacht Charter with view on the volcano Etna
The sea around Sicily attracts with a variety of great Yacht Charter destinations between Marsala in the west and Catania in the east. The seven Aeolian Islands or the splendid Coast of Calabria south of Vibo Valentia and Tropea are just a daytrip away.
Sea & Coast
Taking their name after the Greek god of the winds, Aeolus, these islands are located in the Tyrrhenian sea, just north of Sicily and are a real Yacht Charter magnet. Also known as the Lipari Islands after the largest in the group, the Aeolian Islands are made up of Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi, Panarea, Basiluzzo and, of course, Lipari.
The islands were formed by volcanic activity, two of the most known volcanoes in Europe, Stromboli and Volcano, being located in the region. Of the two, just Stromboli is still active. The general geography is very interesting, a unique mix of mountains and beaches. The white of the pumice stones alternates with the black of the obsidian which has been exported for centuries from Lipari. There are thermal springs that are a joy for the Yacht Charter crowds that gather here, famous for their therapeutic properties.
The local vegetation is made up of those quintessentially Mediterranean species such as myrtle, oleander, heather, broom and prickly-leaf oak. On high, wind-swept peaks you’re going to find rosemary, thyme or heliotrope. Still, the most abundant are olives trees and grape vines, which cover the lower parts of the islands.
Culture & History
The islands were inhabited very early, thanks to their position within the Mediterranean basin, but also thanks to the obsidian, which was used by prehistoric people to fashion weapons. After the Romans, the islands were sacked by Vandals, Ostrogoths and Visigoths only to be followed by the Byzantines, the Arabs, the Normans and the Ottomans. After being rejoined with Italy, the islands became prosperous again and now they are known as summer Yacht Charter retreats for both foreigners and Italians alike.
Part of the charm of the islands is the fact that they retain their rural look, the urban development being strictly monitored by the state. Almost all hotels are family-run business, which to the Yacht Charter traveler means home-cooked meals and personal service.
Seamanship & Experience
The region around the islands can be full of boats in the summer months, which means a lot of traffic to look out for. Anchorage points can be found all along the coast and almost every island has at least one marina. In the summer, winds blow predominantly from the northwest with values around 8-12 knots. Also during the hot season, Yacht Charter crews should expect temperatures in the 30s that drop down to the 20s in towards the beginning and end of the day.