
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, the Aeolian Islands (also known as the Lipari Islands) are situated just above Sicily at the southern edge of the Tyrrhenian Sea, an arm of the Mediterranean 475 miles in length and 60 miles wide.
A Calabria sailing itinerary takes you to the beautiful Aeolian Islands. They are also called the Lipari Islands and lie just north of Sicily in the Tyrrhenian Sea about 30 nautical miles from the Moorings base at the historic harbor of Tropea in the Calabria region of southern Italy (see Calabria maps). The cruising grounds blend chic ports of call such as Panarea Island, a favorite among the jet-setter crowd, with the quiet ambience of islands off the tourist track such as Salina. Swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on pristine beaches is a delight. Sightseeing tours of castles, fascinating archaeological sites, and historic waterfront villages are intriguing and educational. Browsing in eclectic boutiques where fashion is of the first order and dining in fine restaurants serving exquisitely prepared local cuisine is the essence of luxury. These are among the many pleasures of sailing in the Aeolian Islands, known for gentle winds and splendid anchorages.
Tropea to Panarea Island – 40 nm. Your Calabria itinerary typically began the previous day, Saturday afternoon at 3:00 P.M., when you arrived at the Moorings base to check in, provision the boat (if you hadn’t elected to have us do it for you), and receive your pre-cruise chart briefing. Now that you’ve enjoyed a restful night aboard, it’s time to head out onto the shimmering Tyrrhenian Sea to your first port of call, lovely Panarea Island. Panarea is interesting for its exclusive boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs, and private villas. Its quiet streets and gorgeous beaches are picturesque and inviting. Exploring the archaeological site of Punta Milazzese, a Bronze Age village, is intriguing. There’s a superb anchorage nearby just to the east. A delightful day stop on the way to Panarea is at the rocky island of Basiluuzo, where you can go ashore to check out the views and the ancient Roman ruins.
Panarea Island to Lipari Island – 10 nm. Continuing your sail south, the next port of call is at the largest of the Aeolian Islands. The heights are a mix of white from pumice, black from basalt, and green from the lush vegetation covering the slopes. It’s truly spectacular as you sail along the coast. Ashore are five villages, each with its own eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. Breathtaking beaches are inviting for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Scuba diving is also fascinating on the various dive sites in and around Lipari. You can arrange for a guided diving excursion for all skill levels.
Lipari Island to Vulcano Island – 2 nm. Your Calabria sailing itinerary takes you south once more on a very short passage to the appropriately named Vulcano. No fewer than three volcanic peaks rise from its interior, though only one is still showing evidence of activity, Fossa di Vulcano, which is famous for its hot springs. Thermal gardens are one of the main attractions on the island. They are renowned for their therapeutic properties. On Vulcano’s south coast are magnificent beaches popular for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. There are numerous bays with beautiful and secure anchorages.
Vulcano Island to Salina Island – 13 nm. Setting a course to the northwest past Lipari puts Salina Island dead ahead. You are in the midst of the Aeolian Islands, with the coast of Sicily astern. The deep blue sea sparkles with sunlight and a balmy breeze fills the sails. This is bareboat Calabria sailing at its very best. Salina is the second largest of the Aeolian Islands next to Lipari. In spite of its name, which derives from the salt works that were once an important part of the economy, the island could well be called a Garden of Eden. It’s the only major island to have abundant water sources, which in turn has made it verdant and inviting. Renting a car, bicycle, or motor scooter is a charming way to see much of the island as you ride down picturesque roads in a place seemingly forgotten in time.
Salina Island to Stromboli Island – 21 nm. A pleasant passage to the northeast sets the stage for a wonderful day of sailing as you make your way to impressive Stromboli, the second largest active volcano in Europe besides Sicily’s Mt. Etna. You’ll see its prodigious heights and the smoke and steam at the summit well before you reach the small harbor of Ginostra, where you can anchor just outside and go ashore to explore and dine at one of the excellent restaurants. A guided tour of the volcano is highly recommended.
Stomboli Island to Tropea – 30 nm. The final sail of your Calabria sailing itinerary takes you back to beautiful Tropea, where you can relax over an excellent meal in town after you arrive at the Moorings base by 5:00 P.M. to check out the boat. You’ll bask in the sheer delights of the past week on the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Final Morning
After a restful night aboard, disembark from your yacht at 8:00 A.M.
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