The Isle of Capri, its name summons images of the Mediterranean, the storied history of the Greeks and Romans, the chic and sophisticated who routinely vacation there. The island is but one jewel in a chain extending off the southwest coast of Italy.
A Bay of Naples yachting itinerary takes you to the stunningly beautiful Phlegraean and Pontine islands stretching westward into the Tyrrhenian Sea from the Gulf of Naples, and to the picturesque harbors of the Amalfi coast on the Sorrento Peninsula just south of Naples in the region of Campania (see Bay of Naples sailing maps). Both cruising grounds are enchanting and blend the bustle of chic ports of call such as the Isle of Capri with the quiet ambience of small Amalfi fishing villages such as Cetara. Swimming and sunbathing on pristine beaches, sightseeing tours of castles, fascinating archaeological sites, and historic island and coastal towns are among the many pleasures of crewed Bay of Naples yachting. Having a professional captain and a gourmet chef aboard the yacht is the essence of luxury, and it is quite fitting for a relaxed voyage in southern Italy.
Meals at any restaurant mentioned in this itinerary are not included in the charter price.
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Procida Island to Ischia Island – 3 nm. Your Bay of Naples yachting itinerary typically began the previous day, Saturday afternoon at 3:00 P.M., when you arrived at the Moorings base to check in and meet your professional crew. Now that you’ve had a restful night aboard, it’s time to head out onto the shimmering Tyrrhenian Sea to your first port of call, the beautiful and fascinating nearby island of Ischia, the largest of the three islands in the Phlegraean group. It’s a short passage to the southwest, allowing plenty of time to fully explore ashore. A special treat is a visit to the thermal gardens, which have pampered the rich and famous for centuries in the comforting hot springs said to have healing properties.
Ischia Island to Ventotene Island – 20 nm. Your captain will set a course from Ischia nearly due west to tiny Santo Stefano island, a wonderful day anchorage for going ashore in the dinghy to explore and to enjoy a pleasant swim. For lunch, your private chef will create a culinary delight to savor. As you gaze at the gorgeous scenery from the cool shade of the cockpit, the stress of a busy life fades away, as if by magic. This is your first day in the Pontine Islands, and many more pleasures await you. Beyond Santo Stefano Island is Ventotene and its many interesting attractions, including a museum, shops, and restaurants. You can either anchor in a secluded bay or arrange for dockage in the main harbor.
Ventotene Island to Ponza Island – 20 nm. A northwesterly heading takes you farther out into the magnificently blue Tyrrhenian Sea on this next leg of your Bay of Naples yachting itinerary. All around you high islands dot the horizon, some appearing almost purple in the distance, others black, tan, and green from the conglomeration of volcanic rock and the forests and lush Mediterranean vegetation covering the steep slopes. The sail is long enough to give you a real feel for the open waters between islands as you raise Ponza off the bow. This island is interesting for its relative isolation, its quiet streets, its gorgeous beaches, and its network of ocean caves that can be explored in the dinghy. You can also enjoy a barbecue on the beach, as you admire your luxury yacht swinging gently at anchor.
Ponza Island to Palmarola Island – 5 nm. Still heading northwest, you’ll soon reach the mostly uninhabited Palmarola Island, the westernmost of the Pontine group. Sailing around it rewards the eye with views of the craggy heights and picturesque bays. Much of the island is in a natural state, as if time forgot it was there and development passed it by. The beaches are beautiful and unspoiled, the swimming and sunbathing ideal. Exploring ashore is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. As you sail, feel free to try your hand at the helm. Your captain will gladly assist you if necessary.
Palmarola Island to Capri Island – 64 nm. On this leg of your itinerary, you’ll turn eastward to experience the distinctly high-end pleasures of the Isle of Capri. It’s a relatively long passage, so your professional crew will get under way early while you sleep in. You’ll awaken to the sound of the sea against the hull. It’s an exciting and unique experience to nestle in a cozy bunk, listening to the sounds of your luxury yacht making steady progress through the gentle waves, something only offshore cruising sailors usually get to do. When it’s time for breakfast, your private chef will prepare exactly the meal you want. You’ll arrive at Capri with plenty of time to go ashore at Capri Town and stroll the narrow streets off Piazza Umberto, the public square. Dining out in style is an option; upscale restaurants abound.
Capri Island to Procida – 20 nm. Your last full day of sailing takes you northward to Procida. The islands line the horizon to the west and to the east the beautiful Amalfi coast on the Sorrento Peninsula looms unbroken. Some sailors work a day or two of Amalfi cruising into their Phlegraean and Pontine itineraries, backtracking from Palmarola Island earlier to make time to visit the beautiful and quaint fishing port of Cetara, the bays and beaches of Palinuro, or other destinations. Either way, as you arrive back 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. for a sojourn to the historic city of Naples and the flight home afterwards.
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