Sicilian Escapes: Sailing from Marsala

Begin your sailing itinerary from the port of Marsala and set sail for the beautiful town of Trapani. upon arrival Head to the Regional Museum Agostino Pepoli, located in a former Carmelite convent. The museum has an extensive collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, giving you a deeper understanding of the region's cultural heritage. The Saline di Trapani e Paceco Nature Reserve offers stunning views and a chance to learn about the traditional salt harvesting process. Spend some time relaxing on the sandy shores of Lido Paradiso. It's a great spot for a swim or simply to unwind and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. End your day with a delicious seafood dinner.

Continue onwards to the Island of Levanzo and anchor in the main port. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast with a cappuccino and a cornetto at a local cafe, located near the port. Visit this fascinating cave, famous for its prehistoric cave paintings and carvings. The tour usually lasts about 2 hours and gives insight into the island's ancient history. Take a leisurely hike to Faraglione Beach, approximately a 30-minute walk from the port. The trail offers stunning views of the turquoise waters and rugged coastline. Head back to the village and enjoy a seafood lunch. Try local specialities like pasta with sea urchin or fresh grilled fish, accompanied by a glass of Sicilian white wine. Stop by the charming little church Sant’Antonino, in the village center for a quick visit. Explore the underwater archaeological site at Cala Minnola, known for its ancient Roman shipwrecks. End the day with dinner by the sea. Savour the flavours of the island with dishes like couscous with fish or swordfish involtini.

The next stop on this sailing itinerary is the island of Marettimo. Start your day with a traditional Sicilian breakfast at one of the local cafes near the port. Stroll through the picturesque village of Marettimo. Visit the small, charming streets, and enjoy the local architecture. Stop by the Church of San Bartolo, the island's main church. Head back to the village for lunch. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. Try dishes like grilled fish, pasta with sea urchin, or calamari. Begin a hike to the ancient fortress of Punta Troia. The hike offers breathtaking views and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Explore the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the island and the sea. Make your way to one of Marettimo's beautiful beaches for some relaxation. Cala Manione is a good choice for its scenic beauty and calm waters. For dinner, choose a cosy trattoria. Enjoy a leisurely meal featuring Marettimo’s traditional dishes. Don’t forget to try a local dessert like cassata or granita.

Navigate back towards Marsala and stop off at the island of Favignana, anchor in the port of Pozzo Ponente. Start your day with a traditional Italian breakfast of espresso and a pastry at a local café.Head to Torre Saracena, a historic Saracen tower overlooking the sea. Enjoy panoramic views and learn about its history. Wander through the old town (Centro Storico) and admire the quaint architecture, narrow streets, and small shops. Enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch at a restaurant along the coastline. Try local specialties like pasta alle vongole (clams) or frittura di pesce (fried fish).Spend some time relaxing on one of Pozzo Ponente’s beautiful beaches. You can choose between sandy or rocky beaches, depending on your preference. Explore Museo del Mare (Sea Museum), which showcases the maritime history of the region. It’s a fascinating look into Pozzo Ponente’s seafaring heritage. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.

Cruise onwards to the coastal town of Favignana. Begin your day with a typical Italian breakfast of coffee and pastries at a cosy café in Favignana town. Head to Cala Rossa, a beautiful beach known for its turquoise waters and rocky cliffs. Spend some time sunbathing, swimming, or snorkelling in the clear Mediterranean Sea. Have lunch at a seafood restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes at a local trattoria near Cala Rossa or back in Favignana town. Don't miss the chance to try local specialities like couscous di pesce or pasta con le sarde. Wander through the charming streets of Favignana town. Visit the Piazza Madrice and the Church of Santa Maria Immacolata, and explore local shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts. Take a tour of the former tuna fishery (tonnara) of Favignana, such as the Tonnara Florio, to learn about the island's history and its traditional tuna fishing methods. Choose a restaurant with a sea view and enjoy a relaxing dinner while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.

The last stop on your sailing holiday is the town of Punta Longa. Have a light breakfast onboard or at a local bakery. Head to Punta Longa Beach to enjoy the early morning tranquillity and the crystal-clear waters. Take a leisurely walk along the shore or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Visit the Punta Longa Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Adriatic Sea. Take a guided tour if available to learn about the history of the lighthouse and its importance to the area. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the seafront restaurants in Punta Longa. Indulge in fresh local dishes such as grilled fish, seafood pasta, or a seafood platter while enjoying the sea breeze. Explore the Archaeological Museum of Punta Longa, which showcases artefacts and exhibits related to the history of the region. For dinner, head to a traditional trattoria in Punta Longa. Enjoy local specialities such as seafood risotto, grilled squid, or homemade pasta dishes.

Finally, head back to the main base marina of Marsala and enjoy your last moments at sea. Enjoy a nice breakfast in the marina or onboard. Start your day by exploring the beautiful Marsala Cathedral, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Explore the Museo degli Arazzi (Tapestry Museum). Located near the cathedral, this museum houses a collection of intricate tapestries. Head to a nearby trattoria or restaurant to enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch. Marsala is known for its seafood dishes, so don't miss out on trying some local specialities like couscous di pesce (fish couscous) or pasta with fresh seafood. Marsala is famous for its Marsala wine, and a visit to the Florio Winery offers a chance to learn about its production. Explore the archaeological remains of Lilybaeum, an ancient Phoenician and Roman city. Choose a restaurant in the historic centre of Marsala for dinner. Many eateries offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the evening breeze.