Yacht charter in Italy

On Overview of Your Italy Yacht Charter

Quick Overview

• Ideal Sailing Season: May to September offers warm weather, calm seas, and excellent sailing conditions.
• Top Destinations: Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, Sicily, and Tuscany are among the most popular regions for yacht charters.
• Yacht Types Available: From luxurious motor yachts and spacious catamarans to traditional sailing yachts, Italy offers a wide variety of vessels to suit different preferences and budgets..
• Charter Options: Available with or without a skipper, allowing for both crewed and bareboat charters based on your level of experience and comfort.
• Popular Activities: Explore historic coastal towns, swim in crystal-clear waters, visit secluded beaches, and indulge in local Italian cuisine.
• Key Marinas: Notable marinas include Marina Grande (Capri), Porto Cervo (Sardinia), and Marina di Portofino (Liguria), offering top-notch facilities and services.
• Accessibility: Major starting points include Naples, Olbia, Palermo, and Rome, with easy access via international airports.

Essential Facts

• Average Costs: Yacht charters in Italy can range from €3,000 to €30,000 per week, depending on yacht type, season, and additional services.
• Booking Tips: Book early, especially for peak season (July and August), as availability can be limited. Flexible dates and routes can help secure better deals.
• Navigation Regulations: Italy requires a valid sailing licence for bareboat charters, or you can hire a professional skipper to guide your journey.
• Cultural Highlights: Enjoy a mix of ancient history, vibrant local festivals, and world-renowned Italian hospitality throughout your voyage.
• Weather Insights: Italy enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Expect steady winds in most regions, perfect for sailing.

Suggested Routes

Planning your yacht charter in Italy is all about choosing the right itinerary to match your interests, whether it's exploring historical sites, indulging in local cuisine, or finding hidden bays for quiet relaxation. Our curated itineraries are designed by experienced brokers to ensure you get the most out of your sailing adventure, with options to explore multiple regions or focus on one unforgettable area. Each route typically spans 6-8 days, giving you the perfect blend of onshore excursions and tranquil sailing. Check out our Italy sailing routes.

Naples Voyage

Explore the stunning Amalfi Coast, including stops at Capri, Sorrento, and Positano. Ideal for those looking to combine sailing with cultural exploration. View Full Itinerary

Sail Tuscany

Navigate through the Tuscan Archipelago, with visits to Elba, Giglio, and Capraia Islands. Perfect for a mix of sailing and wine-tasting experiences. View Full Itinerary

Portoferraio Sailing Adventure

Begin in Portoferraio on Elba Island, sailing through the surrounding waters and visiting hidden coves and historic sites. View Full Itinerary

Salerno Serenity

A peaceful journey along the Amalfi Coast, with stops in Ravello, Amalfi, and secluded bays. View Full Itinerary

Aeolian Islands Sailing

Experience Sicily’s volcanic archipelago, including Stromboli, Lipari, and Vulcano, known for their unique landscapes and thermal springs. View Full Itinerary

Yacht Charter Options

Italy has become a prime destination for skippered boat charter and bareboat boat rentals, resulting in ample marinas to choose from during your sailing trip.

Due to its justified popularity, Italy offers you a huge variety of boats, making it easier to organize a perfect sailing holiday which fits your needs. You can hire sailing and motor boats, catamarans or even bigger boats with many cabins to accommodate a bigger group (like a luxury yacht or a gulet). With abundant marinas to choose from in top destinations (Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Tuscany) and many others found throughout the coastline, you will have no issue finding somewhere to berth your catamaran or monohull.

Many Italian islands offer tranquil and secluded mooring spots too, where you can relax and take in the exquisite scenery of Italy during the day and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep, free from noise on board your boat in the comfortable private cabins.

These marinas are equipped to deal with any issues you may have during your sailing holiday in the Mediterranean. Your skipper will know some hidden gems to explore during your week, which may make crewed boat trips more enticing for a group that has not spent much time on the Italian coast. 

Discovering Italy's coastline offers an unmatched experience, with a plethora of options for boat charter in Italy, exploring the seas at your own pace. Italy's services cater to every sailor's dream, whether you aim to glide over the Mediterranean waters aboard a luxurious yacht, embark on a bespoke adventure with a chartered vessel, or enjoy the freedom of boat rental in Italy. This rich selection ensures your journey through Italy’s enchanting marine landscapes is both unforgettable and perfectly suited to your preferences. Take a look at our options for yacht rental in Italy for an unforgettable trip.

Four Reasons to Charter a Yacht in Italy

1. Navigation for Everyone

Italy is no stranger to sailors; the novices and the experienced can all find something to suit them! There is a large choice of marinas and harbours for safe mooring, and the optimum sailing season is between May and October, whether your yacht charter is with or without a skipper. Conditions vary according to location, although the summer months are generally calmer, with dry, sunny weather and milder winds.

2. World Heritage Hotspot

As the country with the most UNESCO world heritage sites in the world, Italy is an archaeological haven. Charter your yacht from Rome and explore historical treasures such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon and the Roman Forum, or wander the streets of Pompeii and see the ghostly ruins of a town destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. Italy is a history lover's dream, and even those less enthusiastic will be amazed by many of the sights the country has on offer, so make sure you dedicate even just a day to exploring the magnificent ruins because a yacht charter is about more than just sailing, discover the charm of Italy!

3. Mouth-Watering Cuisine

With its famous cuisine, it need not be reminded that Italy is the motherland of world-favourites of pizza and pasta, so your charter holiday here is sure to be seasoned with many delicious dishes. But don’t miss out on trying new Italian specialities just because you’re familiar with the famous ones… explore the Palermo food market if you’re cruising past Sicily, and sample the locally grown produce. Or if you charter from Tuscany, try ‘Ribollita’, a soup brimming with a fusion of fresh vegetables, or locally grown truffles, one of the world’s most coveted, expensive foods – not to be missed! And then, of course, savour the sweet flavours of Lasagne the way it should be made.

4. The Stunning Amalfi Coast

The UNESCO-listed landscape is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking breathtaking beauty, charming villages, and a relaxed, Mediterranean vibe. With its cliffs overlooking the turquoise sea, historic churches dotting hilltop towns, and fresh, delicious cuisine, the Amalfi Coast offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. The Amalfi Coast is famous for its cliffs, stunning beaches, and clear waters, making it one of the most picturesque destinations in Italy and a must-see for those who charter a yacht in the area. 

Where to Charter a Yacht in Italy?

GlobeSailor has bases all over Italy for you to choose from! Pick your starting destination after reading about some of our highly rated bases:

Seductive Sardinia

Sardinia is our most popular yacht charter base in Italy, and you’ll see why… with the translucent, glittering sea and impossibly white beaches fringed by lush forests of emerald pine, it really is a slice of paradise. There are marinas where you can rent a boat or moor your yacht for the night dotted all over the island, so there really is no excuse not to find yourself lost on this magical island! Sardinia also has its own culinary character, with its very own variation on all the basic foods such as pasta, bread and dolci, even with two of its own locally produced wines that are definitely worth a try: Vermentino white and Cannonau Red. The island has endless appeal; with beaches like Spiaggia della Pelosa, world heritage sites like Nuraghe Su Nuraxi, and national parks such as Parco Nazionale dell'Asinara, there is a mesmerizing diversity of culture and scenery to make Sardinia the perfect destination to suit everyone on board!

Sailing Routes

Explore the Maddalena Archipelago's stunning islands, with stops at Porto Cervo and Cala di Volpe, renowned for their luxury marinas and secluded bays.

Local Attractions

Beyond its beautiful beaches, discover Sardinia’s ancient history at sites like the Nuraghe Su Nuraxi. Enjoy Sardinia's unique culinary delights, including its famed Vermentino wines.

Key Marinas

Major marinas include Porto Rotondo and Marina di Porto Cervo, offering top-tier facilities and easy access to the region’s highlights.

Sailing Conditions

Expect steady winds and warm temperatures, perfect for both beginner and experienced sailors.

Sizzling Sicily

Sicily is a gorgeous island that offers breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for adventure. Imagine sailing along the coast, stopping at secluded bays, discovering ancient ruins and historical landmarks, or indulging in local cuisine and culture. There are many ancient ruins on the island for you to explore, such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, where you can see the remains of ancient Greek temples or the ruins of the Roman city of Syracuse. For the adventurers, Mount Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano, resides here. Trek to the top for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
We also recommend you wander the streets of Palermo, a town with a rich history that showcases Norman, Arab, and Byzantine influences during your yacht charter.

Sailing Routes

Sail from Palermo to the Aeolian Islands, exploring volcanic landscapes and charming fishing villages along the way. Anchor near Taormina for a glimpse of Mount Etna.

Local Attractions

Beyond the Valley of the Temples, explore hidden gems like the small island of Favignana with its clear waters and unique coastal caves.

Key Marinas

Marina di Ragusa and Porto di Trapani are ideal bases for exploring Sicily’s diverse coastline.

Sailing Conditions

Sicily enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with favourable sailing conditions from May to October.

Tantalising Tuscany

Tuscany, a region in central Italy known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and historic cities, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of la dolce vita. Here you'll find yourself sailing along the coast, stopping at charming villages, sampling local cuisine and wines, and discovering hidden beaches and coves. There are many delightful towns in Tuscany for you to spend your week mooring and exploring. 

• Pisa: This famous city is home to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, but it also boasts other historic sites like the Piazza dei Miracoli and the Baptistery.
• Florence: Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a city that is steeped in history and art. An hour's drive inland from Pisa, Florence is well worth the day trip! Don't miss famous museums, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, where you'll stand and witness the breathtaking pieces by great artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.
• Siena: A medieval hill town that is known for its stunning architecture and historic palaces, including the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia.
• San Gimignano: Often referred to as the "Medieval Manhattan," San Gimignano is a well-preserved hill town that offers some stunning landscape views from the hilltops.

Sailing Routes

Navigate the waters between the Tuscan Archipelago, stopping at Elba, Capraia, and Giglio islands, each offering unique landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

Local Attractions

Besides the well-known cities, visit the hidden coves of the Tuscan coast, and enjoy vineyard tours and local Tuscan cuisine.

Key Marinas

Marina di Punta Ala and Porto Ercole offer excellent facilities and access to Tuscany’s cultural hotspots.

Sailing Conditions

Calm seas and light winds make the Tuscan coast ideal for relaxed sailing trips, especially in late spring and early autumn.

Riveting Rome

Rome is a magnificent city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and beauty. You will also have the opportunity to live like the Romans and appreciate the true essence of Roman culture and lifestyle as you stop at local markets, visit ancient ruins, and indulge in delicious Italian cuisine. There are so many essential monuments for you to see in Rome: 

• The Colosseum: This ancient amphitheatre is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome and a testament to Rome's rich history.
• Vatican City: The smallest independent state in the world, Vatican City is home to St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums.
• The Roman Forum: This ancient marketplace was once the centre of political, commercial, and social life in Rome and is now an open-air museum.
• The Pantheon: This ancient temple-turned-church is one of the best-preserved buildings from ancient Rome and is synonymous with its iconic dome.
• Trevi Fountain: This beautiful baroque fountain is one of the most famous landmarks in Rome and is said to bring good luck to those who throw a coin into it.

Sailing Routes

Start from the port of Civitavecchia, exploring nearby coastal towns like Santa Marinella and Santa Severa, each rich in history and local charm.

Local Attractions

Beyond Rome’s famous landmarks, discover coastal villages and enjoy authentic Roman dining experiences away from the city crowds.

Key Marinas

Porto Turistico di Roma and Marina di Nettuno offer easy access to the city and surrounding coastal areas.

Sailing Conditions

Summer months offer gentle breezes and warm weather, making it perfect for day sails and coastal cruising.

Stunning Salerno

Salerno is a city bursting with history, culture, and natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the south of Italy. Some of the must-see sights include the historic cathedral of Santa Maria degli Angeli, the Castello di Arechi, and the stunning seafront promenade. For a unique cultural experience, visitors can explore the National Archaeological Museum of Salerno, which showcases the area's rich history. Several parks and natural reserves for outdoor enthusiasts, such as the Parco Naturale Regionale Monti Picentini, offer hiking, biking and wildlife-watching opportunities. The city's vibrant food scene is also not to be missed, offering a variety of local dishes, including seafood and fresh pasta. With so much to see and do, Salerno is the perfect destination for anyone looking to appreciate the beauty and diversity of southern Italy.

Sailing Routes

From Salerno, explore the Amalfi Coast’s iconic towns like Positano and Ravello, or venture towards Capri for a luxury escape.

Local Attractions

Enjoy Salerno’s vibrant cultural scene, including historic architecture and modern art installations along the city’s promenades.

Key Marinas

Marina d’Arechi and Port of Salerno provide excellent facilities with stunning views of the Gulf of Salerno.

Sailing Conditions

Calm waters and consistent winds make Salerno a perfect base for exploring the Amalfi Coast.

Notable Naples

Naples is a city in the south of Italy that is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Here are some must-visit sights and attractions:

• Pompeii: This ancient Roman site was buried by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Royal Palace of Naples: This historic palace was once the residence of the Bourbon kings of Naples and is now a museum with stunning artwork and furniture.
• Castel dell'Ovo: This historic castle is one of the oldest fortifications in the town and is located on a small island in the Bay of Naples.
• Catacombs of San Gennaro: These underground tombs date back to the early Christian era and are a testament to the city's rich history.
• National Archaeological Museum of Naples: This museum is one of the largest and most important in Italy and is home to an extensive collection of artefacts from ancient Greece, Rome, and Egypt.
• Piazza del Plebiscito: This grand square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Royal Palace and the San Carlo Theatre, and is a hub of activity in the town.
• Ischia: This volcanic island in the Bay of Naples is known for its thermal baths, stunning beaches, and scenic coastline.

Sailing Routes

Sail from Naples to explore the nearby islands of Ischia, Capri, and Procida, each offering unique landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Local Attractions

In addition to its famous historical sites, explore Naples’ vibrant neighbourhoods, each offering a different slice of Italian life.

Key Marinas

Marina Molo Luise and Marina di Stabia serve as excellent starting points for exploring Naples and its surrounding islands.

Sailing Conditions

Ideal sailing conditions from May to September, with moderate winds and warm weather conducive to comfortable cruising.

Types of Boats Available for Charter in Italy

Sailboats

Sailboats are ideal for those who enjoy traditional sailing with a hands-on experience. They are perfect for a serene and authentic sailing adventure, offering multiple cabins, comfortable living spaces, and basic sailing equipment. These boats are best suited for those with sailing experience or when hiring a skipper.

Catamarans

Catamarans are known for their stability and spacious layout, making them great for families and groups seeking comfort and room for activities. They feature dual hulls that provide extra space, large cabins, lounge areas, and often include water toys for entertainment.

Luxury Yachts

Luxury yachts are the top choice for those seeking an exclusive and luxurious experience, complete with high-end amenities and superior comfort. They typically have multiple decks, state-of-the-art interiors, a professional crew, and options like hot tubs, jet skis, and gourmet dining.

Gulets

Gulets are traditional wooden boats that offer a blend of luxury and cultural charm, often used for relaxed cruising along scenic routes. They feature spacious decks, large cabins, and a crew that handles all navigation and service, providing a historic sailing experience.

Motorboats

Motorboats are ideal for those looking for speed and efficiency, perfect for quick island hopping or reaching destinations swiftly. They are equipped with high-speed engines, comfortable seating, and are usually designed for day trips with or without overnight facilities.

Power Catamarans

Power catamarans combine the space and stability of catamarans with the power and speed of motorboats, offering a versatile charter option. They feature dual engines for extra speed, spacious interiors, and amenities for both comfort and performance.

Houseboats

Houseboats are great for those who prefer a floating home experience, ideal for calm waters and leisurely cruising along coastal or inland waterways. They offer ample living space, kitchen facilities, and are designed for comfort rather than speed, making them perfect for long-term stays.

RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats)

RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) are used primarily for day trips, excursions, or as tenders for larger yachts. They are known for their speed and agility, being lightweight, fast, and easy to manoeuvre, with seating but typically without overnight accommodation.

Brilliant Beaches for Yacht Rental in Italy

Italy is home to an abundance of beaches, diverse and unique, but all with one thing in common: they are all stunningly beautiful! Renting a boat on the Mediterranean is, without a doubt, the optimum way to explore these little patches of heaven. If you charter from Calabria (the tip of the boot), venture into Tropea, and pay a visit to Marasusa Beach; a strip of powdery white sand sheltered by towering cliffs above, looking out onto a sea of turquoise ripples… although a spot which can get busy in peak season, you could sail by in the early evening when the crowds will have become more sparse and you can enjoy the more tranquil beauty of the beach. If you’re navigating off the west coast, head to Ponza: a tiny island home to Chiaia di Luna beach. This beach is a breathtaking natural formation of 328ft volcanic rock towering over a narrow crescent of silky white sand and the rich sapphire sea… it has to be seen to be believed! Or if you’re sailing around the Maddalena islands, take a trip to the Cala Granara beach on Spargi, where palm-fringed, white sand beaches and sparkling shallow waters make it feel more like an island out of the Caribbean. This is also a popular spot for snorkeling, so make sure you pack your gear on board (note: it may be included in your yacht charter price) and go and explore life both above and beneath the glistening waves.

Sailing With or Without a Crew

Sailing with or without a skipper is a personal preference and depends on several factors, such as experience, comfort level, and budget. Suppose you are an experienced sailor with a good understanding of navigation. In that case, yacht charters without a skipper (also called bareboat) can be a rewarding adventure, as it provides more freedom and flexibility to explore the destination at your own pace. However, if you are a beginner or prefer a more relaxed sailing holiday, sailing with a skipper is the best option. A skipper is like the captain of the ship, and they can provide guidance, share their local knowledge, and ensure the safety of the crew and the yacht.
There is also an option to have a hostess or a cook on board GlobeSailor yachts. A hostess is responsible for making two of the daily meals (usually breakfast and lunch) and will take care of the boat's upkeep (tidying up common areas etc.). A cook is responsible for making all three meals on board the boat. Both crewed options allow clients to eat Italian-inspired dishes aboard a beautiful sailboat. Some guests prefer to choose the hostess option as it allows them to sail to a different marina each night and find the best authentic Italian restaurants on land. 

Getting There

Many international airports are located all over Italy, so flying into a spot near your yacht charter base will be easy!

• Rome: Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport is located in Fiumicino, 35km west of the historic centre of Italy’s capital.
• Sicily: Falcone-Borsellino Airport is located in Punta Raisi, 35km northwest of the city of Palermo, on the island of Sicily.
• Sardinia: Cagliari Airport is located 7km northwest of the city of Cagliari in Sardinia.

Book Now

GlobeSailor has an incredible fleet of yachts, catamarans, motorboats and luxury yachts to offer you for rental. Our boats range in length, size and year of manufacture, as well as the number of cabins to accommodate your preferences. Choose the boat of your dreams that fits your and your crew's needs, and spend a week or two sailing around on the trip of a lifetime! You can also choose between renting a bareboat charter and a crewed charter (meaning hiring a skipper and crew). Our crewed option for a boat rental can be the best choice if you don't have much sailing knowledge but still want the independence of chartering a boat. Your skipper or captain will take care of the navigation, and the hostess/cook will ensure that your vacation week is at the luxury level. Your hired crew will have their own private cabins, meaning there's plenty of space on your boat for everyone!

Our experienced crews can take care of all the details, leaving you and your guests to do all the relaxing in the sun! Whatever type of boat rental you're looking for, GlobeSailor can help you find it!

One of the best things about a yacht charter in Italy is its flexibility. You can make the most of your day by choosing your own itinerary and touring the places that interest you the most, whether you want to island hop, explore the coastline, or both. It's entirely up to you how you spend your holiday, and sometimes, there's nothing better than relaxing in the sun on your private deck or one of the cabins while having an excellent book to read! Whether you're looking for a relaxing holiday or an action-packed adventure, sailing in Italy has something to offer everyone. 

FAQs About Yacht Chartering in Italy

Where is the best place to sail in Italy?

Italy offers diverse sailing destinations, each with its unique charm. The Amalfi Coast is perfect for those seeking picturesque towns and luxury experiences, while Sardinia's Costa Smeralda boasts stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters ideal for relaxation and adventure. Sicily’s Aeolian Islands are best for exploring volcanic landscapes, and the Tuscan Archipelago is perfect for history enthusiasts and wine lovers.

Do I need a licence to sail a boat in Italy?

To charter a bareboat in Italy, you need an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or an equivalent national licence recognized by Italian authorities. Additionally, a VHF radio licence is required. If you don't have the necessary certifications, you can hire a professional skipper, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip without handling the navigation.

How long does it take to sail around Italy?

Circumnavigating Italy's coastline, including its major islands, could take 4-6 weeks depending on weather conditions, pace, and stopovers. However, most charters focus on specific regions like the Amalfi Coast or Sicily, which can be thoroughly enjoyed in about 7-10 days. These shorter trips allow sailors to experience the local highlights without the extensive time commitment of a full circumnavigation.

How much are mooring fees in Italy?

Mooring fees in Italy can vary widely based on location, season, and marina facilities. In popular destinations like Capri or Porto Cervo, fees can range from €100 to €300 per night in peak season. Less crowded areas, such as smaller ports in southern Italy, may charge between €30 to €70. It’s advisable to book in advance during the summer months to secure a spot, as space can be limited.

What are the best months to sail in Italy?

May to September is ideal for sailing in Italy, offering warm weather, mild seas, and steady winds. July and August are peak months with the most activity, while May, June, and September provide a more relaxed experience with slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

What should I pack for a yacht charter in Italy?

Essentials include swimwear, light clothing, a windbreaker for cooler evenings, and non-slip shoes for onboard safety. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are vital for sun protection. For those chartering bareboats, bring your sailing documents and an international driver’s licence if you plan to explore on land.