2025 Sicily Yacht Charter

We have three bases on the island of Sicily – Palermo, Cap d’Orlando and Portorosa. All three are located on the northern coast of the island and offer various benefits. Palermo is the largest and the capital city of Sicily. It has its own airport so the logistics of reaching the marina are straight forward. It is however a long sail to the Aeolian Islands. This can be broken up by visiting the pretty ‘mainland’ town of Cefalu. Cap d’Orlando is two hours drive east of Palermo, though is better (cheap and quickly) reached by train from the main Palermo station. A smaller village and marina, we believe the transfer east is well worth the effort as it does cut down on many, many hours of sailing time to get to and from the Aeolian Islands. Portorosa is located on the northeastern coast of Sicily, directly south of the Aeolian Islands. It is the closest base to the islands, though also the furthest from any airports. A picturesque little marina, Portorosa has all the amenities that you’ll need to start an enjoyable sailing holiday.

Fly into Sicily using Catania or Palermo Airports. Catania Airport is located on the east coast of Sicily, while Palermo Airport is on the north-west of the island. Our Sicily bases are on the northern coast of Sicily, so typically require a longer and more costly transfer than you may have experienced previously. Fortunately, the train system from either Palermo or Catania works well to all our charter bases and is much more affordable. When booking flights, ensure you leave enough time to train to the marina you are to board your yacht.

The prevailing winds around the Aeolian Islands during the summer tend to be easy breezes from NW or NE, although in calm weather sea breezes can be encountered from any direction blowing onto and between the islands. The climate when sailing in Sicily is typically Mediterranean, being dry and hot. Sicily is also quite far south in the Med, so enjoys a longer summer season as well, from April to October. Expect temperatures in the early 30s during peak season and temperatures in the early to mid 20s during May and October.

Mooring fees in Sicily are a mixed bag but you should expect to pay upwards of €400 per week on overnight stays. Prices are difficult to pin down at the best of times due to variable fees based on boat size, the time of year and sometimes your negotiation skills. This is an important point as we have heard of guests having lower mooring fee offers accepted. There is also the ability to anchor in some of the islands, (Porto di Ponente and Porto di Levante on Vulcano being two good examples).

Charterers in Italy need a minimum of an RYA Day Skipper. We recommend having an ICC certificate (International Certificate of Competence). If you are in any doubt, please contact Seamaster and we will advised you or even get pre-approval.