Blue Ocean Club
7 days · 7 stops

Elba and the Argentario Coast

The scent of pine and wild rosemary drifts across the sundeck as your yacht slices through the crystalline waters of Elba. This is an island of contrasts, where Napoleon’s stately villas give way to rugged granite coastlines and serene, sandy bays. From the historic harbour of Portoferraio, we trace a course through the Tuscan Archipelago, each day revealing a new facet of island life. We then make the short crossing to the mainland, where the chic peninsula of Monte Argentario awaits with its stylish fishing ports, Spanish fortresses, and a palpable sense of classic Italian glamour.

Scroll to explore ↓

  1. DAY 01

    Portoferraio, Elba

    You arrive in Elba’s capital, a town rich with history, its imposing Medici-era fortifications wrapping around a deep, sheltered harbour. Settle aboard with a glass of prosecco as you watch the ferries come and go. The pastel-coloured old town, perched on the hillside, invites exploration of its narrow lanes, steeped in the legacy of its most famous resident, Napoleon Bonaparte.

    • Explore Villa dei Mulini, Napoleon’s official residence with its sea-view garden.
    • Walk the ancient walls of Forte Stella for panoramic views of the bay.
    • Swim in the clear waters of Le Ghiaie beach, known for its unique polished pebbles.
    • Enjoy an evening passeggiata along the bustling harbour front.
    Anchorage
    Berth at Portoferraio Marina or anchor in the protected bay.
    Dining
    Ristorante La Caravella
  2. DAY 02

    Golfo della Biodola, Elba

    A short cruise west brings you to the magnificent arc of the Gulf of Biodola, a wide bay of fine golden sand backed by fragrant Mediterranean maquis. The water here is shallow and turquoise, ideal for an afternoon of watersports or simply relaxing at anchor. The setting sun paints the hills in warm hues, providing a perfect backdrop for cocktails on deck.

    • Launch the jet skis and paddleboards in the calm, expansive bay.
    • Take a tender to the adjoining beach of Scaglieri for a change of scene.
    • Hike the coastal path that connects Biodola, Scaglieri and Forno.
    • Snorkel in the clear waters at either end of the bay.
    Anchorage
    Anchorage in Golfo della Biodola.
    Dining
    Ristorante La Sabbiola
  3. DAY 03

    Fetovaia, Elba

    Cruise to Elba’s dramatic southwestern coast, a wild landscape of granite cliffs plunging into the sea. Here, tucked into a deep inlet, is the bay of Fetovaia, its white sands and brilliant turquoise water protected by a long, green promontory. The sense of seclusion is palpable, offering a peaceful haven to drop anchor and immerse yourself in nature.

    • Swim and relax on the fine sands of Fetovaia beach.
    • Explore the nearby grottoes by tender.
    • Visit the sleepy fishing village of Pomonte.
    • Snorkel or dive the Elviscot shipwreck, lying in just 12 metres of water off Pomonte.
    Anchorage
    Anchorage in the protected bay of Fetovaia.
    Dining
    Barbatoja, for fresh seafood overlooking the bay.
  4. DAY 04

    Porto Azzurro, Elba

    Rounding the southern coast of Elba, you arrive in the chic and lively town of Porto Azzurro. A formidable Spanish fortress, now a prison, dominates the hillside above a delightful harbour square lined with restaurants and boutiques. The bay provides an excellent overnight stop, with a vibrant atmosphere that carries on late into the evening.

    • Wander the vibrant waterfront promenade, Piazza Matteotti.
    • Visit the Santuario della Madonna di Monserrato, a secluded sanctuary.
    • Explore the nearby beach of Terranera, with its dark, sparkling sand.
    • Browse the artisanal evening markets for local crafts and souvenirs.
    Anchorage
    Marina di Porto Azzurro or anchorage in the bay.
    Dining
    Osteria La Botte Gaia
  5. DAY 05

    Isola del Giglio

    Leave Elba behind as you make the crossing to the Tuscan Archipelago’s other gem, Isola del Giglio. Your first sight is Giglio Porto, a kaleidoscope of brightly coloured houses clustered around a small, active harbour. The water is exceptionally clear, and the island has a rugged, unspoilt character that feels a world away from the mainland.

    • Take a taxi up to the perfectly preserved medieval walled village of Giglio Castello.
    • Swim at the beautiful sands of Cannelle or Campese beach.
    • Enjoy an aperitivo in the port, watching the local fishing boats.
    • Dive or snorkel in the protected marine park.
    Anchorage
    Berth in Giglio Porto (booking essential) or anchor off Spiaggia delle Cannelle.
    Dining
    Ristorante Doria in Giglio Porto.
  6. DAY 06

    Porto Santo Stefano, Monte Argentario

    Arrive at the Argentario peninsula, a former island now connected to Tuscany by three narrow sandbars. Your destination is Porto Santo Stefano, the larger of its two towns, which curves around a bustling harbour. The imposing 17th-century Spanish Fortress watches over the port, while a stylish waterfront promenade invites a leisurely stroll.

    • Walk the Lungomare dei Navigatori, the elegant waterfront promenade.
    • Explore the Fortezza Spagnola and its museum.
    • Drive a section of the Via Panoramica for spectacular coastal views.
    • Discover secluded coves for a swim by tender.
    Anchorage
    Berth at the exclusive Marina di Cala Galera.
    Dining
    Il Moletto for refined seafood on its private pier.
  7. DAY 07

    Porto Ercole, Monte Argentario

    A final, scenic morning cruise takes you around the headland to Porto Ercole. This picturesque and exclusive fishing village is guarded by three Spanish forts and is where the artist Caravaggio died in 1610. The old town clings to the hillside above the harbour, a charming warren of stone alleyways, providing a memorable final stop before your departure.

    • Climb to the old town (borgo antico) and explore its narrow lanes.
    • Visit Forte Stella, the star-shaped fortress above the port.
    • Take a final swim at the long, sandy Feniglia beach.
    • Browse the chic boutiques that line the harbour.
    Anchorage
    Porto Ercole Marina, for disembarkation.
    Dining
    A final, leisurely breakfast prepared by your chef before disembarking.
Internal link web

Build a week from this itinerary — every related page

The Blue Ocean Club archive — destinations, sample itineraries, seasonal guides, marquee events, marinas and editorial reading. Everything cross-references everything else, so you can plan a week from any starting point.

Popular destinations
Editorial reading