Blue Ocean Club
10 days · 10 stops

Elba to Ischia Island Odyssey

The Tyrrhenian Sea unfolds in a glittering tapestry of blue as your yacht departs Elba’s historic harbour. This is an odyssey through Italy’s island jewels, a journey from the rustic elegance of the Tuscan Archipelago to the volcanic heart of the Bay of Naples. Follow in the wake of Roman emperors, dropping anchor in secluded coves, exploring ancient fortresses, and immersing yourself in the thermal waters of Ischia. Each day reveals a new island persona, a distinct flavour of Italian coastal life, from the chic harbour of Ponza to the untamed beauty of Palmarola.

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  1. DAY 01

    Portoferraio, Elba

    Embark in Portoferraio's historic harbour, the island's capital, sheltered within a deep natural bay. The air is thick with the scent of pine and salt as you survey the pastel-hued buildings climbing the hill towards Medici-era fortresses. Napoleon's presence still lingers in the elegant streets and villas overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.

    • Explore Villa dei Mulini, Napoleon's official town residence
    • Swim in the crystalline water of the white-pebble Spiaggia di Sansone
    • Wander the cobbled streets of the old town centre
    • Hike to Forte Falcone for panoramic views of the harbour
    Anchorage
    Anchorage in the bay of Portoferraio or berth at Marina di Portoferraio
    Dining
    Ristorante Le Viste for seafood with direct sea views
  2. DAY 02

    Giglio Porto, Giglio Island

    The yacht arrives at Giglio Porto, a scene of vibrant colour with houses painted in shades of terracotta, pink, and ochre. Above, the fortified village of Giglio Castello beckons, a medieval maze of stone arches and narrow alleyways. The island's granite heart is softened by terraced vineyards producing the local Ansonaco wine.

    • Take a taxi up to Giglio Castello to explore the medieval borgo
    • Snorkel at the secluded cove of Cala dell'Allume
    • Taste the local Ansonaco wine at a small island vineyard
    • Hike along the ancient mule tracks connecting the coastal villages
    Anchorage
    Anchor off Giglio Porto or secure a mooring buoy
    Dining
    La Vecchia Pergola in Giglio Porto for fresh-caught fish
  3. DAY 03

    Cala Spalmatoio, Giannutri

    Drop anchor in the protected marine park of Giannutri, an island shaped like a crescent moon. The only sounds are the cries of gulls and the gentle lap of water against the hull. Below the surface lies a world of Roman shipwrecks and thriving sea life, while ashore, the ruins of a grand Roman villa tell tales of ancient luxury.

    • Snorkel or dive in the pristine waters of the marine reserve
    • Hike to the Roman ruins of Villa Domitia with a local guide
    • Observe migratory birds from the island's highest points
    • Swim in the turquoise waters of the neighbouring Cala Maestra
    Anchorage
    Anchor at Cala Spalmatoio
    Dining
    An elegant lunch prepared by the yacht's chef, using fresh local ingredients
  4. DAY 04

    Ponza Harbour, Ponza Island

    After a longer passage, the dramatic cliffs of Ponza rise from the sea. The yacht glides into the amphitheatre-shaped harbour, a bustling collage of fishing boats and Bourbon-era architecture painted in bright, sun-faded colours. The island's volcanic origins are evident in its stark white cliffs and dark, mysterious sea grottoes.

    • Explore the Roman-era tunnels connecting the harbour to Chiaia di Luna
    • Enjoy an aperitivo at a waterfront bar on the main quay
    • Browse the chic boutiques along Corso Carlo Pisacane
    • Take the tender to the Grotte di Pilato, ancient Roman fish farms
    Anchorage
    Anchor in the harbour or secure a berth along the quay
    Dining
    Acqua Pazza for creative, refined island cuisine
  5. DAY 05

    Chiaia di Luna, Ponza Island

    Today is dedicated to Ponza's spectacular coastline, anchoring beneath the immense, chalk-white cliff of Chiaia di Luna. The sun reflects off the sheer tuff rock face, which curves like a perfect half-moon around a sliver of beach. Spend the day exploring the surrounding sea caves and rock formations by tender.

    • Kayak into the sea caves and grottoes along the western coast
    • Swim and sunbathe at the iconic Frontone beach, accessible by boat
    • Visit the natural rock arch, Arco Naturale, by tender
    • Watch the sunset paint the cliffs of Chiaia di Luna in hues of gold and pink
    Anchorage
    Anchor off Chiaia di Luna (weather permitting)
    Dining
    Ristorante Eea for a traditional Ponzese dinner
  6. DAY 06

    Cala del Porto, Palmarola

    A short cruise brings you to the uninhabited nature reserve of Palmarola, a vision of raw, untamed beauty. Obsidian rock formations contrast with white cliffs, and hidden coves reveal water of an impossible clarity. The island, known as 'The Cathedral' for its dramatic rock spires, offers a profound sense of isolation and peace.

    • Explore 'The Cathedral' rock formation by tender
    • Discover the hidden beach at Cala Brigantina
    • Snorkel in the crystalline waters, rich with marine life
    • Enjoy the yacht's water toys in a secluded, silent bay
    Anchorage
    Anchor at Cala del Porto (also known as Cala Francese)
    Dining
    A gourmet barbecue on the sundeck, surrounded by Palmarola's silent beauty
  7. DAY 07

    Porto Romano, Ventotene

    Arrive in Ventotene's ancient Roman harbour, carved directly from the volcanic tuff rock over 2,000 years ago. This small, tranquil island is steeped in history, from the banished Roman nobles who lived at Villa Giulia to its time as a political prison. The atmosphere is quiet and authentic, a step back in time.

    • Explore the Roman cisterns and fish pools (peschiere)
    • Visit the remains of Villa Giulia, Augustus's daughter's place of exile
    • Dive or snorkel at the protected marine area around Santo Stefano island
    • Stroll through the quiet village and enjoy its relaxed pace
    Anchorage
    Moor in the historic Porto Romano
    Dining
    Il Giardino di Ventotene for fresh, locally-sourced dishes
  8. DAY 08

    Ischia Ponte & Castello Aragonese, Ischia

    The imposing silhouette of Castello Aragonese greets you as you approach Ischia. This formidable fortress, connected to the main island by a stone causeway, dominates the seascape. Anchor nearby and watch as the castle is illuminated by the setting sun, its ancient walls glowing against the deep blue of the Bay of Naples.

    • Explore the churches, prisons, and gardens of Castello Aragonese
    • Wander the narrow streets of the old fishing village of Ischia Ponte
    • Visit the Guevara Tower and Michelangelo's Tower
    • Enjoy a coffee in a café with direct views of the castle
    Anchorage
    Anchor east of the causeway to Castello Aragonese
    Dining
    Ristorante Da Coco for classic Neapolitan seafood by the water
  9. DAY 09

    Sant'Angelo, Ischia

    Cruise to the southern coast and the picture-perfect fishing village of Sant'Angelo. This pedestrianised hamlet, with its whitewashed houses and bougainvillaea-draped lanes, exudes a chic, relaxed charm. The area is famed for its natural thermal wonders, including underwater fumaroles that bubble up from the seabed.

    • Relax in the thermal pools of Aphrodite Apollon or Tropical Thermal Park
    • Swim at Fumarole Beach, where the sand is heated by volcanic activity
    • Explore the exclusive boutiques and artisan shops in the village
    • Walk across the isthmus to the small promontory
    Anchorage
    Anchor off the coast of Sant'Angelo
    Dining
    Il Pirata in Sant'Angelo harbour, or a visit to the renowned Dani Maison (booking essential)
  10. DAY 10

    Forio, Ischia

    Your final day begins with a gentle cruise to the western side of Ischia, arriving in Forio. Spend the morning enjoying the famous Giardini Poseidon Terme, a vast thermal park set on the beautiful Citara beach. After a final, reviving dip, head to the marina for your disembarkation, feeling renewed by the island's volcanic energy.

    • Indulge in the 20 thermal pools of Giardini Poseidon Terme
    • Visit the iconic white church, Chiesa del Soccorso, perched above the sea
    • Explore the lush botanical gardens of Giardini La Mortella
    • Enjoy one last swim at Citara Beach before heading to port
    Anchorage
    Marina di Forio for disembarkation
    Dining
    A final farewell lunch at La Bella Napoli in Forio
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