Blue Ocean Club
8 days · 8 stops

Sicilian Splendors: Cefalù to Taormina

Your journey begins in the shadow of Cefalù's Norman cathedral, the scent of citrus on the breeze. Cruise east into the mythical Aeolian archipelago, a chain of volcanic jewels scattered across the Tyrrhenian Sea. From the chic shores of Panarea to the fiery nightly spectacle of Stromboli, each day reveals a new facet of island life. The voyage culminates along Sicily's Ionian coast, where the elegant town of Taormina perches dramatically, forever watched over by the majestic, smoking peak of Mount Etna.

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  1. DAY 01

    Cefalù, Sicily

    Embark in the historic fishing town of Cefalù, dominated by its twin-towered Norman cathedral. Your yacht rests at anchor off the golden crescent beach as you watch the sun set behind the monumental headland of La Rocca. The medieval streets of the old town, filled with the sounds of evening life, invite exploration before your first dinner on board.

    • Explore the UNESCO-listed Cefalù Cathedral and its Byzantine mosaics.
    • Climb La Rocca for commanding views of the Tyrrhenian coast.
    • Wander the narrow, cobbled lanes of the medieval old town.
    • Relax with a classic granita at a café on the Lungomare.
    Anchorage
    Anchorage off Cefalù Beach
    Dining
    La Brace for traditional Sicilian cuisine, or a welcome dinner prepared by the yacht's chef.
  2. DAY 02

    Vulcano, Aeolian Islands

    A morning cruise delivers you to the southern gateway of the Aeolians. The distinct smell of sulphur hangs in the air as you approach Vulcano, anchoring in the Porto di Ponente with direct views of the smoking Gran Cratere. The island's raw, primordial energy is palpable, from its black sand beaches to its bubbling thermal waters.

    • Hike to the rim of the Gran Cratere for views across the archipelago.
    • Experience the therapeutic thermal mud baths, Fanghi di Vulcano.
    • Swim at the striking black sand beach of Spiaggia Sabbie Nere.
    • Use the tender to explore the Grotta del Cavallo sea cave.
    Anchorage
    Porto di Ponente
    Dining
    Ristorante Il Cappero for refined Aeolian flavours with a view.
  3. DAY 03

    Lipari, Aeolian Islands

    Arrive in the archipelago's lively capital, Lipari, where pastel-hued houses rise from the harbour, watched over by a fortified acropolis. The island's history as a centre for pumice quarrying has left its mark, giving the surrounding waters a unique, milky-turquoise hue. The main town is a pleasant bustle of boutiques, cafés and local life.

    • Explore the Castello di Lipari and its comprehensive archaeological museum.
    • Shop for obsidian jewellery along the main street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele.
    • Anchor and swim off the white shores of Spiaggia Bianca (Pumice Beach).
    • Enjoy an evening aperitivo in the charming little harbour of Marina Corta.
    Anchorage
    Pignataro Marina or anchorage off Canneto beach
    Dining
    Ristorante Filippino, a local institution serving classic island seafood since 1910.
  4. DAY 04

    Panarea, Aeolian Islands

    Drop anchor off Panarea, the smallest and most fashionable of the Aeolians, where whitewashed villas draped in bougainvillea cascade down to the sea. The islets of Lisca Bianca and Basiluzzo offer secluded spots for swimming in crystalline waters above submerged Roman ruins. By evening, the quiet village of San Pietro transforms into a sophisticated social hub.

    • Swim at the beautiful, secluded cove of Cala Junco.
    • Discover the Bronze Age village ruins at Capo Milazzese.
    • Take the tender to the bubbling offshore fumaroles near the islet of Lisca Bianca.
    • Experience the sunset cocktail scene on the terrace of the Hotel Raya.
    Anchorage
    Anchorage in the bay of Cala Junco or off San Pietro
    Dining
    Cusiritati for authentic island dishes in a romantic garden setting.
  5. DAY 05

    Stromboli, Aeolian Islands

    The iconic, conical form of Stromboli grows on the horizon, a constant wisp of smoke hinting at the power within. By day, explore the stark black-sand beaches and the simple whitewashed houses of San Vincenzo. As dusk falls, the yacht repositions to the north-west to witness the Sciara del Fuoco, where the volcano puts on its nightly display of fiery eruptions against the dark sky.

    • Witness the regular volcanic eruptions from the yacht's deck after dark.
    • Swim at the starkly beautiful black sand beach of Ficogrande.
    • Explore the quiet, car-free fishing village of Ginostra by tender.
    • See the 'love nest' of Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini from the sea.
    Anchorage
    Day anchorage off Ficogrande; night cruising near Sciara del Fuoco
    Dining
    Dinner on the aft deck, positioned for the best view of the volcanic spectacle.
  6. DAY 06

    Salina, Aeolian Islands

    Cruise to Salina, the 'Green Island', distinguished by its verdant twin volcanic peaks. The air here is scented with wild capers and citrus groves, and the pace of life is gentle. Anchor in the magnificent bay of Pollara, a collapsed volcanic crater made famous by the film 'Il Postino', its sheer cliffs glowing in the afternoon sun.

    • Swim in the cinematic bay of Pollara, beneath the dramatic cliffs.
    • Taste the celebrated sweet Malvasia wine at the Hauner vineyard.
    • Sample the famous 'pane cunzato' at Da Alfredo in the village of Lingua.
    • Browse the chic boutiques and delicatessens in Santa Marina Salina.
    Anchorage
    Anchorage in Pollara Bay
    Dining
    Ristorante Signum, a Michelin-starred experience in the village of Malfa.
  7. DAY 07

    Taormina, Sicily

    A long morning cruise across the Ionian Sea brings you to the glamorous cliffside town of Taormina. Your yacht anchors in the bay of Mazzarò, just off the enchanting pebble beach of Isola Bella. The view up to the town, with Mount Etna smoking gently in the background, is a classic Sicilian scene of immense beauty.

    • Ride the cable car (Funivia) up to Taormina's historic centre.
    • Visit the ancient Greco-Roman Theatre for its astounding views.
    • Wade across the tidal sandbar to the nature reserve of Isola Bella.
    • Stroll through the panoramic public gardens of the Villa Comunale.
    Anchorage
    Anchorage in Mazzarò Bay
    Dining
    A farewell dinner at Osteria RossoDiVino or on board with views of the twinkling coastline.
  8. DAY 08

    Riposto, Sicily

    Enjoy a final Sicilian breakfast on the aft deck as the yacht makes the short journey south to Porto dell'Etna. This modern marina in the town of Riposto offers a calm and convenient location for disembarkation. Mount Etna provides a final, powerful impression of Sicily's natural grandeur as you prepare for your onward journey.

    • Enjoy a last swim in the Ionian Sea before heading to port.
    • A final breakfast of fresh Sicilian pastries and blood orange juice.
    • Explore the authentic morning fish market in Riposto, adjacent to the marina.
    • Arrange a private transfer to Catania airport or a wine tour on Etna's slopes.
    Anchorage
    Porto dell'Etna, Riposto
    Dining
    A final espresso at a local café in Riposto before departure.
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