Tuscany and its archipelago, a paradise to explore by yacht: a region of charming villages, seaside towns, coastal or inland cultural itineraries, unforgettable scenery interspersed with sandy beaches, landing places, Mediterranean scrubland and majestic, windswept cliffs. An opportunity to charter a yacht and let yourself be bowled over by the landscapes that sweep along the region’s 250 miles of coast. A sailing holiday lets you discover all those spots overlooking the sea, many of which are only accessible by boat. Added to the beauty of the coastline, which ranges from more famous resorts to unspoilt beaches is the bewitching Tuscan archipelago with its 7 islands: Elba, Capraia, Giglio, Montecristo, Giannutri, Gorgona and Pianosa. 7 corners of paradise, 7 “sister” islands: local legend has it that as the Venus of the Tyrrhenian emerged from the water to embrace the horizon, she let seven pearls drop from her necklace; as they fell into the sea, they turned into the seven islands, each of which is different to the next. Hardly surprising then that the Archipelago is a protected National Park and among Europe’s largest marine reserves.
The best sailing destinations in the Tuscan archipelago
Sailing in the Tuscan archipelago is like navigating between precious Treasure islands: each island gives us different emotions, each beckons, waiting to be discovered, to reveal its natural and historical treasures to all those who sail there.
The Island of Elba
A cult destination for keen yachtsmen, and is a superb sailing ground for a yacht holiday. The island is popular as it is easy to reach, and has something for everyone. It will satisfy holidaymakers seeking relaxing beaches, those looking for great snorkelling spots, people wanting to call in for a delicious lunch, or those who want to stay on deck and gaze out at some stunningly beautiful scenery. There are plenty of marinas to anchor at, equipped with plenty of facilities, along with enchanting towns to visit, whether shopping’s your thing or you’d rather explore the island’s picturesque villages and uncover its less touristy side. There are also a huge number of beaches and anchorages where boats can drop the hook. The sea is crystal clear and clean: visitors marvel at its colours, which paint the landscape every shade of green and blue. One of the most popular aspects of those on sailing holidays around the Island of Elba are the numerous coves sheltered from the wind, which are dotted around the entire coastline of the Island of Elba.
Capraia
It is an ancient, extinct volcano which bewitches visitors with its history and its wonderful landscapes. The splendid island is fascinating and fun to discover by sailing around its coast. Capraia has a serviced marina where boats can moor and take shelter from the wind. There are also some stunning anchorages including the famous Cala Rossa – famous because from here the volcano’s crater is visible: the high, craggy rock faces which once formed the crater of the volcano, disappear into the sea. The red of the imposing cliff plunges forcefully into the blue of the deep. Only from a yacht is it possible to admire such special scenery.
Giglio
A stunning island with a picturesque harbour, overlooked by traditional colourful Tuscan fishermen’s cottages. It’s a triumph of colour and tradition that plunges visitors into Tuscany, its sea and its culture. Step onto dry land and you’re practically already in the small, welcoming town. A visit to Giglio Castello is not to be missed: wandering up through the narrow, winding streets one reaches the beautiful village perched up on the hill, looking down onto the sea. Partly surrounded by its ancient walls, Giglio Castello offers postcard-perfect panoramas. In addition to the harbour, boats can moor at some splendid spots which allow one to drop anchor and admire the coastline.
Giannutri
A stunning island with a picturesque harbour, overlooked by traditional colourful Tuscan fishermen’s cottages. It’s a triumph of colour and tradition that plunges visitors into Tuscany, its sea and its culture. Step onto dry land and you’re practically already in the small, welcoming town. A visit to Giglio Castello is not to be missed: wandering up through the narrow, winding streets one reaches the beautiful village perched up on the hill, looking down onto the sea. Partly surrounded by its ancient walls, Giglio Castello offers postcard-perfect panoramas. In addition to the harbour, boats can moor at some splendid spots which allow one to drop anchor and admire the coastline.
San Vincenzo base
Main nautical services: fuel, water, electric energy, restaurant