Italy Yacht Charter: Amalfi Coast, Sardinia and Sicily Route Guide

Italy is the number one trending yacht charter destination for 2026. The combination of dramatic coastline, world-class food, and cultural depth makes it the most requested market MY OCEAN operates in. But Italy is not one destination. It is three distinct charter experiences, each with its own character, season, and pace.

Route 1: Amalfi Coast, Capri and Positano

The classic Italian charter. Start in Naples or Sorrento, cruise south along the Amalfi Coast to Positano, then cross to Capri. The Amalfi Coast is best experienced from the water because the road is narrow, crowded, and stressful. From a yacht, you see the cliffs, the coloured houses, and the hidden coves without any of the traffic.

Capri is the highlight. Anchor in Marina Piccola, take the tender to the Blue Grotto (arrive before 9am to avoid the queue), and dine at Da Paolino under the lemon trees. The Faraglioni rocks are worth a slow pass by tender at sunset.

Best months: June and September. July and August are hot, crowded, and anchorages fill early. The season runs from May to October. See our Amalfi Coast charter guide.

Route 2: Sardinia and Costa Smeralda

Sardinia is where Italian wealth goes on holiday. The Costa Smeralda on the northeast coast is the centre of gravity, with Porto Cervo as the main marina. But the real Sardinia is further south: the La Maddalena archipelago has some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean, and the beaches on the east coast (Cala Luna, Cala Goloritze) are genuinely spectacular.

Sardinia pairs well with Corsica. A one-week itinerary can cover both, crossing the Strait of Bonifacio (12 nautical miles) between the two islands. The crossing takes about an hour in calm conditions.

Best months: June to September. Porto Cervo is busiest in August. See our Sardinia charter guide.

Route 3: Sicily and the Aeolian Islands

Sicily is the least chartered of the three routes, which is exactly why it is worth considering. The Aeolian Islands north of Sicily (Lipari, Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea, Salina) are volcanic, dramatic, and relatively uncrowded. Stromboli erupts every 15 minutes and is best watched from the water at night.

Taormina on the east coast of Sicily has one of the most beautiful settings in the Mediterranean, with Mount Etna as the backdrop. The food in Sicily is arguably the best in Italy, which is saying something.

Best months: June to September. The Aeolian Islands are exposed to weather, so flexibility in the itinerary is important.

Which route is right for you?

For first-time Italy charterers, the Amalfi Coast is the obvious choice. For repeat visitors who want something different, Sardinia or Sicily will surprise you. MY OCEAN charters in all three regions and can build a custom itinerary based on your group, dates, and interests. Start planning.