The trip starts near Palermo, the capital of Sicily. We anchor at Porto Arenella, west of the city. Here we discover the charm of this historic city before setting sail along Sicily’s picturesque northern coast.
First stop could be Cefalù, a picturesque coastal town where medieval houses reach down to the beach. The charming old town, with narrow streets and baroque churches, exudes a unique atmosphere.
After Cefalù, we sail towards the enchanting Liparian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since November 2000. This volcanic archipelago consists of seven inhabited islands, each with its own character and charm:
- Stromboli: The northernmost island is an active volcano, from 2,000 metres below sea level to 924 metres above. The climb to the top, with a guide, offers a breathtaking nighttime spectacle of fireworks. Alternatively, you can climb up to 400 metres without a guide for stunning views.
Depending on the weather, we can sail by ship or dinghy to the Sciara del Fuoco fire slide. There you can watch the volcano’s red-hot lava chunks slide into the sea – a stunning nighttime spectacle. - Panarea: The smallest and most exclusive island, loved by Italian millionaires, offers an idyllic atmosphere.
- Salina: The second largest island is green, fertile and has two mountain peaks, Monte Porri (860 m) and Monte Fossa (963 m), the highest in the archipelago. Ideal for hiking through its nature-protected landscape.
- Lipari: With 602-metre-high Monte Chirica and 38 km², it is the largest island. Set on a lava rock, Lipari town has a charming historic atmosphere with beaches and coves all around.
- Vulcano: This island greets you with its typical sulphur smell and offers medicinal mud baths and thermal springs.
- Alicudi: A quiet outpost with just 100 inhabitants, beautiful snorkelling spots and pristine nature.
- Filicudi: A small, serene neighbour of Alicudi, perfect for relaxation.
After this impressive island hopping, we sail through the Strait of Messina, a strait only 3 km wide at its narrowest point. This plankton-rich water is a paradise for countless species of fish.
We sail further south along Sicily’s east coast, enjoying views of Mount Etna. We pass Taormina, one of the island’s most visited spots.
Our journey ends in Aci Castello, a small town just above Catania. With its castle, picturesque streets, beautiful coastal panorama and the legendary Cyclops Islands, it exudes a relaxed atmosphere. Just 5 km from Catania, it is well worth exploring this mystical place after the trip.
Note: This itinerary is a non-binding suggestion. Which destinations we actually call at will be decided on the spot by the ship’s captain, depending on wind and weather.
Special on this trip: An experienced diving instructor is on board on this trip. He prepares the dive sites on the trip individually and adapts them to the ship’s route. The day is organised so that diving and other activities do not interfere with each other and everyone gets their money’s worth. Two compressors, tanks, weights, high-quality Mares equipment in all standard sizes are provided – and plenty of experience. 8- 10x diving per person is included.
