This active sailing adventure in Italy is full of phenomenal experiences. From sailing on a historic tall ship to hiking on volcanoes, immersing yourself in 6,000-year-old culture and exploring the beautiful archipelago, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An unforgettable and varied sailing holiday with daily hikes ashore, providing a pleasant contrast to the cozy life on board.
The volcanic islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the northern coast of Sicily are characterised by wild, unspoilt nature. They are known as the ‘Aeolian or Lipari Islands’ because, according to Greek legend, the god of wind, Aeolus, once lived here. This jewel in the Mediterranean consists of seven inhabited islands and each one is different. From beautiful green hills to bubbling craters, you will find a wide variety of unique natural landscapes in a very small area. In 2000, the Aeolian Islands archipelago was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The regular volcanic eruptions of Stromboli offer a unique natural spectacle and the volcanic mountains and Mediterranean landscapes are a true paradise for hikers.
The Florette sails every day, with time in the afternoon to explore on land. Sometimes longer sails are planned to reach other islands.
On this trip, a hiking guide will be present to lead daily walks on the islands, with a minimum of 4 hours per hike.
The Aeolian Islands
Although Lipari has about 5,000 inhabitants, it retains the charm of a typical Sicilian village. It boasts one of the most beautiful archaeological museums in Italy and a picturesque old town full of small shops.
Salina, also known as the Green Island, was revitalized in the 1970s as an agricultural center. The island has numerous vineyards and is famous for its dessert wine, Malvasia delle Lipari, and its capers, considered the best in the world. Hikers can trek through beautiful pine and chestnut forests to the highest peak of the archipelago
Upon arrival on Vulcano, we are immediately greeted by the smell of sulfur. Until the 19th century, sulfur and alum were extracted just meters from the quay. Today, the harbor is lined with souvenir shops, spas, hotels, and bars, and visitors can enjoy sulfur mud baths. A highlight of this island is the hike to the crater, where you can see the yellow sulfur-containing fumaroles.
Since ancient times, Stromboli has served as a navigation point for sailors, especially at night due to its frequent eruptions. The volcano erupts every 15 to 20 minutes, and depending on the magma levels in the vent, lava sparks can shoot hundreds of meters above the crater rim.
Life on board the Florette
Life aboard the Florette revolves around a unique combination of traditional sailing, nature experiences, and Italian culture. Guests are actively involved in classic sailing: with its original rigging, the Florette is truly an “all hands on deck” ship, making the adventure even more special. Sailing here is not a spectator activity, but a shared experience.
Beyond sailing, there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the sea and coastline. Guests can make use of sea kayaks, SUP boards, and snorkeling equipment, and fishing gear is even available to catch fresh fish for dinner.
Meals on board
Breakfast is served on board every day. In addition, 6 meals are included, consisting of lunches and/or dinners. Ship’s chef Nicole prepares healthy, flavorful Mediterranean dishes using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. The remaining meals usually take place onshore, allowing you to fully explore the local Italian cuisine. If going ashore is not possible, additional meals can be provided on board at a reasonable price.
