Regarded by many as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Italy is extraordinarily rich of natural wonders and cultural sights. Green space, rich flora and mountainous beauty characterize the North, while the South offers beautiful coastlines and turquoise waters. Each destination within this spectacular country offers a unique perspective of the culture - with local delicacies, popular landmarks and historic architecture.
Italy is an excellent country to explore by boat and with LateSail offering charter holidays across each notable region, there’s no reason this shouldn’t be your next trip! LateSail offer charters in Elba, Naples, Sardinia, Sicily, Tuscany and Venice.
View all Italy Charter holidays here.
We’ve researched some of the best places in Italy to travel by boat, to let you know where you can find berths, what you can eat and where you can stay. Click on any of the locations below:
Venice
Undisputedly, Venice is one of the most popular and beautiful cities in the world. Since it can obviously be reached by boat, we could not leave it out of our list!
From all of the cities in our list, Venice is probably the one that needs the least introduction. It is one of the most famously romantic places, where impressive structures are paired with an unexplainable charm. The Venetian Lagoon is picturesque and chic, but travel further to discover other islands such as Grado and Jesolo. Head north to explore the Friuli region or travel to Murano to immerse yourself in an area of vivid colour.
Where to berth in Venice
There are 5 marinas in Venice that are interesting for travellers:
- Marina Sant'elena (561 berths, up to 40m length)
- Vento di Venezia (300 berths, length up to 25m, depth up to 3m)
- Diporto Velico Veneziano (230 berths, length up to 15m, depth up to 4.5m)
- Venezia San Giorgio (70 berths, length up to 15m, depth up to 2.4m)
- Venice Yacht Pier (approx. 25 berths, length up to 100m, depth up to 9m).
Where to eat and drink in Venice
Venice offers a variety of very special places to eat. It is hard to determine a definite top 3 due to the rich choice of food and atmospheres. Our selection includes a span of different places that offer excellent food:
San Marco 120, Piazza San Marco, 30124
Described as a ‘hidden gem of St Marks Square’, Quandri has an exquisite view of Piazzo San Marco. The menu offers a range of traditional Italian and Venetian dishes, creating using the freshest ingredients available. Fish, fruit and vegetables are delivered each day from the Rialto market, giving each dish the most authentically Venetian feel.
Dorsoduro 1473, 30123 Venice, Italy
Riviera was the 2018 Travellers’ Choice winner and that’s not surprising with it’s high volume of excellent reviews. This is a high quality, premium restaurant that offers a unique experience from start to finish. Situated on the canal, you won’t be short of a beautiful view while you enjoy their culinary delights.
Fondamenta Nani 992, Dorsoduro, 30123 Venice, Italy
Also known as Cantine del Vino Gia Schiavi, this restaurant holds a Trip Advisor certificate of excellence. Known as a hotspot for locals, that is a great sign that this place offers high quality food and drink. It is predominantly a wine bar however there is a great lunch time offering of sandwiches, cold cuts or cichetti.
Where to stay in Venice
- The Gritti Palace (Campo Santa Maria del Giglio 2467, 30124)
- Hotel Moresco (Dorsoduro 3499, 30123)
- Al Ponte Antico Hotel (Calle dell'Aseo | Cannaregio 5768, 30131)
- Hotel Ai Cavalieri di Venezia (Calle Borgolocco 6108, Castello, 30122)
- Hotel Canal Grande (Santa Croce, 932 | Campo San Simeone Grande, 30135)
- Corte Di Gabriela (Calle Avvocati 3836 S. Marco, 30124)
Boat service
There are a number of boat maintenance and repair shops in and around Venice. Consorzio Cantieristica Minore Veneziana or Seno Mirko Restauro e Costruzioni Imbarcazioni are both located directly in Venice.
Weather
Snow is possible during wintertime. Mild temperatures during spring and autumn are accompanied by average highs of 28°C during summer.
When to visit
You should visit Venice during spring, summer or autumn. Plan a Valentine’s trip for the full romantic experience!
View all Italy Charter holidays here.
Capri
Capri is a small but extraordinarily beautiful island before the western shore of Italy. Capri is a very varied location, which makes it a wonderful destination for groups to explore. On the one hand, it’s a shopping and partying hotspot where many celebrities can be spotted. On the other hand however, Capri has beautiful coves and mountains ideal for swimming or hiking. Using scenic Capri as a base, you can also visit the nearby Pompeii, one of Italy’s must-see locations.
Where to berth in Capri
Berths are available in:
- Marina Grande in the north of the island (300 berths, lengths of up to 60m, depth 2 - 8m, advance reservation in high season advisable)
- Marina Piccola in the south of the island (depths of 6 - 10m, best shelter in cove under restaurant)
Where to eat and drink in Capri
Via Dentecala, 15, Capri
The Michelin Guide describes the ‘Mediterranean flavours’ of Da Tonino and praised it’s ‘truly intoxicating wine list’. Fresh ingredients help them to craft incredible dishes featuring delicious seafood and rich flavours.
Traversa Lo Palazzo 2, 80073
This beauty spot offers views of the sea and the famous clock tower in the Piazzetta. The menu combines a range of traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. Having been open for the last 40 years, this is a restaurant that has a history of excellence.
Via Parroco Roberto Canale 12, 80073
This is the most delicious takeaway you could ever wish for. Since 1999, this gastronomia has been creating traditional Neapolitan and Italian dishes for their customers to takeaway. You’ll never be short on choice with their huge range of fresh pasta, tarts, seasonal salads and their famous dish, the Ravioli Capresi.
Piazza Vittoria, 1 Marina Grande, 80073
This sea-facing restaurant offers excellent views alongside a gorgeous menu. It’s coastal location means the seafood is undeniably fresh. You can’t beat the flavours and sights of Lo Smeraldo.
Where to stay in Capri
- La Minerva (Via Occhio Marino, 8, 80073 Capri)
- Hotel Excelsior Parco (Via Provinciale Marina Grande, 179, 80073)
Boat service
Repair service etc. is available in the Marina Grande.
Weather
The temperatures in the winter are mild, while the summers are hotter, with average highs around 28°C.
When to visit
Depending on preferences in temperatures, spring or summer are perfect to visit.
View all Italy Charter holidays here.
Elba - Portoferraio
With its rugged coastline, Elba offers many coves and bays that invite you to anchor and relax in Mediterranean beauty. Perfect for those seeking solitude and relaxation. Elba is worth a visit, many historic events have left their mark on the island so this location is deep with culture. We suggest Portoferraio as a base for you to explore the island. After all, Portoferraio was good enough for Napoleon.
Where to berth in Elba
Berth in:
- The old natural harbour of Portoferraio with laid moorings.
- Esaom Cesa Marina (over 100 berths, maximum depths of 5.5m).
Where to eat and drink in Elba
Portoferraio Traversa via Carducci 96, 57037 Portoferraio
Gianni il Pugliese creates a menu encompassing all of the delights of Apulian cuisine with a specialty in seafood. The dishes are authentic and high quality, while the restaurant is simple and comfortable.
Via Del Carmine, 65, 57037 Portoferraio
This quaint bistro is located in the square of the Teatro dei Vigilanti. The menu is altered depending on seasonality and the availability of the freshest ingredients. Expect dishes of homemade pasta, excellent seafood and exquisite wine pairings.
Loc. San Giovanni, 57037 Portoferraio
Il Retro Gusto allows you to savour the flavours of the island of Elba and the taste of the sea. They cook with fresh and carefully selected ingredients to deliver the most authentic cuisine.
Where to stay in Elba
- Hotel Biodola - La Biodola, 57037 Portoferraio
- Hotel Hermitage -- Portoferraio - 57037 Biodola, Portoferraio
Boat service
You can contact the Sacomar Yacht Agency for work that needs to be done to your boat for example.
View all Italy Charter holidays here.
Sardinia
Located directly below Corsica, Sardinia presents itself as a mix of French and Italian culture. With its scenic coastline, beautiful reefs and rich marine life, Sardinia naturally is an exceptional boating destination. You can anchor in a remote bay or enjoy Italian city life in the bigger cities of the island. You can berth at Alghero in order to explore the picturesque surroundings. Having the comforts of excellent Italian restaurants and hotels, you can then reach out and discover Sardinia's wild side.
Alghero
The city of Alghero is located in the West of the island and is a busy fishing town with impressive blue waters and white beaches. Excellent restaurants, historic alleys and the central cathedral create an excellent atmosphere. A number of interesting sights can be found close to Alghero. You can visit Sassari and grab a delicious glass of wine at the Sardinia's famous winery Sella and Mosca.
Where to berth in Alghero
RIBs may approach you on your way to the harbour and you will be offered berths. We recommend negotiating prices.
There are two marinas offering moorings:
- The fairly new yacht Marina di S. Elmo (100 berths, up to 60m of length, depths of 4.5m)
- The Port of Alghero (room for 30 transit berths, operates on VHF 9).
Where to eat in Alghero
Via Cavour 123 | Bastioni Marco Polo 5, 07041
“Sardinian traditions on a modern surrounding” - The Kings restaurant is influenced and inspired by Alghero, Sardinian and Italian traditions. With these strong influences, they create wonderfully rich and simple dishes using fresh and local ingredients that are true to the island’s heritage.
Azienda Agrituristica Sa Mandra
Strada Aeroporto Civile, 21 | Santa Maria La Palma, 07041
The Sa Mandra restaurant follows 3 rules: to use healthy, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, to use the wisdom of traditional Sardinian cuisine and to use the fundamental ingredient - love.
Bar Ristorante Dietro II Carcere
Via Catalogna 60/C, 07041
Famous for its excellent seafood, Bar Ristorante Dietro II Carcere is a small and friendly place to visit for a meal. Hidden just off the streets of the Old Town, you’re promised excellent pasta dishes and seafood platters.
Where to stay in Alghero
- Sa Cheya Relais - Regione Scala Mala,3, 07041
- Villa Las Tronas Hotel & Spa - Lungomare Valencia 1, 07041
Boat service
Base Nautica Usai can be contacted for boat repairs.
Weather
Mild temperatures in the winter are followed by hot summers with average highs of around 30°C.
When to visit
Spring to early autumn would be a good time to visit, depending on personal weather preferences.
View all Italy Charter holidays here.
Sicily
The biggest island in the Mediterranean is also one of its top destinations. Friendly people, excellent cuisine, impressive nature and historic sights give this island its unique charm.
Syracuse
Syracuse is the most beautiful city among the bigger Sicilian cities. It is not only a must-see for discovering sights of the region but it is also an excellent shopping destination. When you visit the city, make sure to see Ortygia - a small fortified island that has amazing sights for those interested in history or fascinated by scenic views. The cathedral was built on parts of an ancient temple. Noto is an old town in baroque style and you should not miss out on paying a visit to the vineyards.
Where to berth in Syracuse
Different marinas can be found in Syracuse such as:
- The Marina Yachting Siracusa (180 berths, 15m of depth). Also different services like electricity and water are provided.
- You can also anchor or moor for free at the town quay and in the harbour.
Where to eat and drink in Syracuse
Via De Benedictis, 6 | Mercato di Ortigia, 96100
A dairy first and foremost, Caseificio Borderi offers spectacular street food. Platters of their famous cheeses, placed alongside cuts of the best Sicilian meats and chunks of bread bring culinary lovers from near and far.
Roma 115, 96100
Le Vin de L’assassin Bistrot offers a delicious menu of Italian/French fusion dishes. This restaurant has received a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence every year since 2015!
106/108, Via Maestranza, 96100
Retroscena offers a combination of Italian, Greek and Mediterranean flavours. This is an extremely popular spot to ensure to arrive early to get a table!
Where to stay in Syracuse
- Hotel Borgo Pantano - Traversa Fontana Mortella, 13 int. 4, 96100
- Charme Hotel Henry's House - Via del Castello Maniace, 68, 96100
- Algila Ortigia Charme Hotel - Via Vittorio Veneto 93, 96100
Boat service
The Marina Siracusa offers all boating services.
Weather
Mild temperatures in the winter are accompanied by hot weather in the summer with average highs around 30°C.
When to visit
Depending on your preferences in temperatures, spring or summer are perfect to visit.
View all Italy Charter holidays here.
Cefalu
This scenic medieval settlement is truly worth a visit. A beautiful church blends in with the neat houses into the extraordinary countryside. This town is ideal for relaxing in the Mediterranean atmosphere, where you can feel the typical southern Italian beauty. Having the marina located outside town just adds to the medieval flair as it is not spoiled by modern moorings. Ruins of old fortifications can be visited on top of the mountain.
Where to berth in Cefalu
You can either just anchor or go to the Porto Nuovo, which is a marina located outside the town on the other side of the mountain.
Where to eat and drink in Cefalu
Via 25 Novembre, 10, 90015
Situated in the heart of the historical centre of Cefalu, just a few steps from the cathedral, you can find La Brace. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while the wines they have on offer are top quality but affordable.
Via dei Mulini 20, 90015
Ristorante al Capone offer excellent Meditarranean dishes on their gorgeous terrace. Service is excellent and some nights you’ll even be treated to live music.
Via Botta 13, 90015
Pasta with wild boar, swordfish cannelloni and deer scallopini are just some of the rich dishes you can expect to see on the menu. This highly rated spot is a must visit when in the Cefalu area.
Where to stay in Cefalu
- Astro Suite Hotel - Via Lungomare G. Giardina
- Cefalu Sea Palace - Lungomare G. Giardina
- La Plumeria Hotel - Corso Ruggero 185
Weather
Mild temperatures in the winter are accompanied by hot weather in the summer with average highs slightly under 30°C.
When to visit
Spring or summer are the peak season, where you can see the whole beauty of Cefalu.
View all Italy Charter holidays here.
Taormina
Taormina is definitely one of the most beautiful cities of Sicily. Be sure to visit the remains of the roman amphitheater. The theater also offers beautiful views at the bay and the surrounding countryside. The volcano Etna is just around the corner, which you should not miss out on.
Where to berth in Taormina
You will have to anchor in a bay. Bays however are quite small and therefore crowded in peak season. Examples for suitable bays would be:
- Mazzaro Bay
- San Andrea Cove
- Taormina Bay.
It is only advisable to anchor here during good weather conditions. Alternatively, you can anchor or moor at Naxos, a small town not too far away.
Where to eat and drink in Taormina
Vico Spuches,8, 98039
Nestled in the centre of the city, Osteria Rosso Divino is a concept restaurant that offers a different menu every day. Meals are created using the fresh ingredients available in the local markets.
Via Pirandello, 81 | Hotel Villa Carlotta
Villa Carlotta offers fish specialties alongside an excellent variety of pastas and sicilian flavours. Enjoy your meal on a gorgeous terrace with panoramic views of the coast.
Via S. Giovanni Bosco, 15, 98039
Cinque Archi is situated in an excellent location, with balconies overlooking the square and the church. A combination of fresh fish and pastas delight the palette while the views and service offer a wonderful ambience.
Via Madonna della Rocca,16/18, 98039
Al Saraceno’s views are a spectacle to behold! Situated at the foot of Taormina’s medieval castle, the restaurant offers breathtaking sights where you can admire Etna from afar and gaze at the coastline below. The menu offers a gorgeous selection of Sicilian specialties.
Where to stay in Taormina
- Hotel Villa Ducale - via Leonardo da Vinci 60, 98039
- Hotel Villa Carlotta - Via Pirandello, 81, 98039
- NH Collection Taormina - Via Circonvallazione 11, 98039
- Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo - Via Teatro Greco 59, 98039
Boat service
Unfortunately, there are no service facilities.
Weather
As it is typical for Mediterranean climate, the temperatures in the winter are mild, while the summers are hotter, with average highs around 28°C.
When to visit
Taormina is best visited between the spring and autumn, when the weather is at it’s finest.
Want to visit? Why not visit by boat! You can charter boats from LateSail all around Italy. Browse all holidays now.
