Broker Ben’s 2020 Yacht Charter Tips | Sardinia

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to get your family and friends to start planning for the new year. Forget contemplating whether you can stick to dry January or Veganuary and put some life changing plans into place. Spend quality family time together and inspire your children with the history of Europe, showing them the natural beauty of the Mediterranean. A Sardinia yacht charter has everything to make 2020 an unforgettable year.

Sardinia is Italy’s best kept secret. Offering the clearest waters in the Mediterranean, geological phenomena, mountains for hiking and cycling and some of the most delicious cuisine found anywhere in the world, you will be stunned! It’s for these reasons that our Broker Ben continues to go to Sardinia every summer!

What would a typical day look like on your Sardinia yacht charter?

Embark on PORTHOS SANS ABRI with Captain Carlo and set sail into the Maddalena Archipelago. Your first stop would be at Cala Coticcio on Caprera island where you could swim to the beach with the Seabobs. Step back onboard for aperitivo time and a small of glass of wine. A nice 2014 Capichera Vendemmia Tardiva Vermentino IGT will go down a treat! Cruise through the cerulean waters of the Maddalena and stop at La Scogliera for lunch.

Where should we go for lunch?

Located at the heart of the Maddalena Archipelago in Porto Massimo, La Scogliera is the must visit dining experience for summer 2020 in Sardinia. Get ready for the freshest fish, seafood and Italian classics, as well as Sushi, Poke Bowls and Ceviches. It continues to be the the standout seafood restaurant for yacht owners and celebrity alike, so let’s get your table reserved now!

And after lunch..?

After a long lunch and more swimming, head to Phi Beach club and take in one of the most spectacular sunsets you will ever see. Stay onboard for an al fresco dinner at anchor under the stars. Life really doesn’t get much better, and that’s just one day! Spend one week onboard and this will be the feedback you will share:

“ Thank you for a week of a lifetime on board Porthos. You know we’ve loved it because we have not stopped smiling. Laughing and howling with excitement as we arrive at the next stunning location, and play with the latest sporting kit, and eat the next delicious meal. We have, quite simply, had the best time. You have made it extra special by going the extra mile in every way. The children’s meals, kayaks made from paddle boards, gluten free chips, unexpected stops at bays and endless, endless trips on the alligator. 
Watching the children having the time of their lives and the grown ups too, is quite something… Thank you for all of it, you are all stars. We will be back! ”

Stay tuned for more top tips to make 2020 the best year to date!

Autumn, I’m falling for you.

The joys of summer, overcrowded ports, expensive prices, stressed out waiters, delayed planes? These are surely the worst parts of a summer holiday or charter in the Mediterranean. Forget the worst aspects of a yacht charter and look at a charter for the Autumn. 

Autumn sailing > Summer sailing

Sailing across the Mediterranean in Turkey, Croatia or Greece can be a better experience than a yacht rental at the peak of the summer season. These countries offer very mild weather in the Autumn and the wind tends to drop off from the high winds in August.

Warm waters and low season prices

The Mediterranean climate allows for warm September waters for swimming, private bays for swimming and more available yachts available last minute. The experience is different from that of the high season summer experience with a more relaxed atmosphere on every island. It is also easier to see a local way of life and to be able to make a reservation at your favourite restaurant on the day, rather than the week before!

Alice’s best places to charter a yacht this Autumn

Croatia

Split- Dubrovnik 

This one-way itinerary provides the opportunity to see the two historically fuelled cities of Split and Dubrovnik. Sailing between the two cities has scope for everyone, from partying at all night clubs in Hvar to exploring the national park at Mijet near to Dubrovnik this itinerary has something in there for everyone. It is very difficult to get a one-way charter during the peak of the high season however during the Autumn, many owners take the boats from Split to Dubrovnik and would be very happy to accommodate a one way. Your broker will organise this bespoke yacht charter for you and plan your itinerary.

Greece

The Cyclades Islands 

Contrary to popular opinion, the Cyclades are not the place to go to in the summer. The prevalent Meltemi wind dominates the Cyclades and often makes it very difficult to travel between islands. Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, and Ios are without a doubt the most breathtaking islands in Greece however it is difficult to get the right winds in summer to have an enjoyable charter. with the heavy winds in June, July and August. By late September, the winds have died down, the tourists have disappeared and the striking white roofs can be enjoyed from your yacht. Catamarans are widely available and are significantly less experience.

Sardinia 

Known as one of the most glamorous places in the globe, the Costa Smerelda is the new place for the A-listers and yacht charters! Boutiques, 5* hotels and some of the finest Italian restaurants are available in Sardinia. You can also hop over to southern Corsica and visit the striking port of Bonifacio. This is a perfect Autumnal destination due to the quieter ports, less crowded beaches and extremely blue waters at this time of year. Sardinia converts into more of a traditional experience during the Autumn.

Contact one of our expert brokers to plan your Autumn charter today! 

North Sardinian restaurants accessible by yacht!

Sardinia is not only known for the amazing crystalline blue water and the stunning white beaches, but also for the unparalleled authentic Italian cuisine.


Culture

Sardinian cuisine is extremely varied, enriched through the centuries by different cultures and traditions. Whether it’s snacks, starters, hearty meals or tasty desserts, you’ll be in food heaven during your holiday in Sardinia.


Wines

This region also boasts a wide selection of exquisite wines. The common wines you would find in most Sardinian restaurants would be Vermentino for the white wine and Cannonau for the Red wine. Sardinia is a magical blend of the fascinating local nature and fine cuisine inspired by the strong Italian culture and maritime history.


Day charter

Chartering a boat in Sardinia is the best way to visit unique beaches and islands, and if you are a food and wine lover you should definitely go to one of the restaurants below! All the restaurants can be reached with your private yacht, the restaurants all have a tender service or a dock to use to get you from the boat to the restaurant.


Number 1: LA SCOGLIERA

If you want a romantic restaurant coupled with panoramic Italian sea views. The white table cloths against the blue skies and seas is a beautiful setting for an equally beautiful lunch or dinner. LA SCOGLIERA is located in the spectacular natural setting of Porto Massimo north-east of the island of La Maddalena, in the heart of the Archipelago.


Number 2: LA CASITTA

The large terrace of the exclusive restaurant – La Casitta overlooks the beautiful waters of the Emerald Coast. This unique restaurant is located on the Island of Santa Maria, it composes the national park of the La Maddalena Archipelago.

The restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine, fresh, natural and sophisticated, based on local products of the highest quality. You have the choice of sitting in the classic Italian porch style section or on the terrace with a spectacular sea view.


Number 3: CALA DI VOLPE 

The Cala di Volpe located in near Porto Cervo, provides a fresh tribute to a traditional Sardinian and Mediterranean cuisine. Cala Di Volpe has been the undisputed gourmet’s choice for guests along the entire Emerald Coast for years.

The buffets boast an unrivaled selection of antipasti, inspired by regional recipes using fresh local products, cheeses, meats, and seafood. The dessert buffet offers homemade Italian gelatos, traditional cakes flavored with Sardinian honey’s and almonds, creamy custards, stewed fruit compotes, and decadent puddings are just some of the popular choices bound to please the most ardent sweet tooth.


If you book your yacht with us, we will make the reservation for you. Contact us now to find out what you could do this summer!!

FERRAGOSTO

If you decide to go to Italymid-August be ready to celebrate! One of the long-awaited days in the Italian Summer is the 15th of August, better known as Ferragosto.

It’s origin dates back to the Roman empire. It is a holiday established by the emperor Augustus in 18 BC. He wanted to provide a period of rest and celebrations after a long period of agricultural labor.

Now it’s about traditions, meeting with family and friends. Of course, being in Italy food plays an extremely important part of the celebration along with bonding and creating lasting memories. It is a day that people wait with enthusiasm.

If you find yourself in Sardinia, you must be prepared because wherever you are there will be loads of fun and interesting things to do and what a better way to celebrate this festivity on top of a boat.


PHI BEACH

This is definitely one of the best beach clubs in the Emerald Coast, located only 15 minutes from Porto Cervo. Here you can enjoy the beach experience during the day, the unique restaurant in the evening and the club during the night. It is also known for one of the best spots where to see the sunset. On the day of Ferragosto, they organize the best parties with great international DJs. It’s definitely a must if you find yourself cruising in the north of Sardinia at this time of the year. Perfect for both young and ….. people!

It is one of the most famous beaches in North Sardinia. Long 1km, it accommodates many different beach clubs and restaurants. You will be spoilt of choice. One of the main traditions during the 15th of August is to get together around a table and have a tasty Italian meal.

Considering this amazing location, a good suggestion would be Linguini Allo Scoglio, shrimps or salmon tartar. Liscia Ruja is definitely the perfect place where to go and spend your day with family and friends.


Another tradition of Ferragosto that is not to be missed is the amazing firework shows that many promoters organise during this day. It is a moment to gather together and relax in front of this mix of colours that explode in a dark blue Mediterranean sky.

What a better way than watching the fireworks from a boat.

Top 3 sailing destinations in picturesque Italy

If you haven’t visited the Italian coastline by boat, you probably have missed some unique destinations. A sailing holiday can offer you an exciting new experience to discover what this versatile country has to offer.

Have a look at 3 top destinations where to go sailing in this magnificent peninsula.


Sardinia

Sardinia is one of the best sailing destinations in Italy. The food, blue sea, beaches, sun, restaurants, and the local people are just so authentic. By visiting the Emerald Coast by boat you will reach unique beaches and secluded islands on assessable by yacht.

Aerial view of the famous Cala Luna Beach in Sardinia, Italy. Location: Gulf of Orosei, Province of Nuoro, East Sardinia.

The Emerald Coast is one of the most beautiful and famous coasts in the world, you will be able to visit bays, coves, and white sandy beaches. The perfectly clear turquoise waters seem to come straight out of a Caribbean dream!

You absolutely cannot miss visiting La Maddalena Archipelago! A National Park which consists of seven islands that could be compared to paradise on earth! We have a large selection of day yachts that are available for exploration through the park.

Mistral winds from the North West can set in for a few days during summer, which brings a pleasant breeze in the evenings. Exposed beaches on the North coast are the main areas affected by this wind, especially towards the straits of Bonifacio. This is why Porto Pollo is known as one of the best windsurfing beaches in the Mediterranean.

If this wasn’t enough very close to north Sardinia, there lays a beautiful island. Corsica. You are able to reach this island by sailing in just 2 and a half hours! You must visit the small island called Cavallo and the Bonifacio town.


Amalfi Coast

One of Italy’s most picturesque regions, the Amalfi Coast. This exclusive coast offers bays, coves, and unique landscapes. The houses almost look like they’re tumbling into the sea.

Amalfi, Sorrento, Positano, Capri, and Ischia are breathtakingly and beautiful spots where you can stop and try traditional Italian cuisine! Pizza with fresh mozzarella, pasta with clams, tiramisu and why not a good wine, all of this in one of the many restaurants with the sea view.

Not too far from the coast there is the wonderful island of Capri, classified in 2018 as one of the 20 most beautiful islands in the world.  Surrounded by clear turquoise waters, rocky coves, emerald green grottos, beach clubs and stunning restaurants where you can spend your time.

In a one-week charter, you can also visit the Island of Procida and Ischia, two tiny islands off the coast of Naples, both rich in uncontaminated nature and history.


Sicily

With perfect winds, unique landscapes and a sunny season that starts in mid-April and lasts until mid-October, Sicily turns out to be a perfect sailing destination, but these are only some of the reasons why you should visit this amazing island. This island is abundant in both history and culture. Sicily also possesses a coastline with pristine warm waters and a cuisine to die for.

The most popular destination is the Aeolian Islands, a Unesco World Heritage site due to their outstanding natural beauty. It is a volcanic archipelago composed of seven enchanting islands: Stromboli, Vulcano, Panarea, Salina, Lipari, Alicudi and Filicudi.

The islands are extremely diverse, all with spectacular views and black rock formations, quiet picturesque villages and exclusive ports all within hours of each other.