- Home
- Yacht Charter
- Italy
- One Week Sailing around the Tuscan Islands
The Tuscan Islands in northern Italy are an archipelago of islands which are so enchanting they were given National Park status. There are seven islands affectionately referred to as the 'Seven Sisters' which are well worth exploring. If you want to combine sailing, Italian cuisine and lavish landscapes then the Tuscan Islands are the perfect one week break.
The weather here is similar to the rest of Italy, dry breezy and warm, perfect for topping up that tan! With a West – North Westerly prevailing wind and then around the islands of Capraia, Elba and towards Giannutri the winds are South Easterly.
Like the rest of Italy mooring fees for a 39ft yacht range from €30 to upwards of €100 per night, with prices sometimes rising to double the cost when staying over a weekend. When sailing in Italy there are anchorages available, some of the better anchorages have mooring buoys which you do have to pay for, but are less expensive than a marina.
Once you arrive at the marina you will be met by the charter company and they will handle your check-in. Once all the paperwork is complete you will be shown to your boat and after a quick briefing it's over to you! Time for a drink! Follonica has won awards for it's clean and well kept beaches and on your first night keep and eye out for the Castella di Valli, the ruins of a medieval castle which overlook the town from a nearby hill.
From Follonica a great first days sailing is straight over to Portoferraio. This charming town will win you over as soon as you see it, it's quaint buildings and maze of winding streets will enchant you with ease, and the views out to sea aren't bad either.
From Elba Island we suggest heading north to Capraia. Another charming town, this island is the only volcanic island in the Tuscan archipelago so it really stands out. It also has a fresh water lake if you fancy swapping the salt water for fresh water one day!
After Capraia why not sail south to Pianosa, it's about a 30 mile sail and when you get here you'll know it was worth it. You'll need a permit to stay overnight here and if the fact that it used to be a prison doesn't put you off then go for it, if not it's a great stop for lunch!
The island of Giglio is a nice follow on from Pianosa. This small island makes up for its size in its landscape, from jutting rocks to smooth cliffs and beautiful bays, Giglio has it all. Not to mention the Castello on the hill which is surrounded by some remarkably well kept fortress walls.
Getting back to Follinca from Giglio is simple but make sure you leave enough time as this is a longer day than some of the others. But who wouldn't want to sail as much as they could on their last day? The charter companies like you to be back in the marina by 6pm which gives you plenty of time to wander the streets of Follonica finding a typically italian restaurant for one last feast!
Below is an indication of the yachts that will sail on this flotilla. Please call us on 020 8459 8787 to check live availability.
Our Shore to Sail holidays are a combination of a one or two week flotilla sailing holiday with another relaxing week or two ashore.
These holidays will appeal to those who enjoy sailing but have family or friends who are not quite so enthusiastic about sailing - a compromise can now be made!
Most people opt for a week of sailing followed by a week of winding down on shore. However it is entirely up to you to do what you want to do (and when!)
The Iris Hotel has been a popular choice for flotilla sailors for many years. This accommodation option will fit in with any of our flotillas starting and finishing on Lefkas Island. The hotel itself is a small family run hotel located close to Nidri Town. It has a combination of studio rooms for two or three people and apartments that can sleep up to 4.
The Salvator Spa Hotel is perched in the hills above Parga town and is a slightly more luxurious offering. The rooms on offer range from the Deluxe Room for two people, up to the Superior 2 Room Villa for up to 6 people. The hotel itself has an excellent restaurant, pool and spa facilities and all villas come with their own private pool.
Our brand new villa in Sivota on Lefkas is exclusive to Sailing Holidays Ltd. Built with families and groups in mind, the 3 double bedrooms all feature en-suite bathrooms. Built into the hill the ground floor level comprises of the master bedroom, a large kitchen and living space. On the same level you will find a huge outdoor seating area and a private pool.