Embark on an adventure exploring Italy and its surrounding islands aboard Motor Yacht Loon, a sought-after yacht charter destination in the Mediterranean. Discover stunning coastlines, historic villages, and an unrivaled food scene.
While the frequented hotspots such as the Amalfi Coast, Porto Cervo, and Venice are all well worth the spot on an itinerary, Yacht Loon also offers trips that uncover more of the lesser-known and hidden gems of Italian yacht cruising destinations. A luxury yacht charter here offers something for everyone, whether you want to delve into history and culture, play on the water toys in clear waters, or explore the outdoors.
Here are some of our favourite destinations in Italy to cruise on a superyacht charter this summer:
La Maddalena: For On-The-Water Fun
Dotted off the Costa Smeralda between Corsica and Sardinia is the archipelago of La Maddalena. Only accessible by boat, these secluded and rugged islands are one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. The clear turquoise waters here feel like the Caribbean, perfect for plunging into. Anchored in one of the sheltered bays, Yacht Loon provides the ideal playground for all water enthusiasts. There is plenty to explore, with seven large islands, the main one being La Maddalena, and over 50 tiny islets that make up this chain. The crew can set up the best on-the-water playtime with the FunAir inflatables, while the jet skis, foils and paddleboards are great for exploring the bays and coves. Getting under the water here is also a must, especially on Caprera Island. Its fantastic visibility makes it an excellent spot for taking the ScubaPro gear and snorkelling equipment out for fun.
Ponza: For Rest & Relaxation
The Pontine islands are the epitome of relaxation and laid-back charter days on Yacht Loon. Under the busy tourist radar, Ponza is the largest of these islands. They are located just off the coast of the Lazio Region, between Rome and Naples. Spending a few days cruising these charming islands on a superyacht charter can help you switch off, avoiding the hustle and bustle. With over 40 kilometres of coastline, there are plenty of great beaches to relax or chill out in one of Yacht Loon’s many lounging spaces with a cocktail in hand in an idyllic and peaceful anchorage. The relaxed atmosphere on land is great for strolling along the island’s quaint fishing villages, making stops for gelatos and photo opportunities.
Sicily: For Adventures in Nature
Renowned for being the largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily has so much to offer within its impressive landscape. Located at the southern tip of Italy, the islands and surrounding area are great for those wanting to experience nature-based itineraries from Yacht Loon. The crew know the best spots here for those craving adventures. Home to Europe’s largest active volcano, Mount Etna, Motor Yacht Loon can anchor nearby for those wanting the challenge to hike to the top. The Zingaro Nature Reserve is another top spot on the island for more hiking along this protected coastal area, stopping off at the various beaches for a refreshing dip. Further afield, off the northwest coast of Sicily, are the peaceful Aegadian Islands, perfect for getting more off the beaten track; exploring Levanzo, the smallest of the islands, is a must for nature lovers and keen photographers.
Aeolian Islands: For Family-Friendly Charters
Located off the northern coast of Sicily are another group of unique islands to explore; the seven islands of the Aeolian chain provide the perfect location for a family-friendly charter. Combining stunning natural landscapes with a slow pace of life and various activities suited for all ages, this archipelago is ideal for families wanting to spend quality time onboard Motor Yacht Loon. From finding hot springs and black sand beaches to exploring villages, hiking and scuba diving, Loon’s Captain can create a bespoke itinerary for these volcanic islands that tick the boxes for all family members to enjoy. Cruising past the active volcano of Stromboli at sunset while enjoying an alfresco family-friendly dinner is a highlight here.
Ligurian Riviera: For a Dose of Culture
The Ligurian Riviera is an enchanting stretch of coastline in northwestern Italy that offers various cultural and historical experiences. Its coastline is brimming with character and can sometimes be overshadowed by its neighbour – the French Riviera. But Liguria has its own treasures, exploring its unspoilt villages while taking in the region’s history and relaxing in the laidback Mediterranean lifestyle. Rich in maritime history, Genoa’s historic port city is a great starting point for learning about Liguria while enjoying a range of Michelin-starred restaurants. Further along the coast, you can explore the iconic Cinque Terre, five preserved and protected UNESCO villages with ancient footpaths and terraced vineyards. A yacht charter itinerary here can also include the idyllic Santa Margherita and the famous postcard-perfect luxury hub of Portofino.
Ischia: For Those Wanting to Indulge
While Capri has long been in the limelight as a superior destination for glamorous yacht charter escapes, its larger counterpart, Ischia, is often forgotten across the Bay of Naples. The volcanic and mountainous island is famous for its healing properties in the thermal hot springs, today reflected in the range of luxurious amenities, including top spa facilities. Beyond wellness, the island offers various culinary delights, from simple, fresh seafood to world-class gourmet cuisine. For those keen on browsing the shops, Sant’Angelo has a selection of small shops and elegant boutiques in this square, surrounded by bars and restaurants.
These are just some highlights of exploring Italy on a superyacht charter. If you are looking for more inspiration for where to go on a Mediterranean yacht charter, email us at info@motoryachtloon.com, and we will put together a bespoke itinerary tailored to your preferences for this summer. You can also take a look at sample itineraries on our website.