Aeolian Islands Sailing Cabin Charter from Portorosa: A 7-Day Cruise Through Vulcano, Stromboli, Panarea, Salina and Filicudi
Sicily, IT
7 days cruise
Catamaran
4 reviews
Shared cruises may require a minimum number of guests.
Price may vary depending on the cabin type, occupancy and cruise date.
Reservations are subjected to acceptance after availability checks. In case, the selected cruise is not available we will contact you with similar offers.
A circular cabin charter sailing holiday from Marina di Portorosa through the UNESCO-listed Aeolian archipelago, combining the volcanic landscapes of Vulcano and Stromboli, the fashionable anchorages of Panarea, the vineyards of Salina and the wild coastline of Filicudi.
The cruise departs from Marina di Portorosa on the northeastern coast of Sicily and follows a circular route through the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site formed by seven volcanic islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea. The base at Portorosa sits close to the archipelago, which means the first island is reached the same evening and the week develops without long open water crossings.
Navigation alternates between short hops between neighboring islands and slower days spent moving along a coastline by tender or at anchor. Most nights are spent at anchor in sheltered bays rather than in marinas, with the volcanic terrain of the islands providing both shelter and scenery in equal measure.
The islands along the route each carry a distinct character shaped by their geology and pace of life. Vulcano, the closest to Sicily, is defined by its sulphur springs, mud baths and black sand beaches. Stromboli, persistently active, erupts at regular intervals along the Sciara del Fuoco, the lava channel visible from the water after dark and one of the defining sights of any Aeolian itinerary. Panarea is the smallest inhabited island and the most fashionable, with whitewashed lanes and volcanic islets like Basiluzzo and Lisca Bianca just offshore, known for clear water and submerged Roman ruins.
Salina adds a greener and more agricultural dimension to the week, with twin volcanic peaks, terraced vineyards producing Malvasia wine and caper fields, and the bay of Pollara, a partially submerged crater that became famous as a filming location. Filicudi, the furthest west, is the wildest stop of the cruise, with the volcanic sea stack of La Canna rising seventy metres from the surface and a coastline of caves and lava formations that remain largely undisturbed.
Days follow a consistent rhythm of morning sails, midday swims at anchor, afternoons ashore and evenings either in a small harbor or on deck under an open Tyrrhenian sky.
Itinerary
Day1
Boarding in Portorosa and First Navigation Toward Vulcano
Boarding takes place at Marina di Portorosa, with a welcome briefing and time to settle into the cabins before the first short sail toward Vulcano. Weather permitting, the evening is spent at anchor off the island. If conditions suggest staying closer to shore, the first night can be spent at Portorosa itself with dinner in one of the nearby Sicilian restaurants.
Day2
Vulcano
The day begins anchored near Vulcano, where sulphur vents along the coastline give the island its distinctive atmosphere. After breakfast, the morning can include a visit to the natural mud baths on the northern shore, known for their mineral content, followed by a sail around the southern coastline to the Grotta del Cavallo and the Piscina di Venere, a natural coastal pool carved into the volcanic rock. The afternoon is left free for swimming off the boat or exploring inland trails. The evening is spent at anchor or in Porto di Levante.
Day3
Stromboli
The route continues to Stromboli, one of the most persistently active volcanoes in Europe. After breakfast, time ashore in the village of San Vincenzo allows for a walk through the whitewashed lanes and a look at the local market. Those who want to hike toward the crater can organize a guided ascent in the afternoon, reaching the summit at dusk for a close view of the eruptions. A swim at Strombolicchio, the ancient volcanic plug rising from the sea just off the main island, closes the day for those who stay on board. The evening navigation along the Sciara del Fuoco, with volcanic material visible flowing into the sea, is best experienced from deck at anchor.
Day4
Panarea and the Volcanic Islets
Morning navigation heads to Panarea, the smallest inhabited island in the archipelago. Before reaching the main harbor, the boat anchors around Basiluzzo and Lisca Bianca, uninhabited volcanic islets known for exceptional water clarity and for the submerged remains of a Roman villa off Basiluzzo, visible to snorkelers in calm conditions. The afternoon is spent ashore in Panarea village, with its narrow stone lanes, whitewashed houses and waterfront bars with views toward Stromboli.
Day5
Salina and Pollara Bay
A morning sail leads to Salina, the greenest island in the archipelago, with a first stop at Pollara Bay, a partially submerged volcanic crater open to the sea and known as the filming location for the film Il Postino. The bay is ideal for swimming from the boat. In the afternoon, the tender takes guests ashore at Lingua or Santa Marina for a walk through the village, wine tasting and, for those who want it, a granita at one of the local bars near the lake. The evening is spent at anchor off the island.
Day6
Filicudi
The route continues west to Filicudi, one of the least developed and most naturally preserved islands in the archipelago. The main stops are La Canna, a volcanic sea stack rising around seventy metres from the surface, well suited to swimming and underwater photography, and the Grotta del Bue Marino, a large marine cave accessible by dinghy or by swimming in calm conditions. The afternoon includes a stop at Pecorini a Mare, the small fishing village on the eastern side of the island, before the overnight anchorage in a quiet bay.
Day7
Lipari, Vulcano and Return to Portorosa
The final day sails back toward Sicily through the channel between Lipari and Vulcano, with a morning stop at the white pumice beaches on Lipari's western coast and a final swim in Baia dell'Asino on Vulcano before the return passage to Portorosa. Arrival is in the afternoon, with the final evening spent moored at the marina. Disembarkation takes place the following morning by 8am.
Important Note
This itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions, currents and marine activity. Dive sites and schedule are adjusted daily by the team to ensure safety and the best possible underwater experience.
Cruise price details
Price per person
€ 1310
Accomodation on selected shared cabin, check out single use and details
Cabin type
Standard double
Double cabin with private bathroom
cabin capacity
double bed
private bathroom
Price/person
Price may vary depending on the cruise date.
Included in the price
Accommodation in air-conditioned standard double cabin with private bathroom (A/C in service from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm)
Full board (breakfast, lunch, diner)
Drinks at meals (table wine and water), local aperitifs (punch, rum, fruit juice)
Service of the crew : 2 persons (captain, steward/cook)
2 sets of linen, towels and beach towels per person/week
Consumables for the yacht (diesel, fuel and water)
Insurance for the yacht and the passengers
Water sports on board: snorkeling equipment, sea kayak
Not included
Cleaning 250,00 EUR
Handling Fees 20,00 EUR
Starter Pack 25,00 EUR
Boat damage deposit 6 000,00 euro or 600 euro with damage waiver 280,00 euro (insurance price)
Yacht - Fountaine Pajot
Sail Together on the Astréa 42 - Catamaran Designed for Shared Moments and Lasting Memories at Sea
The Astréa 42 by Fountaine Pajot is a sailing catamaran designed to enhance connection, between people, between design and function, and between sea and sky. Measuring 12.58 meters in length with a beam of 7.2 meters, this award-winning catamaran redefines what a 42-foot boat can offer, combining sailing performance, onboard comfort, and refined style.
Its inverted bows, now iconic across the fleet, are more than a design statement, they increase interior volume and improve wave penetration at sea. The result is a sleek, dynamic profile that handles beautifully even in variable conditions. On deck, you’ll find generous lounging areas, a panoramic saloon, and direct access from the galley to the cockpit and forward lounge, all designed for fluid movement and shared experiences.
Inside, the Astréa 42 offers up to four double cabins with private heads, bathed in natural light thanks to wide portholes and skylights. The L-shaped galley and open-plan saloon create a social heart at the center of the boat, ideal for group travel or family cruising.
Equipped with self-tacking jib, electric winches, and optional solar upgrades, the Astréa 42 is easy to handle, even for smaller crews, making it a favorite among charterers and liveaboard sailors alike.
Why choose the Astréa 42? Because it proves that you don’t need a superyacht to live spaciously, sail intuitively, and create unforgettable moments at sea.
Yacht
Model
2020 Fountaine Pajot
Length
12.8 m
Yacht services
Tender size
3.6 m
Air conditioning
Yes
Accommodations
Max guests
8
Double cabins
4
Bathrooms
4
Private Bathrooms
Yes
Crew
1
Chef on board
No
Other facilities
Watermaker
Cabins
Standard double
Double cabin with private bathroom
cabin capacity
double bed
private bathroom
Cruise activities and tips
Travel organizer tips
What to pack for a sailing holiday?
Pack smart for your yacht charter: choose a soft bag instead of a hard suitcase, bring lightweight layers, reef-safe sunscreen, and non-slip shoes for onboard use. A couple of swimsuits and motion sickness remedies can also make a big difference. Each boat has limited storage, so pack light, but wisely! Need help building the perfect list? Read our full guide: What to pack in a suitcase for a yacht charter
What’s a Typical Day Like on a Yacht Charter?
Start your day with a swim in a quiet bay, sail to hidden beaches or seaside villages, and enjoy a slow lunch on deck. Afternoons mean snorkeling, sunbathing, or exploring ashore. As the sun sets, your boat anchors in a scenic cove or near a harbor, ready for a relaxed dinner and a night under the stars. Curious about the full experience? Discover more in our guide: What’s a typical day like on a sailing holiday?
Who Handles Cooking and Cleaning on a Yacht Charter?
On skipper-only charters, guests usually share cooking and cleaning duties, think salads, pasta, and good teamwork. If there's a hostess, light meals and tidying are included, but it's still a casual, collaborative vibe. On fully crewed yachts, you’ll enjoy full service with a chef and crew managing everything. Want to know what’s included in your setup? Read the full guide: Who takes care of cooking and cleaning on a sailing charter?
What Happens in Case of Bad Weather During a Sailing Holiday?
Summer sailing holidays rarely face major weather issues, but when the sea gets rough, skippers adjust the route for your safety. Expect protected bays, marina stops, or a change in plan. These moments often lead to unexpected gems: local towns to explore, time to relax on board, or cozy dinners ashore. Curious about how crews handle these changes? Read the full FAQ: What to do in case of adverse weather conditions or changes to the itinerary
Traveler reviews
Jonas M.
2024-02-11
I’ve done several sailing trips, but this one stood out. The boat was smooth under sail and easy to navigate even with minimal help from the crew. What really impressed me was how communal it felt. We cooked fresh seafood together, learned to tie knots, and even tried a bit of stargazing with the skipper. The route was amazing, Vulcano’s sulfur pools, Strombolicchio’s rock tower, the food in Salina. But my favorite moment was anchoring at Basiluzzo and snorkeling near ancient Roman ruins. You could really feel the layers of history under the sea. The other guests were great too, friendly, curious, and open-minded.
This kind of sailing experience makes you feel connected, to the sea, the culture, and the people. I’d recommend it to solo travelers and small groups alike who are looking for something more real than a resort stay.
Emilia N.
2023-09-10
This was my first sailing trip and I was nervous at first, but I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The boat felt incredibly stable and the atmosphere was welcoming from day one. I was impressed by how well the space was used, lots of natural light, comfortable cabins, and room to relax without ever feeling crowded. We visited hidden bays I’d never even heard of before. Swimming in the pool of Venus and dining under the stars were unforgettable highlights. I loved waking up to a different view each morning and enjoying breakfast outside surrounded by the sea. Even small things, like fresh coffee, cozy cushions, and music in the cockpit, made it feel special.
If you’re looking for a journey that blends nature, connection and quiet luxury, this is it. I came home lighter, calmer, and more inspired than ever.
Isabelle L.
2022-04-10
Every day on this cruise was a new discovery. From the stunning coastline of Lipari to the volcanic cliffs of Filicudi, each stop felt like a secret revealed. The boat was incredibly well maintained and surprisingly spacious. I loved the layout, sunbathing spots, shaded seating, and even space to stretch out and read. We had so many beautiful dinners on board, with the sun melting into the horizon. I also appreciated the mix of activity and rest: hiking in Salina in the morning, then napping on deck in the afternoon. Even without sailing experience, I felt completely safe and included. The crew answered all our questions and made the journey feel effortless.
This isn’t just a holiday, it’s a reset. You leave behind noise, routine, and rush. What’s left is sky, sea, and simplicity. I’ll definitely be back.
Liam A.
2020-10-18
Our week sailing through the Aeolian Islands exceeded every expectation. The catamaran was bright, spacious, and easy to move around, which made the onboard experience incredibly relaxed. I especially loved the open cockpit and lounge area, perfect for sunset dinners with new friends. We took turns preparing food, sharing stories, and watching Stromboli erupt at night. The crew made us feel completely at ease, while still letting us participate in sailing if we wanted. Shore stops like Panarea and Salina were stunning. I still dream of that granita in Lingua! It was the perfect balance between adventure and comfort, and I felt a real connection with both the places we visited and the people on board.
I highly recommend this cruise to anyone who wants to explore Italy by sea in a slow, meaningful way. Every moment felt intentional, beautiful, and deeply refreshing.
Shared cruises may require a minimum number of guests.
Price may vary depending on the cabin type, occupancy and cruise date.
Reservations are subjected to acceptance after availability checks. In case, the selected cruise is not available we will contact you with similar offers.
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