Sicily and Aegadian Islands Sailing Itinerary from Palermo: A 7 Day Cruise to Favignana, Marettimo and Levanzo
La Cala, Sicily
7 days cruise, 65 dates available
Catamaran
Price may vary depending on the 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 seven-day sailing holiday from Palermo along the northwestern coast of Sicily, exploring the Zingaro Nature Reserve, San Vito Lo Capo and the three main islands of the Aegadian archipelago.
The cruise departs from Palermo and moves west along the northwestern coast of Sicily before crossing to the Aegadian Islands, a compact archipelago of three main islands, Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo, surrounded by smaller rocky islets and clear turquoise water within a protected marine area.
The route combines two distinct types of navigation, a coastal stretch along one of the most scenic sections of the Sicilian coastline, passing the Zingaro Nature Reserve and San Vito Lo Capo, followed by a more open water crossing to the archipelago and a slower island hopping circuit through the Egadi Islands before the return to the mainland.
Each island presents a different landscape. Favignana is the largest and flattest, known for hidden coves, white limestone formations and a historic tuna fishing heritage that shaped its economy for centuries. Levanzo is quieter and more traditional, with small whitewashed houses, a compact fishing harbor and the Grotta del Genovese, an archaeological site containing some of the oldest cave drawings in the Mediterranean. Marettimo, furthest from the coast, is the wildest of the three, with steep cliffs, mountain scenery and sea caves accessible only from the water.
The maritime identity of this part of Sicily runs through almost every stop, from the tuna fishery museum on Favignana to the small fishing ports of Levanzo and the isolated, unhurried character of Marettimo. Sailing through the archipelago gives access to bays and coastline that remain genuinely out of reach without a boat.
Days alternate between longer coastal passages and shorter island hops, with swimming stops in sheltered anchorages a consistent part of the daily rhythm, alongside time ashore in fishing villages and, on a few days, the option to explore sea caves or coastal trails.
Itinerary
Day1
Boarding in Palermo and First Navigation
Boarding takes place in the afternoon in Palermo, with time to settle into the cabins and a welcome briefing covering the itinerary, onboard routines and safety procedures. Once preparations are completed, the boat leaves Palermo for a short first sail toward the Isola delle Femmine area or the Terrasini coastline, offering a gentle introduction to Sicilian coastal navigation with panoramic views of the city gradually giving way to rocky cliffs and open sea. Dinner is served onboard or at anchor, with the first night spent in a quiet protected bay.
Day2
Zingaro Nature Reserve and San Vito Lo Capo
After breakfast, the route continues west along a scenic stretch of coastline covering around twenty-five to thirty miles toward the Zingaro Nature Reserve. Approaching the reserve from the sea reveals steep limestone cliffs, small beaches inaccessible by land and clear water protected within one of Sicily's most important marine environments. A swimming and snorkeling stop is often planned near Cala del Leone or Cala Marinella, areas known for calm anchorages and a clear seabed. The day continues toward San Vito Lo Capo, a fishing village known for its long sandy beach and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, where the evening can be spent either ashore or at anchor with the catamaran facing the illuminated coastline.
Day3
San Vito Lo Capo to Favignana
The itinerary transitions from coastal navigation to open water as the boat leaves the Sicilian mainland and sails around twenty miles offshore toward Favignana. Arrival is typically planned near Cala Rossa, one of the most iconic anchorages in the archipelago, known for its turquoise water, white rocky formations and excellent swimming conditions. The afternoon is left for swimming, snorkeling or exploring Favignana village, with the option to visit Palazzo Florio and the historic tuna fishery museum, both closely connected to the island's maritime past. The evening follows a relaxed island rhythm with dinner onboard or near the harbor promenade.
Day4
Favignana to Marettimo
The morning begins with a short coastal navigation around Favignana, with possible stops near Cala Pozzo, Cala Rotonda or Bue Marino, all known for calm water and good snorkeling along limestone cliffs and sea caves. In the afternoon, the route continues west for around fifteen miles toward Marettimo, the most remote and mountainous island of the archipelago, with limited road access and a quieter atmosphere than the other two islands. Arrival is in the small harbor or in a nearby protected bay depending on conditions, with the evening spent exploring the fishing village waterfront or relaxing onboard.
Day5
Marettimo Sea Caves and Sail to Levanzo
The morning is dedicated to Marettimo's coastline, known for its marine caves and rugged cliffs. Depending on sea conditions, the caves, including Grotta del Cammello and Grotta Perciata, can be explored by tender or with local small boats, as they are accessible only from the water. After lunch onboard and free time for swimming, the boat sails northeast toward Levanzo, a crossing of around ten miles with views over the surrounding islands. Arrival in the late afternoon gives time to explore Levanzo's peaceful harbor and simple white architecture before a quiet evening at anchor.
Day6
Levanzo and Return to San Vito Lo Capo
The day begins at anchor near Levanzo with an early swim in Cala Fredda or Cala Minnola, both known for calm, clear conditions suited to snorkeling. There is also the option of an excursion to the Grotta del Genovese, an archaeological site containing prehistoric cave drawings and evidence of early Mediterranean settlement. Later in the day, the boat turns back toward the Sicilian coast, covering around twenty-five miles and offering time to relax on deck during the final sailing hours before arrival at San Vito Lo Capo in the late afternoon or evening.
Day7
Return to Palermo and Disembarkation
An early departure from San Vito Lo Capo begins the final day, with navigation east along the Zingaro coastline covering around thirty miles back to Palermo. A last swimming stop near Cala Tonnarella, Cala dell'Uzzo or Cala Marinella is often planned to depend on sea conditions, offering a final encounter with the reserve before the return to the city. Arrival in Palermo is scheduled in the late afternoon, with the final night spent onboard in the marina. Disembarkation takes place the following morning after breakfast.
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
Entire yacht price
€ 6981.08
€ 5166
Book the entire yacht for a private trip
Included in the price
Entire boat rental
Tender
Mooring at the base
Complete equipment of the boat
Yacht additional fees
Sail Easy Pack: €750 per booking (Includes damage waiver, final cleaning, 1 set of bed linen and towels per guest, dinghy with outboard engine, initial supply of fuel, gas and water, first and last night in the home harbor)
Sea tax Egadi Islands, only if cruised through: €90 per week
Bright, spacious and designed for life outdoors, this modern sailing catamaran combines relaxed cruising comfort with generous social areas and smooth navigation ideal for island hopping and longer passages.
The Dufour 48 Catamaran is designed around open-air living, with wide exterior spaces that naturally connect the cockpit, flybridge and forward lounge areas. The layout creates an easy flow onboard, allowing guests to move comfortably between shaded dining spaces, sunbeds and sea access platforms while sailing or at anchor.
The elevated flybridge offers panoramic visibility and a comfortable social area, while the aft cockpit provides a protected setting for outdoor meals and relaxed evenings onboard. The wide transom platforms create convenient access to the water for swimming, paddleboarding and tender transfers.
Inside, the saloon benefits from large panoramic windows and abundant natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the day. The interior layout focuses on practical comfort for cruising, with generous seating areas, functional galley configurations and well-separated guest cabins that offer privacy during longer stays onboard. Multiple cabin arrangements are available depending on the configuration of the yacht.
Under sail, the Dufour 48 balances stability and comfortable cruising performance, making it suitable for coastal exploration, island itineraries and relaxed passages with family or groups of friends. The design prioritizes smooth onboard living while maintaining responsive handling and efficient navigation in a wide range of sailing conditions.
Yacht
Model
2022 Dufour 48 Cat
Length
14.6 m
Yacht services
Air conditioning
Yes
Accommodations
Max guests
14
Double cabins
7
Bathrooms
6
Private Bathrooms
No
Crew
0
Chef on board
No
Other facilities
Lazy bag
Lazy jack
Autopilot
Chart plotter in cockpit
Generator
Air condition
Convertible table
Electric toilet
Refrigerator
Refrigerator
Cockpit cushions
Outboard engine
Flybridge
Inverter
Cockpit speakers
Radio-CD player
Cabins
Standard Double Cabin
2
cabin capacity
double bed
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
Reservations are subjected to acceptance after availability checks. In case, the selected cruise is not available we will contact you with similar offers.
