Navene di Malcesine is one of the most exciting starting points on Lake Garda, where dramatic mountain scenery and reliable local winds create excellent sailing conditions. From here, you can easily plan both relaxed short hops and rewarding one-week circular itineraries, making the area suitable for different charter styles. Along the way, more active sailing sections alternate with quieter waterfront towns, scenic stopovers, and easy overnight options. If you are looking for a varied yet manageable Lake Garda sailing program, Navene di Malcesine is a strong choice.
The article includes the followings:
- Which month is best for sailing in Navene di Malcesine?
- Ports around Navene di Malcesine
- Sail in Navene! Navene sailing tours
- Marine gas near Navene di Malcesine, boat gas stations at Lake Garda
Which month is best for sailing in Navene di Malcesine?
Spring: Spring is when Navene di Malcesine starts to feel truly alive for sailors. From April to May, daytime temperatures are usually around 13–21°C, while the water of Lake Garda is still fresh at roughly 13–17°C, so the air feels crisp, the visibility is often clear, and the shoreline remains calmer and greener than in high season. During this period, the famous northerly Pelèr in the morning and the southerly Ora in the afternoon begin to alternate more reliably, creating sporty and well-structured sailing conditions. The lake surface is livelier in the morning and can become more textured later in the day as the Ora builds, while the overall crowd level is still noticeably lower than in midsummer. The best sailing period usually runs from May to September, with June and September standing out as the sweet spot, thanks to dependable winds, pleasant temperatures, and a more balanced atmosphere on and around the water.
Summer: In summer, Navene di Malcesine becomes one of the most dynamic sailing areas on Lake Garda. From June to August, daytime temperatures generally sit around 24–27°C, and the lake warms to about 20–23°C, making it pleasant not only for sailing but also for swimming. The Pelèr often blows at around 20 knots in the early hours and can occasionally be stronger, before giving way late in the morning to the Ora, which in the Navene and Malcesine area regularly reaches around Force 3–4 Beaufort. The lake is more animated at this time of year, with short, lively chop and a more energetic feel on the water. Harbours, beaches, and waterfront towns are also much busier, so summer sailing here feels vibrant, scenic, and full of movement.
Autumn: In September and the first half of October, Navene di Malcesine keeps much of its sailing appeal with a softer, more refined mood. Daytime temperatures usually range from 18–24°C, and the lake still holds some warmth, with autumn water temperatures averaging around 16–17°C. The familiar Pelèr–Ora rhythm often continues on many days, although usually with a little less consistency than in peak summer, which gives autumn sailing a slightly more nuanced character. The lake surface often feels more orderly, the light becomes gentler, and the air clearer, while the shoreline is significantly less crowded. For sailors who enjoy elegant conditions and a quieter Lake Garda atmosphere, early autumn is especially rewarding.
Winter: Winter in Navene di Malcesine is much quieter and better suited to experienced or highly motivated sailors and wind sport enthusiasts. Daytime temperatures are typically around 0–8°C, while the lake water averages about 7–8°C, so conditions feel sharp and decidedly cold. The classic thermal wind system is less dependable in this season, and neither the Pelèr nor the Ora is as reliable as during the warmer months. The lake surface can at times look calmer, but time on the water is physically more demanding because of the cold air and water. Along the shore, the atmosphere is peaceful and subdued, making winter here more contemplative than classic charter season.
Ports around Navene di Malcesine
Navene di Malcesine
Marina di Navene offers more than 200 moorings for motorboats amongst many. All moorings have free access to running water and electricity and there’re bathrooms in the Clubhouse. The marina provides two cranes for hauling and launching boats. There’s a superb restaurant and there’s also bar in the marina and it also boasts a small gym and private beach. Charter a boat to Navene di Malcesine and set off to explore the most magical coastlines of Navene di Malcesine – leave the rest to the wind and sun.
Moniga del Garda
The extraordinarily well-equipped, modern harbour is renowned for its quality of service. The harbour was built-in 2005 in accordance with the highest building standards. It provides 280 moorings for boats, the size of which can be as much as 18 m. The water depth of the pier reaches 3.2 m. Visitors have access to freshwater, electricity, Wi-Fi and TV. rent a boat in Moniga del Garda
Sail in Navene! navene sailing tours
One-week Navene di Malcesine sailing itinerary
This itinerary offers a varied, day-by-day route covering key stops on both the northern and southern shores, making it ideal for sailors who want to experience several different locations in one week. Pay close attention to daily wind strength and to planning the longer southern legs carefully. Recommended level: intermediate Open-water sections: no
Day 1: Navene di Malcesine – Torbole (4.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Torbole is 4 km away from Riva del Garda. If you like surfing, Torbole is the place to be, as it is internationally renowned as a surf paradise. The strong winds provide perfect conditions for surfing. Are you into extreme sports too? Here you can join a canyon tour as well.
Spend the night in Torbole’s harbour.
Day 2: Torbole – Riva del Garda (1.7 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
The next stop of our journey is located 9.7 nm from Malcesine. The town is nestled in breathtaking natural surroundings. The long Spiaggia Sabbioni is practically a beach and a park in one, where you can find both pebbly and grassy patches. There are various water sports to try as well. In the town, you can make your choice between atmospheric restaurants and fine boutiques. Spend the night in Riva del Garda’s port.
Day 3: Riva del Garda – Limone sul Garda (5.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
Situated on the northwestern part of Lake Garda, Limone sul Garda is one of the settlements with the most stunning location. If you end up here, you’ll definitely be stunned by the lemon groves and the steep cliffs. On its long lakeside promenade, you can choose between cosy restaurants and cafes.
Day 4: Limone sul Garda – Gardone Riviera (15.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours)
The main attraction of the town, Heller Garden, is located on a hillside, from the top of which hill you can admire a breathtaking view. In the botanical garden, you can wonder at beautiful plants, small lakes and statues. The garden is open for visitors between March and October.
Day 5: Gardone Riviera – Moniga del Garda (6.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
Thanks to its idyllic environment, the city belongs to the most favoured destinations. Choose the pebbly beaches to relax after the tiresome weekdays. If you have more time, the mountainous area here is ideal for cycling. As it’s the main production centre of the Chiaretto Rosé wine, you must taste it if you are in a restaurant. It is a light, cherry-coloured wine which is always an ideal choice with a nice dish.
Day 6: Moniga del Garda – Sirmione – Lazise (8.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
Sirmione can be found on a peninsula in the southern parts of Lake Garda. The city walls – reinforced by towers – are a unique treasure. If you dock here, you should visit the famous spas as well. You can choose from amazing restaurants and shops in Sirmione. Lazise lies on the southeastern shore of Lake Garda. If you seek serenity, the atmospheric, quiet town is an ideal choice. The Gardaland theme park, the Caneva Aquapark and the Movieland Park are also located in the vicinity of Lazise. In addition, you find the famous Parco Natura Viva wildlife park here too.
Day 7: Lazise – Torri del Benaco – Navene di Malcesine (20.2 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours)
After Torri del Benaco, we return to our first stop, Navene di Malcesine. After bringing back the yacht it is worth looking around in Malcesine if you have some time. Malcesine is on the northeastern part of Lake Garda. Its main attraction is the Scaliger Castle that dates back to the 13th century. Another of Malcesine’s architectural sights is the lakefront Palazzo dei Capitani, inside of which you can also admire a palm garden. If you’d like to take a dip, Paina Beach with free access is located only 100 m from the town centre. It’s a well-equipped beach with bars, restaurants and you can also find a beach club here. If you’d like to swim, choose its pebbly public beach. It’s also perfect for families with small children. In addition, you can try numerous water sports. There are some superb bars, pizzerias and restaurants nearby as well.
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
Sailing in Navene di Malcesine: 7 days sailing itinerary
This route is built around shorter daily legs, so it delivers a comfortable pace and an easy-to-plan Lake Garda circuit with several classic stopovers. Before the longer, more exposed crossings in the southern part of the lake, it is worth checking the weather and mooring options in advance. Recommended level: beginner Open-water sections: no
Day 1: Navene di Malcesine – Val di Sogno (1.3 nm – Sailing time*: about 30 minutes), Day 2: Val di Sogno – Castelletto (4.3 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour), Day 3: Castelletto – Torri del Benaco (5.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour), Day 4: Torri del Benaco – Peschiera del Garda (10.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours), Day 5: Peschiera del Garda – Sirmione – Moniga del Garda (8.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 1.5 hours), Day 6: Moniga del Garda – Salo (7.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 1.5 hours), Day 7: Salo – Campinone -Navene di Malcesine (18 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours)
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
How to choose a sailing itinerary in Navene di Malcesine?
- If you are new to sailing on Lake Garda: choose an itinerary with shorter daily legs and several easily reachable stops.
- If you want to see as many towns as possible in one week: the day-by-day circular route is the better option because it offers more variety.
- If you prefer a more relaxed pace and flexible schedule: look for a route with shorter distances and more intermediate mooring options.
- If sporty sailing and the dramatic northern shoreline appeal to you: choose a plan that also includes Torbole and Riva del Garda.
Marine gas near Navene di Malcesine, boat gas stations at Lake Garda
- MONIGA DEL GARDA: Depth: 3.2m, Working time: 8-18, GPS Coordinates45.524295806884766, 10.538492202758789
- LIDO DI LONATO: Depth: 2, 8m, Working time:8-18, GPS Coordinates: 45.4890022277832, 10.518878936767578
- SIRMIONE: Depth: 3m, Working time: 9-19:00, GPS Coordinates: 45.4725221, 10.6048554
- NAVENE DI MALCESINE Depth: 3 m, Working time:9-18:30, GPS Coordinates: 45.7716064453125, 10.812671661376953
- GARDA: Depth: 3, 2m, Working time: 8-18:00, GPS Coordinates: 45.5757654, 10.7065182
- LEPANTO: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 8-12:00, 14:00-18:30, GPS Coordinates: 45.46547317504883, 10.550867080688477
If you’re a lover of sailing, owing to the excellent wind conditions Navene di Malcesine and its surroundings are perfect for you. Wherever the wind blows you, you’ll be spoilt with stunning sights and exciting choices of activities. More Lake Garda sailing routes or boat hire in Lake Garda.
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