Are you planning to start your Ligurian sailing tour from the island of Elba? Elba is a real gem in the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the coast of Tuscany. Not only is the panorama breathtaking, but the atmosphere is also quite magical. Sailing between emerald green bays, rocky shores and small, friendly towns feels like you’ve fallen into a Mediterranean fairy tale. If you prefer quiet, secluded beaches, you can easily find bays where only the sound of the waves accompanies you. For many sailors, Elba can be a unique experience – the attractiveness of the place is supported by numerous feedbacks and experiences. This article is for those looking for inspiration or a specific 7-day itinerary on the island of Elba.
Here’s what the article will cover:
- What is the best month to sail Elba Island?
- 6 reasons, why Elba Island is good for sailing?
- How can you get to Elba Island from abroad?
- Where can you sail to from Elba Island? – ports and islands
- Sailing in Elba Island – itineraries
What is the best month to sail Elba Island?
Late May and early October are considered the best times to visit – weather and winds are forecast to be at their best. Elba’s stunning harbours and beaches are a unique experience, but during the summer peak season, popular spots can get crowded – it’s worth considering the off-season. June and September are a good compromise – the weather is nice, but the crowds aren’t overwhelming.
Spring (March – May):
In spring, you can feel the harbours come back to life. The temperatures are still pleasant (15–22°C) and the winds are just right for a little coastal rocking. Of course, the sea isn’t inviting for a splash yet, but the sun is already on your face. And the best part: there are hardly any people around.
Summer (June – August):
This is the real high season. It’s warm, the sun is shining, and the water is inviting like a Mediterranean spa. Temperatures range from 25–32°C, and the Maestrale wind typically hits in the afternoons during the summer months, making it easier for many sailors to plan. However, you should also expect variable weather conditions.
Autumn (September–November):
If you ask me, autumn is the best time to be around Elba. The water is still pleasantly warm, but the tourists are flying home nicely. The air is around 18–26°C, and the winds are ideal. Everything is ideal until October, but by November you can already see the occasional rain or sudden gust of wind, so you should pay attention to the forecasts.
Winter (December–February):
You can also try it in winter, but this is for advanced sailors. The air is cool (10–15°C) and the sea is unpredictable. Libeccio and Ponente often test both sailors and ships. If you do go in winter, don’t expect open restaurants and tourist programs — but if that’s what you need, then Elba winter will be your world
6 reasons why Elba Island is good for sailing?
- Varied coasts and bays
The coast of Elba is truly full of surprises. You can find small bays that can only be reached by water — and that’s what makes it special. We once spent an entire afternoon on a tiny beach hidden among the rocks, where the only other place to be was a fishing boat. If you want to get away from the crowds, these places are heaven. - Reliable winds, for beginners and pros alike
If you come in the summer, you can count on the winds not to let you down. The afternoon Maestrale wind is predictable and strong enough to make sailing enjoyable. Whether you are just learning how to handle the ropes or you are already a regular fisherman, every day here will be an experience. - Cozy ports full of Italian life
When we arrive at the port at the end of a day, there is that incomparable “Italian evening”. We ate fresh seafood spaghetti on a terrace in Porto Azzurro, while someone was playing music in the square, the wine was cool, the air was salty… you can’t get bored. Elba’s ports are not only well equipped, but also full of life. Rent a boat on Elba and let the island’s hidden coves and crystal-clear waters enchant you – stress-free, at your own pace. - Excursion to nearby islands in one sailing
From Elba, you can easily sail to the other Tuscan islands — for example, Capraia, where nature is untouched, or Pianosa, which is both wild and fascinating. You can visit one or two islands in 1-1 days, so you can really get a lot out of a week. - Clear, transparent water and an exciting underwater world
While snorkeling, you can discover starfish, small schools of fish and small caves under rocks. The water is transparent, everything floats, lights up, and moves. It’s a real relief to stop in a bay, jump in, float, and just watch the underwater bustle. - Favourable climate and long sailing season
You can sail smoothly on Elba as early as the end of April, and you won’t have to reach for a sweater until mid-October. If you can’t stand the summer crowds, May or September are ideal choices — the sun is still caressing you, but you don’t have to scramble for free spaces in the harbor. And the weather is friendlier all year round than on many other European seas.
How can you get to Elba Island from abroad?
Getting to Elba is not difficult, it just takes a little planning. The airport in Marina di Campo (EBA) is on the island, and during the summer season there are direct flights from several European cities — mainly Switzerland, Germany and Italy. If you don’t fly here, that’s no problem: many people choose Pisa (PSA) or Florence (FLR) airports, as they are more accessible. From there, it’s about a 1.5 to 2.5 hour drive to the ferry port (e.g. Piombino), and you can set off for the island. The ferry ride is short, the view is beautiful, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin.
Where can you sail to from Elba Island? – ports and islands
Portoferraio
Portoferraio is like a journey through time: a bustling port and a town steeped in history. The natural bay invites you to drop anchor and then walk in the footsteps of Napoleon through the old streets. It’s an ideal starting point, but if that’s the case, you can stay for days – you won’t get bored.
Marciana Marina
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, Marciana Marina could be the place for you. Every corner of this small town on the north coast suggests: slow down, enjoy. The promenade, the warm colors of the stone houses, the restaurants overlooking the sea… It’s like sitting in a postcard. The perfect place for a coffee in the morning or a cool prosecco at sunset.
Porto Azzurro
It’s a different world. Porto Azzurro is a place where there is always something going on – musicians in the piazzas, small shops, lively life. At the same time, it has a certain intimacy. One evening we just sat down in a small trattoria, where the owner recommended the fish of the day. We were not disappointed – and we have been talking about it ever since. The marina is well equipped, so you can safely refuel and refresh yourself here.
Capraia Island
Capraia is a bit “further away” – 30 nautical miles, but every mile is worth it. The wildly romantic, volcanic island seems like a completely different world. The water here is amazingly clear and the beaches are almost untouched. A quiet harbor and a few bays where nature reigns supreme. Here you can really escape the noise.
Giglio Island
If you are looking for a romantic place for a special night, then head to Giglio. About 40 miles south, and the arrival is an experience in itself: colorful houses, a lovely little harbor, turquoise sea. Giglio is definitely worth a detour.
Giannutri Island
Giannutri is a real hidden gem. This is a place where only those who know what they are looking for come. There are few anchorages, few people, but the underwater world is simply stunning. If you like diving or just floating in peace, don’t miss it. It’s perfect for a day, and afterwards you will definitely look at the “island experience” differently.
Punta Ala
If you are looking for a little land luxury, jump over to Punta Ala. Modern harbor, pine forests, golf course, elegant cafes — everything is here for your comfort. I won’t say it’s an authentic little fishing village, but if you like a little premium living, this is the place to get it.
San Vincenzo
Last but not least: San Vincenzo. This is one of the sailing centers of the Tuscan coast, a place to visit if you need a well-equipped port and comfortable urban infrastructure. The city center is lively, the squares are cozy, and the coastal promenade is especially cozy in the evening. A good choice if you want a little civilisation after days at sea.
Sailing in Elba Island – itineraries
Sailing to Elba
Day 1: Piombino – Giannutri Island
19 km (10 nm), sailing time: 2 hours. If you set off from Piombino – which is actually one of the best starting points on the Tuscan coast – you will soon reach the island of Giannutri. This little jewel box seems like another world: not too many tourists, no noise, just the silence of nature, crystal clear water and mysterious Roman ruins. If you have diving goggles, it is worth taking them out here.
Day 2: Giannutri Island – Giglio – Tuscany Archipelago
44 km (24 nm), sailing time: 4 hours. The next day, you can come to Giglio – many people fall in love with it at first sight. The colorful houses, the winding little streets, where the tranquillity is almost tangible. Many people only know it because of the Costa Concordia accident, but in reality it is a true Mediterranean paradise, especially if you like diving or just want to escape the noise with a coffee on the beach.
Day 3: Giglio – Tuscany Archipelago – Pianosa Island
52 km (28 nm), sailing time: 5 hours. Pianosa is an unusual place: it used to be a prison, so it is still almost untouched today. There are no tourists here, so if you are looking for peace and quiet, this is your day. The water is almost unrealistically clear, and the bays of the island look like the sets of a nature film.
Day 4: Pianosa Island – Porto Azzurro
36 km (19 nm), sailing time: 3 hours Porto Azzurro… the name itself is promising, doesn’t it? This is one of the most charming towns on Elba, with a Mediterranean atmosphere, small shops, cafes, evening lights in the harbor. A good glass of wine on a terrace in Piazza Matteotti where the view and atmosphere enchant many travelers – clear water, calm bay and historic harbor.
Day 5: Porto Azzurro – Capraia Island
58 km (31 nm), sailing time: 5 hours This day involves a slightly longer sailing, but every mile is worth it. The island of Capraia amazes you with its wild and raw beauty – as if you were in a movie. Walking among the volcanic rocks and wandering between the medieval castle walls, you will feel like you have traveled back in time.
6. Day 1: Capraia Island – Portoferraio – Elba
20 km (11 nm), sailing time: 2 hours Return to the heart of Elba, Portoferraio. This city is history itself – Napoleon’s former residence, it’s full of life. If you like to add a bit of culture to your travels, it’s all here: museums, ancient fortresses, cozy restaurants, and a truly lively port.
Day 7: Portoferraio – Elba – Piombino
53 km (29 nm), sailing time: 5 hours The last day is always a bit nostalgic. You’ll sail along the coast of Elba, and if you’re lucky, you might even see dolphins along the way. Don’t forget to take the last photos – these are the moments worth saving. Then you slowly make your way back to Piombino, and you’re probably already thinking about when you’ll come again.
Sailing from Elba
Day 1. Portoferraio – Marina di Campo 41 km (22 nm), Day 2. Marina di Campo – Porto Azzurro 24 km (13 nm), Day 3. Porto Azzurro – Punta Ala 30 km (16 nm), Day 4. Punta Ala – Puntone di Scarlino 11 km (6 nm), Day 5. Puntone di Scarlino – Piombino 20 km (11 nm), Day 6. Piombino – Cavo 15 km (8 nm), Day 7. Cavo – Portoferraio – Portoferraio 13 km (7 nm)
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