Why is Costa Smeralda perfect for sailing, and where should you sail? Discover everything you need to know about sailing in Costa Smeralda, including itineraries, ports, yacht rental options, and other useful tips. We are here to help! Costa Smeralda, located in northern Sardinia, is not only a top holiday destination for tourists but also a favourite among the wealthy. Stretching 55 km along the coast, it boasts stunning beaches, charming islands, and luxurious accommodations that captivate visitors. Its crystal-clear azure waters and breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit for sailing enthusiasts.
In this article we look at Costa Smeralda in various aspects:
- What is the best time of year to sail Costa Smeralda?
- Why Costa Smeralda is a good for sailing?
- Where to sail in Costa Smeralda? – islands and ports
- Sail in Costa Smeralda! Costa Smeralda boat tours:
- Marine gas around Costa Smeralda
What is the best time of year to sail Costa Smeralda?
The warmest month is July when the average temperature may reach 35°C. The coldest month is January when the lowest temperature is 13°C. We recommend that you visit Costa Smeralda anytime between April and October as these months are characterised by pleasant temperatures and a low amount of precipitation.
Why Costa Smeralda is a good for sailing?
Costa Smeralda is a fantastic choice for sailing, it is no coincidence that it is one of the most desirable sailing destinations in the Mediterranean.
- Costa Smeralda is famous for its turquoise, crystal-clear Caribbean-type waters. The bright blue sea with its white sandy beaches and rocky coastline creates a picturesque setting for sailing. The coastline features dramatic granite cliffs, hidden coves and charming harbours.
- The area has reliable and moderate winds, especially the Mistral (northwest wind), which provides excellent sailing conditions. These winds are generally steady, ranging from 10 to 20 knots, and are ideal for all levels of sailors. Costa Smeralda is well protected by the surrounding islands and natural bays, which create calm sailing conditions even when the Mistral is blowing.
- During your sailing journey, you can encounter remarkable and rare marine life. The common dolphin and bottlenose dolphin are frequently seen in these waters, particularly between April and October. The fin whale, the second-largest whale species in the world, can sometimes be spotted from May to September in the deeper waters between Sardinia and Corsica, especially in the Pelagos Sanctuary. Sperm whales are also occasionally sighted, mainly from June to August, as they migrate through the Mediterranean during the summer months.
Loggerhead turtles are often seen swimming near the surface or basking in the sun. - Costa Smeralda is home to the most prestigious marinas in the Mediterranean. These marinas offer world-class facilities and luxury yachting services, including high-end restaurants, and boutiques,.
- There are very unique sailing destinations nearby such as
– the Maddalena Archipelago National Park, which offers stunning islands, secluded beaches and some of the best snorkelling and diving in the Mediterranean.
– The island of Corsica is also easily accessible, offering the opportunity to explore the rugged coastline, charming villages and unique cultural heritage.
– Costa Smeralda is centrally located for exploring the entire northeast coast of Sardinia. - Known for its exclusivity and glamour, the Costa Smeralda is famous for its upscale resorts, fine dining, designer boutiques and vibrant nightlife, offering a unique combination of sailing adventure and luxury lifestyle.
Costa Smeralda hosts the most prestigious sailing events and regattas, such as the Rolex Swan Cup and the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta. - The area has a rich history (traditional villages, ancient Nuraghi stone buildings) and culinary traditions. It is famous for its wines (Vermentino, Cannonau) local food (e.g. culurgiones) and unique cheeses such as pecorino.
- An easily accessible destination, Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport offers direct flights from many European cities.
- Whether you want a short or a longer cruise, Costa Smeralda offers a wide selection of sailing routes.
- The peak sailing season is from May to October, but Costa Smeralda’s mild Mediterranean climate allows for sailing almost all year round. The off-season offers quieter waters, fewer tourists and a more peaceful experience.
Where to sail in Costa Smeralda? – islands and ports
La Maddalena-islands
The archipelago in the north is home to the La Maddalena National Park. One member of the archipelago is called Caprera, on which you can find one of the oldest sailing centres in the country. With an area of approximately 16 square kilometres, the island is dotted with granite rocky and sandy beaches. The island is separated from Sardinia by sea with crystal clear water. The entire island is dominated by nature. You can only find people in the sparsely populated Stagnali settlement. It is connected to the neighbouring island of Maddalena by a bridge, where many more people are living. Spargi is an uninhabited island known for its beautiful sandy beaches, including Cala Corsara and Cala Granara, surrounded by rocky outcrops and turquoise waters.
Famous for Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach), Budelli is one of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago. The pink hue of the sand comes from crushed corals and shells. The beach is a protected area, access is limited, but it can be viewed from the water. The Razzoli and Santa Maria Islands are located at the northernmost tip of the archipelago. Razzoli is known for its rugged cliffs and its lighthouse, while Santa Maria is more accessible and has a stunning sandy beach, Spiaggia di Santa Maria.
Tavolara Island
This small island is located south of the Costa Smeralda. Known for its unique shape, pristine beaches and clear waters, it is a great place for snorkelling and diving. The island has a small family-run restaurant and a couple of hiking trails to the top with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Molara Island
Near Tavolara is this other smaller island known for its rounded granite formations and clear waters. It is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkelling, especially around the Piscine di Molara, a natural swimming pool formed by a shallow, sandy seabed.
Isola di Soffi and Isola di Mortorio
Isola di Soffi and Isola di Mortorio are smaller islands southeast of the Costa Smeralda, near the town of Porto Rotondo. Both are known for their secluded beaches, rocky coves and crystal clear waters, making them ideal for day trips and anchorage.
Isola di Nibani
This is a small group of islands located in the heart of the Costa Smeralda, off the coast of Porto Cervo. These islands are popular for snorkelling and diving because of their rich marine life and clear water.
Isola dei Cavalli
A small islet near the Maddalena archipelago known for its wildlife and natural beauty. It is less visited, so it is a great place for a quiet anchorage.
Corsica
Crossing the Strait of Bonifacio between Sardinia and Corsica could be the highlight of your trip. This narrow passage is renowned for its stunning scenery, with towering cliffs, sea caves, and turquoise waters. The strait lies within the Pelagos Sanctuary for Mediterranean marine mammals, so keep an eye out for dolphins, fin whales, and seabirds as you sail through. Upon reaching Corsica, your first stop is likely the historic town of Bonifacio. Wander through its charming old town, where medieval architecture, bustling cafés, and shops line the narrow cobblestone streets. Don’t miss visiting landmarks like the Citadel, the Bastion de l’Étendard, or the famous King of Aragon’s Staircase. Just off the coast, the Lavezzi Islands form part of a marine reserve, offering excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities with abundant marine life. Another popular stop to the north is Porto-Vecchio, known for its lively old town, fortress, and stunning nearby beaches.
Ports in Costa Smeralda
Costa Smeralda offers a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else on the island, largely due to the extensive development along the coast over the past few decades. It feels like a slice of paradise, with stunning attractions not just on land but also out at sea!
La Maddalena Archipelago
The marina here offers 140 moorings, accommodating boats up to 50 meters in length, including mega yachts. The harbor has a maximum depth of 12 meters. You can explore the surrounding archipelago in just 1–2 days.
The islands, with their pristine pink sandy beaches, remain largely untouched. Along with swimming and diving, you can also discover ancient Roman ruins and historic fortresses.
Information about sailing in La Maddalena, or La Maddalena boat hire
The harbour of Porto Cervo
This is one of the most well-equipped ports in the Mediterranean, with 700 moorings. From May to September, it hosts international sailing competitions. It consists of the northern, or old, port and the southern, new port, called Marina Village. A wide range of services is available for sailors. In terms of repair and maintenance, the port has highly experienced specialists. Olbia sailing, Olbia boat rental
The harbour of Olbia
The harbour of Olbia, located in northeastern Sardinia, opened in May 2009. Marina di Olbia operates year-round, offering 270 moorings and accommodating boats up to 80 meters in length. Its state-of-the-art dock is designed to be one of the safest ports in the Mediterranean, providing security in all weather conditions. Olbia is just a few kilometres from the renowned Costa Smeralda.
Marina di Porto Rotondo
The beautiful port of Porto Rotondo has 650 moorings for yachts as long as 90 metres. The depth of the water is 5.5 metres. The port offers several high-quality services, such as running water, electricity, Wi-Fi, fuel, and maintenance. You can even require medical assistance.
Marina di Golfo Aranci
The private dock is just 20 meters from the town center, offering 30 berths for boats ranging from 5 to 16 meters in length, with water depths of 1.5 to 5 meters. Thanks to the breakwater built in 2017, the port is well-protected against the dominant northeastern and southwestern winds in the bay. Marina di Golfo Aranci features a bar, restaurant, electricity, and Wi-Fi for visitors’ convenience.
Polto Quato
The port of Arzachena, established in 1987, has remained a favourite among sailboat and yacht owners ever since. The breathtaking scenery speaks for itself— as you approach the dock, you’ll notice how it stretches deep into the island’s interior, offering a stunning backdrop for arrivals. Polto Quato has a total of 305 berths, which are suitable for mooring boats of 8-35 metres in length. The seabed is 3 meters deep from the entrance and 2 meters in the inner dock.
The harbour of Cannigione
This is a medium port which can accommodate boats up to 25 meters in length. Its speciality is that the harbour specialises in tourism and recreational sports. The marina has received environmental acknowledgement for its environmentally-conscious operation. It is located beside the town of Lu Canniscioni, which accommodates yachts from 9 am to 11 pm. Cannigione sailing, Cannigione boat rental
The harbour of Portisco
The city of Portisco is located on the eastern side of Sardinia, and it has two harbours: Cala dei Sardi and Portisco harbour. The dock near Portisco has a total of 589 berths, which is reserved for boats with 4-90 meters length. The service is fast and professional, so it’s not by accident that this is one of the busiest and most popular ports in the area. Information about sailing in Portisco, or yacht charter in Portisco.
Cala dei Sardi
In Golfo di Cugna you can find Costa Smeralda’s most eco-friendly harbour. There are a total of 140 berths on this site, which can accommodate boats of 6 and 60 meters long. The dock is well-equipped, you can find electricity, water, Wi-Fit, and restaurants.
Porto Pozzo
In 1997, the port of Pozzo was opened, which is located in a natural fjord. The port between Santa Teresa and Palau accepts yachts day and night to rest and recharge. The port can accommodate up to 80 yachts, which can be between 4 and 15 meters in length. Information about sailing in Porto Pozzo, or yacht charter in Porto Pozzo
Sail in Costa Smeralda! Costa Smeralda boat tours:
One-week Costa Smeralda sailing itinerary
We are leaving from Olbia, and this is where we will return after visiting the sights in the neighbouring areas.
Day 1. Olbia – Porto San Paolo
14.94 km (9.28 nm)
First, we are sailing to Porto San Paolo, southeast of Olbia. The cosy town is famous for its welcoming inhabitants, and it has a perfect location as well. There are beautiful islands nearby such as Isola Tavolara, Isala Molara, and Isola Piana. If you are here, you can choose from great sports opportunities like horse-riding, mountain biking, and golf.
Day 2. Porto San Paolo – Tavolara Island (Spalmatore di Terra)
4.63 km (2.88 nm)
After Porto Paolo, we are visiting the wonderful Tavolara Island, which is mostly famous for the fact that the world’s smallest kingdom can be found here. The highest point, Punta Cannone offers a fascinating view of the surrounding mountains as well as the Strait of Bonifacio and Corsica. The wonderful bays of the island are perfect for a nice swim. If you visit the place, you will find a bar and a restaurant here; still, nature is dominant in this breathtaking spot. There are unique bird species, mouflon and goats on the granite rocks.
Day 3: Tavolara Island (Spalmatore di Terra) – Golfo Aranci
13.33 km (8.29 nm)
Our next destination is Golfo Aranci where we must definitely visit the town centre. Thanks to its stylish shops and modern boardwalk, the town is different from other typical Sardinian towns. Once you are here, you should admire the gifts made from coral, and then choose from one of the fine restaurants that all offer delicious frutti di mare. Spend the night in the port of Golfo Aranci.
Day 4: Golfo Aranci – Porto Rotondo
17.21 km (10.69 nm)
The holiday resort is located between Cugnana Bay and Marinella Bay, 13 kilometres to the north from Olbia. There are picturesque beaches here, and the square called Piazzetta San Marco can be found in the centre. The Church of San Lorenzo is a must-see sight. If you get hungry, you can find many restaurants and cafés in Porto Rotondo, which also has a buzzing nightlife.
Day 5: Porto Rotondo – Portisco
1.84 km (1.14 nm)
This romantic town has sandy beaches with crystal clear, shallow waters. Portisco, Rena Bianca and Liscia Ruja are the most popular ones. If you visit the place, you must try the delicious dishes of Sardinian cuisine. We particularly recommend the restaurants Ristorante Su Cubone and Portisco Beach Music. Both establishments offer delicious dishes and a pleasant atmosphere. Beside great food, they also offer many excellent wines to choose from. Read more about what to do in Portisco, Portisco sailing, rent a boat in Portisco
Day 6: Portisco – Porto Cervo
16.49 km (10.24 nm)
Porto Cervo, the heart of Costa Smeralda, has become one of Europe’s most popular luxury resorts. The town’s most striking landmark is the Stella Maris Church, built in the 1960s, blending Sardinian tradition with modern architecture. Another highlight is Porto Cervo’s well-equipped marina, offering 500 berths. Each year, from May to September, it hosts prestigious international sailing competitions. Looking for entertainment? You’ll find charming spots like the Sottovento Club or the English-style Lord Nelson Pub, perfect for a night out.
Day 7: Porto Cervo – Caprera (Pontile di Porto Palma) – Olbia
61.99 km (38.52 nm)
Caprera, situated between Corsica and Sardinia, is a fully protected natural reserve. The island, with its rocky landscape and pine forests, boasts numerous romantic, secluded bays, the most famous being Cala Coticcio, often called Tahiti Bay. A key attraction is the former home of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the Italian freedom fighter who spent his final years here. Caprera is also home to the Caprera Sailing Centre, one of Italy’s oldest and largest sailing schools, renowned throughout the Adriatic Sea.
After returning your yacht, it’s well worth exploring Olbia if you have time. The town boasts stunning beaches such as Le Saline, Il Dottore, and Porto Istana. Notable landmarks include the National Archaeological Museum, the Basilica of San Simplicio, and the Church of St. Paul the Apostle. The latter, built on ancient ruins, stands out with its dome covered in colorful ceramic tiles and its intricately carved Venetian wooden pulpit. For a delicious meal, visit the cozy La Lanterna restaurant, known for its pizzas, fresh frutti di mare, sheep’s milk pecorino, and grilled dishes. You’ll also find an impressive wine selection to complement your meal.
7 days sailing itinerary from Cannigione
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Day 1. Cannigione – Porto Massimo (La Maddalena) 21, 27 km (13, 21 nm) Day 2. Porto Massimo (La Maddalena) – Cala Santa Maria 7, 15 km (4, 44mile), Day 3. Cala Santa Maria – Porto Vecchio 43, 6 km (27, 09mile), Day 4. Porto Vecchio – Bonifacio 46, 5 km (28, 92mile) , Day 5. Bonifacio – Santa Teresa Gallura 16, 45 km (10, 22mile) , Day 6. Santa Teresa Gallura – Porto Pozzo 15, 83 km (9, 83mile), Day 7. Porto Pozzo – Palau – Cannigione 34, 95 km
Costa Smeralda sailing plan
Day 1. Porto Pozzo – Palau 13, 57 km (8, 43 mi, Day 2.Palau – Cannigione 11, 33 km (7, 04 nm), Day 3. Cannigione – Porto Cervo 13, 48 km (8, 37 nm), Day 4. Porto Cervo – Portisco 16, 49 km (10, 24 nm) Day 5. Portisco – Porto Rotondo 1, 84 km (1, 14 nm) Day 6. Porto Rotondo – Golfo Aranci 17, 21 km (10, 69 nm), Day 7. Golfo Aranci – Tavolara island (Spalmatore di Terra) – Porto Pozzo 73, 1 km (45, 43 nm)
More Sardinia sailing itineraries.
Marine gas around Costa Smeralda
- LA MADDALENA – Cala Gavetta: Depth: 5 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.211471, 9.404426
- LA MADDALENA – Cala Camiciotto: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.2147, 9.42679
- CAPRERA – Porto Palma: Depth: 9 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.191088, 9.449766
- BONIFACIO: Depth: 3, 5 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.387925, 9.163037
- PORTO VECCHIO: Depth: 4 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.59104, 9.28352
- SANTA TERESA GALLURA: Depth: 5 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.2448, 9.20658
- PALAU: Depth: 4 m, VHF: 09, GPS Coordinates: 41.1811, 9.3852
- ARZACHENA – Marina dell’Orso or Poltu Quatu Marina: Depth: 3 m, Working time: in summertime it’s open every day from 8.30-20.30, GPS Coordinates: 41.139006, 9.495669
- CANNIGIONE: Depth: 4, 5 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.109322, 9.440733
- PORTO CERVO: Depth: 7 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.136078, 9.527144
- PORTISCO: Depth: 12 m, Working time: 9-19.30, GPS Coordinates: 41.033888, 9.523888
- PORTO ROTONDO: Depth: 5, 5 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 41.029393, 9.543547
- GOLFO ARANCI: Depth: 5 m, Working time: 8-20, GPS Coordinates: 40.996165, 9.622444
- OLBIA: Depth: 5, 2 m, VHF: 09, GPS Coordinates: 40.916963, 9.524358
- OLBIA – Circolo Nautico: Depth: 2, 5 m, VHF: 12, GPS Coordinates: 40.923281, 9.509794
- ARBATAX: Depth: 10 m, Working time: 0-24, GPS Coordinates: 39.937412, 9.704896
Costa Smeralda is one of the most visited places in Italy. Wherever you end up, we are sure that you will find a place, sight, and a program for yourself. This area is an excellent choice if you want to admire the beauty of nature, cool yourself in the sea, and to enjoy the masterpieces of Italian cuisine.Thanks to the wonderful nature, the beaches, the central location, and excellent road transport Costa Smeralda’s island is a popular destination.Find more Sardinia sailing holidays or choose another Sardinia yacht charter.
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