Portisco is one of the most versatile charter bases on the Costa Smeralda, ideal for planning either a relaxed one-week cruise with short daily legs or a more adventurous route with scenic open-water passages. With crystal-clear water, stylish marinas, and easy access to nearby islands, it is a perfect choice for crews looking for a balance of swimming stops, elegant harbours, and memorable sailing days. From here, you can comfortably explore the highlights of the Costa Smeralda, the La Maddalena archipelago, and even southern Corsica. The itineraries below help you decide whether a gentler coastal loop or a longer, more ambitious cruise suits your crew better.
This article gives you an overview of the following topics:
- Which month is best for sailing in Portisco?
- Ports and islands around Portisco
- Sail in Portisco! Portisco sailing itineraries
- Marine gas near Portisco, boat gas stations around Costa Smeralda
Which month is best for sailing in Portisco?
The best time for sailing in Portisco is usually late May to June, and again in September. During these weeks the Costa Smeralda is already beautifully sunny, the sea is pleasant for cruising, and the wind is lively without being as intense or crowded as at the height of summer.
Spring: In spring, Portisco offers bright light, fresh air and increasingly reliable sailing breeze. From April to May, daytime temperatures are usually around 18–24 °C, while the sea remains cooler at roughly 15–18 °C, so this is more about rewarding passages than long swims. The prevailing northwesterly Mistral often brings winds in the 12–20 knot range, with stronger bursts at times, especially on more exposed routes toward the Strait of Bonifacio. The water is clear, the sea state can be lightly to moderately choppy in open stretches, and marinas as well as anchorages are still relatively calm. For many yacht charter crews, spring feels wonderfully spacious and authentic.
Summer: Summer turns Portisco into one of the Mediterranean’s most glamorous yacht charter bases. From June through August, air temperatures commonly range between 27 and 32 °C, while the sea warms to around 22–24 °C and can feel even warmer in August. Rain is scarce, daylight lasts long into the evening, and local sea breezes combine with the Mistral and occasional Scirocco to create typical sailing winds of around 10–18 knots, sometimes stronger when a system moves through. In sheltered bays the sea is often smooth or only lightly rippled, while more open legs can become quite lively. July and August are the busiest months, with marinas, anchorages and waterfront spots full of energy, style and traffic, making this the most vibrant but also the most crowded season.
Autumn: Autumn is often considered one of Portisco’s finest sailing seasons. In September and early October, daytime temperatures usually stay between 22 and 28 °C, and the sea often holds at a very pleasant 20–23 °C after the summer heat. Winds become more defined again, frequently blowing at 12–22 knots, and the Mistral can play a stronger role in shaping daily routes and sea conditions. Open-water sections are livelier than in settled summer weather, yet visibility is generally excellent, the air is clearer, and the coastline feels more relaxed. Crowds thin out noticeably after August, so autumn offers one of the best balances between good wind, warm water and quieter harbours.
Winter: In winter, Portisco becomes quieter and more contemplative, better suited to experienced sailors than to classic leisure charter weeks. From December to February, daytime temperatures are typically around 10–15 °C, while sea temperatures hover near 14–15 °C. Mediterranean lows and stronger Mistral episodes can make the weather far more changeable, with winds often rising above 15–25 knots and creating rougher sea states on exposed routes. The coast feels calm and uncrowded, marinas are quieter, and the atmosphere shifts from social summer glamour to a more elemental, weather-shaped sailing landscape.
Ports and islands around Portisco
Marina di Portisco
The port of the city has 589 berths for yachts with a length of 4-90 metres. It is perfectly protected and has all the necessary services sailors may need: running water, electricity, Wi-Fi and fuel supply. Rent a boat in Portisco and experience what it feels like when everything is perfectly timed – the sunset, the sea, and freedom.
Marina di Porto Rotondo
The beautiful port of Porto Rotondo has 650 berths for yachts as long as 90 metres. The depth of the water is 5.5 metres. The port offers several good-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 only 20 metres from the town centre. They have 30 berths for boats as long as 5-16 metres. The depth of the water is 1.5-5 metres. Thanks to the breakwater built-in 2017, the port provides protection against the northeastern and southwestern winds dominant in the bay. You can find a bar and a restaurant in Marina di Golfo Aranci, and they also have electricity and Wi-Fi.
Marina di Olbia
The port in Olbia provides 270 berths for yachts up to 80 metres size. The maximum depth is 5.2 metres. The protected port offers many great services. If you get hungry, there is a restaurant, and they have a bar as well. Olbia sailing, Olbia boat rental
Porto Cervo Marina
This is one of the best equipped and most welcoming ports on the Adriatic Sea. There are 700 berths available, 100 of which are preserved for yachts passing through. The depth of the water is 1.7-7 metres. Every berth has running water and electricity.
Poltu Quatu
Arzachena, located near Cannigione, is very popular among sailboat and yacht owners today. Poltu Quato, which opened in 1987, provides 305 berths for boats with a length of 8-35 metres. The depth of water is 3 metres around the entrance and 2 metres in the inner dock.
Marina di Cannigione
The natural port in Arzachena Bay can accept 400 yachts with a length of up to 25 metres. The maximum depth is 4.5 metres. They have drinking water, electricity as well as bars and restaurants. Their great services also include laundry and maintenance. Cannigione sailing, Cannigione boat rental
Marina di Porto Rafael
This small port in the northern part of Sardinia provides 80 berths for boats up to 30 metres long. The maximum depth of water is between 2 and 5 metres. Although small in size, the port is safe, well-equipped and popular among sailors. It is a perfect starting point from where you can explore the smaller islands of the La Maddalena archipelago.
Porto di Santa Teresa Gallura
The port can be found in the Santa Teresa Gallura holiday resort. They have 700 moorings for yachts with a maximum length of 45 metres. The depth of the water is 5 metres. It is a protected port with several great services offered, and there is also a bar and a restaurant here. Santa Teresa Gallura sailing, Boat rental Santa Teresa GalluraInformation about sailing in Santa Teresa Gallura , or boat rental in Santa Teresa Gallura
Sail in Portisco! Portisco sailing itineraries
HELP ME TO CHOOSESailing in Portisco: A week sailing plan
This shorter and more relaxed one-week route from Portisco links nearby islands and harbour towns, making it ideal if you want plenty of stops and an easy daily rhythm. Pay attention to protected bays and local access rules around the smaller islands. Recommended level: beginner Open sea passages: no
Day 1: Portisco – Mortorio Island (4.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
First, we are going to sail to the uninhabited island of Mortorio, which belongs to the La Maddalena National Park. We can only enter on the larger southwestern coast. If you visit the place, you can expect an unspoiled landscape where you can admire the beautiful rocks and rich Mediterranean flora. The small bay Cala Mortorio can also be found here; the sea bottom is marvellous on these parts.
Day 2: Mortorio Island – Porto Rotondo (3.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
After Mortorio Island, we are going to dock at Porto Rotondo, located between Cugnana Bay and Marinella Bay. The town has great beaches where we can try a wide range of watersports. If you are here, visit the Piazzetta San Marco square and the Church of San Lorenzo as well. Are you looking for entertainment? Porto Rotondo is a perfect tourist attraction where we particularly recommend the Country Club piano bar and disco. Spend the night in the port of the town.
Day 3: Porto Rotondo – Golfo Aranci (9.3 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
Our next destination is Golfo Aranci with its must-see town centre. Thanks to its stylish shops and modern boardwalk, the town is different from other typical Sardinian towns. If you would like to return from your holiday with something truly unique, buy one of the coral gifts sold here. It is definitely worth trying the frutti di mare in one of the fine restaurants.
Day 4: Golfo Aranci – Olbia (7.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
The resort, which is famous for the port and the airport as well, has many sights to see. Examples include the National Archaeological Museum, the Basilica of San Simplicio and the Church of St. Paul the Apostle. Once a small fishing village, the town is a popular destination today with its beautiful beaches, such as Saline Beach, Dottore Beach or Porto Istana Beach. The main street is the Corso Umberto I; it has an authentic Italian atmosphere and several restaurants and bars. If you would like to have a delicious meal, try the restaurant La Lanterna. They specialise in pizza, but you should also try the frutti di mare, the pecorino made from sheep’s milk and the grilled dishes. Beside great food, they also offer many excellent wines to choose from. Read more about what to do in Olbia, Olbia sailing, yacht charter in Olbia
Day 5: Olbia – Porto San Paolo (8.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours)
The charming little town, Porto San Paolo is famous for the welcoming guests; it also has a favourable location. The wonderful islands of Isola Tavolara, Isola Molara and Isola Piana can be found nearby. If you visit the town, you can choose from great sports opportunities like horse-riding, mountain biking and golf.
Day 6: Porto San Paolo – Molara Island (3.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 1 hour)
The beauty of the landscape is further enhanced by bays with waters in glorious colors, rocks shaped by the wind and hills that provide a fascinating view of the sea and breathtaking silhouette of Tavolara Island. As the island is private property, we need permission to enter any of its parts, except a designated area near the shores. Dock here and spend the night in the port of the wonderful Spagnola Bay.
Day 7: Molara Island (Cala Spagnola) – Tavolara Island (Spalmatore di Terra) – Portisco (16.8 nm – Sailing time*: about 3 hours)
The picturesque bays of Tavolara Island are perfect for swimming. Are you a fan of hiking? Follow the designated route to the highest point of the island, Punta Cannone where you can admire the beautiful panorama. From up there, you can see the surrounding mountains as well as the Strait of Bonifacio and Corsica. Beside the unique species of birds, there are mouflon and goats on the island, too. After we return our yacht, it is worth exploring Portisco if we still have some time. The town has crystal clear, shallow waters making it ideal for families with small children. Are you looking for a delicious meal? Ristorante Su Cubone is a particularly good choice; you must definitely try the authentic Italian spaghetti. You can also choose from a wide variety of excellent wines. Portisco Beach Music is also a great restaurant. They have delicious pasta and fish dishes and a friendly atmosphere.
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
7 days Portisco sailing itinerary (longer)
This longer itinerary includes bigger daily distances and more exposed waters, including crossings near Bonifacio. It is a strong choice for crews with more experience who want to cover several iconic stops in both Costa Smeralda and southern Corsica within one week. Recommended level: intermediate Open sea passages: yes
Day 1: Portisco – Porto Cervo (9.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 1.5 hours), Day 2: Porto Cervo – La Maddalena archipelago (Porto Massimo) (10.4 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours), Day 3: La Maddalena archipelago (Porto Massimo) – Santa Teresa Gallura (12.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 2 hours), Day 4: Santa Teresa Gallura – Bonifacio (8.9 nm – Sailing time*: about 1.5 hours), Day 5: Bonifacio – Porto Vecchio (25.1 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours), Day 6: Porto Vecchio – Cala Santa Maria (23.5 nm – Sailing time*: about 4 hours), Day 7: Cala Santa Maria -Capriccioli – Portisco (21.6 nm – Sailing time*: about 3.5 hours)
* – an average 43 ft sailing yacht, with average weather conditions, sails around 6-7 knots per hour.
How to choose a Portisco sailing route?
- If you want calm cruising with shorter daily legs: choose the standard one-week itinerary focused on nearby bays and ports.
- If you want to cover more flagship destinations in a week: the longer route is better because it also includes southern Corsica.
- If you are sailing with family or a less experienced crew: stay with the shorter legs and more sheltered stops.
- If you want more dramatic crossings and a richer touring feel: pick the longer loop and plan carefully around weather windows.
Marine gas near Portisco, boat gas stations around Costa Smeralda
- LA MADDALENA – Cala Gavetta: Depth: 5 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.211471, 9.404426
- LA MADDALENA – Cala Camiciotto: Depth: 3 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.2147, 9.42679
- CAPRERA – Porto Palma: Depth: 9 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.191088, 9.449766
- BONIFACIO: Depth: 3, 5 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.387925, 9.163037
- PORTO VECCHIO: Depth: 4 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.59104, 9.28352
- SANTA TERESA GALLURA: Depth: 5 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), 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 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 41.109322, 9.440733
- PORTO CERVO: Depth: 7 m, Working time: 0-24 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), 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 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), 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 depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival) depending on the season (to be agreed upon before arrival), GPS Coordinates: 39.937412, 9.704896
If you would like to sail, Portisco is a clever choice because of the Mediterranean climate and crystal clear waters. Visit the neighbouring holiday resorts as well that offer exciting sights and even more fantastic gastronomic experiences.Find yacht routes in Costa Smeralda, or choose another boat rental in Costa Smeralda
Request a quote for a Portisco charter and we’ll help you choose the route that best matches your crew and sailing style. That way, every day of your week can be built around smooth planning and unforgettable time on the water.
