Would you like to start your Palermo sailing trip from Sicily? Palermo, located on the northwestern coast of Sicily, is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. The city is the perfect starting point for a Mediterranean sailing trip with its beautiful bays, mild Mediterranean climate, and charming ports. From the beaches of Mondello to the Aeolian Islands, Palermo offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage that makes every trip unique. We recommend this article to those who are planning their sailing adventure in Palermo to explore the surrounding islands by boat.

• Where to sail from Palermo? – ports and islands
• What is the best month to sail in Palermo?
• How can you get to Palermo?
• Sailing from Palermo town – itineraries

Where to sail from Palermo? – ports and islands

Ustica

Ustica is a small volcanic island located about 36 nautical miles north of Palermo, and it is an especially appealing destination for sailors and charter crews. The main harbor is well protected, making it a safe stop even when the winds pick up. If you plan to dock here, it is best to arrive before late afternoon, as berths fill up quickly during high season. The island is a paradise for divers, so consider booking a dive to explore one of the famous underwater caves, or take your dinghy to the crystal-clear coves within the marine reserve. The small fishing villages offer fresh seafood and also provide a chance to restock supplies before you continue your journey along the Sicilian coast.

Lipari Islands

The UNESCO-listed Lipari Islands lie northeast of Palermo and are considered one of the best sailing routes in the region. Distances between the islands are short, allowing you to plan several stops in a single day. Lipari’s harbor is well equipped, while Stromboli offers an unforgettable experience for sailors who want to watch the active volcano’s spectacular eruptions from the deck around sunset. On Vulcano, natural mud baths and black sand beaches are the main attractions, and anchoring is generally straightforward. When sailing around the Lipari Islands, keep an eye on the weather, as the northeasterly winds can occasionally create challenging conditions on more open stretches.

Castellammare del Golfo

Located about 40 nautical miles southwest of Palermo, Castellammare del Golfo is an excellent stop along a multi-day charter route. The marina is well equipped, making it easy to restock before heading further west. The surrounding coastline is ideal for sailors who enjoy short but scenic daily passages. Nearby, the Zingaro Nature Reserve offers sandy coves perfect for anchoring, with crystal-clear water and sheltered conditions. If time allows, consider taking a light coastal hike or swimming in the natural pools hidden among the rocks.

San Vito Lo Capo

San Vito Lo Capo is one of Sicily’s most stunning coastal destinations and a favorite among sailors. There are several safe anchorage spots along the long, white sandy beach, particularly when winds come from the northwest. The town marina tends to fill up quickly, so early arrival is strongly recommended. The town is known for its excellent seafood restaurants, making it worth coming ashore for a late afternoon dinner. The nearby Riserva dello Zingaro can be explored on foot or by tender, offering numerous small coves ideal for swimming or spending a peaceful night at anchor. Rent a boat in Palermo and enjoy gliding from one picturesque bay to another across this diverse coastline.

What is the best month to sail in Palermo?

Palermo offers excellent sailing conditions all year round, the best time for sailing is from May to October, with warm weather, favourable winds and ideal sailing conditions.
Spring (March- May): Temperatures range between 15-22°C, with increasing sunshine. Winds are mostly light to moderate (8-15 knots), but occasionally, the sirocco can strengthen from Africa.
Summer (June- August): Hot, sunny weather (25-35°C), with minimal rainfall. The morning breeze strengthens during the day, and the maestrale blows at 10-20 knots. The sea is calm, the ports are crowded, and the water temperature is 23-27°C.
Autumn (September-November): Still pleasantly warm in September (20-28°C), cooler by November. The wind is more variable, with occasional strong sirocco winds from Africa. The ports are less crowded, making it ideal for late season sailing.
Winter (December- February): Mild weather (10-16°C), with frequent rain and thunderstorms. The northwesterly maestrale wind often strengthens, with sudden gusts. The sea is rougher, making it more suitable for experienced sailors or for shorter coastal trips.

How can you get to Palermo?

Palermo offers a number of convenient options for reaching the city from abroad, both by air and by sea.

By air

Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO), also known as Palermo Airport, is the city’s main international gateway. It has direct flights from major European cities, including London, Paris, Berlin and Barcelona. Travelers from outside Europe can connect via larger hubs such as Rome, Milan or Madrid. From the airport, you can reach the city centre by taxi, rental car, shuttle bus or Trinacria Express train.

By ferry

Palermo’s port receives ferries from several Mediterranean cities, including Naples, Genoa, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Tunis. Ferry travel is a great option for those arriving by car or looking for a bit of a sea journey. Depending on the departure city, ferries can last between 10 and 20 hours, with both regular and overnight cabins available.

Sailing from Palermo town – itineraries

Sailing route West of Palermo

Day 1. Palermo – San Vito Lo Capo

67 km (36 nm), sailing time: 6 h Depart from Palermo, the capital of Sicily, a bustling city rich in history, culture and gastronomy. The first stop is San Vito Lo Capo, a charming little town famous for its white sandy beach. This town is home to the annual Cous Cous, a popular international food festival that celebrates cultural diversity and cuisine. With its beautiful natural surroundings and lively cultural events, it is an excellent stop for sailors exploring the Tyrrhenian coast of Sicily.

Day 2. San Vito Lo Capo – Favignana

50 km (27 nm), sailing time: 5 h Favignana is known for its rich marine life and beautiful bays, which provide a suitable environment for both snorkeling and swimming. The island’s coastline is dotted with sandy beaches and rocky areas. Historically famous for its tuna fishing, it is worth visiting the “Tonnara” museum, which presents this important aspect of the local heritage. Favignana’s relaxed atmosphere is complemented by its charming village, where sailors can sample local Sicilian cuisine.

Day 3. Favignana – Marettimo

26 km (14 nm), sailing time: 2 h Marettimo is known for its stunning mountain scenery and crystal-clear azure waters, making it a paradise for hikers and divers. The island boasts several ancient ruins and caves, accessible only by boat, offering a glimpse into its rich history and geological wonders. The small village of Marettimo offers a pleasant atmosphere, with excellent restaurants serving freshly caught seafood. The island’s remote location ensures that it remains one of the most unspoilt gems of Sicily.

Day 4. Marettimo – Levanzo

24 km (13 nm), sailing time: 2 h Levanzo is characterised by its peaceful setting and stunning natural beauty. The island’s village is full of spectacular whitewashed houses, which provide a picturesque Mediterranean backdrop. A notable attraction is the Grotta del Genovese, famous for its prehistoric cave paintings and engravings. These ancient sites offer a fascinating insight into the island’s ancient past.

Day 5. Levanzo – San Vito lo Capo

48 km (26 nm), sailing time: 4 h Discover the town of San Vito Lo Capo with its beautiful Piazza Santuario, overlooking the sanctuary and fortress of the town’s patron saint, the martyr San Vito. Stroll down to the sea on Via Savoia and meet musicians and street artists at sunset.

Day 6. San Vito lo Capo – Terrasini

30 km (16 nm), sailing time: 3 h Terrasini is a charming seaside town in Sicily, near Palermo. The town is famous for its magnificent red cliffs called Cala Rossa, as well as its beautiful sandy beaches, ideal for relaxation and water sports. Its historic old town welcomes visitors with its charming squares, colorful houses and excellent restaurants.

Day 7. Terrasini – Palermo

41 km (22 nm), sailing time: 4 h As your sailing adventure draws to a close, return to Palermo, the starting point of your journey. Enjoy a leisurely sail along the Sicilian coast and reflect on the memories you have collected along the way. Take the opportunity to anchor in a secluded bay for a final swim in the Mediterranean. When you return to Palermo, be sure to explore the city’s bustling markets, historic sites, and sample its famous street food, including arancini and panelle.

Sailing route East of Palermo

Day 1. Palermo – Mondello 11 km (6 nm), Day 2. Mondello – Cefalù 50 km (27 nm), Day 3. Cefalù – Lipari 43 km (23 nm), Day 4. Lipari – Salina 15 km (8 nm), Day 5. Salina – Panarea 19 km (10 nm), Day 6. Panarea – Ustica 46 km (25 nm), Day 7. Ustica – Palermo 52 km (28 nm)

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