Is Aeolian Islands good for sailing? Why good and where should you sail? Are you planning your Sicily sailing holiday in Aeolian Islands? The Lipari Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the northern coast of Sicily, offer breathtaking sailing experiences in the Mediterranean. This volcanic archipelago of seven unique islands boasts crystal-clear waters, stunning coastlines and bustling ports. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a taste of authentic Italian life, the Lipari Islands are a great sailing destination for you. We can help you with itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & other useful infomations
- What is the best season to sail in the Aeolian Islands?
- 8 reasons, why the Aeolian Islands are good for sailing?
- How can you get to the Aeolian Islands from abroad?
- Where to sail in the Aeolian Islands? – ports and islands
- Sailing in the Aeolian Islands – itineraries
What is the best season to sail in the Aeolian Islands?
The Aeolian Islands are a great destination all year round, but the best time for sailing is between May and October. Here is a breakdown of the weather and sailing conditions by season:
Spring (March to May):
Weather: Temperatures range from 15°C to 24°C, with mild and pleasant weather.
Sailing conditions: Moderate northwesterly winds (10-20 knots), making for comfortable sailing. Generally calm, with occasional waves.
Summer (June to August):
Weather: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C.
Sailing conditions: Mostly light northwesterly winds (5-15 knots), with occasional afternoon breezes. Generally calm, ideal for calm sailing.
Autumn (September to November):
Weather: Still warm in September (22°C – 30°C), gradually cooling down towards November (15°C – 22°C).
Sailing conditions: Stronger northwesterly winds (15-25 knots), providing excellent sailing conditions. Mostly calm, but sometimes storms occur in late autumn.
Winter (December to February):
Weather: Cool and wet, with temperatures around 10°C and 15°C.
Sailing conditions: Stronger northerly and northwesterly winds (20-35 knots), making sailing more challenging. Rougher seas, are more likely to be stormy.
8 reasons, why the Aeolian Islands are good for sailing.
- Stunning volcanic landscapes
Each of the seven islands has a unique volcanic character, from the active stratovolcano of Stromboli to the island of Vulcano, famous for its steaming craters. Sailing around the islands offers magnificent views of the coastlines, black sand beaches and towering cliffs formed by ancient lava flows. - Perfect wind conditions
The islands enjoy steady northwesterly winds in the summer, typically between 10 and 20 knots, making them ideal for smooth and enjoyable sailing. The predictable breezes allow for easy sailing between the islands, while offering some excitement for experienced sailors. - Crystal clear waters and ideal moorings
The Aeolian Islands have turquoise waters, excellent views and many sheltered bays. Popular spots such as Cala Junco (Panarea) and Pollara Bay (Salina) offer safe and picturesque anchorages. - A unique archipelago
The seven separate islands of the Lipari archipelago are close together, making them perfect for short sailing trips. Each island has its own charm – the bustling town of Lipari, the lush vineyards of Salina, the upscale atmosphere of Panarea and the active volcano of Stromboli make for an unforgettable trip. - Mild Mediterranean climate
The region enjoys warm, sunny weather from May to October, with average summer temperatures of 25-30°C and sea temperatures reaching 26-27°C. This makes it a comfortable and enjoyable sailing destination for most of the year. - Authentic Italian Culture and Cuisine
A cruise to the Lipari Islands is not only about nature, but also about experiencing authentic Sicilian culture. From fresh seafood and Malvasia wine from Salina to traditional Lipari pasta dishes, each stop offers delicious local cuisine. - Spectacular Sunsets and Night Sailing
The Lipari Islands are famous for their breathtaking sunsets, which are best enjoyed from the deck of a yacht. For the adventurous, a night sailing near Stromboli offers a rare opportunity to witness the “Sciara del Fuoco” – fiery eruptions that light up the sky. - Easy to access
The islands are easily accessible from mainland Italy. The ports of Lipari, Salina and Vulcano offer well-equipped mooring facilities. The proximity of Sicily makes it a convenient and therefore exotic sailing destination.
How can you get to the Aeolian Islands from abroad?
The closest international airports to the Aeolian Islands are:
Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) – The best choice. Located on the east coast of Sicily, Catania is the most convenient airport for travelers to the Aeolian Islands. From there, you can take a direct bus or private transfer to Milazzo (the main port). Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) Palermo, the capital of Sicily, also has good international connections. You will need to travel to Milazzo (via Messina) or directly to the ferry port in Palemo to reach the Aeolian Islands. Reggio Calabria Airport (REG) (on the Italian mainland) A smaller airport, but useful if you want to take a ferry from Reggio Calabria to the Aeolian Islands.
Where to sail in the Aeolian Islands? – ports and islands
Lipari – Marina Lunga and Marina Corta
Lipari, the largest and most developed island, is the ideal starting point for sailing adventures in Lipari. Marina Lunga is the main port, offering excellent mooring facilities, fuel stations and yacht services. Marina Corta is a picturesque old port with a charming atmosphere, perfect for smaller boats. Marina Corta is the island’s historic town, with stunning white beaches and a vibrant nightlife, offering an unparalleled experience.
Vulcano – Porto di Levante
Vulcano is famous for its steaming fumaroles (a class of volcanoes that spew steam spectacularly), its thermal baths and its black sand beaches. Porto di Levante is the main port, offering mooring facilities close to the island’s hot springs and volcanic trails. Sailers can enjoy stunning views of the island’s volcanic crater and relax in natural sulphur pools.
Salina – Santa Marina Salina and Rinella
Salina is the greenest and most peaceful part of the Aeolian Islands, known for its vineyards and beautiful scenery. Santa Marina Salina is the best-equipped port, offering modern facilities and easy access to charming cafes and restaurants. Rinella, on the island’s southern coast, is a smaller and quieter port with a beautiful black sand beach. Don’t miss tasting the famous Malvasia wine and local capers during your visit.
Stromboli – Scari Port
Stromboli is home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, which offers a spectacular natural spectacle of eruptions visible from the sea. Scari Port is the island’s main docking point, with basic mooring facilities in the picturesque town. From here you can take a guided tour to the volcano or sail around the island to see the enchanting lava flows of the Sciara del Fuoco at night.
Panarea – Porto San Pietro
Panarea is the smallest but most exclusive of the Lipari islands, popular with luxury travelers and celebrities. Porto San Pietro is a small but well-organized port offering moorings near elegant beach clubs and stylish boutiques. The island’s clear waters and rocky coastline make it a paradise for snorkelling and diving. Nearby islands such as Basiluzzo and Lisca Bianca offer stunning moorings for an unforgettable sailing experience.
Filicudi – Pecorini a Mare & Filicudi Porto
Filicudi is a remote and unspoilt island, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Pecorini a Mare is a charming port where sailors gather at sunset to sample local wine and fresh seafood. Filicudi Porto offers further moorings and hiking trails. Don’t miss the famous Grotta del Bue Marino, the sea cave, while you’re here.
Alicudi – Porto di Alicudi
Alicudi is the most isolated and traditional part of the Aeolian Islands, with no roads and very few inhabitants. Porto di Alicudi is a small port where only a few boats can dock, making it a peaceful and unique stop. The island is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy hiking and exploring unspoiled landscapes. With no cars or nightlife, Alicudi offers an escape for a quiet getaway. yacht rental Sicily
Sailing in the Aeolian Islands – itineraries
Sailing around the Aeolian Islands from Lipari
Day 1. Lipari – Portorosa
41 km (22 nm), sailing time: 4 h Portorosa, one of the largest and most modern ports in Sicily, stands out not only for its excellent facilities, but also because it is the first gateway for travelers arriving here to the stunning Lipari Islands. The port’s modern facilities, amenities and excellent infrastructure make it an ideal starting point for sailing enthusiasts. The surrounding landscape offers magical views, and the islands of Vulcano, Lipari and Stromboli are all just a short boat ride away.
Day 1. Portorosa – Vulcano
41 km (22 nm), sailing time: 3 h Vulcano, the island of volcanoes, is not only famous for its wonderful landscapes but also for its healing hot springs. The island’s main attraction, the Gran Cratere, is an active volcano. The black sand beaches and sulphurous mud baths are known for their healing properties, while the warm waters of the beach and the sulphurous steam provide a unique experience. Vulcano is the perfect choice for those who want to discover the wonders of nature and the wild beauty of the Aeolian Islands.
Day 1. Vulcano – Filicudi
41 km (22 nm), sailing time: 4 h Filicudi, an island of volcanic origin, is known for its wild and unspoilt natural beauty. Steep cliffs, ancient paths and hidden pebble beaches dot the landscape, while the clear waters offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The island’s small community is centered around the port, where a few cozy restaurants await visitors with fresh seafood specialties and local flavors. The relaxed atmosphere and proximity to nature make Filicudi a favorite among those seeking tranquility.
Day 1. Filicudi – Stromboli
41 km (22 nm), sailing time: 6 h Stromboli, the “burning island”, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, operating almost continuously. The lava flows visible from the sea are a stunning sight, especially at night, when the red lights of the volcano are reflected in the water. The island’s small village is full of narrow, winding streets and traditional houses, while the hiking trails leading to the volcano are a real challenge for the bravest travelers. Stromboli has a unique charm that will enchant any sailor.
Day 1. Stromboli – Panarea
41 km (22 nm), sailing time: 2 h Panarea, the fashionable and elegant island of the Aeolian Islands, is renowned for its unspoilt beauty and exclusive atmosphere. The whitewashed houses, lush Mediterranean vegetation and turquoise sea create a perfect harmony. The island is car-free, so peace and quiet reign. At night, Panarea comes alive when sophisticated restaurants and a vibrant nightlife attract visitors. Panarea’s reputation as a luxurious retreat makes it a must-see for anyone visiting the Aeolian Islands.
Day 1. Panarea – Salina
41 km (22 nm), sailing time: 2 h Salina, the verdant island, home to capers and the famous Malvasia dessert wine. The island is dominated by two extinct volcanoes, Monte Fossa delle Felci and Monte dei Porri, which are known for their fertile lands and beautiful views. Salina is quieter and less tourist-centric than its neighbors, making it an ideal place to relax and explore nature. The island’s charming villages, such as Santa Marina Salina, Malfa and Pollara, offer a charming setting to experience the local gastronomy and culture.
Day 1. Salina – Lipari
41 km (22 nm), sailing time: 2 h Lipari, the cultural and economic center of the archipelago, is a bustling port city with a rich historical heritage. The ancient castle and archaeological museum offer an insight into the island’s Greek and Roman past, while the varied landscape – coastal cliffs, white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters – will amaze visitors. The town of Lipari is full of shops, restaurants and bars, so there is something for everyone. The island is the perfect combination of history, nature and modern comforts.
Sailing from Milazzo
Day 1. Milazzo – Vulcano Porto 35, 21 km (21, 88 nm), Day 2. Vulcano Porto – Filicudi Porto 39, 19 km (24, 35 nm), Day 3. Filicudi Porto – Santa Marina Sailina 28, 71 km (17, 84 nm), Day 4. Santa Marina Sailina – Stromboli 41, 63 km (25, 87 nm), Day 5. Stromboli – Panarea 22, 72 km (14, 12 nm), Day 6. Panarea – Lipari 21, 85 km (13, 58 nm), Day 7. Lipari – Tono – Milazzo 40, 64 km (25, 25 nm)
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