Is Sicily good for sailing? Why good and where should you sail? Are you planning sailing tours in Sicily? Sicily is Italy’s largest island, with a long sailing season and diverse sailing experiences. The island is full of mountains and lowlands and it is a gem of the Mediterranean. You can find lots of smaller or bigger islands around Sicily, which can serve as excellent destinations for those sailing there. 
This story highlights the following bullet points on Sicily:
- What is the best month to sail Sicily?
- 5 reasons, why Sicily is good for sailing?
- Where to sail in Sicily? – ports and islands
- Sail in Sicily! Sicily sailing tours
What is the best month to sail Sicily?
Sicily offers excellent sailing conditions all year round, the best time to sail is from May to October, with warm weather, favorable winds and ideal sailing conditions.
Spring (March-May) : Temperatures (15-22°C), with increasing sunshine. Winds are mostly light to moderate (8-15 knots), with occasional strong Sirocco winds from Africa.
Summer (June-August) : Weather is warm (25-35°C), sunny, with minimal rainfall. Winds are light morning breezes, increasing to maestrale winds in the afternoon, reaching 10-20 knots. Calm seas, busy ports, warm water (23-27°C).
Autumn (September-November) : Weather is still warm, 20-28°C in September, cool in November. Winds are more variable, sometimes sirocco (hot, strong) from Africa. Less crowded than in summer, excellent in the late season.
Winter (December-February) : Weather is mild (10-16°C), with occasional thunderstorms and rain. Winds are stronger northwesterly (maestrale) and sudden gusts. Rougher seas, best for experienced sailors or short coastal trips.
5 reasons, why Sicily is good for sailing?
Ideal Weather Conditions
Sicily enjoys a long sailing season from May to October, with warm temperatures, steady winds and calm seas. The maestrale (northwest) and sirocco (south) winds provide exciting but manageable sailing conditions. Even in the peak summer months, the morning breeze and afternoon breeze make it a perfect spot for beginners and experienced sailors alike.
Beautiful Islands to Explore
Sicily is surrounded by beautiful archipelagos, including the Lipari, Aegadian and Pelagie Islands. Each with its own unique landscape, from volcanic craters (Stromboli) to hidden coves (Favignana) and pristine beaches (Lampedusa). These islands offer endless possibilities for sailors.
Rich History and Culture
Sailing in Sicily is not just about the sea; It’s a journey through thousands of years of history. Ancient Greek ruins, Norman castles and picturesque fishing villages make every stop an adventure. Ports like Palermo, Syracuse and Cefalù offer a mix of cultural heritage, delicious cuisine and vibrant local life.
Culinary experience
Sicilian cuisine is some of the best in Italy. From fresh seafood and pasta alla Norma to world-famous cannoli and Marsala wine, the island’s flavours are a must-try. Many ports are close to local markets and traditional trattorias.
Varied sailing experiences
Whether you prefer quiet harbours, adventurous passages or bustling ports, Sicily has it all. You can cruise along the rugged northern coast, explore historic towns or relax in secluded bays with turquoise waters. Its strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea makes it an excellent stopover for longer trips to Malta, Sardinia or the Italian mainland.
Where to sail in Sicily? – ports and islands
When you leave Sicily behind you can find many smaller or bigger islands that expect you to discover them in the sea, when you sail there.
Northern direction
If you sail north, you can spot the Lipari islands, which have a volcanic origin. You also find Lipari (Éoli), Vulcano, Salina, Filicudi, Alicudi, Stromboli and Panarea islands here, of which Vulcano and Stromboli are active volcanoes until today. UNESCO World Heritage has added Lipari-islands on its list of world heritage sights.
North-western direction
If you turn northwest from the island, you find the island of Ustica. The village with the same name covers almost the whole area of the island. This small island with an area of 8.24 km² It is fast and easy to sail round and offers a pleasant view to visitors.
Western direction
If you turn west, you find the Egadi-island groups and Pantelleria island near Sicily. The Egadi-islands is a collection of several islands, as you see from their name. The islands consist of two small and three large islands, Favignana, Levanzo, Marettimo, Formica, and Maraone (the latter two are actually just two small rocks). The three larger islands are inhabited and popular destinations among tourists. Summers are long and hot here, you can measure even 45 degrees and temperatures don’t sink under 5 degrees even in the coldest months. The other island in this direction is Pantelleria.
South-western direction
Pantelleria islands 100 km from Sicily and covers an area of 83 km². It is important to know that the island is closer to Tunisia than to Sicily. When you keep looking toward the island, you can realize that its only border is the endless blue horizon. If you sail to the southwest, you find the last island group, the Pelagie-islands. The island consists of three islands located between Tunisia and Sicíly. Although the islands are part of Sicily, two of them (Lampione and Lampedusa) already belong to the African continent. While Lampione is uninhabited, Lampedusa is inhabited. These are the islands to spot the breeding place of loggerhead sea turtles.
Marina del Nettuno
The port is known for its proximity to the Aeolian-islands, a popular destination for boaters. It is located near the center of Milazzo, making it easy to reach the city and its historical attractions. It can accommodate more than 140 boats with a maximum length of 50 meters, with no depth limit. Milazzo yacht charters
Port of Trapani
The historic port of Trapani on the west coast of Sicily offers a fascinating mix of history and culture. It has about 50-60 seats. The maximum length of the ships can be 30 meters. yacht charter in Trapani
Marina di Marsala
Located on the west coast of Sicily, Marina di Marsala is a modern port known for its proximity to the world-famous Marsala wine region. The harbor has approximately 30-40 berths for 30-40 meter yachts and leisure boats. Marsala yacht charter
Port of Palermo
The bustling port of Palermo, the capital of Sicily, offers a lively atmosphere and a rich historical heritage. A busy port with several docks for cargo ships, ferries, cruise ships and yachts. Palemo is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Sicily or the Aeolian Islands. boat rental Palermo
Marina di Ragusa
Located on the southern coast of Sicily, Marina di Ragusa is a small charming port known for its calm atmosphere and proximity to beautiful beaches. Discover the historic center of Ragusa, protected by UNESCO, the labyrinth of winding streets. boat rental Ragusa
Marina di Portorosa
The marinais in the north of the island along a 4, 000-meter long quay. It is a really elegant and modern port in the neighborhood of Fumari. It is adequately insured and protects you from winds. Lipari islands are very close, just a few kilometers away. The sea bottom is 3.5-5 meters here, while the port basin is 2.5-3.5 meters deep.
Sail in Sicily! Sicily sailing tours
A week Aeolian sailing holiday
Day 1. Milazzo – Vulcano Porto
35, 21 km (21, 88 nm)
Thanks to the active Fossa di Vulcano, there is a beautiful black sand beach on the island. The fiery crater hides bright red and yellow crystals. You can go snorkelling, swimming or hiking here. Discover Grotta del Cavallo. Spend a night in Porto di Ponente port.
Day 2. Vulcano Porto – Filicudi Porto
39, 19 km (24, 35 nm)
This island has the lushest vegetation. Visit the prehistoric villages, Capo Graziano and Zucco Grande. Discover the stunning Blue Grotto. Check out Scoglio della Canna, a rock obelisk not far from the northwest coast. There are extensive hiking trails on the island.
Day 3.Filicudi Porto – Santa Marina Sailina
28, 71 km (17, 84 nm)
It is known for its lush vegetation and freshwater springs. There are three high mountain peaks and three villages on the island. Explore the smaller hills or enjoy the breathtaking view from the mountain tops. It is worth spending a night in Santa Marina Salina.
Day 4. Santa Marina Sailina – Stromboli
41, 63 km (25, 87 nm)
Stromboli emits beautiful spherical clouds. Watch how the red hot lava river moves towards the sea. On the two sides of the volcano, you will find two smaller villages. Among the members of the island group, these beaches have the blackest sand due to the volcanic ash. Discover the wonders of this island!
Day 5. Stromboli – Panarea
22, 72 km (14, 12 nm)
Panarea is the smallest inhabited member of the Aeolian Islands. It is very popular among celebrities and the rich. There are no cars on the island, thus locals and tourists use golf carts and electric bikes. People come here to be able to swim, dive, sunbathe and enjoy the sweetness of doing nothing in these peaceful, picturesque villages.
Day 6. Panarea – Lipari
21, 85 km (13, 58 nm)
Lipari is the largest, oldest and most populous island. Visit the town’s historical museum. Lipari’s main attraction is a 13 th -century Norman-style cathedral. Discover the famous beaches of the island.
Lipari is known for its vineyards. Local wines are very delicious.
Day 7. Lipari – Tono – Milazzo
40, 64 km (25, 25 nm)
Milazzo is a lively port city. If you get here early, discover Piscine di Venere, one of the most famous natural attractions of Milazzo. It is only a short trip starting from Belvedere Square. From the very beginning, you will have incredible views over Capo Milazzo and Sant’Antonio Bay. There are several high-quality restaurants in the town. sailing around the Aeolian Islands
Sail on catamaran in Sicily from Marsala
Day 1. Marsala – Isola Grande 11.47 km (7.12 nm), Day 2. Isola Grande – Favignana 16.33 km (10.15 nm), Day 3. Favignana –Marettimo 23.49 km (14.59 nm) , Day 4. Marettimo – Isola Levanzo 23.38 km (14.53 nm), Day 5. Isola Levanzo – Trapani 14.87 km (9.24 nm), Day 6. Trapani – Mozia 17.54 km (10.90 nm), Day 7. Mozia – Parco – Salinella 14.10 km (8.76 nm)
More Italy sailing tours
Sicily is a wonderful and unique island with a volcano and it is also surrounded by three seas. It is easy to sail around and there are many famous and well-equipped ports for you to moor, where you’ll find it difficult to resist the wonderful wines and dishes. Sicily is not only the home of The Godfather, but also of many sailors, fishermen, and seamen. Explore the island, where the love of sea and seafood is in the heart of culture. catamaran charter Sicily, sailboat charter Sicily, motor yacht charter Sicily, luxury yacht charter Sicily, bareboat yacht charter Sicily, Sicily crewed yacht charter
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