6 Italian Destinations Alternative to Overcrowded Cinque Terre

Thinking about chartering a superyacht to Italy? One of the first places you might think about is Cinque Terre with its cliff side villages. Unfortunately, Cinque Terre is going to reduce visitors as overcrowding is beginning to damage this beautiful UN World Heritage Site.

On the plus side, Italy’s coastline has many other exquisite anchorages charterers can visit which are just as appealing. Here are six of them.

1. Capri, Tyrrhenian Sea

Capri is a gorgeous and lush island, full of history. Over 2,000 years ago Romans built villas here and found ruins of older civilisations. The ruins of Tiberius’s palaces can still be seen today. On the north coast the Marina Grande has berths for vessels up to 60m in length, however at Marina Piccola on the south coast there are more attractive options.

The bay has three tall stack rocks and cliffs that curve out into the sea with quaint villages built on the rocks. Just a short drive away is Anacapri or Capri Town as it is now known. Dine at a warm and friendly restaurant which appears to be perched at the edge of the rock face, if you dare.

2. Panarea, Aeolian Islands, Tyrrhenian Sea

The second smallest of the Aeolian Islands, Panarea has dramatic coves and stunning scenery. There’s an inactive volcano here however geothermal activity provides hot springs close to Punta di Peppe e Maria.

With less than 300 full time residents, Panarea is a popular spot when summer comes around. Visitors who love a touch of elegant dining, spectacular views and lively nightlife, come to Panarea in their droves.

Known also as Baia Milazzese, Zimmari has perfectly secure anchorages. The sea around this area is clear with fantastic diving and snorkelling opportunities. Dive or snorkel over volcanic rock formations or wrecks that have been submerged for many hundreds of years.

3. Isola di Ponza, Pontine Islands, Tyrrhenian Sea

This authentic and romantic Italian Island is one of the most popular in the Mediterranean. Many Italians have private villas on the Isola di Ponza and spend their summers swimming in the turquoise waters. With its natural rocky grottos, fishing ports and hidden coves, this island is a true paradise. Chiaia di Luna beach has huge chalk cliffs that can now only be approached by sea due to rock falls. It’s an unspoilt island with plenty going on to keep visitors entertained.

The Gennarino a Mare is a fabulous seafood restaurant and has first class mooring facilities. For something a little different enjoy an evening meal on the gorgeous decking that goes right out over the sea.

4. Positano, Amalfi Coast

For over sixty years visitors have travelled to Positano, a fishing village which is now a tourist hotspot. Along the beautiful coastline are many bars and restaurants as well as beautiful views. Many people have enjoyed watching the colourful city lights come on as the sun sets over the horizon.

Try some of the local delicacies whether dining in a street side café or a luxurious restaurant. Dishes like fried anchovies tossed in vinegar, garlic and mint, peppered mussels and spaghetti with clams cooked in virgin olive oil are just a few. Desserts are absolutely mouth-watering especially babarese filled with wild strawberries and cream. Why not sail to the Li Galli Islands close by to swim or snorkel and work off those extra calories?

5. Porto Cervo, Costa Smeralda, Sardinia

For half a century Sardinia’s north-east coast has been a very popular superyacht destination in the Med. Quick to reach from mainland Europe and off the mass tourism track, it’s exclusive as well as being very beautiful.

The 55km coastline has been developed by a consortium led by HH the Aga Khan to provide a world-famous destination amongst quaint fishing villages and secluded coves.

Porto Cervo Marina is in a protected harbour where there are fantastic hotels, well-known shopping outlets and many gourmet restaurants. Join in the social side in events like the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, film festivals, polo matches or exciting vintage car rallies. There’s also helicopter and private jet access at Olbia along with yacht repair facilities. Discover Porto Cervo on the Costa Smeralda in Sardinia and all it has to offer.

6. Venice

Venice Yacht Pier provides a limited number of berths in its beautiful city. The pier is located a short walk from St Mark’s Square and has a maximum draught of 5.5m to 9m. Venice is a city in the sea and has been described by seafarers as the most beautiful location in the Mediterranean.

There are other marinas with deeper dockage about 10km away but within the lagoon. Explore the magnificent architecture, some of which is more than 1,000 years old. With over 20 million visitors landing in Venice each year from June until September, make your superyacht charter coincide with one of the oldest film festivals held in July-August. There’s a wonderful carnival in February which often lasts for ten days or take a boat ride and follow in Marco Polo’s footsteps. Sail into Venice’s stunning lagoon for a romantic journey, one never to be forgotten.