Hire a Boat in Sicily – Sailing Holidays at the Best Rates

Yacht Charter in Sicily: Sail the Heart of the Mediterranean

Sailing around Sicily offers a rare mix of ancient history, rugged coastline, volcanic islands, and deliciously rich cuisine. This sun-soaked island—the largest in the Mediterranean—is perfect for sailors seeking a dynamic and culturally immersive yachting holiday.

Whether you're admiring Mount Etna from afar or anchoring off the Aeolian Islands, Sicily serves up adventure, beauty, and relaxation in equal measure. From bustling Palermo to tranquil bays in Favignana, sailing Sicily is a voyage through timeless landscapes and vivid traditions.

Explore Sicily's shores with Tubber and set sail for an unforgettable Mediterranean escape.

 

Travelling to Your Yacht Charter in Sicily

Sicily is well connected to Europe’s major cities via several international airports:

 

• Palermo Airport (PMO): Ideal for charters departing from Palermo or Portorosa.

• Catania Airport (CTA): Best for accessing the eastern side of the island or the Aeolian Islands.

• Trapani Airport (TPS): Convenient for yacht charters from Tonnarella or the Egadi Islands.

 

Tubber’s optional transfer service ensures you get from the airport to your marina quickly and comfortably.

 

Tubber’s Charter Types for Sicily Sailing Holidays

Choose the best way to explore Sicily’s diverse coastlines and islands.

 

Bareboat Charter in Sicily

Confident sailors can enjoy full independence with a bareboat yacht charter. Explore secluded beaches, remote villages, and island gems like Salina, Stromboli, or Pantelleria at your own pace. The freedom of bareboat sailing lets you uncover Sicily’s secrets on your terms.

 

Skippered Yacht Charter in Sicily

Let an experienced local skipper guide your journey through Sicily’s varied waters. Ideal for groups who want a worry-free experience, a skippered charter gives you local insight into everything from island navigation to the best harborside seafood spots.

 

Crewed Yacht Charter in Sicily

Take luxury to the next level with a crewed charter. From gourmet meals to expert navigation, your crew ensures your sailing holiday is effortless. Perfect for honeymooners or anyone seeking a premium Sicilian sailing experience.

 

Flotilla Sailing in Sicily

Join a Tubber flotilla to sail alongside other yachts while enjoying the security of a lead crew. Great for families or new sailors, flotilla routes around the Aeolian or Egadi Islands let you enjoy group camaraderie and guided exploration.

Learn more about our flotilla holidays in Sicily.

 

When Is the Best Time to Sail in Sicily?

Sailing season in Sicily runs from April to October, with each month offering something special:

 

• April–June: Pleasant temperatures (20–26°C) and fewer tourists.

• July–August: Peak season, hot and dry weather (28–34°C), and vibrant coastal towns.

• September–October: Quieter anchorages and warm seas make late summer ideal for smooth sailing.

 

Don’t forget your swimsuit, sunblock, and a camera to capture Sicily’s golden light.

 

Sailing Conditions and Difficulty in Sicily

Sicily is well-suited to sailors of all experience levels, offering both sheltered cruising grounds and open-sea crossings.

 

Sailing in Sicily for Beginners

The northern and western coasts—particularly between Palermo, Tonnarella, and the Egadi Islands—offer calm waters, steady breezes (10–15 knots), and short distances. Flotillas and skippered charters are great entry points for new sailors.

 

Sailing in Sicily for Experienced Sailors

If you’re looking for excitement, the Aeolian Islands deliver. Navigate between volcanic islands like Stromboli and Vulcano, watch eruptions from the sea, or venture to Pantelleria for a remote challenge. Stronger winds from the north in July–August can provide a thrilling ride.

 

Explore Sicily and Its Islands by Boat

Sicily’s waters are scattered with enchanting islands and coastal gems:

 

• Aeolian Islands: A UNESCO World Heritage site of volcanic islands, each with unique character—hike Stromboli, soak in Vulcano’s mud baths, or relax in Lipari’s charming old town.

• Egadi Islands: Off Sicily’s western coast, Favignana, Levanzo, and Marettimo offer turquoise waters, quiet anchorages, and historic ruins.

• Taormina: Sail to one of Sicily’s most glamorous destinations, with its ancient Greek theatre and views of Mount Etna.

• Cefalù & San Vito Lo Capo: Coastal towns known for stunning beaches, medieval streets, and fresh seafood.

 

From ancient temples to lava beaches, Sicily never stops surprising.

 

Taste Sicilian Cuisine by the Sea

Sicilian food is a celebration of Mediterranean flavour with Arabic, Spanish, and Greek influences:

 

• Arancini: Crispy rice balls stuffed with ragù or mozzarella—perfect sailing snacks.

• Pasta alla Norma: Pasta with eggplant, tomato, and ricotta salata, a Catania classic.

• Cannoli: Fried pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta cream—no sailing trip is complete without one.

• Granita: Shaved ice with almond or lemon flavour, perfect for cooling off.

• Marsala & Nero d'Avola: Local wines pair perfectly with seafood and sunsets.

• Street food in Palermo: Don’t miss panelle (chickpea fritters) or sfincione (thick pizza) from a market stall.

 

Every harbour brings a new culinary delight!

 

Guidelines for Responsible Sailing in Sicily

Sail sustainably and respectfully with these simple practices:

 

• Protect marine life by using mooring buoys where possible and avoiding fragile seabeds.

• Support local economies by buying fresh produce from markets and dining in family-run trattorias.

• Respect no-anchoring zones near protected marine areas such as around Marettimo or Capo Gallo.

 

At Tubber, we support eco-conscious sailing for a cleaner Mediterranean.

 

More Information About Sailing Holidays in Sicily

With its blend of history, volcanic landscapes, lively towns, and quiet bays, Sicily is an extraordinary destination for a sailing adventure. Tubber offers a wide selection of yachts, personalised support, and the local knowledge to help you plan a perfect trip.

Get your free quote today and let Sicily’s magic guide your next sailing holiday.