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

Yacht Charter in Tonnarella: Discover Sicily’s Tranquil Tyrrhenian Escape

Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves, setting sail toward the Aeolian Islands, and ending your day with freshly caught seafood at a quiet coastal trattoria. If this kind of laid-back, authentic Italian sailing appeals to you, then Tonnarella is your ideal starting point.

Nestled on the northern coast of Sicily between Palermo and Messina, Tonnarella is a charming fishing village and an emerging yacht charter destination. It offers immediate access to the UNESCO-listed Aeolian Islands while retaining an authentic, unspoiled character, perfect for sailors seeking a peaceful base with world-class cruising potential.

Let Tubber connect you with the best boats, crews, and itineraries for an unforgettable adventure.

 

Travelling From The UK to Tonnarella

Reaching Tonnarella is easy thanks to its strategic location in northern Sicily:

 

• Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) – Approximately 2 hours by car, with international connections.

• Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) – About 2.5 hours by car, also well-connected.

• Tubber can help organise reliable airport transfers directly to Portorosa Marina, just next to Tonnarella.

 

Portorosa Marina is the most prominent marina near Tonnarella — fully equipped, modern, and ideal for yacht charters heading to the Aeolian Islands or Sicilian coastline.

 

Tubber’s Charter Types for Sailing in Sicily

Tonnarella’s proximity to both Sicily’s north coast and the Aeolian Islands makes it a great departure point for a range of sailing styles. Tubber’s fleet includes sailing yachts, catamarans, and motorboats — ideal for all preferences.

 

Bareboat Charter in Tonnarella

Experienced sailors can explore the Aeolian archipelago and northern Sicilian coast independently with a bareboat charter.

Set your itinerary, stop in secluded bays, and discover hidden gems like Vulcano’s black-sand beaches or the old salt pans of Marsala.

 

Skippered Yacht Charter in Tonnarella

Sail stress-free with a local skipper who knows the best routes, anchorages, and weather patterns.

Whether you’re interested in snorkelling near Salina or tasting wine in Lipari, a skippered charter ensures a smooth journey without the navigational responsibility.

 

Crewed Yacht Charter in Tonnarella

Treat yourself to the ultimate sailing experience with a fully crewed charter.

A professional crew handles all logistics — from sailing and docking to meals and hospitality — while you enjoy gourmet cuisine, swimming in clear bays, and sunsets from the deck.

 

Flotilla Holiday in Sicily

Tubber also offers English-speaking flotilla holidays in Sicily.

Ideal for families or social sailors, flotillas let you sail in a group while enjoying the camaraderie of like-minded travellers and support from a lead boat.

We also have flotilla holidays in Italy starting from other destinations.

 

When Is the Best Time for Sailing in Tonnarella?

Sailing season in Tonnarella spans from May to October:

 

• May & June: Pleasant temperatures (22–26°C), blooming landscapes, and quiet anchorages.

• July & August: Peak season with hot, dry weather (28–33°C), perfect for island hopping.

• September & October: Warmer seas, mellow crowds, and great conditions for sailing.

 

Winds around Tonnarella and the Aeolian Islands are moderate, typically 3–5 Beaufort, with predictable weather patterns during summer.

 

Sailing from Tonnarella for Beginner Sailors

Calm summer seas and short sailing distances make the region beginner-friendly. Portorosa Marina offers excellent facilities, and nearby islands like Vulcano or Lipari are within 15–20 nautical miles.

The area is perfect for novice sailors looking to develop their confidence in relatively sheltered waters.

 

Sailing from Tonnarella for Experienced Sailors

Advanced sailors can take on longer crossings to the outer Aeolian Islands, such as Filicudi or Stromboli, or continue along the Tyrrhenian coast toward Palermo and beyond.

The winds can occasionally pick up due to regional weather systems (like the Maestrale), so experienced navigators will enjoy the challenge while remaining in relatively safe waters.

 

Explore the Aeolian Islands & Northern Sicily with Boat Hire in Tonnarella

Tonnarella opens the door to some of Italy’s most dramatic coastal and volcanic scenery:

 

• Lipari – The largest Aeolian island, known for its charming town and historic castle.

• Salina – A green, wine-producing island with scenic hiking and quiet anchorages.

• Vulcano – Famous for its therapeutic mud baths, sulfur springs, and steaming craters.

• Stromboli – Home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, visible from the sea at night.

• Panarea – The chicest island in the group, with upscale dining and buzzing nightlife.

• Cefalù – A beautiful Sicilian coastal town just west of Tonnarella, perfect for cultural day trips.

 

Indulge in Local Sicilian Cuisine

A sailing holiday in Sicily wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its exceptional food:

 

• “Pasta alla Norma” – A Catanian classic made with eggplant, tomato, ricotta salata, and basil.

• “Arancini” – Fried rice balls filled with ragù, mozzarella, or pistachio.

• “Caponata” – A sweet and sour eggplant salad, often served as an appetiser.

• “Cannoli” – A crunchy pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese and candied fruit.

• Enjoy with local wines like Malvasia delle Lipari, Nero d’Avola, or a crisp Etna Bianco.

 

End your meal with a sip of local Passito wine or an artisanal Limoncello from the nearby Aeolian vineyards.

 

Guidelines for Responsible Sailing in Sicily

Preserve the beauty of Sicily and its islands by following Tubber’s sustainability guidelines:

 

• Anchor only in permitted areas to protect seagrass meadows and volcanic seabeds.

• Reduce waste on board and dispose responsibly at port recycling centres.

• Respect wildlife, especially in marine reserves near Stromboli and Panarea.

• Support local economies by shopping in family-run markets and dining in local trattorias.

 

More Information About Sailing Holidays

With its access to volcanic islands, quiet fishing villages, and Sicilian charm, Tonnarella offers a captivating sailing experience with fewer crowds and plenty of Mediterranean magic.

Whether you're after adventure, tranquillity, or a culinary escape on the sea, Tubber’s boat hire and expert planning ensure a seamless sailing holiday in Tonnarella.

Contact us today for your custom quote and let Tubber take you to Sicily’s sailing heartland — one breeze at a time.