Pontine Islands, Ischia and South of Naples Sailing Tour

By the time you set foot on the sleek Beneteau Cyclades in Nettuno, you will be ready to slip into some comfortable footwear and surrender yourself to the attentive treatment of the cruise staff. After a brief orientation complete with a welcoming cocktail, you can set your eyes toward your island-hopping destiny. With the Tyrrhenian sun dipping low on the horizon, you will make your way to the island of Palmarola. Upon your arrival, your skilled chef will prepare a delectable dinner inspired by local ingredients.

Like a thin seawall that holds back two vast oceans, the blue of the sky and the sea will be separated only by the rugged profile of Ponza and its bright limestone cliffs. After a fortifying breakfast, you will be able to start your morning with a visit to Santa Maria beach. Here, you can stroll through this charming seaside community and bask in the bracing air that blows in off the Tyrrhenian sea. In the evening, you will be given an opportunity to acquaint yourself with authentic Italian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and a magical atmosphere.

From Ponza, you will continue your leisurely cruise to the picturesque island of Ventotene. With the exception of the port, this charming island is surrounded by high cliffs that, when combined with its flat interior, give the appearance of a giant cooking pan rising out of the sea. Upon your arrival, the village and nearby beaches will be yours to explore at your own pace. From swimming through the turquoise water to enjoying the dancing sun off the pastel-colored buildings, Ventotene will provide a unique perspective of Italy that is seldom seen by the hasty traveler.

After departing Ventotene, your island-hopping campaign will continue with a short visit to the prisons on St. Stefano before reaching your destination for the day: the volcanic island of Ischia. Once harboring up to 800 prisoners, the now-abandoned jail at St. Stefano treats visitors to a mysterious glimpse of the region's past. As you stroll through the grounds of the prison, you may ponder how such a Mediterranean paradise could be used as a prison. Upon arriving in Ischia, you will be able to delight in a visit to one of the thermal spas of St. Angelo, where your day will conclude with enjoying the baths and sipping Prosecco.

Your first morning on Ischia will find you feeling refreshed and ready to explore the many charming communities and spectacular vistas that appear in abundance on the island. Making your way to the north side, the village of Casamicciola turns heads with its impressive collection of pottery and tradition of ceramic skill. This resort island was originally a colony of the Greeks, supporting their thriving trade throughout the Mediterranean world. Today, you will find a lavish community that caters to those who seek fun in the sun and a break from mainland monotony.

With its many ports and piers, the nearby island of Procida is an exciting stepping stone for those embarking from Naples on their island-hopping adventure. For you, this island at the northern end of the Bay of Naples will provide a serene setting to encounter a taste of the Neapolitan lifestyle. Here, you will be able to find your perfect beach to bask in the Mediterranean sun. After brief visits to Chiaiolella and Porticciolo, you will be transported to the island, where you can spend the remainder of your day in leisurely bliss.

Your final full day of this memorable tour of the Tyrrhenian islands will ensure that you do not miss any of the highlights. After departing Procida, you will voyage to the stunning Amalfi coastline and the dramatic island of Capri. Arguably the most scenic coastline in Italy, the lush gardens and cascading villages of Amalfi have long attracted romantics and honeymooners. Likewise, the island of Capri once housed Roman emperors and international VIPs who sought the elegance and panoramic views from the island's Monte Solaro. The sun will set on an idyllic day with a magnificent meal of fresh seafood in a charming ambiance.

Your final morning on this island-hopping tour will include a delicious breakfast from your attentive crew before disembarking in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius at Castellammare. Despite leaving the floating comfort of your cruise, the fun will not over because you will enjoy a tour by land of the Amalfi coast. As you make your way through the villages of Ravello, Amalfi, and Positano, you will have one last opportunity to savor the ambiance and flavors of this coastline before departing for the Neapolitan airport for your flight home.